A fashion survival guide for flare-ups, fatigue, and sensory hell.
Most days, the last thing I want to do is crawl out of bed and put together an outfit. I live with endometriosis, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and chronic nerve pain in my pelvis, lower back, and right leg. Ironically, fashion usually is my motivation to start the morning. Nothing makes me feel more grounded than making one, small, creative choice when everything else feels out of my control. Style isn’t a luxury – it’s a way to reclaim agency; it’s survival, self-expression, and art.
Yet, finding the right pieces might feel like an unnecessary balancing act between comfort and style. Whether you’re dressing for a Zoom call, a flare-up bed day, or a doctor’s appointment, here’s how to make fashion feel less like torture and more like care. Maybe fashion isn’t a priority right now–no problem. Save this article for when you have the spoons.
Head pain: Chronic headache or migraine girlie? Invest in some high-quality, UV ray-blocking shades to filter out light when outside or in brightly lit areas. Studies indicate that red and pink-tinted glasses are especially effective in filtering out the blue and green light rays that may worsen migraines, so try on those rose-colored glasses! They are more helpful than you think.
Neck pain: Heavy and tight clothing around the neck can worsen neck pain for some, so ditch the scarves and aim for a loose neckline. If you wear a neck brace, it might be an opportunity to bust out the bedazzler, as long as you make sure to protect the brace’s function. Soft collar braces and other neck support tools also come in plenty of exciting colors, so you can show off your supports instead of trying to hide them.
Chest pain: For those recovering from surgery around the chest area, loose-fitting clothing is recommended, with the exception of approved compression garments. Front-buttoning/closing shirts and dresses may be more accessible to you than lifting a garment over the head. Time to seize your office siren moment.
Stomach pain/nausea: Loose, breathable clothing that can keep your body’s temperature regulated can help to prevent nausea from being triggered. Ditch synthetic fabrics for cotton, linen, and silk. Keep the stomach area from being compressed. Channel your inner White Lotus and relax in an oversized linen button-down and elastic-banded pants.
Back pain: Believe it or not, the health of your feet can impact the comfort of your back! While heels can serve for a few short steps, sneakers are much better for the structure of the foot, more accessible, and more in vogue. A mobile TENS unit is a welcome accessory to any look, too, and can also be bedazzled. Hook it on your waistband or keep it in a mini purse to incorporate pain management into your look.
Pelvic/uterine pain: Tight pants? No thanks. Make sure your waistband is loose and flexible and that your bottoms are breathable. Pelvic bras, compression garments for the groin area, can also easily be worn discreetly under pants or skirts to support your pelvic organs and reduce pain. Portable heating pads can also be worn under clothing to relieve lower back pain and cramps. Pelvic and abdominal support bands can also be styled over clothing. People sometimes think mine is a belt or corset #snatched.
Sensitive Skin: Cotton is generally the best friend of our skin. Synthetic fabrics and heavily textured ones like wool might be best to avoid if you have a skin condition or generally sensitive skin. Recently dyed clothing may also contain skin irritants, so washing new clothes before wear is key. If headed to an upscale event, opt for a lightweight silk or linen dress or suit, and don’t be afraid to show some skin; it’s a part of your beautiful, individual look.
Inflammation: Compression garments can be fashionable and expressive! Try finding compression socks in vibrant patterns or colors or put them under colorful stockings. Compression sleeves can elevate a short-sleeved outfit on their own or can be paired with mesh gloves for extra flair.
Sensory Sensitivity: Sensory sensitivity doesn’t need to prevent you from dressing how you’d like! Layer safer textures under triggering ones. Look for clothes without tags or internal buttons or zippers. Some may benefit from avoiding wool and similar fibers and extra doodads like tassels or beading. Most of all, don’t force yourself to wear something in which you know you will not be able to enjoy yourself.
