Eclectic Joy

86 Comments

• nemosmom replied 4 years ago
  That sounds really challenging, Joy!  Have you tried any of the pocketed undergarments that are for holding CGMs? They are designed to hold the device in place and have a spanx type layer that goes over the wire so you might still be able to wear some of your clothing.

  AnnaPS has one; there may be others (I am mobile, but will help search when I am at a better connection)

  
  
  https://www.annaps.com/carry-a.....et-design/
  
  
  
  

• Brooklyn replied 4 years ago

  Oh, I’m sorry Joy, what a challenge for you. Is it the look or feel of an elastic waist that bothers you? I’ve been wearing a lot of elastic waists lately because I’ve lost weight and they can continue to fit through weight variations. I cover them up with a longer top. Usually a knit. I don’t enjoy the feel of them against my skin either but I deal with that by wearing a tucked in cami/singlet underneath my top and the waist band. Could that work for you?
  Wishing you good health and resilience x

• The Cat replied 4 years ago

  Just a thought, Joy: Have you considered asking the medical staff who provided the device? They might know of helpful items available to you, and/or they might be able to provide contact info to patients with relevant experience from how to wear the device in a kind of fashionable way. Maybe there exists a patient organisation you could ask for advice.

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  Joy, what kind of CGM do you have? Have you tried any of the overlay tapes? I’ve started to wear mine on my tum (I prefer the back of the arm, but site rotation!)... I think the transmission is not as good as on the arm... but in any case, I’ve had decent results with the overlay tape. I have a Dexcom.

• Laurie replied 4 years ago

  Oh, Joy. Just had a conversation about this device with the woman next to me in yoga class this morning. She is having a dickens of a time figuring out how to manage it with yoga gear and the twists and turns we do, and she's also driven to distraction by the constant alerting. I feel for you and all of those with this health challenge to manage, as it's a full-time effort. I'm sure it's worth the benefits once you get through the adjustment.
  I don't know anything about these devices, but is there any option for where you place the wire, or does it have to be right at the waistline?

  I'm envisioning all sorts of wonderful long jackets and asymmetrical tunics and things that flow over looser/elastic waistband pants and look amazing on you. I'm sure you'll get great advice here.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Thank you each for your ideas. Rachylou, I have a Dexcom G6, which is brand new and even the company does not know much. I asked about how to keep the thing on after the first 2 fell off in 2 days. I was using extra tape and the adhesive stuff that fits around the device. It is waterproof for swimming or bathing, but no one knew if I could wear it in the hot tub. The overlay tapes help some to keep the thing on.

• Gaylene replied 4 years ago

  My friend's pregnant DIL was wearing a pair of Seraphine faux leather leggings with an "under the bump" band. Would something like that work with a pump? 

  I've often wished there were more designers who would take on the challenge of figuring out innovative ways of dressing those of us who have mobility and medical challenges. You don't lose your style sense just because your physical needs change.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Gaylene, that would be worth checking..
  Laurie, I wish this device had an on/off button. Mine was going off like crazy during a movie. I feel all out of proportion in long tunics, but asymmetrical seem doable. Thank you for the kind words and ideas for making elastic waists look good.

• Kari replied 4 years ago

  Joy, have you searched for insulin pump adaptive clothing (even though that’s not the exact device you have?) Wonder if there might be some solutions in here, or ideas to get you started. I’m not diabetic but I’ve known a few friends with pumps over the years. 

  
  
  https://www.adaptiveclothes.co.....g-diabetes
  
  
  
  https://abiliteeadaptivewear.c.....olid-black
  
  
  
  https://www.pocketinnerwear.co.....on-pockets

  https://thesewcialists.com/201.....ulin-pump/
  

• Kari replied 4 years ago

  I also learned through a fashion podcast about IZ Adaptive, which makes disability-friendly clothing. I don’t know if they have something that would work for you but I’ve heard good things about their customer service. (XS to 3XL.)

  https://izadaptive.com/pages/about

  A couple ideas:

  https://izadaptive.com/collect.....yoga-waist

  https://izadaptive.com/collect.....yoga-waist

  https://izadaptive.com/collect.....ed-legging

  https://izadaptive.com/collect.....yoga-waist

• Sal replied 4 years ago

  That is indeed tricky and difficult.

  Would fit and flare midi dresses work with tall boots and socks?

  Drawstring pants?

  Soft leggings?

  Is there a diabetes forum where you can get ideas?

  You are such a stylish lady that I am sure we can come up with a solution. But I can empathise that it is a challenge.

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  I would try the back of your arm, the fatty part. There are quite a few makers of overlays... GrifGrips are a brand that get mentioned a lot. Water really, in my opinion, is bad for the adhesive. After every shower, I layer on another overlay. I cut the overlays too, so they can go on without wrinkling. Wrinkles in the tape are another enemy of sticking.

  Also, I sorta ‘wobble’ the applicator around before peeling it away. Trying to make sure it’s as down as possible.

  Also: setting your high limit higher will kill some of those alerts. I mean, I don’t know about you, but I don’t forget to look at the meter... every time I want to eat I’m looking at it...

• Jaime replied 4 years ago

  I am glad you have received some good ideas here because this would have me stumped. As you say, loose dresses are great for summer, but you want to be able to dress warmly too. Hope some of the ideas here help!

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Kari and Sal, thank you for the links. I will check them out. I do not have a pump and my device is attached to my body. It must be attached in that area because of my age and that it is about the only place where I have enough fat. I do have a problem with scar tissue from years of injections making it difficult to attach the device. It sends findings to a monitor and my cell phone. The monitor is smaller and takes fewer steps to use, so I carry it in a pocket or tiny shoulder bag thing. It needs to be within 20 feet of me or it starts beeping. It was strongly suggested by my doctor to detect glucose swings and has probably keep me alive or at least from passing out twice already.
  Fit and flare dresses may work if they do not have a waist. I would have to see about drawstring pants and if they would stay up worn low. Leggings under dresses would give warmth in cold weather if they would stay up and be loose. I do wear a cami or tank under my tops all the time. Sometimes tucking them in helps keep pants and skirts up but I can’t always depend on it. If they roll up they can and have pulled the device and it’s adhesive off.

• Classically Casual replied 4 years ago

  Joy, I have an Eileen Fisher  cropped jump suit from 2017 that is fairly straight, but loose. I think this type of garment might work. It’s sleeveless, and one can wear whatever as a first layer.  (I’m almost finished with a lumpy heart alert monitor with wires, so I have a sense of what you’re describing.). There must be sartorial solutions out there.
  Maybe also emphasize scarves or necklaces to draw the eye upward?

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Rachylou, I look at that monitor a lot, and always before eating to see how much insulin to inject. It needs easy access. I hear you on raising the high limit and have done so since starting to use it. The lows....well they have gone below 40 a few times and that sets off all sorts of long and loud alarms that cannot be changed. It will sound at 55 or lower no matter what I do. I have managed to nearly silence the phone.

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  Ok... and now I'm thinking about high and low rise bottoms... sorta avoiding mid-rise styles, if that would work... 

• Kari replied 4 years ago

  Seems like you need a clever fairy godmother adaptive tailor. I’m imagining something like Velcro or snaps or magnets (a la magnetic closures on Tommy Hilfiger’s adaptive line for mobility disabilities) to hold underwear or boyshorts to a cami comfortably and keep it in place... hmmm. I do wonder if that sewing blog or it’s sister Instagram site, Chronically Sewn, might offer some ideas even if you aren’t the one doing the alterations. (I can’t sew myself.)

  https://instagram.com/chronica.....m8mmfc1r85
  

  
  
  This isn’t exactly what you need either, but it might be a start of an idea. sometimes on long runs I start out in a jacket that I want to strip off as I warm up and don’t want to deal with layers rolling up or down... so sometimes I wear this bodysuit as my base layer, and I don’t put the straps over my shoulders but pull the top up over boobs. It stays in place like a cami, keeps me covered if/when I take off the jacket, and I can pull it off under my jacket like pants for easy bathroom access without having to totally undress. Again, this is activewear and not exactly what you need, but maybe some similar hack to keep layers from shifting...

  https://www.universalstandard......suit-black
  

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Classical Casual, I wonder if a jump suit would allow easy access to the stomach area to give injections several times (5 at least) a day. Does the EF one have fasteners down the front? . I like EF things except recently with all the low on the arm shoulder seams and use of viscose fabric. Scarves and necklaces are a good idea.
  Thank you, Shevia, for you kind comment.
  Rachylou, deciding on where a waist can hit is a good idea. To avoid the scar tissue I have been putting it high where even high waisted things do not reach, any lower (mid or low rise call for a belt).

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  Well ok, ja, the low alerts are a good thing!!

  I've been putting the CGM sensor right above the waistband of the pants/skirt I'm wearing... of course, that means for the next ten days, I have to wear things with the same kind of rise. I'm going to try putting it below the waistband next... although that might be a sensor out the window. I don't know if I got enough fat deposits below the waistband, lol...

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Kari, maybe something I can experiment with, My little cup cakes would not keep anything up, and magnets may mess with DH’s pacemaker/ defribulator if I get too close. I can sew on snaps and Velcro. I wonder if skirt and jean waists can be secured with Velcro.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  You are right that the sensor needs to be moved every 10 days. I have yet for one to stay on that long even with extra adhesive. If it comes off early, call the company and they will send you a new one. They also sent some of their adhesive things with a hole in the middle for the metal part, but they are not very good about staying on. I followed the directions of cleaning the area with alcohol, letting it dry and rubbing the tape part more than 3 times being sure there are no wrinkles..

• Classically Casual replied 4 years ago

  I googled jumpsuits with front buttons and this was one of the https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse.....ge-content

  I mention it more as a prototype than it specifically. My jumpsuit has a back zipper, so not functional for you.

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  Maybe try skipping the rubbing alcohol? I’ve had better luck without doing that. I also have gone so far as to shield it in the shower. Saran Wrap and medical tape...

• Gigi replied 4 years ago

  Sorry you're having to deal with this. It's a challenge for sure.

  Would you be able to wear a pair of suspenders to keep pants up? You could wear them underneath your shirt so that they wouldn't be visible. But I'm not sure how comfortable that would be.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Thank you, Rachylou, have tried the medical tape but not the Saran Wrap. I am wondering if the cream rinse I use to wash my hair in the shower has something to do with the adhesive coming off. If that is the answer, I have a huge problem on my hands as shampoo and the like cause major flacky itchy cracking, bloody patches on my head, face, hands, etc. that take months to heal.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Gigi, I had not thought of suspenders. That is a good idea.. I could wear big-in-the-waist jeans with a chunky sweater over a tank or tee and be warm.

• Suz replied 4 years ago

  Joy, I don't have any ideas (yet) but I wanted to send commiserations and support for this. It does indeed sound like a challenge. I suspect that a combination of the suggestions here plus your own inimitable style sense will help you find a path toward comfortable, practical style -- but wow -- if ever there was a situation related to today's blog post, this is it! Practicality plus style is exactly what you need! 

• Kari replied 4 years ago

  Here’s another that may help - again, I know you don’t have a pump, but the location on the abdomen is similar. 

  
  
  https://simplybeautifulstore-c....._c_16.html
  
  
  
  Thinking of other possibilities- I know your CGM is a lot smaller than an ostomy pouch and the needs are different, but again for a device that attaches to the abdomen, I wonder if ostomy fashion might lead to clothing ideas that you could use. 

• taylor replied 4 years ago

  Gosh , Joy ,  this is tricky!
  I have zero advice ,  so I’m just going to give you a virtual(( HUG)) ❤️

• Gretchen replied 4 years ago

  Chiming in to say how much I appreciate this conversation.

  Joy - I have no suggestions, but am sending every good wish for you to find a solution. (Sounds like there could be a business opportunity here!)

  And for everyone offering suggestions, thank you. What a great example of the community rallying to support and contribute to find solutions!

• Kari replied 4 years ago

  Some suspenders as fashion ideas:

  https://www.jjsuspenders.com/b.....tyle-guide

  Makes me think of this: http://joy.lookfab.com/post/fa.....ge-first-3

  
  (annagybe probably can think of way more if she sees this.)
  1 2 3 4
• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Kari, thank you for all the inspiration.
  Gretchen and Taylor, Suz and Kari, you are lovely. Thank you, everyone for the good wishes and ideas. You have given me hope.

• Cardiff girl replied 4 years ago

  Sorry to hear that you are having difficulties Joy.Notthe same problem at all but my mother in law has her dialysis port coming out of her abdomen in the same place.She found that cocoon shaped dresses made of sweater material worked well for her but she was lucky enough to be able to get them made up.Whatever you decide to do I hope that you find a solution that works for you.

• notsaf replied 4 years ago

  If you are considering big-in-the-waist jeans with a chunky sweater over a tank or tee and be warm, would repurposing pregnancy jeans possibly work -- with low-cut denim and stretchy fabric that could go over your device?

  Joining everyone in wishing you good health and hoping you find some good solutions to this little dilemma!

• April replied 4 years ago

  Joy, FWIW, my fashion-forward New York City art school adult son assures me that elastic waists are chic right now.  I understand your feelings about them, however, since I have experienced the same reaction myself ("too easily mis-read after a certain age").

  That said, what about a loose flowy tunic over forgiving soft pants, then topped with a more fitted jacket?  That might give a little more structure without actually getting near your device.  

  Based on recent forum suggestions, I have found such tunics on Artful Home.  Also check out a place called Blue Fish Clothing -- they love volume.  

  This sweater coat is on huge sale at Talbot's right now: 

  https://www.talbots.com/sale/n.....38;start=1

• RobinF replied 4 years ago

  So sorry, this does sound like an issue! I was thinking like notsaf just mentioned, using maternity pants somehow. 

• Janet replied 4 years ago

  I have zero useful advice but I wanted to sympathize as that sounds frustrating and difficult. I hope you find good solutions soon!

• Elizabeth P replied 4 years ago
  Gosh Joy, this sounds like a real pita!  No suggestions, just commiseration.  I know you'll come up with something.
  
  
  To clarify, you need access to your stomach?  So dresses are out?
  
  
  Oh, what about shirt dresses?
  

• Laura replied 4 years ago

  Hugs to you Joy! I’m sorry you’re going through this hassle but glad you’re surrounded with helpful YLFers with loads of great suggestions.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Laura, I am so grateful for YLF and all the helpful ideas.
  Elizabeth, I do wear dresses some depending on time of day and where I am. If I know I cam excuse myself and find privacy in a restroom stall to lift my dress and access my stomach, I am ok. If we are going to the zoo, I will wear separates to have more subtle access at the waist.
  Notsaf and Robin F, I will try pregnancy jeans. Thank you for putting me on to them. Most shirt waist dresses make my legs look like sticks and I am not big enough to fill out the top. The right one could be a workhorse.
  April, your son is encouraging and you have good ideas. I have not been in a Talbots in years. It used to be that even small sized tops were cut for women with bigger busts and they had deep armholes. Maybe things have changed. I will look at Artful Home and Bluefish Clothing too.
  Cardiff Girl, those dresses sound ideal. I have one sweater dress like that. It does work well except for needing something on my legs. I am thinking maybe sizing way up in stockings and tights or looking for those stockings that have elastic at the thigh to hold them up. I may need to learn to sew.
  Janet, you are sweet and kind. Thank you.

• Joyce B replied 4 years ago

  Wishing you the best with this challenge. Is your monitoring device attached to your body or does it hang loose? The wire is attached of course.
  Because if the monitor is loose could it be placed in a pocket type sling to go over a soft elastic belt not attached to the rest of the clothing? That may make it easier during bathroom breaks while safely holding the monitor.
  I hope something of what fabbers suggested works or that you find something that is good for you.

• Angie replied 4 years ago

  Sweet and wonderful Ruth who chooses joy each day and inspires me to do the same - this situation will be no different. You are beautiful and stylish no matter what. I have every confidence that you will come out on top, and be the same well put together person you always are. 

  Such great, great advice and ideas already. Maternity bottoms are an especially excellent idea, and I would start there.  Know that if anyone can make an elasticated waist look fabulous - it's YOU.

  We are here to support and brainstorm with you till the cows come home. Lots of hugs and much love. xo

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Joyce, the device is attached to my body and the wire is inside me and is pulled out when I have to change for a new one every 10 days or if it comes off.
  Dearest Angie, you give me hope that I can adapt and still be stylish. I will start with the maternity bottoms. Tube skirts seem doable but I may need to size up..

• notsaf replied 4 years ago

  One more recommendation for very soft and stretchy leggings to keep you warm under dresses/tunics. They look small in the stock photo but are genuinely one-size-fits-all, so very accommodating around the waist, which is high. I wear these to sleep every night and they have held up beautifully for more than a year. Read the rave reviews.

• Inge replied 4 years ago
  Dear Joy, what a tough nut to crack, but you will get this sorted, and I'm so glad you already got so many great suggestions. We are all thinking along and if one thing doesn't work out, we are ready to brainstorm the next with you.
  
  
  I know a little bit what you are going through: my sister has a neurostimulator implanted in her abdomen for severe chronic pain, but the entire device is in her abdomen. Which is less of a problem than yours, but depending on the fabric and where the waistband hits she does get painful pressure on that spot sometimes. She likes skinny jeans/jeggings with lots of stretch from Gap because they don't have that issue.
  
  
  For you, my first thought was also suspenders (high five, Gigi!). You could make it a statement item for you in fun patterns and colours (or neutrals if that's what you prefer) when wearing them uncovered. And if you are wearing them under tops and dresses, nobody will be the wiser.
  
  
  My other thought was also sweater dresses and asymmetrical tunics with tall boots and knee-high socks. Or those hold-up tights that stick to your thighs.
  
  
  I'm going to keep thinking about this!
  

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Notsaf, those look like a good item for wearing u dear dresses.
  Inge, thank you for helping me come up with ideas. I need to Google suspenders for women as I do not remember ever seeing them offered. They would solve the problem of pressure on the device. I hope your sister gets pain relief from hers.
  Most sweater dresses are too short but may work with the right leggings. I really like the asymmetrical hems as not looking blocky or stumpy.

• Bijou replied 4 years ago

  Joy, other forum members are much more creative than me with clothing suggestions. I am so sorry that you have this wardrobe challenge. When pregnant I kept warm by wearing a swing coat and tops that had ruching over the mid section.

  I hope the adhesive tape is fine for your skin as I have to tape my knees when doing vigorous exercise. Fixomull tape helps create a good barrier between the adhesive tape and my skin.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Bijou, that is good to know. My skin is sensitive to lots of things. It would not surprise me that adhesives are one of them. I am too new to this process to know yet.

• Elle replied 4 years ago

  You've gotten some great suggestions.  One other thought would be to look for foldover waist yoga pants or jazz pants.  I'd check out  Victoria's Secret, Bare Necessities, Discount Dance, Capezio. You could wear them with a flowy top (zara has a zillion right now).  Or a shirt dress worn with cotton leggings (and just fold over the waist).  

  https://www.barenecessities.co.....gL6ZPD_BwE

  https://www.zara.com/us/en/shi.....038;v2=142

  https://www.victoriassecret.co.....lsrc=aw.ds

• Suz replied 4 years ago

  So. I am thinking...there are elastic waists...and elastic waists. They aren't all created equal. 

  The difference between an elastic inside a casing (which can look and feel yuck on those of us past a certain age, depending on styling factors and how well it is made  -- I get it!!) and what I wore today. 

  What I wore today had a waist like a pair of yoga pants. You can't see it here in the Find because the top goes over it, but maybe it's more visible in the photo. It's a panel. There is less feeling of pinching/ constriction at the waist, and it also looks more finished and, well, less like an elastic waist! You could also wear it over a device and it would all lay more or less flat (I think). You might need to size up, but the whole thing would still stay on you (I think) because this particular skirt is a technical kind of fabric. 

  This is a skirt from a Canadian company called Comrags. Alas, they are sold out in your size, but maybe other companies make something similar. What's nice is that it could give you a bit of variation in style from the typical tube skirt. 

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• ZoeyGirl replied 4 years ago

  Joy, I wanted to chime in regarding maternity clothes, which would prob be a good place to start since they are easy to access. Motherhood maternity is the brand I bought the most of (all in person- at a maternity store and at a Macy’s near me with a maternity section). Maternity pants are essentially elastic pants, but the way the elastic is done is a bit more creative. I ended up liking the side panel styles bc they fit me the best (didn’t have problems with waist falling). The other two options are “over the belly” and “under the belly”, and the only difference is the amount of elastic-type fabric. Target also had side panel jeans in their maternity section that I really liked too.

  You could also search amazon for a maternity belly band to see if that would help and suit your needs (maybe it would help hold your device in place?)

• Neelie replied 4 years ago

  Would you be comfortable in overalls?  There are super cute and inexpensive ones from Old Navy, Gap etc if you want to try them without investing...the waist is non binding at all and they are very "in" at the moment.

  Also I hate anything binding at the waist and look for leggings with no elastic at the top, just a wide band like Suz describes.  Very comfortable.
  Good luck!

• Debbie replied 4 years ago

  Joy-I don’t know how far you live from Nordstrom’s or if you would be comfortable doing this but if you made an appointment with one of their in house stylist maybe they could pint you in the right direction. The ideas might be valuable.

  I do know this you will be stylish no matter what.

• karen13 replied 4 years ago

  Joy, such a challenge! my first thought was also suspenders, which several have mentioned. But they will be a bit tricky to wear under tops for using the bathroom. Maybe something like this which only has two side clips would work?
  https://www.duluthtrading.com/.....N&chn

  
  
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• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Thank you all for your wonderful ideas. I knew YLF would help me with this.
  It looks like I need to get over my preference for women’s over knits.
  I Googled “women’s suspenders”. And there is even a suspender store and some from Gucci for $4000 and from Books Brothers, a sequined version and all sorts of colors and types of fasteners.
  Suz that skirt looks great. I have a similar one but it is too tight. Sizing up might do it if it does not move around or roll up at the waist.
  Zoey Girl, thank you for the heads up on types of maternity jeans. I plan to try a consignment store for maternity and children’s things first. It helps to know what I am looking for. Maybe Target or Motherhood Maternity would be better to start so I could return if something does not work.
  Neelie, overalls are a great possibility as they would be easier access than a jumpsuit and could be worn with a sweater underneath for warmth. I could wear pearls to dress them up.
  Debbie, I will try the Nordstrom store at the nearest mall for a stylist. That may be a good source of ideas and how to fit yoga pants and such. I have never bought or owned any. Even leggings are an unknown.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Thank you, Karen13. That looks like a good solution.

• Suz replied 4 years ago

  Joy, I'm really impressed with this particular skirt. I wore it for the first time yesterday and was wowed by it. A bit more: the waist on this one actually comes up to my natural waist. It might be possible to tug it down and wear it a bit lower if that were preferred. I felt ZERO pressure around the tummy yesterday from this -- the fabric is a kind of Japanese technical fabric, I think -- but because of the gored style, it didn't shift around at all. ( I know exactly what you mean when you mention that and it is the WORST!!) I wish I could show you how the seams work but I can't even find an online image any more. I'm going to keep looking. I keep thinking there must be other makers who create something like this and I feel sure it could work for you. Bonus -- the fabric travels well. And yes, it is a knit, so less structured, but honestly, I felt quite polished (in a casual way) yesterday when I wore it. 

  1
• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Suz, you do look polished in the skirt and I like the drape of the fabric. I would love to try one. I have to keep moving my meter to different spots. So far I have attached it above the navel to keep it away from injection scar tissue, but that may change eventually. My worst experience was having a waist push up and actually roll the adhesive up off my skin and against the meter. Then the whole thing fell off. Since they are one time use, I had to get another to replace it.
  Do you think gear places would carry a skirt like this? I know I am going to have to embrace knits because they are stretchy and more likely to fit.

• Suz replied 4 years ago

  I tried to do a search of places like Athleta and Patagonia and Kit and Ace for a skirt like this and had no luck. But I do think knits are going to be the way to go at least for the near future, and it will be a question of finding the right ones, that allow you to feel "finished" and not overly casual. 

  And now another thought -- what about a waisted style that buttons (instead of elastic)? Or would that be too bulky, problematic in other ways? The Everlane swing skirt is an example. 

  You do wear tube skirts really well. So for a slim style, that won't be a problem -- they're still available. 

  Can you still wear a woven jacket or coat when temps are appropriate? That might help a lot. 

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Suz, a consignment store owner suggested a skirt-like pant that can be buttoned in front to form a V pleat. It does put lots of fabric front and center, but I think it looks ok. The best part is deep pockets that can hold my phone or the receiver for the medical device that don’t show with all the fabric. These pants can be further adjusted with ties, but I tuck them (the ties) into the pockets. They look a bit boho or gaucho, especially worn with boots...more casual than I’d like, but it works. I suspect that my style may move more boho for awhile until I get this figured out. Those loose Lucky peasant blouses would look good with the pants.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Kati, those woman’s wraps on the abs may be the answer to finding a way to wear a swim suit. I think it would have to be a two piece but then would need something to cover the meter/sensor on my tummy and that would stay put and not ride up (or down).

• Suz replied 4 years ago

  Ah...the pants sound great, Joy. I've been searching skirts at Nordstrom and it looks as if there might be some that could (theoretically) work....in Spring/ summer I am wondering if certain wrap styles could also work....

  https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/c.....ort&a

  https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/c.....category-p

  It looks like cargo skirts might be a "thing" this year -- could be useful! https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/t.....tegory-per

  Here's a knit one that is pricey but has a flat waistband: https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/t.....origin=cat

  Not thinking any of these are "the thing" but maybe trying on a variety of styles in a consignment shop would help you figure out what exactly could work best. There are also maternity skirts (as well as pants) that might be useful. 

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Suz, I really like these skirts, especially the second and the cargo skirt. Thank you. I may need to make a trip to Nordstrom soon before they get picked over.

• Gaylene replied 4 years ago

  Joy, wanted to chime back in with a plea to keep us updated when you find something that works.

  I have a friend with a very similar device whose eyes lit up when I mentioned this thread to her. She’s never been on a fashion forum, but is now regularly checking YLF because of all the helpful suggestions here. She thought she was the only person who had this fitting issue after the dumbfounded looks she got from SAs when she asked for help. 

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Gaylene, I am used to people not “getting” the challenges of diabetes, but SA’s! I will keep you updated on this part of my style journey, which has been wholly unexpected. I hope your friend will find some solutions here and have fun with fashion.

• Windchime replied 4 years ago

  I’ve been following this thread with interest, Joy, and am happy to see so many workable possible solutions for you. Feeling reasonably attractive, especially when dealing with health or other challenges, is such a morale booster.  Please keep us posted about how this new leg in your style journey works out for you.

• replied 4 years ago

  Aren’t you glad you followed my advice Joy and posted this here, look at all the great ideas members gave!

  I hope you feel better! ❤️ *hugs*

• rachylou replied 4 years ago

  I always hope for a better tape. I found this new to me tape: https://www.rocktape.com/2018/.....sor-users/

  I’m thinking about trying it.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Rachylou, that tape does look promising. Let me know if it works for you. It would be nice not to have to go through all the layers of plastic wrap, etc just to take a shower.
  Jess your advice was golden, thank you.
  Windchime, I will follow up on this post if it will help anyone. I k ow meter placement will make a difference. I need to talk to the company that makes the device before using my arms like Rachylou does. That would open a whole new bunch of problems for dressing and even sleeping..

• L'Abeille replied 4 years ago

  You have had lots of good advice.

  My added ideas:

  Try maternity pantyhose. Extremely soft stretchy panel at the front, yet the legs are still skinny.

  There's a Japanese undergarment that I found on Pinterest a while back, when all the pants available in stores were low rise and my tops kept failing to close the gap. I can't remember the name, and I never did get one, but it might work for this issue. It's like a belly band I suppose. Covers from bottom ribs to hips. That might hold the meter in place under clothes because it would stay with you even if the clothes shift.

  I tried suspenders for a bit, when the pants were all low rise and a belt didn't do much good over my slim hips. They fit with my Gentlewoman aesthetic. But with a top and then a white coat covering them, getting them off in time to suit my postmenopausal bladder was not easy. Wearing them in a visible fashion would work better though.

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  That is good information for another post metapausal woman with diabetes to add to the problem. That could add to the problem, especially in the future. I will try the pregnancy pant hose as I have skinny legs. Thank you for this advice.

• Mainelady replied 4 years ago

  Joy, I am glad you posted this and so happy to see that there are many helpful suggestions and links.  You always look fabulous and I have no doubt that you will find solutions to this new challenge.

• Column replied 4 years ago

  I only skimmed the comments, Joy, sot these might have already been suggested—but I very much wanted to support you and this thread: For tops, I was just reminded of the tie bottom, which can be manipulated in length and even leave a hole if you tie loosely. I also thought of top-one-button cropped coats and jackets that snap on the diagonal, so that the bottom hangs in a boxy way and sort of swings with a loose diagonal opening. Neither of these will keep you warm in the coldest winter, but they might work during the other three seasons. Thank you for your willingness to share and enlighten us all!

• kkards replied 4 years ago

  Joy...this seems to be on the same thought line as a maternity belly ban, but made specifically for diabatic needs, and it comes in a wide range of colors
  https://www.stashbandz.com/pro.....1879911436

  and since you said that you wore a cami most days
  https://caricami.com/products/.....IQobChMI-d

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Mainelady, thank you for your thoughts and uplifting words.
  Column, those are useful and fabulous suggestions that did not occur to me. Thank you.
  Kkards. These products look very useful. I will try the first one for sure, and will probably wear it daily to hold things. So few women’s clothing items have useful pockets these days. I hope to try the tank too. On cold days I often layer 2 tanks.

• Bonnie replied 4 years ago

  I love that so many forum members have suggested solutions for your challenge. Although I have nothing to add, I have no doubt that you will work through this and continue to look beautiful.  

• Stagiaire Fash replied 4 years ago

  I only read the first page of replies, so forgive me if I'm repeating something from the second, but why not a cozy cocoon-shaped (or empire waist) sweater dress or tunic with leg warmers or otk socks? You could add an open jacket or cardi to make a column of color. Try the under-the-belly maternity tights mentioned earlier if the other won't stay up on their own.

  Finds quit working for me, but here is one general idea, and links to some shorter, more colorful ones at Anthropologie. I know you've never liked leggings-as-pants, but this might be the time to take the plunge ;) Your butt would be covered, but if you need to pull the tunic up in public, no one would be shocked. Then again, these might be long enough on you to be bona fida dresses.

  https://www.anthropologie.com/.....#038;type=

  https://www.anthropologie.com/.....;color=004 (check out the pic of it with the plaid leggings)

  https://www.anthropologie.com/.....8&typ

  https://www.anthropologie.com/.....99&am

  ETA the find is the worst picture of that dress. I don't know how to change the picture, but it comes in other colors, on the model it does not look like a dark sack that would drape everything, and of course you would have a colorful jacket, a scarf, and some sparkly shoes on with it--the dress would basically be background for your outfit.

  One other thought--does the device have to be under your clothing? I have seen people with medical devices worn basically on the waistband of their pants. They look like badasses, unafraid of the medical issue or what anyone thinks, part cyborg and ready to rule over us puny humans. Seriously, if the waistband itself isn't uncomfortable, you could get some kind of holster, like the ones for cell phones and pagers (remember those?) and carry on your usual way.

• lyn67 replied 4 years ago

  I will not repeat other's comments, but yep, that might be really challenging- and even if I by myself never heard of such a  gadget hope you will get used asap to wearing and use it  without compromising your fun with fashion - as you always have a great style Joy!  Not to be compared with your really gorgeous lifesaver gadget  but I wear my humble cochlear implant on my head  and carry aditional gadgets only 16/24 with me  in a waistbag but have an idea  how incomfortable  that can become from time to time- but we are cyber womens aren't we- and not just common ones, but Fashionable Cyber Qeens-so we will solve that, too!:-) 

• madeline replied 4 years ago

  Joy,
  Everyone has given so many good suggestions. I know you will be able to figure out a solution (or two) that is stylish and practical.

  Here’s my contribution:
  I would suggest you try Hy-tape for the adhesive issue. Also called pink tape. I have used it on many patients and it really works
  https://hytape.com/product/three-packs-of-tape/

  And the other suggestion I have is Belly Bandit Belly Shield. This one is very light and you can tuck it in your bra and panties to keep it secure. They have other products with more support if you need/want that.
  https://bellybandit.com/products/belly-shield

  Good luck- I am so glad you reached out to the forum. What a great group we are! Hugs to all!

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Ack, I lost my post. Thank you for your kind words and great suggestions. I can see that this will be trial and error to figure out what works. The device is under my clothing unless I reveal my stomach, which I may have to do in a swim suit unless belly bands do not push on the device. Fashintern, those sweater dresses look way to short. Although I am 5’3”, lengths on me are usually the same as the much taller models. Long socks will be trial and error as my legs are skinny and not much stays up.
  Madeline, thank you for the tape suggestion and belly bandit link.
  Lyn67, yes we are cyber queens paving the way for those wearing all the new tech stuff that is being developed all the time.
  Bonnie, thank you for the encouragement. I will figure this out, I hope with a minimum of time and expense.

• Stagiaire Fash replied 4 years ago

  Joy, if I were to wear any of those dresses, it'd be as a tunic (except for the Banana Republic find). That's why you're taking the plunge into leggings.

• replied 4 years ago

  Great suggestions already! I'm in the no structured waistband boat too, so distracting with asymmetry, streamlined shoes, and texture are strategies I'm using.
  Is this something you need long term or just for a short while?

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  Long term. I like your distraction idea. I hope you don’t mind if I use it. My addition would be scarves.

• replied 4 years ago

  Not at all! Lysse has a bunch of low contrast/appearance of texture leggings too. Also harder edge than I want, but Athleta has moto style leggings. Summer is way easier though!

• Joy replied 4 years ago

  I am not used to wearing leggings and thought I might try a large size in tights, something with a large waist band. The trick is finding something that fits enough that it will not slip down. The leggings I have are woven and heavy. They have a waist like jeans do and will not work.