Thousands of U.S. women reach menopause daily, according to the Society for Women’s Health Research. Menopause coincides with a drop in estrogen in the body, and that change brings along a number of physical symptoms. One of the most distressing menopausal symptoms is the hot flash.
Hot flashes feel like a burst of heat across your face, neck, and chest. If you’re a “blusher,” you know this feeling — it’s similar to the physical reaction you have when something embarrassing happens. You may get sweaty, too, and then feel chilled when the heat subsides.
Hot flashes can be unpredictable, too. This presents a specific fashion challenge: How do you dress for the weather and the potential for an unexpected heat wave across your face and neck? Let’s break down the best menopause fashion strategies below.
1. Light layers
Think light and airy. Don a snug tank under a breezy button-down or a thin cardigan so you can strip off layers when it gets warm. Opt for natural, breathable fibers such as cotton or bamboo — they let air in and sweat out.
2. Linen scarves
Linen wicks moisture, so a linen scarf is perfect for those flashes of heat. Drape one over a t-shirt or a dress for a light, stylish layer that won’t weigh you down. Double bonus: Your linen scarf also screens your neck from the sun.
3. Quarter-zip tops
A little ventilation goes a long way. A sport quarter-zip tops lets you manage your temperature and coverage on the fly. Too hot? Time to show some cleavage. Too cold? A quick tug for warmth and a more conservative look.
Quarter-zips don’t always have a “pro-golfer” vibe either. You can find fashion-forward pieces, even on Amazon.
4. Open-front cardigans and blazers
Forget the tight jackets and go for loose, open-front outer layers instead. Think cardigans, drapey jackets, lightweight dusters add shape with less heat retention. Your best options have short sleeves or scrunch sleeves you can push up to your elbows in an emergency.
5. Wide-legged pants
Skinny jeans and nipped-in waistbands? No way. Wide-leg pants let you breathe and move easily, and they are super flattering when paired with a high waist. Go for linen, cotton, or soft jersey fabrics for a light yet put-together look. See more wide-leg pants styling advice: How to wear wide-leg pants now.
6. Open-back shoes
Did you know that feet can sweat more than other body parts due to a high number of sweat glands? So that hot, sweaty feet feel you get sometimes is real.
Manage it by setting aside clunky shoes and boots that require thick socks. Reach for airy options like mules, slingbacks, or sandals instead.
7. Lightweight jewelry
Chunky statement necklaces and heavy earrings can start to feel heavier when your body’s temperature heats up. Your necklace might even get sweaty and stay that way until long after the flash has passed. Ick.
Put those eye-catching pieces away for now. Thin chains, light hoops, and resin earrings are your new jewelry BFFs. You’ll get gorgeous feminine style with less sweat.
8. Hair ties and clips
Every lady needs a go-to updo — a style you can create in seconds with a clip or tie. Mine is the high bun. You might like a low bun, the two-pencil bun, loose braid, or a flip with a clip.
If you don’t have a go-to, get one so you can pull the locks off your neck in sweatier moments. You may need to consult with your stylist if your hair is short or layered. Whatever tool you use for said updo, keep one with you at all times.
9. Moisture-wicking fabrics
Invest in moisture-wicking materials like bamboo, Merino wool, Gore-Tex, modal, rayon, polyester, and other synthetic fabrics. These draw sweat away from your body, keeping you drier and more comfortable when things heat up.
Sweat-free and stylish
Menopause style does not involve staying home in your PJs. You can look and feel ravishing no matter what temperature dance your body puts you through. You need only shift away from thick fabrics and weighty layers. Make your new look a breezy one, like you’re living on island time just steps away from a fruity cocktail. Your gauzy layers, minimalist jewelry, and open-air shoes will have you feeling so relaxed and fresh, your friends will wonder what your secret is. I won’t tell if you won’t.
