My Aunt always told us girls that we should not wear sweatpants/ elastic to much because you don’t realize how much weight you have gained , she said tailored slacks will let you know sooner if you are gaining some weight. It’s so true and looks so nicer
I’ve never seen my particular issue addressed anywhere. With middle age my stomach expanded, as they do, but my hips and bust stayed the same. I measure 34-29-35. But the fashion industry still thinks that older women maintain a proportional figure as they get older. I prefer trousers and denim. If I buy to fit my waist, the fit in my derrière is baggy. If I buy to fit my hips, the waist is too tight. Yes I can get things altered but that gets expensive. If I lose weight it comes off my hips, but never my stomach. Dresses and skirts aren’t as problematic but I don’t want to wear them on a daily basis. There’s no easy solution to this. I just wanted to vent. I wish someone would make clothes for those of us with this problem.
HI Mare, Have you tried doing push-ups on your knees? It really tightens the stomach muscles. I have been doing this and notice a difference. Also, speed-walking--with a very straight back, pulled in tummy, and shoulders back--also helps to strengthen the tummy area. It is helping me at age 64.
@@nataliamiles7109 I do exercises most every day. Walking, yoga, strength training. I’m in pretty good shape for 63, but the belly fat is stubborn. It’s probably more about diet. Although my weight is technically fine (112 lbs) I do have a sweet tooth. I’m addicted to sugar.
Mare.. I am a 61yr old woman. In the last 6mths I have lost 34lb. I'm only 4' 10.5 '' . When I was larger, I had what my friend refers to as 'elephant bum' where you are wide in the upper part of the bottom below waist level at the back, but your buttocks have vanished due to loss of muscle. I took up weight lifting, building as much muscle as possible, including squats, lunges and leg curls. I also cut my calories to go into a deficit, and made sure that I ate plenty of protein and vegetables. I haven't bothered yet with abdominal exercises, but I have lost inches off my whole body, mainly off my tummy, so my waist/hip ratio is significantly improved. Building muscle will raise your metabolic rate, improve your shape, and reduce risk of osteoporosis. Don't worry about getting too visibly muscular, its just not gonna happen. I also walk 50mins a day with 2 small dogs, in fact my Jack Chi, Bisou, looks like Marie-Anne's little brown dog. Hope this helps.
Now we're talking! I make ALL the mistakes you mentioned. ALL OF THEM! The advise to accept my body shape and love it and particularly relevant for me. Thank you xx
I'm size EU 38/40 and tend to gain on my tummy, so this is my topic. What I've learnt over the years is that despite all fashion gurus high waisted jeans/trousers don't work for me - they visually add centimeters on my widest part 🤷🏻♀️ Instead I go for mid rise (like few centimeters under my belly button or correctly said under my widest part, a.k.a. love handle). I have to be careful about muffin top (so no super tight waist band & no super tight tops) but this works best for me 🤷🏻♀️ Greetings from the Czech Republic 🌸
Another comment. I am male - but still find your videos very helpful. I did find that when I lost weight and now have a trim figure, it has made a significant difference - and allowed me to wear neat clothes and look and feel much better. So ...good choice is very important but having a trim figure is also a great help.
Very useful tips, Marie-Anne. Post-menopause, many if not most women have some sort of tummy protrusion, regardless of their weight. So these tips are helpful.
Yes menopause 😥Never had problems with my tummy before that beast.. Waistline and tummy and bigger breasts. All my life had tiny breasts, flat tummy and hourglass figure.
Excellent advice. I have always had a bit of a tummy. I tend to wear A line skirts which disguise it and also dresses which flare out from under the bust, which also disguise it.
You have given me much to think about when purchasing clothing. Certainly , as I have gotten older and surpassed 50 my clothing purchases need to be more thought out and intentional. Thank you Maria-Anne!
I love those pearl earrings, they suit you beautifully! For people who love pleats in skirts or dresses but don't like the extra bulk, these 2 options look amazing: godet pleats because the pleating flares out much lower than the waistline, and inverted pleats which look flat and slimming because the pleats fold inward.
Oh dear MarieAnne, I have made quite a lot of errors with my clothing in particular the elasticated waist, I do see now how it does me no favours whatsoever, definitely going to try the more tailored look for Autumn and Winter, also the pleats I must avoid the full pleated skirts. A good informative video as always. Thank you and look forward to your next.
Great video! I'm in the process of losing weight & have succeeded with 80 pounds so far. But I still have the tummy issue, it seems the tummy fights going away, lol. I wish the young ladies (teens & 20s) would see this, watching them wear skin tight clothing trends in plus sizes, not very attractive. Especially when you hear people making snide comments about them. Love the red blouse!
Marie-Anne! I must tell you how fabulous you look in this video. Your hair is impeccably cut and styled. And your blouse is a delicious shade of red. Thank you for all your efforts to publish channel. I always learn something of value from you.
So true! I see so many women of all ages and all shapes wearing sweat pants and leggings in very light or bright, or even see through fabric. Yikes. As if they've never seen a mirror.
Young woman who got her tummy pudge around 14 years of age here (and French too, incidentally :p): I am so sad that the modern age does not promote garments with more structure. It took turning 32 to buy some Levi’s that happen to compliment my bottom better than any other jeans I’ve worn before, and some random Uniqlo baker pants that didn’t have a fashionable cut, but happen to flatter my tummy area: the fabric is soft but stiff, and the garment is cut so that this sheath rests on my hips while the front naturally stands up as a flat panel against my tummy pudge without compressing it. No weird puckering, plenty of ease around the belly without looking frumpy! I cannot go back now. It’s like discovering the magic of well-made shoes again.
Oh dear, I have been wearing elasticated trousers. My problem is that my legs are not fat but my belly is. Finding trousers to fit around the waist which don’t look baggy around the legs are really hard to find. Jeans are not usually a problem but nice tailored ones are. Thank you for your tips. I love that red blouse you are wearing. The colour suits you beautifully. 🌺
Marie-Anne- You are such an elegant stylist for older women! It’s hard to buck the fashion industry as most of the clothes you mention - tight, elastic waists, shiny, leather, are the very ones being mass marketed as stylish & in fashion right now. One has to dedicate herself to seeking out cotton, linen & wool now, & pay a premium for them.
Hello Marie-Anne, Thank you for this video. What ever happened to elegance? My mom wouldn’t have been caught in such atrocious wear. Those leggings are nothing more than unflattering sausage casings. Athleisure wear is for the gym only. It also shows that one has totally given up and doesn’t care anymore. This type of outfit is bad for self confidence and self esteem. Ladies… Wake Up!
I have definitely done the ' hiding'..... there were days I must have looked liked a galleon in full sail lol! plus I was pre diabetic and had a fatty liver because of the weight.... those issues no longer apply No longer though as I have lost 4 of the 5 stones I needed to lose and thanks to your advice I am looking better and younger and better dressed. Thank you Marie -Anne and God bless Gillyx
The leggings at 5:01 are a head scratcher for me. I've seen lots of plus size women wearing these and wonder why they want to be seen in public. I guess because they fit. Actually, they FEEL like they fit. I would like to wear a pair of jeans on occasion, but there isn't a pair in the entire universe that fit me comfortable enough to wear in public. oh well.......
I have the unfortunate combination of a lower belly bulge, muffin top PLUS I’m high waisted! Would love for Marie-Anne to address best options for this triple whammy! I’m 5-7’, 150 lbs. 69 years old. Trying to lose the extra weight, of course, but only my skinny legs and thighs seem to respond.
Ah yes, top sewn pleated items look waaay better on me.. Took me years to figure out why I looked a bit like a barrel in those long, ultra-pleated skirts and 90's pants with the pleats that went all the way to the zipper on the front. Excellent advice all around in this video - I hadn't considered the shine factor before so I sure will now.
I was looking at some glossy silk (charmeuse) trousers online, and they even gave the super-skinny model the appearance of a bulging tummy at the waistline. Matte fabrics like crepe de chine, etc., are so much more flattering.
Bonjour Marie-Anne, the red silk blouse is stunning on you! I love the fabric choices you keep talking about; we all need to dress to breathe. Thank you for all your essential fashion tips!
I have seen many women wear big tops, which end at the widest part of their hips, paired with pants ending at the widest part of their lower legs. The comfort shoes that go along with the look are not attractive. They do not seem to realize this uniform makes them look older and huge. Another thing is too much jewelry. Thank you for helping people to look their best, no matter their size.
More great advice! I struggle with large thighs and small waist, NOTHING stock fits. I'm trying to learn basics of tailoring on my own. But, I still have some old FLAX linen pants (not cropped), noticed the one that still fits well with extra 10 lbs has smooth front has only small bit of elastic in middle back. I'll have to watch for the bunching in back!
This was really well and encouragingly presented, Marie-Anne. Thank you for taking the extra time in the way you edited this with examples, screen titles... all of the extras that show you care about us. It was an excellent styling lesson - that any woman can benefit from! :)
The only point I would differ on is pleats. I've always been taught that flat-front trousers are more flattering, as any pleats can add bulk to the midsection. Otherwise, I love this video! ❤️
Yes. I can’t see her answer (looks like it was removed), but you’re correct that flat front trousers are more flattering than pleats. I haven’t worn pleated pants since the early 90’s 😂😂
Hello Marie-Anne. First time to comment. In some instances, it’s not about the weight that women have to lose causing the excess fat around the tummy area. Sometimes it’s due to medical reasons (e.g., fibroids, adrenal issues) that leave them with limited options within their control. In the latter case, shapewear plus following your tips might help but there’s a good chance that they won’t really hide the tummy area because women need to be comfortable while wearing clothing that doesn’t press or tighten that area unnecessarily. I’m wondering if you can consider providing tips for this in future videos. I’m
You’ve just rejected all the excellent tips she provided, what exactly are you looking for then? If you have a big tummy you can’t hide and you won’t wear shape wear, then at least focus on the tailoring of your pants and skirts to make sure they fit you the best possible way. That’s all you can do if you refuse to follow her advice.
@@ALT-vz3jn Take your negativity elsewhere. I counsel ladies who have the medical conditions that I wrote about so my thoughts were intended for what other options are there for them. No one is refusing advice. You can share your views while being respectful of other’s views and questions.
I figured out that issue with pleats on my skirts: I bought a pleated skirt, made from a very thick fabric, and while I was excited to have lost weight, and fit into it, the pleats made me round like a balloon. Since then, I only do knife pleats on my skirts, or wear mostly A-lines
I of course have been wearing the wrong clothes elasticated jeggings with baggy t-shirts or jumpers. Need to invest in new trousers, I've been losing weight but stuck in what to look for I've dressed the same way for about 4 years!
Καλύτερα να μιλήσετε στην μητρική σας γλώσσα : τα εγγλέζικα με γαλλική προφορά δυσκολεύουν την κατανόηση ! Εξάλλου υπάρχουν οι αγγλικοί υπότιτλοι , που καλό είναι να παραμένουν περισσότερο χρόνο.
Hi Marie. Unrelated question. On your 'How To Dress Thinner' link, you are wearing the moat beautiful satin all-white striped shirt with a masculine black necktie! Can you PLEEEEEASE share where I can ind the same shirt? I can't even begin to imagine the price!🙈😱😖🙉🤣🤣🤣
I wear yoga leggings under dresses like they do in India and Pakistan. Apparently it looks pretty good because a number of people have commented about how much they like my outfits. I can't stand panty hose, and my legs look old,, so the leggings hide the faults, act as shape wear, and provide cover if I trip and fall.
Thank you for all your videos, Marie-Anne, I enjoy watching them. I have a fairly major problem with clothes because I'm tall, 5'9", and getting anything to fit can be a struggle. I'm also currently a UK size 16 - but going down. Where can I find affordable tailored clothes to fit me? Long Tall Sally are currently selling everything in 36" leg length and cheap and cheerful has become their motto. Most of their dresses are sacks. But trousers are another matter. I wear jeans a lot now! Any ideas, please?
I was watching very carefully but cannot apply. My waist is bigger v than my rear end, if I purchased slacks that are right fit around waist, they would be huge on my bottom and thighs. So I purchase petite size ,L or Xl , depending on manufacturer, but only with elastic waist that would fit above when fully stretched. I don't wear dresses or skirts, bad legs. Very difficult to find right stuff. In addition, I am living in subtropical climate, forever summer.
All the tailored trousers in the US are made for Twiggy types. And the waistband is not curved like they used to be. I’m an adult woman, not built like a 9 year old boy. I also have trouble with my tshirts riding up when I walk because they’re straight as a steel rod with no curve for a woman’s waist. I’ll be happy when a genuine woman’s curvy figure (not fat) is back in fashion.
I think many here could benefit from finding a good local tailor / alteration shop. You simply aren’t going to find the perfect fit from something off a rack. Yes, it’s a little extra but not that much and I think worth it.
Having IBS, a short waist, a large bust & slim hips, most pants are a disaster on me. There are flat waist band, boot cut, velveteen pants i have found that work in the winter time. The waist band is nothing like the elasticized waists you showed. They do not form any kind of gather or pleat. They fall flat.
I always wondered why people are wearing clingy satin or elastic polyester robes. If you are not thin as a needle these dresses will show every flaw under a magnifying glass. What also does not look great over a safety belt are paper bag trousers.
Ironically, I decided this morning that I cannot to elasticated waistband trousers!! I have a short body and all that fabric drowns me. I also hate long waisted pants as this barely leaves skin between the bottom of my bra and the beginning of the elastic band. It truly is so uncomfortable!!
I am thick through the waist and if I buy pants that fit my waist then the pants are too big for my bottom. If I choose pants for my bottom then the zipper and button won't do up. So most of my pants have an elastic waist. I do get some odd draping of fabric sometimes. Any suggestions? Maybe I need to try different pants or would built in extenders help ? I really enjoyed this helpful video !!
I absolutely love your advice videos and find them SO helpful!! I have read your books, (I love the tidy closet book!) but the videos really hit home especially with all the helpful photos. You have such a nice way of explaining how to look good and why it works. Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!! Have a very lovely week!!! xoxo
Ich habe mir für diesen heißen Sommer zwei Tunikas gekauft. Sie sind dünn, leicht und sehr luftig. Leider war der Kauf ein Fehlgriff. Sie machen mich extrem dick! Besonders fiel es mir auf, als ich mich auf dem Selfie neben einer anderen Frau sah. Ich dachte, das sei nicht Ich selbst. Liebe Marie Anne, seitdem ich deine Videos schaue, habe ich sehr viel bezüglich Mode dazu gelernt. Vielen Dank für deine ausgezeichnete Beratung! Ganz liebe Grüße aus Österreich Elisabeth 🇦🇹🎻
Excellent advice! I always wore fitted clothes for the exact reason that you pointed out. I would know when I was gaining weight. I wish I had shops that I could find nice clothes but they are disappearing. I don’t shop on line. Thanks
Shopping on line is difficult. I need to try items on to insure they fit. This has become especially important lately with button down blouses/dresses which will gap at the bust line if they are either too large or too small. Finding the right inseam for trousers/slacks has always been challenging without trying to buy them on-line.
@@deborahwilson6970 I tend to only shop online for stores where I have shopped in person. That way, I can be pretty certain of the fit. That's not to say every style will look good, of course, but for the basics, like trousers/jeans, tops, etc., I feel comfortable knowing the fit will be good.
@@lisamelroy2855 I am mostly a second hand shopper. Living overseas, I followed my brother's advice and had clothes custom made. I recently lost a little weight which means "ankle length" dresses are now too long, and what used to fit no longer does. How trousers are sized has changed throughout the years. At one time, it was too big in the seat and thighs, and then it was too skinny for this Triangular shaped woman who has often shopped the men's department for a better fit. My recent give away box included a blouse that fit 6 months ago, but I could no longer wear because of the bust line gape.
I wish there was a store that tailored classic clothes for older women. It is so hard to find appropriate “French” clothing in Texas. Everything is cheap and “trendy”….
Awesome styling lesson Marie Anne. My weight shows up on my hips and tights, not really on the stomach, but it's the same area. Over the last 10 years I lost about 70 lb. The weight is coming off slowly, but steady since I dealt with my emotional issues and stressful situations in my life. I will loose another 10 to 15 lb to be back to my ideal weight. Right now I wear a size 12 or 40/42 in Europe. I remember hiding out in the big baggy outfits or wearing uncomfortable shapewear, hoping to fit into an outfit. Now, all my shapewear is gone. I wear a lightweight smoothing cami under some sweaters, but that's it. If I do not fit into something, then it's not for me. I sure have to get used to tucking in my tops, or wearing a belt. I try it with one outfit at the time. Taking selfies in the mirror from the front, back and side and often also sitting down, both with and without a belt and tucked in shirts. Those photos are only for me. It's easier for me to see which look I prefer.
lol, how many have been making? all of them. I am doing a closet clean out. to many clothes that just don't fit. thank you for the push. I needed it. (64 this year) I need to change the way I have been dressing.
Ohhh the one about the elasticated waistband makes sense. I am slim but not super skinny, I have a small waist but a plump derrière. Yesterday, I wore linen trousers with a Tshirt but couldn’t work out why I looked like I gained weight around my belly. It was the elastic adding extra bulk! I might have to cut it off and sew in a zip or something, the fabric is too good to waste
I've just discovered your channel. I subscribed right away. I work in our family businesses with my husband, our oldest son and our nephew. I also take care of our home. Last year, when our baby (he towers over me and has a man's voice - but he's always going to be my baby) started university, I started doing some things for myself. I've lost 50 pounds. I now wear a size 8. I am now learning how to dress properly. I usually grabbed the largest thing I could find. After binge watching your videos, I know that I have been running around looking a hot mess. Lol! You made me want to learn what I need to do. I now know my body type is apple and my season is autumn. I have invested in two cashmere sweaters - v neck, of course. I also purchased two pairs of properly cut jeans. I've learned a lot in a short time. Simple is best! Thank you so much.
Congratulations, Katie, on losing 50 pounds! What an accomplishment, and your new clothing sounds lovely. You deserve to be doing things for yourself after working in your family businesses and also being a wife and mom. Celebrate your new, sleek self with French Chic attire!!
Yet another 10 minutes of sage advice and would it not be wonderful if the majority followed it. Unfortunately the prevailing style seems to be baseball caps crocs and T shirts with I love something or other written upon them. People have stopped caring how they look and it is so sad. If we visit any popular area in any country in the world this sad fact is painfully obvious. These videos are so so important to those of us who will never give up on style . Looking my best is one of the great joys of my existence . Marie Anne's wonderful videos help me so much. Lets all try to improve our overall appearance, not for others but for ourselves.
Well said. The other day I visited a library, because I have a librarian interview there, but I was so dismayed to see the staff looking like slobs. What happened to dressing like a professional at the workplace? They will hire someone like themselves who is also sporting the disheveled look. I am not going to downgrade my appearance to fit in with slobs. Why look my worst when I can look my best?
I love this channel!I just found you recently and I love your advice.I agree with you,wearing big baggy pants,etc do not hide the problem but draw attention to it.
Great video as per usual. The only one I fail on is the elasticated waist in my uniform trousers. I hate them even though the elastic is only around the back and I have to wear them
Bonjour Marie-Anne! I agree with those who said that color of blouse looks amazing on you! I love tuning in to your videos and truly appreciate you and your advice. I have noticed many curvy ladies with tummies tucking their shirts in, in the front and leaving the rest of the shirt out; thus leaving the bottom of their tummies showing and hanging out. I find this look very unflattering…on me. I know you mentioned that hiding under the clothes is frumpy but I can’t see the first option as a flattering option either. I’ve always thought A-line tops or curved bottom hem tops were the way to go to help disguise one’s tummy. What do you suggest apple shaped ladies to do? Merçi!🥰
When discouraging leggings, I think you should address wearing them under long tops. And then discussion on type of long top for different body types, and how to wear them. Maybe a separate video on how to wear leggings and skinny jeans under long tops?
I personally find actual dresses over leggings more flattering than just long tops. If the top is too tight, that look can be unflattering and it tends to lengthen the torso and shorten the legs.
The problem with trousers - almost all women’s trouser, especially ‘dress’ / more formal) trousers have a front fly, and slash pockets on the back. Doesn’t do anything for a male or female shape, unless you’re a very slim male. I find that an invisible side zipper (or invisible back zipper) give the longest, sleekest and most flattering line for a woman. Hard to find, and more often found in higher-end slacks, but so lovely.
Hi Deborah, Yes, I always look for flat-front pants with size zippers--so much more flattering. I have found some on ThedUp made by Talbots, Ann Taylor and White House Black Market.
@@nataliamiles7109 Thanks for retail recommendations. Will check-out! I generally cross-reference on eBay for brands like Akris, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Max Mara. You never know. Might get lucky & catch a bargain.
There is one exception: wide elastic waitsbands can be softer on the tummy after gut surgery. These kinds of waistbands do not irritate surgical scars.
Good afternoon, thank you very much for your competition and amazing information's. Yes,it is very truly 😉 I like to watch on your movies. Based on the mistake of fashion as woman's are do, is the high waist trousers. I hate them, because I have look in them like Asteliks and Obelix😂🙈 However plenty woman's are wearing it with the crop top,and it looks bad. Thank you 🥰🍀
Thank you for your videos as I find them really helpful. I have been thin rectangle all of my life until I hit the menopause at 54. I am now 63 and an apple and no matter what I do, I can't shift the weight, so I need to make the best of things. It does make me sad though as you are right about the weight being uncomfortable. Sometimes we need to make the best of certain situations and these tips are really helpful. I work from home, but I am dressing up more as it makes me feel better. I try and go out at some point just so I don't feel my effort hasn't been for nothing. I got rid of all of my baggy clothes and not hiding anymore. Thank you.
It’s more about the fit. If you carry extra weight it’s hard to find pants that fit. You tell us to accept ourselves then tell us to loose the extra bit. Could you please do styles of pants that work.
