Periods are the worst. They make you bloated, uncomfy, cranky, crampy, and headache-y, yet you still have to pretend to be human. You’re exhausted and losing iron, but you still have to put on your big girl clothes and head off to school or work. To take some of the pain out of trying to function during your period, try making better fashion choices. These simple tips and tricks are easy to pull off, but can make a huge difference in your comfort and peace of mind.
1. Try Period Underwear
Pads can be itchy and irritating, or feel wet all day, and rub up against your skin. Plus, in the wrong outfit, they can stick out like a sore thumb and look obvious to others around you. Period underwear, on the other hand, are much thinner and more discreet, and have moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you dry. They’re less like wearing a diaper and more like regular clothes, and you can pair them with tampons or a cup for extra unintrusive protection.
2. Befriend the Elastic Waistband
You’re uncomfortable enough when you’re on your period; there’s no need to add stiff fabrics or tight closures to the mix. When it’s that time of the month, choose the stretchiest, most forgiving waistbands you can find, and let that belly bloat float free. While classic dark sweatpants are perhaps the most obvious choice, a forgiving pair of pants doesn’t have to look casual. Many brands offer stylish, work-appropriate slacks you’d never know were held up with elastic.
3. Go Loose and Baggy
Besides the waistline, choose loose, flowing styles that let your body truly breathe. It’s not just about a more relaxed tummy; your whole body deserves a break when everything feels swollen to the max. Flowy skirts, pants and dresses also take the pressure off when you feel worried that you’re not looking your best. No one actually notices you’re bloated, but you might still feel self-conscious, so why force yourself into skin-tight styles?
4. Skip the Underwire, or the Whole Bra
For many women, during those first couple days of your period, your boobs are a size or two bigger. Even if they’re not, you might still notice your skin feels extra sensitive, and everything rubs you the wrong way. This is a great time of the month to don those old sports bras, try a bralette, or nix the bra all together. You’re irritated enough; there’s really no need to add wires, lace, hooks, scratchy straps, and overly tight bra-bands into the mix.
5. Carry a Scarf or Hoodie
During that time of the month, there’s always a slight chance of a leak, visible pad, or stray tampon string (say, at the beach). Throwing a dark-colored scarf or hoodie around your waist can save you a lot of embarrassment or awkwardness. Even if you don’t spring a leak, that extra garment can be a lifesaver if your pants are feeling a bit too tight. If it’s appropriate to do so, unbutton your jeans discreetly, and keep your scarf or sweater on your lap so no one is the wiser.
6. Go Dark
Dark colors are an obvious choice during your period, especially for heavy days. Whoever invented the “White Party” should be ashamed of themselves for all the emotional damage they’ve done to women. If you must wear a light color on a heavy day, try laying underneath with a thin, discreet pair of leggings. Or, choose dark-colored pants and let the rest of your outfit fulfill the dress code, as long as you’re not violating any workplace policies.
- Have Deep Pockets
Sure, you can keep your pads and tampons in your bag, but what happens when you have to run to the restroom? It’s never any fun to hold your extra supplies in your hand, especially when someone stops you in the hallway. For maximum comfort on period days, choose clothing with pockets big enough to at least fit a cup or tampon. A velcro, zipper, or button pocket can provide extra privacy and security if you have to carry your supplies a long way.
8. Stash a Heating Pad in Your Clothes
Press-on heating patches are an absolute period game-changer: stick them on your lower back or abdomen to fight off cramps undercover. For a more sustainable solution, try a zero-waste reusable hand warmer, slipped into your underwear, or tucked into leggings, shorts, or a camisole. Some companies make portable cordless heating pads that you can charge with a USB cable. Just don’t fall asleep with a heat source touching your skin, or you could wake up with second-degree burns.
Just Be Comfy
The bottom line is that, when you’re on your period, just about anything goes — within reason. As long as it won’t get you into trouble at work or school, the best period fashion is what feels right on your body. Also remember that there’s no rule that says you always have to wear designated period protection, especially on your lightest days. When you’re hanging out at home, try layering on two pairs of old sweatpants or sitting on a towel instead of sporting an itchy pad.
