I am an apple.

[mauvishagain]

As title says, and like many of us, but it's starting to get me down.

At start of COVID my BMI was about 26, but I've lost a fair bit of weight and BMI now just over 22. (Deliberate weight loss, low carb and exercise, if it's relevant). Size 10-12.

But if anything my tummy looks more prominent now! My limbs are toned, and from in front I have quite a good waist, which I've learnt to accentuate with waisted styles and belts. But as soon as you see me side on, that illusion is blown by my pregnant looking lower belly.

I'm in my 60s so that's against me. I will also never have a totally flat abdomen as I've had major life-saving surgery, then a big surgical hernia which was fixed, and I'd rather be alive now than dead!!!

What I'm asking the ladies of S&B for, is any tips to make me feel better about my belly? Now I've found my waist I don't want to give up on that. My weight seems pretty stable. I'm still exercising. I try to avoid bloating foodstuffs too. What more can I do?

Have a look at Cary’s Whittaker on instagram
although she might not be your personal style, the way she dresses her body shape has helped me a lot in making clothing choices that suit me

The obvious thing is to wear dresses and tops that are fitted on the middle, then flare out. You need the skirt/peplum to actually stick out, not drape, so it will be a fabric with some firmness - poplin, not jersey, for example - and it will probably be gathered at the waist.

There are many styles that create a sticky-out skirt in the right fabric, without gathers, but these will cost more and it sounds like you're in an experimental stage. Experiment! Have fun!

Some skater dresses & peplum tops at Next