How To Shop For Clothes Post- Eating Disorder
You don’t have to have had a full fledged eating disorder for this to be useful-in fact, most people have experienced some form of disordered eating without knowing there was a name for it. Since there’s been extra pressure on staying “fit” throughout quarantine-this will be helpful for anyone who needs help practicing compassion with their body.
1) Phone a friend
Ok, so IRL experiences are tougher this year- but if you have the ability to do so safely, go with a friend so you don’t have to rely on the mirror (which are notoriously unreliable in stores anyway). Your friend will also be able to provide support and pump you up when you try something on that could be triggering.
2) Know what you like
Keep track of how your favorite pieces make you feel- and your sizing across brands. Building an arsenal of signature looks makes it so much simpler to shop. For instance, I KNOW my size in the lululemon align tights, and can order them online without the stressful dressing room experience, AND feel confident that it will fit. Remember- sizes don’t mean anything- and as soon as you notice how your size can change drastically across brands, you’ll give it less importance. If you’re struggling with that last bit- cut your tags out! (Sustainability tip- if you’re planning on re-selling gently used clothing after a while, which I’m a big fan of, keep these tags somewhere safe but out of sight and mind so you know how to list your items on sites like Poshmark).
3) Find a silhouette you feel comfortable in
When I was sickest, I wore tight everything (it was also the early aughts, but still- as my body changed I then went the opposite direction and felt like I could only wear baggy stuff. You should never feel like you have to hide your body, but if you need some time to adjust to it changing, having a few pieces that are roomy enough to not make you self conscious but are still your style and make you feel put together can really help.
4) Be easy on yourself
Easier said than done, I know. Eating disorder recovery is lifelong even after your weight is restored (not to mention that not all eating disorders are visible to the naked eye- and that doesn’t make them any less dangerous). You’ll have to be in constant relationship with yourself and reminding yourself that it’s ok to have negative thoughts, they’re unavoidable, but remind yourself with affirmations or gratitude how you can both have insecurities and pride about your body and those emotions can exist at the same time. It may feel awkward or unnatural to practice self compassion, but it changes everything.
If you suspect you or a loved one is dealing with an eating disorder- please do the quick National Eating Disorder Association screener tool to assess if it’s time to reach out for professional mental health support and check out their free resources. You can even apply for support with treatment access at Project Heal. You don’t have to do it alone!