No—it isn’t a typo. I’m referring to my current circumstance as Pandemic Weight Gloss it’s a hybrid of “gain+ loss”—Gloss! And this word is being used because you can dress well after the infamous Pandemic Weight Gain and during the weight loss.
A good number of us have had this expression during this pandemic. Weight happens1
First, I’m gonna address the elephant in the room. And although in the present time I may feel as though I’ve got an elephant’s weight, I need to address just what caused this weight gain It was far more than the pandemic that caused it.
Trust me. That elephant is excercising more than I am!
I made a list and studied it. With the exception of my brother’s passing and the state of my eyesight before my cataract surgeries, it came down to the fact that I lost will power. But it isn’t laziness. The current state of being self-contained made most of us lose any will that we had. Am I right?
I made a list. Checked it twice. And realized that I could have had control over quite a few of these excuses!
And it isn’t easy. I don’t know about you, but Weight Watchers isn’t working for me anymore. I tried intermittent fasting and that turns me into a hangry bitch! The other option was Noom but I’ve heard too many mixed reviews and truthfully, I don’t want to spend the money.
There’s a reason Weight Watchers isn’t working at the moment. None of the above is allowed. That’s what I’ve been shoving into my mouth!
The wakeup call came to me in the form of transitioning my summer clothing to winter clothes. A couple of weeks ago, I tackled this transition only to discover that I gained so much weight most of my clothing didn’t fit me. It was so disgusting. My gut not only is a flabby display of overflowing fat, but I swear my belly is larger than my pregnant daughter’s. At least hers is firm.
Honestly–this is ME. I can’t even close most of last year’s pants!
My thighs and ass have expanded and my upper arms, as well as my face, have gotten rounder. It is no surprise that over the course of three seasons, my body puffed up like a kernel of popcorn over the heat!
There’s lots to do. I need to channel my inner willpower and I need to be accountable to myself. Nobody else but me. With a grandchild on the way, I need to get healthy. At my aging proage, I must get healthy. That entails more than dieting. It begins with baby steps. Then wider steps and getting into a routine.
And I’ll get to more of that later. But for now………….
Back to the clothing! Rather than sit around and cry and whine about why most of my clothing didn’t fit, I weeded out the clothes that would work while this extra load is being carried upon my body.
And rather than sit around continuing to stuff my face……
A good number of the pants in my wardrobe have stretch. I tried them on and surprisingly the stretch factor worked in my favor. Granted, the waist was very snug but with panties that suck the tummy in—they work!
Lets Look at Pants–shall we?
A couple of weeks ago, I purchased a pair of “Jamie” pants from J. Crew Factory online. They were a clearance item so at less than twenty bucks, I made the purchase and I’m so glad that I did. The leopard print and wider legs are on trend but not overtly trendy. They are so stinking comfortable that I headed to Factory’s website to find more colors. The only remaining color was sold out in my size. The waist is elasticized but not granny. I have to say, I never thought I would love these pants.
These pants. I didn’t expect to love these as much as I do but I’ll tell you, they drape beautifully. The polyester blend is soft and almost silky in texture. The wider leg is surprisingly flattering and the length is wonderful. I’m wearig a stretchy tee that was purchased at Target about two years ago. At $19.99 these pants are fantastic! And..
….the waistband is elasticized but not in a granny way. These are going to be a favorite during the weight gloss!
I loved the leopard print pants so much, I headed to J. Crew Factory to buy the wide-leg in black. Sadly they were sold out but I purchased a slimmer version. These are wonderful pants!
Here I am in my ever lovin’ J. Crew Pixie pants. I’ve got about 8 pair and have had them for a long time. The stretch component is incredible and the quality is stellar. The Pixie pant has literally been with me through thicker and thinner! It also helps to wear a sweater or top that falls below the waist!
The pants in this photo are about five or six years old! Again, it’s all about the stretch. These are Gap Jeggings and they are ridiculously accodomating for a weight gloss! Worn with black booties, a black top and a camel blazer, the look is polished and flattering . Try to stick with a more monochromatic color palette for a longer look!
My wool pencil skirts? It’s gonna be a while till I shimmy my body into them. However, my favorite three-season leopard print skirt has stretch and the tummy area expands. It still fits!
My favorite skirt–from J. Crew Factory! Granted–it’s a bit snug but the slight stretch contingent aids in the fit. I can zipper it up. Again with the stretch shirt from Target, this is one of my all-time favorite outfits! The shirt is fantastic because it falls at the perfect length. A too-short shirt will cut the body and make it look squat and heavier! Now is not the time for that!
Luckily, this body-con completely stretchy skirt is now a life-saver! It not only stretches but sucks my tummy in! Sticking to a monochromatic color scheme, worn with my favored French Hen sweater from J. Crew, this is a perfect choice for work! The skirt was purchased many moons ago either at TJ Maxx or Marshalls!
I have three kilt skirts with Velcro closure waistbands. These are a Godsend. The skirts, from the brand, Sportkilt.com are fantastic! Comfortable as all get out and the waistband can be closed tighter as the weight comes off.
This is the newest addition to my collection from Sportkilt.com! There’s nothing like a cute kilt no matter what age you are! The great thing is the velcro waist band…
The arrow is pointing to the velcro. You can adjust the waistband whether your waist is expanding or shrinking! THIS is the perfect Thanksgiving/Christmas/Channukah meal skirt!
The skinny on jeans? That’s a tough one. Some jeans fit fine due to the stretch and some I can’t even zipper up. But I do have my stretchy whimsical jeans from Gretchen Scott that are very weight friendly!
The jeans can be daunting during a weight gain because they can feel cumbersome. Many of my jeans are stashed away for leaner times. These jeans from AG Jeans are one of the few pairs that still fit. That is due to a good amount of stretch and the right panties! A half-tuck with a tee shirt helps to disguise added tummy fat!
These “jeans” from Gretchen Scott Designs are fun, colorful and whimsical! And loaded with stretch around the tummy and waist! Purchased on sale–they are wonderful!
Another pair of Gretchen Scott jeans! I’ll tell you, these are fabulous for those of us who need the stretch! The leg is also a tad looser than a true skinny jean so overall, a great fit!
Dresses? For now, the sheath dresses will be in a deep slumber but I have my jersey swing dresses that are perfect for gain-into-loss! These dresses hide a multitude of sinful eating and can be dressed up or down!
These dresses though! Purchased at Old Navy for $17.99 each they are an asset to the weight loss. The fit is definitely looser but still remains flattering. I love the look with boots and each can go dressy with pumps and pearls!
This dress is from a few seasons ago. I reviewed it for Mindful Souls but the company is no longer selling this dress. It was slightly large when I received it but presently, fits beautifully. The layered “slip” adds length and again, looks great with boots!
Running errands? I’ve discovered activewear! Although I much rather get a bit more dressed when I leave the house, these leggings are great for home use. It occurred to me that if I make the feeblest of attempts to look decent at home, the willpower may kick in a bit. Traipsing around in pajamas and a tee shirt or sweatshirt adds to the mental sloppiness that got me into this poundage.
Bra straps notwithstanding, Activewear has warmed the strings of my heart. Although I rarely wear this sort of clothing outside the home. Actually, with a blazer, this just may suffice for casual Fridays! And the fit is friendly while attempting to lose weight!
The key is to feel better about yourself while going through the Weight Gloss journey! And the right clothing can help. Stretch is the key component. That stretch around the thighs and the waistband really help.
And again, the majority of clothing I’m showing you in this post are not new. It’s just that I happen to purchase clothing with a bit of stretch so the fabric can “give” and move with me. The new items were the dresses from Old Navy and the Jamie pants from J. Crew Factory. I love every purchase and that helps. You have to buy what you love or it’ll never get worn!
So that’s it. What do you think? Should I return to a weekly weight post? I’m veering toward it!
It’s a journey for certain. But I want to ask something. A while back, about two year ago, I wrote weekly installments on losing weight. What do you think of doing it again? But this time, we can do it together. Perhaps every Thursday evening I can do a post dedicated to what I cooked, wore, thought during the week of loss. Maybe we can share our strategies.
Let me know what you think and we can do this together!
I would love a weekly weight post especially as we head into the holidays. Good for motivation, for me! I am a definite YES!
I would love a weekly kick up the backside, count me in! I was looking at myself in the mirror this morning – oh dear, I look like a chunky little splodge
I need all of the help I can get! I wait all summer for the rare day in the winter that I can wear jeans and none of them fit this year.
Count me in for sure! Lockdown started with a batch of fudge made with three cups of sugar. I ate it in 5 days. There’s about 10lbs of me that has to go! So, I think some accountability is in order. See you Thursdays!
Yes please. I have to do some Lockdown Losing so would love to hear what you are eating/doing to get back to your sassy pencil skirts and sheath dresses. I remember the last time you did it and it was very encouraging for me.
Been walking at least 10,000 steps a day since retirement came early. I realize weight is 90 percent diet but I think I need the steps for my mental sanity more than anything! I’ve only lost 4 lbs but at 61 who cares if I stay healthy.
I think your clothes and nails look great. I love not working right now to stay safe but I miss getting getting dressed up occasionally and getting polished nails.
Weight posts are always appreciated.
I am in….pandemic enforced wearing of scrubs. Now I know why nurses love them. They are too accommodating of the extra weight….though I have to admit that I have lost some weight during this epidemic party…I have been IF for more than a year. 18/6 so it’s a way of life not to eat before noon and to stop after 6pm but ya know I am not married to it, some days the window is longer, like to 8pm, depends on the day. It’s what you eat during that window that can be an issue…I tell myself ok 1400kcals are going down today and it seems like a lot more food spread over two meals or one snack and a larger meal. I am pretty good during the week but weekends let myself off a little. Have some wine or a negroni, sometimes both. I stopped beating myself up over it. I need to move my ass a bit more though. Just too fluffy. We stopped with the ‘on the regular takeout. I like to support the locals but it was getting $$ and kinda repetitive. We now save that ‘for special’. Frankly, I get a bit tired of baking for the men folk too ( the old one and myself don’t need the extra cals though 23 and skineee appreciates them!) Not entertaining or having people over for dinner is helping too! As my French friends say ‘c’est plat’ Yeah life is pretty plat these days.Thank God for the entertainment coming outta Washington! Even in Canada he makes for an amusing diversion! Hope it ends in early November…
As always my dear, you look fabulous! The extra pounds will come off.
Hi Momcat. You know, I used to be able to fast and not feel the hunger pangs. Now–it’s a different story but I’m doing what I can. I’m glad you’re in. It’s always good to have friends along for the journey! XOXOXOXO
Yep, I’m in – love your blog, and having gloss companions sharing the journey back to preCovid weight will make it MUCH more attainable! We got this!
Hi K! We’re gonna gloss it!!! XOXOXOXO
Yes! Weight loss discussions would be great!
I’m in, Cathe. My husband and I have been in WW since the end of June and we are slowly losing pre-Covid and Covid weight. The struggle is real but necessary in order to stay healthy.
Hi Toni! Glad you’re in! It’s so true that the struggle is soooooo real but needed! XOXOXOXO
I am interested. I need to shape up somewhat too, after lockdown and before, *groan*, Christmas season is rolling around. I have dug out my soup recipes, so that’s what we’re having for dinner at the moment. Tonight it’s velouté de potimarron, panais and rutabaga (pumpkin, parsnip and Swede). Would be interested at a peak at what you’re having.
Love your outfits, especially your camel jacket. I have stretch jeans too, they’re a lifesaver!
Hey B! MMMMMMMMMM Parsnips! I LOVE parsnips and can’t understand why they aren’t more popular here in the States. Soup sounds good but this evening I’m going to dine on Fennel Salad. Sunday evenings make me sad because I have to go to work tomorrow-LOL! XOXOXO
I swear by Mark Bittman’s VB6. He used to be the NY Times food critic. His doctor told him to lose 40 pounds or he would become diabetic and be on meds the rest of his life. He devised the VB6 diet which means “vegan before 6 pm”. You eat unlimited quantities of veggies, fruits, whole grains, nuts and other stuff. What you don’t eat before 6 pm is meat, dairy, processed food, alcohol. At 6-or whatever time you choose that works for your life-you can eat whatever you want-steak, that martini, chocolate cake, anything. It is a life diet that works, is remarkably unrestrictive and healthy. I cheat a little with milk in my coffee. You can get the book on ebay or the library. Or your local independent book seller!
I love VB6, too, have both books.
Thanks Cyndy! Yeah. I know who Mark Bittman is but I never realized that he had such a health issue. I just interupped this reply to go to Amazon to purchase the book. I can’t wait till it arrives! THANKS CYNDY!!
Cathe, I am definitely interested in weight loss and motivation tips. I look forward to sharing tips and recipes. You always look beautiful!
Hi Cathe, definitely yes, would love to read about this with you every week. It’s a constant challenge for all of us! I find inspiration for healthy weeknight meals from a few IG cooks: Rachel Mansfield; PinchofYum; MinimalistBaker most often.
Go Girl You have great will power
try intermittent fasting again — read Gin Stephens book, “Fast Feast Repeat.” I did all the diets, including WW, Atkins, Nukeyoursystem, WheatBelly, etc … since 1.1.20 I’ve lost 31lbs and 43″ by fasting … and I eat ALL THE THINGS in my eating window.
You are ALWAYS well dressed and beautiful!!
MJ
Thanks Emjay! Hmmmmmmmmmm I’ll have to look for that book. The thing with the fasting is I get so freaking hungry. So hungry that Chippy looked appetizing to me! Thank you so much for your compliment. I try to look my best–especially now during these trying times! XOXOXOXO
for IF the CLEAN fast is key to not being hangry — plain black coffee, water or black tea, no flavors, creamers, sweeteners. Once you get that part down pat, fasting is easy + it’s very restorative. I have kept a list of 50+ NSV (non-scale victories) from fasting –> nail growth, skin clarity, energy, sleep quality improved etc …. yes you are ALWAYS so chic and beautiful! ~~MJ
Love your outfits, especially those new wider legged pants. So great!!!! The pandemic is certainly trying….I’ve put on 2 o r 3 pounds and my weight is usually pretty consistent. Other things going on as well that have been very stressful. (horrid mother-in-law finally died, my two 12 year old brother cats both have cancer at the same time, and I can’t tell if my lower back ache is stress related or medical. UGH). But one light at the end of the tunnel is the potential to get that orange turd out of the Oval Office!!!
Hey Vava! OMG The stress–it never ends! I feel for you as having two sick dogs at the same time was stressful. Let’s hope there is a light at the end of the tunnel or it’s four more years of stress and I don’t know if I can handle it! XOXOXOXO
Oh, I feel your pain! Why is it that the weight comes on so quickly, but takes forever to lose! I used WW eight years ago and lost 60 pounds. I struggle with gaining and losing 10-15 pounds every couple of years. This damned virus has helped me in that we don’t go to the grocery store anymore. We buy online and pick up curbside. If it isn’t in the house, I can’t eat it. I love to bake…not the gourmet things you bake…but, we can’t keep those cookies and cakes here so I give them to the neighbors! But, if you hadn’t said you’d gained weight, I would never have known from your pictures. If I gain five pounds, nothing fits. So, I have loads of jeans in varying sizes. Healthy? Nope! Reality? Yup! Anyway, keep that grandbaby in mind when you start to eat. Having a goal definitely helps, doesn’t it?
Hi Marsha! It’s so true either the weight seems to pop out over night or it creeps in in such subtle ways. I just have to say no to all that stuff I’ve been using as a comforting excuse during this pandemic! I have a fennel bulb in the kitchen waiting to be turned into a delicious salad for later this evening! A good start! XOXOXOXO
Great idea. One option you may enjoy is the Mediterranean diet. We eat mostly that since my husband had a heart attack a year ago, on Drs recommendation. We didn’t need to lose weight, but it helped with cholesterol levels in months. You might find it fun, with discovering new recipes. I like your idea of baby steps.
Thanks Leah! I do have a Mediterranean diet book somewhere in the house. And I know very well that’s a great diet to follow. It’s got lots of delicious and healthy options too! Great idea! XOXOXOXO
I would love a weekly post.
Thank you for so many great ideas on what to wear during our weight gloss.
I’m loving those kilts with the velcro waistbands……so cute! The weight loss menu would be interesting to read. I was wondering with your hubby having suffered a heart attack (I think it was you who posted that) awhile ago, if he/you had to change cooking/eating habits as they sometimes advise? Hard to do, with all that lovely French cooking. I’m trying to eat heart-healthy, low fat etc but it’s difficult…..easier to do in the summer when there’s lots of fresh fruit/veggies. Everybody’s gained weight this year….
Count me in too! Let’s do this!! I need to get back on the health/exercise train again. Thanks Catherine, I’m excited!
YES to a weekly weight loss post. I have gained 5 pounds that I am planning on losing starting today.
I think you look great – I have been wearing scrubs through this whole time (I take them off and change before saying hello to any of my family members), and the weight can really sneak up on you.So yes, do a weight-loss series – that would be wonderful!!!
You don’t look as if you’ve gained weight, you still look great in all your clothes. Here in the UK we have Slimming World. I don’t know if you have it over there, but I can highly recommend it. I lost 21 pounds a few years ago and have managed to keep it off. I find I go up or down by a couple of pounds and if it’s anymore than that a few days of sticking to the regime seems to take me back to my ideal weight. Good luck with your Gloss.
Susan D
Thanks Susan! We don’t have Slimming World but I’m really channeling my willpower! XOXOXOXO
Yes to your weight loss journey. I would love to follow you down that road. I have an exercise bike that is slowly gathering dust as I feared when I bought it for I have chronic back pain coupled with fibromyalgia. At first I was doing super good working my way up to 45 mins. of cycling burning off 500 calories because even though my snacking consists of yogurt and rice cakes I have the body type that has to sweat to lose weight. I have high hopes once again for my therapist is still in the process of adjusting my meds the new one I’m getting dulls the pain of fibromyalgia. Maybe I can try my exercise routine again. >Keeping fingers crossed< BTW your outfits look stunning on you.
Hi Sheryl. I’ll be back on the journey later this week. I swear my belly is larger than my pregnant daughters. I inquired about Noom but one of my friends said one of HER friends didn’t like it and it was ridiculously expensive. We need to do this pragmatically! XOXOXOXO
I make lists of the reasons I’m stressed too. I have a big one of just reasons I binge eat, and I just keep adding to it lol. Also, those outfits are super cute 🙂
Hi Ang! I subbed to your blog and Instagram! And i’M SO glad that I DID!!! You are going to be very inspirational to me! XOXOXOXO