The power of getting dressed—especially when you don’t want to.
My first time getting dressed post surgery
Recovery has not been what I imagined. That’s not a fault of the surgeon or the plan, honestly we are “on plan,” it just has felt harder and that is simply the reality of how my body is healing. And if I’m honest, it’s taken more energy to laugh through it than cry.
(ICYMI: I recently had a breast reduction.)
Right now, I look like Frankenstein’s bride—stitches, tape, the whole thing. My arms refuse to lift, so every top has to button or slip on from the ground up. Antibiotics have me so bloated that pants that were meant to hang low are now sitting high and snug. Not exactly chic.
But here’s the truth: my body is finding a new normal. My wardrobe will either adapt to it—or I’ll edit and release what no longer works. Simple as that. The emotional noise that comes up—what if it fits later, what if I can’t replace it, but it was so expensive—is just that: noise. It’s not worth the time, energy, or self-critique.
I thought my post-surgery content would be about the fun of experimenting with new styles and silhouettes I had once avoided. Instead, this chapter is about slowing down. Choosing clothes that are practical, comfortable, and effortless. Pieces that make me feel put together without demanding much of me.
And I’ll say it outright: I don’t feel sexy or confident right now. I feel swollen, taped up, and unsettled. But I also feel proud—proud of a body that is carrying me through a major change. Proud that I finally made a decision I’ve wanted for years. And so very excited for what comes next.
So here’s to effortless dressing, no guilt required, until further notice.
And here’s the truth I’m holding onto: getting dressed still carries power—even now, especially now. I don’t need a “perfect” wardrobe to feel like myself, and neither do you. Style isn’t reserved for some future version of you. It’s available in every phase, including the messy ones.
xx,
