When I was in my 20s, the flattest thing on my body was my stomach. That sexy flatness lasted well into my late 30s, even my 40s. I really took my flat belly for granted.
Because, when I hit 45, BAM. Instant belly. It started out as just a little poof. I was holding water, I told myself. Couple years later, it was a bigger poof. I started taking water pills and wearing baggy clothes to hide it. Then, at 50, it turned into unflattering “Big Belly.” After no type of clothing would hide that sucker, I got down to business.
I watched my weight, ate healthier, and exercised. Slowly, surely my stomach, and other areas of my body, started to get smaller. Woo hoo!
But, no matter what, the little poof wouldn’t go away. I hear from other women that the “poof” is the hardest to lose.
For several months, I have been seeing women in their 30-60s in Rotary, Chamber, Naam Yoga, Locanda del Lago, Meals on Wheels, Heal the Bay (Tish, Laurel, Rosemary, Jane, Dienna, Megan, Karin and others) wearing a beautiful knit clothing line. Amazing colors.
Comfortable, flattering fit. The designer (first name Eva) has found a way to make everyone look good! I had to see for myself.
My little “poof” and I went to her store in Santa Monica Mall. I explained to the manager what I was looking for. Something to hide my “poof.” Something flattering.
“Of course,” she said. “I’ve hidden way bigger ‘poofs’ than yours,” she declared.
After a major flurry of two hours of trying on pretty much of everything in the store, I emerged. I was smiling and satisfied. I found many items that were flattering, hid my “poof” but surprisingly were not loose-fitting. In fact, they showed off my figure.
And I looked pretty good.
The manager explained that the fabric has a four-way stretch, so it wears evenly on your body. It is also made of double fabric, which instantly hides any body flaws.
Also, the lines were designed to “slim down” the person who wears it.
In addition, some of tunics have a smaller, second top flap on the front, built in to further camouflage any leftover “poofs.”
My friend Dienna, who says she has a “poof,” just bought that style and loves it (she really doesn’t have a “poof”). I walked out with a jacket, a skirt, two pairs of pants, a sexy camisole with the bra built into it, and a black form-fitting dress with fringe on the bottom. All under $800. And best of all, no signs of any “poof!” I can’t wait to wear them.
Barbara Bishop is President of Santa Monica-based BBPR, Inc. For comments or suggestions, email barbara.bishop@bbprinc.com.
