Living with an ostomy can be challenging, especially when learning to dress with an ostomy bag. Fortunately, there are plenty of ostomy clothing hacks and tips for hiding an ostomy under clothes. Whether you’re new to having an ostomy or want to update your wardrobe, here are our top ostomy-friendly wardrobe picks.
Thick Leggings
Leggings are versatile and comfortable. If you have an ostomy, a pair of leggings with a thick band can help conceal the ostomy bag- especially if that band happens to sit right on top of the ostomy wafer. You can wear leggings with a t-shirt, skirt, or even under a dress.
Shapewear Shorts
A good pair of shapewear shorts can help conceal your ostomy while making you look a little thinner. You might find these especially helpful if you are wearing an outfit that is particularly form-fitting because the shorts can help hide the appearance of the ostomy wafer. Opt for shapewear shorts that end at your stomach or ribs to cover the ostomy bag entirely and allow for a smoother look for your other clothing.
High-waisted shorts and Jeans
High-waisted shorts and jeans are great for covering an ostomy. Choose shorts or jeans made from a thick material to help make the ostomy bag wafer less obvious.
High Waisted Pants
For more formal occasions, high-waisted pants can cover the ostomy as well. For men, you may even find pants where the belt can sit right on top of the ostomy for additional cover.
If the pants are made from thinner material or if you feel like the ostomy wafer is visible, consider pairing with a shirt that either hangs over the area or that can be tucked in loosely to cover the wafer.
Layers
This one might seem obvious, but layering up is easy to hide an ostomy. Adding a sweater or even a vest, especially if the weather is cool, can quickly help you hide an ostomy and keep you cozy at the same time.
Ostomy-Friendly Bathing Suits
You can find bathing suits specifically for ostomates, but you can also use regular swimsuits that work. For instance, getting a two-piece with a high-waisted bottom can help cover the ostomy and make it easy to take off the suit when wet. Meanwhile, some ostomates prefer a one-piece for maximum abdominal coverage and will wear a skirt or wrap to hide the protrusion of the ostomy bag.
High-Waisted Skirts
High-waisted skirts are great for covering an ostomy, and you can wear them for a variety of occasions. Pair the skirt with a blouse or longer shirt if you’re worried that the material is too thin.
You can also add a blazer for a more polished appearance. On the other hand, you can find thicker, high-waisted skirts to help reduce wafer visibility- stretchy skirts are especially helpful because they’re easy to slip on and off over the wafer.
Cleaning your ostomy-friendly wardrobe is also easy; follow the instructions on the fabric and use a good laundry detergent.
For all of your ostomy care needs, shop Simply Medical today!