Painful belts and loose clothing?

With COVID-19 in full swing in the US, people cannot stop talking about how they are comfortably hiding their bottom halves in loungewear. Whether they’re on a video conference or not, the new WFH (work from home) lifestyle isn’t as visually demanding as being in the office.

For Americans, not worrying about work-appropriate pants means more than the ease of rolling out of bed. The American College of Gastroenterology estimates 10-15% of the US adult population has irritable-bowel-syndrome (IBS) symptoms*. Of course, IBS isn’t the only digestive disease that can cause discomfort. Many people suffer from rapid weight fluctuations, stomach bloating, swelling, or distention, and other digestive discomforts that can be exacerbated by tight waistbands and belts. 

Comfort has always been the main driver behind my clothing choices. In my childhood, I refused to wear jeans because I thought the material was too stiff. As I grew up and finally got my first pair, I chose a men’s pair because the style had a looser fit. Fast forward to adulthood (late 20’s), my very fashionable younger brother Tyler started sharing my love of comfort. Tyler’s health issues resulted in weight fluctuation making belts and pants uncomfortable. He, like others with this symptom, thought it was crazy to have to buy new pants to accommodate his changing sizes. So, he turned to suspenders. 

Suspenders offer versatility to wear pants usually an inch or two bigger on the waist and it looks normal as a belt is not pulling them in. There is also no need to adjust the waist from sitting to standing. 

Sure - everyone is home wearing the full sweatsuit (maybe even a groutfit). That said, more and more self-help bloggers are recommending you do get up every day and get dressed to impress (at least a little) to help with your mental sanity and motivation.

I recently saw someone mention that since their only excursions are to the grocery store, she dressed up, blazer and all, and it made her feel a little better.

Pressure from belts and waistbands can make sitting uncomfortable, and it becomes painful to wear pants. Anyone sitting all-day, adjusting their belt, or looking to try something new should give suspenders a try. Shameless plug- we offer free shipping and returns. You’ll have that “Where’ve you been all my life?” feeling that you likely had when you bought your first Squatty Potty after seeing them on SharkTank. 

*https://gi.org/topics/irritable-bowel-syndrome/