Fashion Fridays, Kuel Life Thought Leader: Tracy Gold
If you’ve ever wished for jeans that flatter the menopausal belly without making you feel frumpy or stuck in “mom jeans,” girlfriend, this one’s for you.
I love the idea of jeans that actually suck in my menopausal belly, but let’s be honest, they can conjure up visions of mom jeans and frumpy fashion. So I decided to dig through my own closet to prove that it’s possible to look sexy, stylish, and totally confident in what I call “sucky jeans.”
I’m showing you three looks—straight leg, flared leg, and wide leg—so no matter your shape, you can find something that works for you.
Straight Leg Jeans: Rocker Chic Confidence
The straight leg jean is like the cool cousin of the skinny. It’s not tight, not trendy—just timeless. If you used to love your skinnies but want something more forgiving around the belly, this cut is a game changer.
I paired mine with a body-hugging lace top that gives just enough edge to feel sexy without revealing too much. Add a cropped leather jacket, tousled hair, and bold makeup for an evening look that says, “Yes, I’ve still got it.”
Here’s the trick: when you’ve got jeans with that subtle “suck-in” support, you can wear shorter, more fitted tops. Stop hiding under oversized shirts. You’ve earned your shape; let it show.
Flared Jeans: Balanced Curves and Fun Energy
Next up is the slightly flared leg, somewhere between bootcut and full flare. Think of it as the “skinny flare.” This shape balances out the hips, lengthens the legs, and creates beautiful proportions.
For this look, I styled a thrifted peplum top (yes, peplum is back!) to emphasize the waist and create movement. The best part? These jeans give enough tummy support that you can play with fitted tops again—without worrying about the midsection.
Then I layered on a vintage faux fur jacket for that glamorous, city-chic energy. Oversized on top, sleek on the bottom; it’s a power combo. Just don’t double up the volume. Big jacket plus wide-leg jeans? That’s a no-go unless you’re auditioning for a 1970s costume party.
Wide-Leg Jeans: Effortless Modern Edge
Now let’s talk about the wide leg; the hero of midlife denim. Women keep asking me if this trend will last. My answer? Absolutely. The wide leg flatters nearly every body type and, more importantly, feels amazing.
I chose black denim for this look because it instantly reads as more polished and evening-ready. With a structured leather vest layered on top, the outfit feels powerful, not bulky. And here’s a stylist secret: it doesn’t matter if the vest doesn’t quite close. What matters is that it looks like it could. That illusion defines your waist and draws the eye down your body.
A good fit in the waist and seat, a high rise, and a wide, clean line through the leg, those are your best friends. Pair with heeled boots to elongate the leg even more.
How to Style Jeans That Flatter the Menopausal Belly
The key to styling these jeans is balance. Slim on top, volume on bottom—or the reverse. Avoid doubling up. If you go wide leg, keep your top cropped or tucked. If your jeans are fitted, play with bolder layers or texture on top.
And don’t forget the power of great shoes. The right pair doesn’t just elevate the outfit; it changes how you walk. Confidence isn’t a size; it’s an energy.
Wardrobe Staples That Flatter the Menopausal Belly
When we’re in the thick of perimenopause and menopause, our bodies can feel unpredictable. One day bloated, one day strong. One day our clothes fit perfectly, the next they don’t.
That’s why investing in pieces that adapt with you, like jeans that flatter your menopausal belly, isn’t vanity; it’s self-respect. Every woman deserves a closet that helps her reconnect with confidence and joy.
So, girlfriend, if you’re ready to fall in love with getting dressed again, I can help. I offer one-on-one styling sessions, both in New York and online, so no matter where you are, we’ll find your best fit together.
Watch the full video below to see these tips in action.
Did you enjoy this article? Become a Kuel Life Member today to support our Community. Sign-up for our Sunday newsletter and get your expert content delivered straight to your inbox.
About the Author:
Tracy is a Menopause Style Expert, Fashion Designer, and Show Host. With two decades of experience in styling women of different body shapes and sizes, along with her personal journey through perimenopause, she founded Tracy Gold New York. Recognizing the profound effect clothing can have on a woman’s body image at midlife, she developed this brand, which offers a fun and customizable collection designed to adapt to a woman’s body changes with style. Need some help discovering what works for your body now https://tracygoldfashiontips.com/
