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In my late 20s, I’ve been learning to really appreciate the small everyday joy of life’s simple pleasures: a good chai latte, the golden hour sun in my bedroom window, and when it comes to my wardrobe, there is nothing that brings me happiness quite like an elastic waistband.
Like many, my love affair with elastic waistbands began in lockdown and soon became a deep-seated loyalty. And, truthfully, I’ve never looked back.
As children, many of us lived in adjustable waistbands – clever, built-in designs that grew with us. I’ve always joked that they should have those elastic tabs with buttons in women’s jeans, but somewhere along the line, these practical innovations seemed to disappear from adult womenswear, and we were left with fixed sizes that punish us for natural fluctuations. Maybe it was a ploy? An industry tactic to keep us spending, convincing us that our bodies should mould to clothes, rather than the other way around.
Thankfully, I have noticed a shift, particularly in recent months with a rise in more forgiving styles, meaning I’ll no longer have to buy a size 10 and 12, keep them both, and wear whichever pair fits me when it comes to putting them on. For example, Molly Mae’s brand, Maebe launched their Seam Detail Boyfriend Denim Jeans and instead of concealing their adjustable waist, have made a statement of it. I’m all for it. It feels pretty powerful because there is absolutely no shame in our ever-changing forms, which regularly fluctuate throughout the month.
I’ve also spotted a number of brands adding elastic to the back of their trouser designs, so they still have that polished appearance from the front, but without the discomfort, like these Wide Leg Trousers from New Look. Get me a pair in every colour.
Elastic waistbands have been a godsend for me personally. I suffer from IBS, which causes me to bloat and the thought of squeezing into rigid waistbands on difficult days is unbearable. And despite a lingering misconception that elastic waistbands are synonymous with sloppiness, relegated to loungewear or uninspired basics, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Some of my most elegant pieces, including satin skirts and tailored trousers, feature elastic waistbands.
One of my favourites to style right now is this ASOS DESIGN satin bias maxi skirt in burgundy and pink stripe. The maxi length is perfect for styling with trainers, boots or heels, while the bias cut means it flows beautifully. Coming in a mid rise, it’s comfortable for all-day wear, and is perfect for styling under utility jackets or for tucking in a baggy t-shirt. Not to mention how romantic this colourway is. Will pink and burgundy ever not look great together?
Then there’s these Denim Drawstring Wide-Leg Trousers from Marks and Spencer, which I’ve rarely had off since I bought them in January. These cotton-rich denim trousers are a smart-casual wardrobe staple and the ultimate alternative to jeans. They’re designed in a flattering wide leg fit and an elasticated high waist with a drawstring fastening that you can make as tight or loose as you like. The poppy red shade is perfect for spring, and pairs incredibly well with leopard print, and at £27.50, they’re insanely affordable too. So much so, I might just get them in another colour.
More stretchy, bloat-friendly faves include these £23 Green Stripe Cotton Wide Leg Trousers from Next, a pair of navy pinstripe trousers from H&M (similar here) and my M&S cotton skirt, which is £32.50.
I mean seriously, tell me these don’t look just as chic as their buttoned-and-zippered counterparts? As I creep towards my 30s, work towards being more body positive and accept the changes that come with getting older, I refuse to feel guilty about prioritising comfort. Clothes should work for us, not against us. So, here’s to the humble elastic waistband – whether hidden inside a chic trouser or proudly displayed on a satin skirt. Long may it reign.
