Ostomy Fashion

Advice about fashion for ostomates

Having a stoma doesn’t mean that you have to change your personal style. You may feel like wearing big baggy clothes straight after surgery – but once you've fully healed, there's no reason why you shouldn't go back to wearing clothes that make you look and feel good. Stoma bag manufacturers have created a whole range of more body conscious products, designed to provide a better, more discreet fit for added privacy.

Clothing made for ostomates

You should be able to continue wearing your clothes as usual, so don't feel that you will need to change the way you dress or rush out and buy a whole new wardrobe.

However, if you are looking for things that are designed for ostomates, there are many brands that specialise in all types of clothing, from swimwear and underwear to casual clothing and accessories. As a starting point, you could check out Vanilla Blush or Comfizz.

Looking good starts with self-confidence

The way other people view us is based on how we look and feel. Once you feel confident about your stoma in private, you can show this confidence in public.

Here are some general tips on clothing for ostomates, from people using the SecuriCare service – you can find many more of their tips and stories about fashion in the SecuriCare blog. We hope that these may help you whilst you are getting comfortable with your stoma and finding what suits you:

• If you are particularly self-conscious to begin with, you could try wearing clothes that distract from the abdomen. Some people prefer to wear loose fitting clothing but it's completely up to you, the most important thing is for you to feel comfortable
• Some people find that dark colours make them feel safer while they are getting to grips with their new stoma care products and regime, in case of any leaks
• Front fastening trousers or skirts generally make it much easier to care for your stoma

Click here for style tips just for women. 

Click here for fashion advice specially tailored for men.