Is your wardrobe harming your health? 6 surprising ways clothes can cause discomfort
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We often choose clothes based on how they look—but how they feel can matter just as much, especially as we age.
From tight jeans to heavy bags, the fashion choices we make every day could be quietly affecting our comfort, posture, and even digestion.
It might not seem like a big deal to wear flats or shapewear now and then, but experts say some clothing habits can have lasting health consequences.
The good news? Small adjustments in fit and style can help protect your body without sacrificing your sense of fashion.
Let’s take a closer look at six wardrobe staples that might be doing more harm than good.
Flat shoes: not always a smart step
Flat shoes like ballet slippers or flip-flops may seem like a practical choice—but they often lack the arch support your feet need.
Emma McConnachie from the Royal College of Podiatry explains that wearing completely flat shoes can lead to heel, arch, and forefoot pain, and may contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Some flat shoes also don’t grip your feet properly, which can cause you to tense your toes unnaturally as you walk.
Over time, this can even change the shape of your toes.
To stay comfortable, look for flats with supportive insoles and straps to help keep them secure.
Also read: The surprising truth about how long you can really leave wet clothes in the washer—find out now!
High-waisted jeans: pressure on the gut
They may be flattering and stylish, but snug high-waisted jeans can cause more than just discomfort.
If you’ve ever felt bloated or gassy after wearing a tight waistband all day, you’re not imagining things.
Gastroenterology dietitian Julie Thomson says that constrictive waistbands can worsen acid reflux or trigger bloating—especially for people with IBS or other digestive conditions.
A better choice? Looser styles like “mom jeans” can still look good while giving your stomach some breathing room.
Also read: Turn your clothes inside out before washing? Here’s the reason an expert insists you should!
Skinny jeans: not so body-friendly
Skinny jeans can hug your figure, but experts warn that the tight fit may affect more than your silhouette.
Stephanie Taylor, a pelvic floor specialist, says that sucking in your belly to fit into jeans can strain the pelvic floor and increase the risk of bladder incontinence.
These jeans can also throw off your posture, potentially leading to pain in the back, shoulders, hips, or neck.
If you notice discomfort while standing or walking, it may be time to try a roomier pair.
Your muscles and joints will thank you!
Shapewear: flattering but restricting
Shapewear is often worn for a smoother look under clothes, but too-tight versions may come with digestive downsides.
Dr. Philippa Kaye says restrictive shapewear or corsets can reduce your ability to breathe deeply and increase pressure in the abdominal area—worsening bloating and acid reflux.
If you do wear shapewear, make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t dig in or cause shortness of breath.
And on days when you’re already bloated or uncomfortable, it’s okay to skip it entirely.
Also read: No lint brush? Try these 9 genius tips to instantly refresh your clothes!
Bras: don’t overlook the fit
A supportive bra is essential—but one that’s too tight or poorly fitted can interfere with your lymphatic flow.
Dr. Michael Schacter notes that underwires pressing against breast tissue may restrict fluid drainage, which could lead to swelling or infections in rare cases.
While there’s no proven link to breast cancer, it’s still important to prioritize comfort and proper fit.
Consider getting professionally fitted and don’t be afraid to try wire-free styles if you’re experiencing irritation or pressure.
Heavy bags: lighten the load
Toting around a heavy purse, tote, or laptop bag might not seem harmful at first, but the long-term effects can sneak up on you.
Carrying weight on one side of the body can cause neck, shoulder, and upper back pain, and may contribute to arthritis or tension headaches.
The group BackCare suggests using a crossbody or two-strap backpack to distribute the weight more evenly.
Regularly cleaning out your bag can also help reduce the load.
Also read: Psychologists explain how the colors you wear can influence the way people perceive you
Bonus tips for a healthier wardrobe
Your wardrobe should help you feel confident—not uncomfortable.
By choosing pieces that fit well and support your health, you can look great and feel even better every day.
It’s never too late to make small changes that have a big impact on your comfort and well-being!
Read next: Are you overdue for a refresh? 7 everyday items experts say you should be replacing each year
Have you ever discovered that an item in your closet was making you feel worse instead of better? Do you have a favorite style tip that keeps you comfortable without sacrificing flair? Whether it’s a comfy pair of shoes or a bag you finally swapped out, we’d love to hear your stories!
From tight jeans to heavy bags, the fashion choices we make every day could be quietly affecting our comfort, posture, and even digestion.
It might not seem like a big deal to wear flats or shapewear now and then, but experts say some clothing habits can have lasting health consequences.
The good news? Small adjustments in fit and style can help protect your body without sacrificing your sense of fashion.
Let’s take a closer look at six wardrobe staples that might be doing more harm than good.
Making thoughtful clothing choices can help you stay stylish without compromising your health. Image Source: Pexels / Ylanite Koppens.
Flat shoes: not always a smart step
Flat shoes like ballet slippers or flip-flops may seem like a practical choice—but they often lack the arch support your feet need.
Emma McConnachie from the Royal College of Podiatry explains that wearing completely flat shoes can lead to heel, arch, and forefoot pain, and may contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Flat shoes may look comfortable, but without proper support, they can lead to foot pain and long-term issues. Image Source: Pexels / Taryn Elliott.
Some flat shoes also don’t grip your feet properly, which can cause you to tense your toes unnaturally as you walk.
Over time, this can even change the shape of your toes.
To stay comfortable, look for flats with supportive insoles and straps to help keep them secure.
Also read: The surprising truth about how long you can really leave wet clothes in the washer—find out now!
High-waisted jeans: pressure on the gut
They may be flattering and stylish, but snug high-waisted jeans can cause more than just discomfort.
If you’ve ever felt bloated or gassy after wearing a tight waistband all day, you’re not imagining things.
High-waisted jeans are stylish, but wearing them too tight can contribute to bloating and digestive discomfort. Image Source: Pexels / Thirdman.
Gastroenterology dietitian Julie Thomson says that constrictive waistbands can worsen acid reflux or trigger bloating—especially for people with IBS or other digestive conditions.
A better choice? Looser styles like “mom jeans” can still look good while giving your stomach some breathing room.
Also read: Turn your clothes inside out before washing? Here’s the reason an expert insists you should!
Skinny jeans: not so body-friendly
Skinny jeans can hug your figure, but experts warn that the tight fit may affect more than your silhouette.
Stephanie Taylor, a pelvic floor specialist, says that sucking in your belly to fit into jeans can strain the pelvic floor and increase the risk of bladder incontinence.
These jeans can also throw off your posture, potentially leading to pain in the back, shoulders, hips, or neck.
If you notice discomfort while standing or walking, it may be time to try a roomier pair.
Your muscles and joints will thank you!
Skinny jeans may look sleek, but their tight fit can strain your muscles and impact pelvic health over time. Image Source: Pexels / Flávio Santos.
Shapewear: flattering but restricting
Shapewear is often worn for a smoother look under clothes, but too-tight versions may come with digestive downsides.
Dr. Philippa Kaye says restrictive shapewear or corsets can reduce your ability to breathe deeply and increase pressure in the abdominal area—worsening bloating and acid reflux.
If you do wear shapewear, make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t dig in or cause shortness of breath.
And on days when you’re already bloated or uncomfortable, it’s okay to skip it entirely.
Also read: No lint brush? Try these 9 genius tips to instantly refresh your clothes!
Bras: don’t overlook the fit
A supportive bra is essential—but one that’s too tight or poorly fitted can interfere with your lymphatic flow.
Dr. Michael Schacter notes that underwires pressing against breast tissue may restrict fluid drainage, which could lead to swelling or infections in rare cases.
While there’s no proven link to breast cancer, it’s still important to prioritize comfort and proper fit.
Consider getting professionally fitted and don’t be afraid to try wire-free styles if you’re experiencing irritation or pressure.
Heavy bags: lighten the load
Toting around a heavy purse, tote, or laptop bag might not seem harmful at first, but the long-term effects can sneak up on you.
Carrying weight on one side of the body can cause neck, shoulder, and upper back pain, and may contribute to arthritis or tension headaches.
The group BackCare suggests using a crossbody or two-strap backpack to distribute the weight more evenly.
Regularly cleaning out your bag can also help reduce the load.
Carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder can lead to long-term neck, shoulder, and back pain if not balanced properly. Image Source: Pexels / Mizuno K.
Also read: Psychologists explain how the colors you wear can influence the way people perceive you
Bonus tips for a healthier wardrobe
- Rotate your shoes to avoid repetitive strain on your feet.
- Pay attention to how clothing feels, not just how it looks.
- Choose pieces that fit well and allow freedom of movement.
- Lighten your purse or bag regularly—less is more when it comes to carrying weight.
Your wardrobe should help you feel confident—not uncomfortable.
By choosing pieces that fit well and support your health, you can look great and feel even better every day.
It’s never too late to make small changes that have a big impact on your comfort and well-being!
Read next: Are you overdue for a refresh? 7 everyday items experts say you should be replacing each year
Have you ever discovered that an item in your closet was making you feel worse instead of better? Do you have a favorite style tip that keeps you comfortable without sacrificing flair? Whether it’s a comfy pair of shoes or a bag you finally swapped out, we’d love to hear your stories!
