My PsA Autumn Wardrobe: Head to Toe

It’s time to start putting together my fall wardrobe. Unlike my life before psoriatic arthritis, my autumn outfits are chosen less by what’s in style and more by what makes my body happy. With that said, here is a peek into my fall closet!

Starting from the top!

It is no secret that I love wearing Minnie Mouse ear headbands at Disneyland, but if the weather takes a blustery turn I need something besides my hair to cover my ears.

While I love wearing knit hats, I can only wear ones that lay farther back on my head. I have no explanation for it, but I am unable to wear any hat that rests on my forehead for more than a few minutes or hours (depends on the day) without triggering a migraine.

With hats not always being an option, I prefer to wear earmuffs. They keep my ears warm without messing up my hair or putting pressure on my forehead.

Fall in to layers!

I had an issue with my body overheating long before my hysterectomy and being forced into menopause. It is still an issue to this day. With no warning and no regard to the temperature around me, my skin will feel like it was set on fire.

When I overheat, I begin to feel trapped by my clothing. To prevent those around me from wanting to gouge their eyes out as I strip to cool off, I have mastered the art of layering!

I still enjoy wearing a bulky sweater or sweatshirt, but not without a tank top underneath. Most of the upper body clothing I wear in the fall and winter are tank tops and short-sleeved shirts layered with cardigans, vests, shawls, and dusters.

Most importantly, the fabrics I wear must be soft and light. Heavy or scratchy fabrics increase my physical pain. Colder weather increases pain throughout my wrists. Soft fabric that lies below my wrist provides comfort.

Bottoms up!

Summer may be for setting my legs free, but fall is for comforting them. For me, that means soft leggings, yoga pants, and stretchy jeans! I retire skirts and dresses unless they look cute with leggings underneath.

Soft and gentle elastic waistbands are necessary. Never knowing when I will bloat from something I ate means needing an expanding waistband.

Psoriatic footwear? Your choice!

Autumn calls for a change in footwear. I put away my flip flops and sandals and break out my Uggs, Crocs, leather boots, and sneakers. High heels are not an option, not just because they are less comfortable, but because I am a clutz!

No matter what footwear I choose, padded socks are a necessity. They massage my feet and do not budge while walking.

When spending an autumn day out on my feet, I place a pair of slippers into my on the go pain relief bag. Whether I am driving home or relaxing in the passenger seat, my slippers provide relief and comfort and help me arrive home in less pain.

What does your autumn wardrobe look like?

Has it changed since your diagnosis?