Dressing with RA: Warm Weather Edition
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When planning for a trip, figuring out my outfits is almost as fun as planning my itinerary. I consider myself a rather stylish traveler, while also being super comfortable and practical.
Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis means never knowing when a flare up will strike. So, you need to make sure to pack outfits that can deal with a sudden onset. The last thing you want is to plan an unbelievably cute outfit that you now can't wear since you can't manage the buttons. Flare-ups are frustrating enough without adding clothing to the mix.
When planning outfits with chronic illnesses, it’s all about balancing style with practicality. Think loose fitting fabrics, elastic, and one pieces.
During the summer, I practically live in dresses and rompers. While some might find the idea of completely undressing to use the restroom is too much of a chore, I'm fine with it. The convenience of just having to pick out one article of clothing and maybe a jacket is ideal.
When packing for warm weather travel, there are a few wardrobe staples that are must-haves for both style and comfort:
Dresses
T-Shirt Dress
Your reliable closet best friend. A classic t-shirt dress should be in everyone's wardrobe. These styles are the pinnacle of casual fashion. They pair well with sneakers and are great when you’re just strolling about town.
Just like a t-shirt they will just slide right on. Since you don’t have to deal with any buttons or zippers they are the easiest options for flare up days.
Depending on the style of it, you can also pair with tights and boots for a dressier look.
Flowy Dress
Picture this: You're walking down the cobblestone roads of Italy, gelato in hand with your dress gently catching the breeze. That's how I feel when I wear my flowy dresses. The ultimate instagrammable dress, while also being practical.
They are lightweight, tend not to be clingy and give you that whimsy that captures so well in pictures.
Easy to dress up or down, these are perfect for keeping cool and looking chic.
Maxi Dress
Often considered the highlight of sundress season, everyone needs a maxi dress in their closet. Whether you're rocking it with sandals or sneakers they are functional and so damn cute.
Pants
My travel and daily life pants are almost always loose fitting and more often than not have an elastic waistband. Gone are the days of skinny jeans and bouncing around to try and close my button.
For one thing loose fitting pants allow you to comfortably fit in when going to culturally conscious destinations. Plus they are usually breezy and lightweight allowing you to pack for multiple seasons. These are my top choices:
Harem Pants
I've recently grown a bit of an obsession with harem style pants and jumpers. They are so comfy and often come in a variety of styles to spice up your wardrobe. My closet tends to have more basic items that pair with anything, but my harem pants are patterned and fun!
Plus they are chronic illness friendly. Due to their easy pull on style and loose fit, they are the perfect choice for any hard days. Pair with a basic t-shirt or tank and you're good to go.
Wide Leg Pants
When I went on my trip to Egypt I realized I needed to up my loose fitting clothing game. I didn't want to stand out too much …which I still failed at…so I had to upgrade my travel looks.
These styles of pants have not just come in handy for my travels, but they look great for work outfits too. Some of them have buttons or zippers, but they are larger and easy to grasp onto.
I personally have the below pair in multiple colors!
Rompers + Jumpsuits
As mentioned, I love a good one piece outfit. The ease of just grabbing one thing, not having to worry about what top matches is what I consider ideal. These outfits are usually the slip on variety, though some will have a zipper in the back.
These are the ultimate outfits for flexibility, coming in casual, dressy and sexy styles you can always make one fit into your closet.
I wear this romper on a regular basis in the summertime. It's easy, lightweight and I always get compliments.
Accessories
What does any good wardrobe need at the end of the day? Basics! Even with a nice one piece outfit, you'll occasionally need something to go under it. That's where your basics are going to come in.
Though not technically an accessory they are an essential part of an easy travel wardrobe.
Whether I'm having a flare up or not, I'm a bodysuit girly through and through. You're either one or you're not, and I definitely am. Almost all my long sleeve, short sleeve and tank tops are body suits. For me the buttons are easy enough to manage even on my toughest days, so it's not a bother.
This brand is my absolute favorite and I have them in all the basic colors. They are my go-to for any outfit because they’re versatile, comfortable and always look polished.
Another thing us chronic illness girlies need are hats! Some medications can make us sensitive to sunlight, so it's important to have coverage ready. Whether it's a classic baseball cap, a wide brimmed sun hat or the king of comebacks -- a bucket hat, make sure you have something on hand.
This one is great as it packs down small and can work with multiple hair styles. It's big enough to fit over my braids.
A good pair of supportive footwear is essential. Look for ones with cushioned soles to keep your feet happy during long walks.
I wear these darn near everyday!
I have these in multiple colors
Lightweight backpacks and crossbody bags will keep your hands free and essentials close. Choose one with multiple pockets for organization.
There you have it! These are some of my top outfit choices for spring and summer travel. Hopefully you found a new closet must-have!
