While watching What Not To Wear (guilty pleasure) last night, Clinton uttered a savvy observation: Elastic Pants* are bad not only because they are just generally unflattering, but also because they contribute to denial over weight issues. Specifically, he pointed out that Elastic Pants--as opposed to fitted waistbands--won't let you know if you are gaining a few pounds and need to take action accordingly.
Oh, that is so very true. And then some.
I admit to having owned many, many pairs of Elastic Pants. And Elastic Skirts. Not only was I blind to weight gain while wearing them, they often times contributed to my delusion that I was even losing weight. After all, they seemed loose-fitting. And if I binged on a dozen hot wings and cheese 'n bacon fries, the Elastic Pants were forgiving and never let me feel uncomfortable or bloated (or guilty) when I was stuffing myself.
Really, how can people gauge their weight within any reasonable degree of certainty while wearing size XXL sweatpants? I know I didn't.
Don't get me wrong. I am all about comfort. I still have a couple pairs of Elastic Pants. I am wearing a pair right now. However, no longer will I wear them during my active hours. A few months ago, I got rid of my last pair of dress Elastic Pants that I used to wear to the office. No more. As part of taking responsibility and being a big girl now, I am wearing the specific size I am. A size that begins with a number, that doesn't have an "X" in it. And if that waistband should ever cut just a bit too tightly, then I'll know that I need to do something about the weight gain and not engage in another game of denial.
Unless...you know, the pants shrunk in the dryer or something.
P.S.:
On a related note, What Not To Wear is featuring makeovers of women who lost a ton of weight. Tonight at 9:00 p.m. EST, there will be a composite of past weight loss makeovers. So far, the results have been pretty amazing and I recommend the shows to anyone who is interested and willing to overlook the snarky attitude of the show's hosts.
*Capitalization engaged to underscore the absurdity of this fashion turd.
