For many ostomates, dressing for the festive season can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty, especially when it comes to comfort, confidence, and finding outfits that feel as good as they look. That’s why Ambassador Lynne recently visited John Lewis for a personal styling session, exploring festive fashion with Daisy (her ileostomy) proudly along for the ride.
From personalised styling to discovering fabrics and fits that work beautifully with a stoma, Lynne shares her honest experience, top finds, and practical tips for dressing up this Christmas. Here’s her festive fashion haul in her own words…
Can you tell us a bit about your day at John Lewis – how you found the service and whether they tailored the experience to you as an ostomate?
Everything about the appointment at John Lewis was fantastic. You get one-to-one attention for two hours completely free! I had a pot of tea brought to me while Chris, the stylist, went to select items. I showed him where Daisy, my ileostomy, sits on my body so he could take that into account. He came back with a full rail of choices, and we started trying everything on. It was such a lovely experience, lots of professional opinion, great advice, and even a glass of Prosecco. Big shout-out to Chris at JL Leeds for his help!
What does “festive dressing” mean to you, and how do you make it work comfortably with a stoma?
Festive dressing for me is all about balancing glamour with comfort, and outfits that are easy to wear with access for looking after Daisy. I still want to feel glamorous; I just choose pieces that work with me, not against me.
Do you have any go-to outfit formulas for Christmas parties that make you feel confident and secure?
Sequins and patterns work really well, as do pleats. Pleated skirts elongate the figure and draw the eye away from your ostomy. I was surprised by the jumpsuit, I honestly thought you’d see Daisy, but you couldn’t at all. With a side zip for easy toilet access and beautiful draping, it worked perfectly.
What fabrics or styles do you find most comfortable around your stoma area during the festive season?
Velvets and soft fabrics that drape loosely were brilliant. There was one pair of pale fawn trousers that didn’t work at all, they clung to Daisy and showed everything, so they went straight back on the rail! Lined dresses, like the blue sequin one, were perfect because the extra lining helps with coverage and comfort. Corduroy is also great, heavy, on-trend, hangs well, and the lines help distract the eye.
Do you have any tips for feeling body-confident when dressing up over Christmas?
To feel body confident, you need to love what you’re wearing. If you feel good, you look good. Keep a good posture, don’t over-accessorise, and just own it. There’s so much choice this year for every body shape. Take your time, think about what you want, and how long you’ll be wearing it.
Are there any clever styling tricks you swear by for making your bag feel discreet under partywear?
I swear by pleats, whether in trousers or skirts. You can pair them with a glitzy top, a comfy jumper, or a blazer with a camisole underneath. Items with waistbands, sashes, or bows are great too, as you can position them near your stoma for a bit of extra disguise (not that you need it – we just think we do!).
Any outfit “dos and don’ts” you’ve discovered that might help other ostomates this Christmas?
Go for darker, richer colours rather than pale tones. Warm earthy shades like browns, burgundy, greens, and navy work beautifully. Pale colours and thinner materials can show your ostomy more, so choose pieces that are well-fitted, lined, or darker in tone.
What inspired your trip to John Lewis for your festive fashion haul?
I love the choice at John Lewis, and with their free personal styling appointments, it’s a no-brainer! You get an expert eye with no pressure to buy. You can set a budget and explain what you need the outfit for – everyday wear or a special occasion. You just sit back and relax while they walk the shop and bring everything to you. I also love the quality of their labels. Quality over quantity really counts when it comes to clothes.
What were your top finds from the day – any standout pieces you think other ostomates would love?
I absolutely loved the burgundy jumpsuit, the blue sequin dress, and the black trousers paired with the velvet burgundy jacket. All three pieces hung beautifully and felt amazing on. Brands like REISS, Hobbs and French Connection were brilliant. With Black Friday deals and some double discounts online, it’s definitely worth checking John Lewis out.
How do you approach trying on clothes in-store as an ostomate? Any tips for others who might feel nervous?
Shop when you feel like shopping, make it an enjoyable day. If you’re trying on lots of clothes, wear something easy to get on and off. All changing rooms are totally private, and you can take as long as you like. Bring a friend or family member, make it a treat, have lunch, take your time, and enjoy the experience.
Do you prefer to dress your bag in a certain way when wearing more fitted party outfits?
If I’m wearing something more fitted or figure-hugging, I go for darker colours, pleats, patterns, or sequins, especially at this time of year.
Has your style changed since surgery, and how have you learned to embrace fashion again?
My style hasn’t changed at all since my surgery, I’ve always loved fashion. In fact, I can wear more now than I could before because I no longer have to worry about bloating. I’m a huge fan of Karen Millen and can still wear the dresses I bought years ago. I thought I’d never wear them again, but I can and you can’t see Daisy at all. I’m a massive fashion lover!
What advice would you give to an ostomate shopping for their first festive season with a stoma?
If it’s your first festive season with a stoma (like it is mine), think about what you want the outfit for and how you want it to feel. Then start searching and trying things on. Ask for opinions from friends or family. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
If you could pick one “must-have” item from your haul that every ostomate should try, what would it be?
The jumpsuit from Hobbs is absolutely gorgeous! Oh, and the blue dress, also from Hobbs!
Do you have any tips for balancing comfort with glam when you’ve got busy festive plans?
Think comfort first, then add the glamour afterwards. If you’re going for trousers, choose pleated ones and then glam them up with a sparkly top. If you prefer a skirt or dress, again think comfort first – consider where the zip is and whether you can manage it alone. Side zips on one-pieces are brilliant. Once you find the style that works, then add the glamour. It’s like baking, get the basics right before adding the icing!
Whatever you pick, stand tall and own it. It’s not just the clothes, it’s your posture and confidence that make an outfit. Be bold with your looks, stay comfortable with the fit, and don’t be afraid to shine.
Lynne’s festive fashion journey is a brilliant reminder that you can embrace style and seasonal joy while still putting comfort first. With the right fabrics, cuts, and styling tricks, dressing with a stoma doesn’t have to limit you, in fact, it can open doors to new looks, new confidence, and a whole new way of enjoying fashion.
This Christmas, whether you’re going full glam or keeping things cosy, let comfort lead the way… and then add your sparkle on top!
