What Is an Apron Belly?

Apron belly, also known as pannus stomach or an abdominal pannus, is a term used to describe a stomach with skin and tissue that hangs down from the abdomen. At Thigh Society, we love and embrace all body types, and believe that learning how to describe our own bodies is empowering. After all, the apron belly is just one kind of common stomach shape just as normal as the rest. Caused by genetics and other life circumstances here’s everything you need to know about the apron belly body type, and how to embrace and style yours. 

What is an apron belly?  

An apron belly describes a specific distribution of fat or skin around the midsection that hangs over the lower abdomen, much like an apron does. A very common body shape, this type of belly can occur due to factors like genetics, significant weight loss or just the natural aging process. An apron belly tends to extend beyond and hang just below the waistline. 

Causes of Apron Belly

All bellies are good bellies, and science shows we have very little control of how our bodies take shape or hold weight. But here are some reasons apron bellies can occur:

- Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to accumulating fat in the lower abdomen, leading to the development of an apron belly. There’s nothing wrong with that — it’s just how your body naturally is!

- Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight loss, especially after pregnancy or significant weight gain, can contribute to the formation of excess skin in the abdominal area.

- Aging: As we age, our skin loses elasticity and the abdominal muscles may weaken, contributing to the appearance of an apron belly.

- Pregnancy: Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey for women, and the body undergoes incredible changes to accommodate the growing baby. One of these changes can be the development of an apron belly, particularly during and after pregnancy. As the baby develops and grows, the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the expanding uterus. This stretching can lead to a loss of muscle tone, contributing to the development of an apron belly. Pregnancy hormones can affect the distribution of fat in the body, leading to increased fat storage in the abdominal area.

- Postpartum: After childbirth, many women experience changes in their abdominal area. The abdominal muscles may not fully regain their pre-pregnancy tone, and the skin may not retract entirely, resulting in the persistence of an apron belly.

What to Wear with an Apron Belly

Embracing Your Body

Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression, and embracing your unique silhouette is empowering. While apron bellies are totally normal, we know that society at large can still be tough on people with bodies that don’t fit into conventional beauty standards. We’re here to tell you that all bodies deserve to be celebrated, and there are many ways to dress your apron belly to help you feel comfortable and cute. Don’t believe the lies that you have to hide or conceal your apron belly with shapewear and baggy clothing — dress in a way that makes you feel like you. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. High-Waisted Shorts

High-waisted shorts are popular for a reason — they help support the body and allow for tons of stylish creativity. Support your abdomen with super soft material by wearing a pair of Thigh Society’s shorties. The buttery material feels amazing against the skin and also gently holds apron bellies in place for added comfort and to prevent your skin from chafing. These will become your go-to during various seasons: In the summer they help prevent thigh chafing and cool down the body, and in the colder seasons they act as a comfortable, sweat-wicking base layer to keep you warm. Opt for The Cooling shorts to fight chafe and sweat in the summer, or The Staple and The Cotton for extra coziness in the cooler months.

 2. A-Line Dresses

A-line dresses gently flare out from the waist, creating a beautiful, flowy silhouette that’s accommodating around the midsection to keep you and your apron belly comfortable. This style of dress is also nice and airy in the summer as it moves with your body, creating a breeze to cool you down.

 3. Layering

Experiment with layering to add depth to your outfits. Lightweight cardigans, kimono-style jackets or long vests can be stylish additions to your wardrobe, creating vertical lines with beautiful silhouettes. Layering is especially helpful during in-between seasons and you can add or remove layers depending on the weather.

Discovering the kinds of clothing that make you feel confident in your body is more important than any styling tips. Experiment with new fabrics, textures and silhouettes to find what works for you. And remember: You don’t have to hide your body to be considered stylish. Embrace what you have because confidence is fashionable.

@itsnikki.g Body confidence is a journey. I’m here to help 💖 #bodyconfidence #bodyimage #plussizeedition #plussize #bopotiktok #selfesteemboost #bodypositive ♬ original sound - mina