How to Wear 6 of Fall’s Biggest Trends at Work

Oct 12, 2017

What you see on the runway doesn’t always translate to real life, particularly in terms of your nine-to-five. But trends can be tweaked to fit almost any situation — be it your best friend’s b-day bash or a big-time meeting. That’s the beauty of fashion — it’s all about reinvention. Since the majority of your time is likely spent doing the girlboss thing, knowing how to give fall’s biggest trends the working-girl treatment (AKA keep it real without attracting the attention of HR) is a major bonus. Here, we’re sharing 18 easy outfit ideas to inject your everyday with a hint of catwalk cool.

Power Red

Step aside, millennial pink; power red is on the prowl for fall, as seen in this Victoria Beckham look. And if Fendi, Giambattista Valli, Givenchy, and Jil Sander are in, so are we! (Photo via Randy Brooke/WireImage)

1. Miss Selfridge Red Ruched Sleeve Blazer ($76): This fiery number is guaranteed to get you excited to suit up. Sure, it might not score you that bonus, but it’ll certainly boost your sartorial rep.

2. Sam Edelman Kinzey Patent-Leather Ankle Boots ($150): Paired with pinstriped suits or a sleek sweater dress, these sizzlin’ steppers will get you through the work week in style.

3. Madewell Medium Transport Leather Bucket Bag ($168): Every busy girl knows that a reliable tote is an indispensable on-the-job essential. Skip the standard black and brown options this season and embrace your inner HBIC with a powerful shade of red instead.

Check It Out

Say sayonara to the ’90s. This season’s plaid prints are laced with sophistication and ’70s panache — just ask Tory Burch (above), Stella McCartney, and Tome. (Photo via Catwalking/Getty)

4. PixieMarket Plaid Long Blazer Coat ($284): It strays on the splurgey side, but this knee-grazing check-print coat is the key to combatting brisk morning commutes like a bona fide street-style star. Patent loafers and go-get-’em attitude, unfortunately, not included.

5. Mango Check Pants ($80): Turtlenecks, Victorian collar blouses, and classic tees — these high-waisted trousers will go with practically everything in your wardrobe. Strike the right balance of uptown polish and downtown cool with fresh white sneakers, a sleek blazer, and a graphic tee.

6. Topshop Check Shirt Dress ($180): Any piece that can take the pressure off a Monday morning is okay in our book, and this throw-on-and-go number most definitely delivers. Team with block-heel mules and asymmetric earrings for an effortless look that exudes corner-office elegance.

Versatile Velvet

Velvet is back and better than ever. And this time, nothing is off limits. We’re crushing on all the rich jewel-tone hues the sumptuous fabric comes in for fall, like this topaz-colored evening gown by Erdem. (Photo via Estrop/Getty)

7. Zara Long Silk Velvet Kimono ($199): YAS. If there’s only enough room in your budget for one seriously stellar new-season buy, make it this beauty right here. Belted over maxi dresses or draped on top of smartly tailored trousers, it’ll instantly transform your most-loved pieces into OOTD gold.

8. & Other Stories Climbing Flower Velvet Trousers ($115): Introducing, the velvet trousers of our dreams. No really — the bold garnet hue and luxe fabric are straight-up game-changing as far as your office style is concerned.

9. NA-KD Plunge Kitten Heel ($48): Put those commuter shoes down! A short-and-sweet kitten heel, edgy plunge silhouette, and dramatic black velvet will give your everyday en-route flats a run for their money. The best part? No at-the-office costume change necessary.

Silver Streak

You fancy, huh? All signs point to fall being seriously sleek, with quicksilver wardrobe essentials reigning supreme. The proof? These metallic trousers from Proenza Schouler. (Photo via HP Yim/Getty)

10. Free People Stars in Her Eyes Anklet ($36): Perk up a pair of snoozy kicks or keep a favorite pair of platform sandals in rotation late into fall with a chic pair of celestial socks. One word: dreamy.

11. Elevenses Glistened Knit Wide-Legs ($118): Between the relaxed silhouette and high-shine finish, these silver bottoms leave little to be desired. Our only regret? That we didn’t spot them sooner!

12. Nine West Urazza Bootie ($99): ICYMI: Shiny, shimmery boots took the runway by storm for FW’17. High-octane sequins might not fly when you’re on the clock, but best believe these pared-down metallic booties will snag HR’s seal of approval when styled alongside tweed trousers and a sophisticated blouse.

Fishnets

Fishnet socks were a fave trend of fashionable London femmes last year, and the edgy accessory is back again for FW’17. Phillip Lim (above) and Cinq a Sept took the trend to new heights, styling them as a base layer and alongside prim-and-proper blazers. (Photo via Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Getty)

13. Weekday Mesh Fishnet Top ($40): While it seems seriously risqué, pulling off a fishnet top at the office couldn’t be easier. Slip it under a crewneck sweater or a floral blouse for a modern edge.

14. Express Fishnet Full Tights ($20): Who says boardroom dressing has to be boring? Tucked under a calf-length skirt, fishnet tights will add a dash of sass to your work week.

15. Nordstrom Fishnet Ankle Socks ($9): Strict office dress code? We’re willing to bet these subtle socks will fly under the radar sans problem.

Americana

Design houses, including Coach, paid tribute to folksy florals, quilting, and free-spirited fringe. (Photo via Catwalking/Getty)

16. Eri + Ali Abella Embroidered Blouse ($98): For those days when you wish you’re frolicking through fields of gold instead of pushing papers, pieces that can lighten your spirits are so key. Pop on this boho blouse with oversized earrings and matte lipstick, then watch as the mid-week blahs roll away.

17. ASOS Cianna Suede Slouch Cone Heel Boots ($127): Slouchy boots are a sure thing this season. The laid-back look is best accompanied by a midi skirt and sweater to keep things feeling fuss-free, yet polished.

18. Banana Republic x Olivia Palermo Paisley Tie-Neck Dress ($248): One of fall’s most essential outfit formulas? A maxi dress and a killer pair of boots. Just add an oversized cincher (another big-time fall trend) and bold baubles FTW.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

10 Wall-Mounted Desks To Buy Or DIY

If the four walls of your home are a little closer together than you'd like, wall desks might be just what you need to get the most out of your home office or workspace. Whether you're routinely working from home or just need a place to set down a book, these 21 wall-mounted desks are the answer you've been looking for. Be sure to have some workspace organization tricks up your sleeve and seek creative solutions for extra space saving, like mounting floating shelves nearby. Added bonus: Most of these could be positioned at the proper height to make your very own standing desk!

Nathan James Theo 2-Shelf Industrial Wall Mount Ladder Desk

Bring an industrial vibe to your bedroom or office with this wall mount ladder desk by Nathan Desk. It's sleek and minimal, making it a complementary addition to your space.

Grindstone Drop Down Secretary Desk

When it’s time to get to work or scrapbook, just unlatch the surface of this rustic desk and tackle whatever’s on today’s to-do list. Then close up shop to hide the mess.

Costway Wall Mounted Computer Convertible Floating Desk

his ergonomic desk swings into action to create a temporary lightweight desk space, soon to be the epicenter for epic doodling.

Floating Wall Desk

Ebern Designs Raquon Floating Desk

Wall mounted desks can be cute — just look at this floating desk you can get from Wayfair! It's compact and features a few mini shelves so you can store all of your office essentials!

Wall Mounted Desk

Turn a wooden countertop into a desk with modern angular supports. Keep the contrast between industrial and all-natural by using countertops with natural woodgrain and clean, white wall bracers. (via Simplified Building Concepts)

EcoDec Wall Mounted Makeup Vanity Desk

You can use wall mounted desks as a space to get work done or you can use it to do your makeup!

Prepac Floating Wall Mounted Desk

The office pod of the future! This wall-mounted unit’s curved side panels act as blinders preventing Peeping Toms from invading your privacy.

Latitude Run Pattyann Floating Desk

If you want a cute wall mounted desk and a floating bookshelf, look no further than Latitude Run's chic duo! The bookshelf has two opaque doors that'll add a bit of flair to your workspace and the desk will keep things as minimal as possible.

Southern Enterprises Fold-Out Convertible Desk

SEI Convertible Desk

Surprise! This unassuming hinged cabinet from Amazon unfolds into a full table and organization space. It would work wonders to create an eating surface in a small kitchen too.

DIY Standing Desk

This DIY standing desk uses a basic white painted board to camouflage unsightly computer cords on their way to the power outlets. If you're looking for a more colorful solution, try wrapping them with neon! (via Shelterness)

Let us know your go-to wall mounted desk on Twitter and subscribe toour email newsletter for the latest home content from B+C!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams.

Lead image via Wayfair.

Mandy Teefey’s Go-To Hack Will Make Social Media Suck Less

We all have big feelings. And thanks to social media and rising levels of anxiety, those feelings, well, feel bigger than ever. That’s exactly where resources like Wondermind come in. The self-proclaimed “mental health ecosystem” is all about exploring, discussing, and navigating our emotions together. This Mental Health Awareness Month, Wondermind wants you to live your mental health journey in community because Mandy Teefey, who co-founded the company with daughter Selena Gomez, knows what it’s like to walk that journey alone.

Image via Wondermind

“As I went through a very long journey of finding I did have a mental health diagnosis — and then I was misdiagnosed and then I had to go through that — I was blessed to have the resources to do that,” Teefey, who received an ADHD and trauma diagnosis after a 20-year bipolar misdiagnosis, says. “Whenever I started my journey of discovering what mental condition I had…I didn't have anybody to lean into or explain the way I was feeling.”

While these personal experiences helped Teefey better understand mental health, it wasn’t until she produced Netflix’s 2017 series 13 Reasons Whythat she saw just how far the mental health conversation goes. The hit show went viral almost as soon as it aired because of its realistic depiction of mental health and all the aftershocks of trauma.

“After we did 13 Reasons Why and saw the reaction and the need for that support, me and Selena were trying to really figure out what could be next,” Teefey says. “Everybody was releasing things [at] different times. It's like you have to have 12 apps to have a program, and then remember to use them all. So that's when we decided to create a mental fitness ecosystem. So it's all-encompassing, but there's something for everyone.”

“We're not a medicinal company [but] we do have an advisory committee that oversees everything that we do,” Teefey continues. “We're technically not doctors, but we are for everyone when it comes to feelings. Everybody has feelings and they can go to our content hub and just kind of explore that for a while.”

Image via Brit + Co

Admittedly, that exploration bit is pretty fun. The articles are inspiring, and the worksheets (which are each created by an expert) are incredibly helpful. Seeing every program, article, and podcast episode feels like an opportunity to start fresh, but once you have all the ideas in front of you, what do you actually do? Teefey recommends journaling, even if it’s just a sentence every day. (She also loves watching journaling videos from Planning Annie: “Anytime I'm feeling sad or like a little unmotivated, I put her on.”)

Journaling every day, even if your entries are short, allows you to track your mood over an extended period of time. If you notice a consistent sadness, for example, it could be a sign it’s time to check in with your doctor. Plus, journaling can help prepare you for the conversations mental health appointments bring up.

“Sometimes if you go into a therapy session and you're not really settled or concrete in who you are and what may be going on, you might go through what I went through, which is being misdiagnosed,” Teefey says. “It's more important for you to know who you are and what you need prior to going in. So you can give that to them instead of them guessing and working around that process with you.”

Image via Brit + Co

Establishing a consistent routine can help decrease your stress, whether you’re eating the same breakfast every day, or you stick to a tried and true skincare regimen like Sydney Sweeney’s Cassie does on Euphoria. I immediately thought of this teen drama when Mandy Teefey mentioned how important her 4 a.m. routine is. But while Cassie spends time doing her skincare and makeup, Teefey spends time nurturing her soul.

“If I don't have [that routine], I'm usually really off kilter,” she says. “So I get up at 4 when everyone's still asleep, and I found that time could be about me, and I'm not taking it away from anybody. And so that's really what helped me be more grounded throughout the day.”

I can attest that my own quiet time in the morning is vital for a successful day — as is knowing what my boundaries need to be. Because honestly, boundaries can change daily! Teefey and I both acknowledge we have to stay away from sad music to protect our mental health, and she also recommends staying off social media when you feel your mental health struggling.

“I can go three days without looking at social media and then when I go on there, I start having anxiety because I'm like, ‘Oh my gosh, I haven't liked this person. I haven't even liked our own pictures [for] Wondermind.’ And then I start feeling guilty,” she says. “There's just some kind of [expectation] to do social media and you really don't. Not everybody needs to know everything, you know? There's beauty in privacy.”

Even Selena Gomez admitted at the 2024 Time100 Summit that taking time off Instagram "was the most rewarding gift I gave myself."

Image via Brit + Co

The idea of staying off social media is way easier said than done (speaking from first hand experience here). If you feel like you’re drowning in engagement announcements, anxiety-inducing news, and FOMO, Teefey recommends keeping tabs on your reactions to gauge when it’s time to take a serious break.

“If it invokes any emotion that is a negative emotion, I [know] it's not worth being angry about, it's not worth losing sleep about,” she says. “It just feels like there's an unintentional taunting on social media and, ‘Wait a minute, is that about me?’ You don't know this person and then you start running with all this stuff in your mind.”

Like every area of life, social media is all about balance, and if you’re looking to unplug while still staying informed, Mandy Teefey recommends bringing a journal with you when doing your morning news scroll — that way, you can process emotions while keeping tabs on what’s happening. “If anything evokes emotion, I'm meditating during the quiet time,” she says.

Studies have found journaling can help decrease your anxiety, and that it can help you break obsessive thought cycles. And while you’re the only one who can process your thoughts and emotions, it’s important not to isolate yourself from your community — especially when you’re struggling. “You gotta build trust and you gotta build the boundary of who you volunteer [your] help to,” she says.

When it comes to her own daughters, Mandy Teefey knows it’s a process. “You have to work with them and meet them where they're at, and then see the help they need and don't assume [they’re going through] what you went through,” she says. “You've got to really understand them to be able to give that advice.”

Image via Natalie Rhea

In her own life, Mandy Teefey got to experience building that trust first-hand with Selena Gomez! “One time it was very, very cold in California and me and Selena were on the opposite sides of the pool,” she says. “We were in sweats and she says, ‘Do you trust me?’ And I went, ‘Yeah.’ And she goes ‘Okay, if you trust me, on three, we're gonna jump in this ice cold pool.’”

While Teefey wasn’t convinced, she trusted Gomez, and they both ended up in the freezing cold water! Which is both a funny story and a fond memory: “We couldn't get out of the pool because [our clothes were] so heavy. It was madness!”

“There's a lot of things I know my daughters don't tell me and that's their right,” she continues. “It's so sensitive between teenagers — especially teenagers — and their parents. They're going through that phase and they don't want to be around them and they don't wanna tell them things. It's definitely not easy but maybe put some feelers out there and just make sure that they know you're there and make it okay to have these conversations.”

Thanks to all this actionable advice, we know that Mental Health Awareness month isn’t limited to TikTok videos or Instagram posts we can reshare. There are real tips we can use to take care of ourselves — and a place to go when we need a boost.

Watch Our Full Interview With Mandy Teefey Here!

youtu.be

Wondermind Co-Founder Mandy Teefey Helps Us Navigate Big Feelings For Mental Health Awareness Month

If you're struggling with your mental health, check in with your doctor or check out the mental health resources Wondermind offers. You can also use Psychology Today to find a therapist near you.

Lead image via Getty

interview tech social media mental health

20 Cute Winter Boots For Your All-Weather Commute

Through wind, heavy rain, and snow, your cold weather boots are must haves to keep feet warm and dry. But those handy, utilitarian shoes can often be a little clunky at the office. Not anymore! There are actually a lot of high-quality, functional, and totally fashionable boots that you can wear both indoors and out. No more changing into your work shoes — these do the job all day.

Sorel CARIBOU X BOOT CHELSEA COZY

Comfortable rubber soles of this waterproof boot will keep your feet nice and dry in thick, heavy snow and rain, making it perfect for an office casual staple.

SeaVees Cascade Range Boot

Made with a cushy-soft memory foam, this super comfortable winter boot is perfect for everyday, from hiking trails to commuter rails, rain or shine.

Zara Faux Fur Trim Platform Ankle Boots

These cabin-cozy faux fur boots will make you want to keep them on inside as slippers too.

Sorel Ona Rmx Chukka Bootie

These snowy day sneakers with fun retro vibes are waterproof and insulated for snow days, perfect for when you don't feel like putting on heavy snow boots.

LL Bean Wicked Good Bean Boots

Feel like you're walking on sunshine in this durable boot you'll wear for many winters to come. Also try the slightly more affordable Women's Bean Boot, sans shearling.

GREATS The Madison Boot

Available in a limited edition color, these blush-colored boots are soft and sophisticated, but they’re also made with quality materials that can withstand the weather.

COUGAR Meridian Waterproof Boot

Want to feel like you’ve just hit the slopes before coming into work? Look no further than these waterproof boots, made with rubber soles, a felt lining, and a temperature rating of -22°F/-30°C. You’ll feel warm and toasty and look like a bona fide snow bunny.

århus Boots

Wear high or low with a European sheep wool lining, these buttery-soft leather boots come in a slew of colors for all your moods. When it's time, you can replace the Italian crepe soles to extend the life of the boot for years.

Merrell Bravada 2 Thermo Demi Waterproof X Jordan Ann Craig

These affordable waterproof boots, inspired by nature and Indigenous beadwork designed by indigenous artist Jordan Ann Craig, will keep your tootsies warm all winter long.

The North Face Sierra Mid Lace Waterproof Boots

These sneaker-light boots are a cold-weather staple for everything you want to do, from holiday shopping to meetups and more.

Montelliana Metallic Leather Shearling-Lined Boots

Treat your feet like gold this winter. These boots are made with metallic leather on the outside and fur on the inside for a truly luxurious and cozy shoe to last you all season.

Marc Fisher Izzie Lugsole Ankle Boot

No need to tread lightly here. Badumbump. Thick soles are just right for women on the go, and the soft wool and suede will keep your feet comfortable even when it’s bitterly cold out there.

Timberland Heritage Ski School Boot

Stand out in a sea of brown and black boots with these waterproof Timberlands, inspired by vintage trail maps.

Sperry Torrent Faux Fur Waterproof Boot

These snow boots look like they’re made for drudging through a blizzard, but they’re still fashionable enough to keep them on no matter what your plans.

Hunter Intrepid Knee High Snow Boot

Go for full coverage with Hunter's winter boot that's waterproof and lined with recycled fleece for sustainability points. Perfect for skirts!

Wolverine Torrent Waterproof Insulated Chukka

If your office isn’t too hung up on a formal dress code, play with your winter look by wearing these delightful boots that are good come rain, sleet or snow.

Vans Standard Zip Snow MTE Boot

Get the classic Vans cool in a snow boot with a waterproof lower that keeps you dry, a removable felt liner for extra warmth, and an any-terrain-goes rubber for great traction.

Sorel Women's Out 'N About III Classic Boot

You probably won’t find a more comfortable boot for winter than these. Made with a rubber outsole and a removable, molded EVA footbed, you can customize this boot to fit your feet just right. Plus, they come in a slew of wintry color combos.

Sperry Women's Saltwater Emboss Wool Boots

Sperry duck boots are great in rain, sleet, or snow since they are made with quality rubber and lined with padded fleece to keep your feet warm. You can also get these classics in cooler styles, like these off-white beauties that are sure to turn heads.

Koolaburra by UGG Women's Ryanna

These waterproof suede boots come in four colors and are lined with faux fur to keep you cozy and warm, from cabin to commute!

Find more winter fashion finds on our Fashion page and be sure to sign up for our weekly deals newsletter!

Main Photo: SeaVees

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Ryan Gosling Is The Ultimate Girl Dad

After The Gray Man and a year full of Barbie and Ken, The Fall Guy (plus the upcoming Ocean's 11 prequelwith Margot Robbie) continues to prove Ryan Gosling is THE definition of a star. And between his friendship with Emma Stone and his relationship with Eva Mendes,Ryan seems like the kind of guy we'd all want to be best friends with — and not just because of his endless #Kenergy.

Not only is Ryan the sweetest partner, he's also the ultimate girl dad to daughters Esmeralda and Amada. Their "interest in Barbie and disinterest in Ken," as Ryan tells People, get him to Barbieland in the first place, but he also just revealed they "asked specifically" he avoid one The Fall Guy stunt. “My kids didn't want me to be set on fire,” he says. “Even though I said, ‘Well, it's actually, technically the safer thing to do because there's a lot of protective stuff involved, [they] were like, ‘No. No fire.’ So I didn't do it.”

It's clear that Ryan Gosling's children are spitfires and I love to see it! Here's everything you need to know about Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids.

How many children do Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have two children, Esmerelda Amada and Amada Lee. Amada was named after Eva's grandmother — both my sister and I have family names and I love seeing the way different families carry on that tradition!

How old are Ryan Gosling's kids?

Image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

Esmerelda was born in September 2014, meaning she'll turn 10 this fall. Amada just turned 8 at the end of April!

How does Ryan Gosling prioritize his kids?

Image via Lionsgate

In his recent profile with WSJ, Ryan Gosling revealed he only picks roles that will benefit his whole family. "I don't really take roles that are going to put me in some kind of dark place," Ryan says. "The decisions I make, I make them with Eva and we make them with our family in mind first."

"I think La La Landwas the first," he continues. "It was sort of like, 'Oh this will be fun for them too, because even though they're not coming to set, we're practicing piano every day or we're dancing or we're singing.'"

Every couple needs to figure out what prioritizing their kids looks like for them, and considering how much I love all Ryan's recent roles, I'd say this is a shift that benefits everyone ;).

When did Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have their daughters?

Image via Andrew Toth/Getty Images for New York & Company

Eva Mendes gave birth to Esmerelda on September 12, 2014 and later had Amada on April 29, 2016.

Are Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes still together?

Image via Sonia Recchia/Getty Images

Yes, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes are still going strong, and thank goodness. Eva just revealed that Ryan provides a ton of support for her. "When I was 40, it was a big deal for people when I was pregnant, and it wasn't for me," she tells People. "And then I was 42 and I was pregnant with my second one and people were like, 'Oh my God, you're going to be so tired. That's why people have kids in their 20s.' I was like, that's the most sorry, asinine thing I've ever heard."

"[Ryan supports me] in all the ways I need to be supported," she continues. "He's got me in all the ways."

How has fatherhood affected Ryan Gosling?

Image via Hector Vivas/Getty Images

Considering Ryan Gosling's daughters are such a huge part of his life now, it's hard to believe that earlier in life, he wasn't sure he wanted kids. "After I met Eva, I realized that I just didn’t want to have kids without her," he tells GQ. "And there were moments on The Place Beyond the Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didn’t really want it to be pretend anymore." Now, I'm going to need you to pause and reread that quote because I can't believe that's a real sentence. I'm obsessed!

A source also told People in 2023 that "Ryan is such a fun dad. He is goofy and his girls love it."

Via WSJ, we also know that since Ryan Gosling's kids have started learning Spanish, they now call him Papi. "It kills me every time," he says. "There's just nothing, nothing better than that."

What has Eva Mendes said about their daughters?

Image via Eva Mendes/Instagram

Eva Mendes is just as obsessed with her and Ryan Gosling's children as he is, and she's talked about how they make life so much better. "Oh April…I have such a complicated relationship with you," she says on Instagram. "[April 2] would have been my brother’s birthday…..in a couple of weeks from now is the day we lost him…but then, the end of April we got the biggest blessing of all, my little girl was born 8 years ago. I hate you April. But I love you more."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids!

Lead image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

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Dealing With Stubborn Bloating? An Expert Shares How To Banish It

Bloating is a common digestive issue that can make you feel sluggish, uncomfortable, and self-conscious. While bloating is often caused by overeating, there are other factors that can contribute to this uncomfortable sensation, such as consuming gas-producing foods or experiencing hormonal changes.

The thing is that bloating happens to the best of us so it doesn't mean you're weird if you haven't figured out what's causing your tummy issues. Between weight fluctuations and hormonal changes post-birth, I still haven't cracked the 'happy digestive system' code. But, that lack of knowledge is no match for the expertise of Dr. Brynna Connor, MD — a Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWest Pharmacy.

Based in Austin, Texas where she has her own private practice, Dr. Connor is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Practice, the American Academy of Family Practice, and the Texas Medical Association. In other words, she has nearly two decades worth of medical experience that makes her the right person to answer all our "How to get rid of bloating" questions.

Whether you're dealing with the occasional bloat or chronic digestive issues, Dr. Connor has expert tips to help you find relief and get back to enjoying healthy meals that your body loves.

How can I tell if I'm bloated?

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

Before I became a mom, it was easy for me to recognize the immediate signs of bloating. I only experienced it during PMS and the week of my cycle, but it always went away for a few weeks. Not only that, I used to be able to pinpoint which foods were the culprit of horrific period cramps and the inevitable gassiness that seemed to make my cycles 10x worse. Now, things are up in the air and I'm joining the ranks of other curious women who want to know what's considered bloating.

Dr. Connor says, "There are various symptoms a woman may experience if she’s bloated. Bloating may make you feel like your stomach is tight or full and can cause abdominal pain, swollen/distended stomach, flatulence, belching, and/or stomach cramps. It’s not uncommon to experience multiple symptoms of bloating at once."

I don't think I need to mention just how uncomfortable things can feel when experiencing multiple bloating symptoms.

What triggers bloating symptoms?

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels

I mentioned my daily cycle as one of the reasons I knew I used to experience bloating, but there are more things that can trigger it. "Bloating occurs when your gastrointestinal or digestive system(s) are filled with gas or liquid and there are six common potential causes," says Dr. Connor.

She lists having gas as one of the first reasons. "It’s normal to experience symptoms of excess gas, especially after eating and/or drinking as you may have also swallowed small amounts of air. Certain factors may increase the likelihood that you experience bloating after eating, such as chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, and/or eating or drinking too fast."

Hearing this reminds me of the moments I was told to slow down when eating my food as a little girl.

Image via Maksim Goncharenok/Pexels

There's also the chance that you have a food intolerance. I only speak for myself when I say that I'm only able to consume dairy in small increments and tomato sauce? Well, I can just forget that because lately my stomach skips bloating and heads right to nausea. What gives, you ask?

Dr. Connor says, "You can experience bloating if your digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. Common food intolerances that can lead to bloating include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and/or fructose intolerance." Feeling mind-blown about possibly having a fructose intolerance? Same here, but Dr. Connor explains what happens when our body breaks down certain foods.

"There are also chemicals found in particular foods that can increase the chances of bloating after they’re ingested, including histamine (found in wine and cheese), caffeine, alcohol, sulfites (found in beer and wine), and monosodium glutamate (MSG – found in ripe fruit and cured meat)," she says.

If you're hearing someone play the world's smallest violin, it's me mourning the fact that my two greatest loves — wine and cheese — may not be the best things to consume together.

Image via Miriam Alonso/Pexels

I can say it's been a while since I've been constipated, but only because my doctor all but demanded that I start taking probiotics and eating more probiotic-rich foods. Still, it always sucks when constipation happens which explains the bloating that tends to follow.

"When your large intestine absorbs too much water from your stool, it becomes harder and more difficult to pass. The resulting buildup of stool in your colon can lead to bloating, swelling, and stomach/abdominal pain, and you’re particularly susceptible to constipation if you’re not getting enough fiber, water, or exercise. Changes to your daily routine or an increased level of stress can also contribute to constipation and bloating," says Dr. Connor.

Somehow this is oddly comforting to know that stress can also be a culprit.

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Like I mentioned before, starting your period is one of the reasons you can experience bloat. What Dr. Connor says next will occupy a space in your mind if you're never considered what happens during that special time of the month.

"Certain hormones, like estrogen, can cause your body to hold onto water, which can cause swelling in the abdomen. Estrogen can also interact with progesterone in your digestive system, leading to increased gas in your intestines. Bloating prior to your period may also be caused by the increase in volume in your uterus just before your period starts," she says.

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I've been prescribed different medications after two of my surgeries and found that I experienced unusual bloating that led to horrific cycles. Dr. Connor says there's a reason why certain medications or supplements can cause this to happen.

"...fiber supplements can cause bloating or constipation when the supplement isn’t taken with enough water. Other medications that can lead to bloating and/or constipation include opioids like hydrocodone or oxycodone, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, iron supplements, and antihistamines like Benadryl," she offers.

Although I no longer take Benadryl, I can confirm I experienced a ton of bloating when trying to combat my allergies.

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Lastly, Dr. Connor says there could be underlying medical reason you're experiencing bloating. "People living with gastrointestinal diseases like Celiac Disease, an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to experience bloating, excess gas, and constipation."

She also says, "Underlying liver disease or cancers can also cause bloating in the abdomen, which is why you should talk to your doctor if you are experiencing prolonged symptoms associated with bloating, or if you’re having any additional symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, or pelvic pain, blood in your stool, difficulty swallowing, or any excess fatigue or unexplained weight loss."

What are some ways to reduce bloating in general and during PMS/menstrual cycles?

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Dr. Connor says managing bloating can depend on what's triggering your symptoms. It's always best to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you concerned about your digestive health, but there are things you can do at home to provide some relief.

"At-home solutions include over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Gas-X or antacids that can be taken together or separately. Probiotics can also help reduce gas and restore the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract. Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile tea, or turmeric, can aid digestion, and peppermint oil can help relax muscles in the stomach that aid in the passing of gas."

She also suggests that you increase your fiber intake, incorporate exercise in your routine, and stay hydrated.

By taking steps to reduce bloating, you can improve your overall health and feel more comfortable in your daily life.

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This post has been updated.

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