When Your Favorite Jeans Don’t Fit Anymore—Navigating Body Changes in Your 20s

One day, they’re your most trusted pair—the perfect fit for sitting AND standing, the go-to for every outfit. The next, they’re refusing to button or suddenly gaping in weird places.

The betrayal.

But before you start spiraling or blaming that extra iced chai latte, let’s talk about why this is completely normal—and why it might just be a good thing.

And the crowd goes silent.

Lately, I’ve come to the realization that I am, in fact, going through what can only be described as second puberty. You know, that delightful phase in your 20s when your body decides to switch things up again—as if the first round wasn’t chaotic enough.

My hips? Wider. My waist? Doing its own thing. My favorite college bar jeans? Suddenly not so accommodating.

It’s a weird mix of nostalgia for the body I once had and learning to embrace the one I’m growing into. Turns out, no one warned us that our bodies don’t just hit “final form” after high school.

So… why is it that no one talks openly about this very normal and natural transition for people in their 20s?

And more importantly—why does no one prepare us for the mental battle that comes with realizing your clothes don’t fit the way they used to?

It’s okay to be angry when your favorite jeans won’t button or when a dress that once made you feel amazing suddenly feels off. It’s not just about the clothes—it’s a reminder that your body is changing in ways you didn’t agree to and can’t control.

And that’s frustrating.

Society tells us to embrace change, but when that change is happening to you—without your permission—it’s a lot harder to be at peace with it. Some days, it’s just annoying. Some days, it feels unfair. And that’s valid.

You don’t have to immediately love or celebrate it—you just have to remind yourself that your body is doing what it’s meant to do: evolve.

Now, I’m holding your hand while I say this.

What isn’t fair, though, is punishing yourself by keeping clothes that no longer fit, hoping that one day they will again.

Keeping that pair of too-small jeans or the Brandy Melville baby tee you got at 17 in the back of your closet as a silent reminder of how your body used to be doesn’t serve you—it only feeds the idea that your current body isn’t good enough.

And we both know that’s just not true.

Your worth isn’t measured by whether you can zip up pants from three years ago. Bodies are meant to change, and your wardrobe should change with them. Letting go of clothes that don’t fit isn’t giving up—it’s making room for clothes that actually make you feel good now.

The decision.

So, how do you know when it’s time to let go?

If you’re constantly trying to squeeze into clothes that just aren’t happening anymore, if these clothes cause you physical discomfort, or if you find yourself avoiding the pile in your closet that used to fit, it might be time to part ways.

Now, if it’s just a slight issue—like a waistband that’s a bit too tight or hems that are slightly off—then, hey, a tailor can work some magic. Tailoring is a great option for those items that still have potential but just need a little adjustment to fit your changing shape.

However, if the piece no longer matches your body—no amount of hemming or taking in seams is going to bring it back. If it’s been sitting in your closet for months or even years with no intention of ever fitting again, it’s time to say goodbye.

Letting go is tough, but it makes space for clothes that fit you right now, and that’s what matters.

Time for the reinforcements

Letting go of clothes can feel like a lot, but it’s way easier when you’ve got some support.

Grab a friend who’s also going through their own closet purging and make a plan to tackle the clutter together.

It’s kind of like a mini emotional support session—because let’s be real, saying goodbye to those really cute pants you saved up for or found on a lucky local thrift trip.. can hit hard. But having someone by your side who’s in the same boat can make it a little lighter.

You’ll probably find you’re both holding onto clothes you don’t wear anymore and can laugh about how those items no longer feel like you.

Who doesn’t love a bonding moment?

Once you’ve got your piles sorted, donating is the way to go. Whether it’s a local shelter, thrift store, or even a cause that resonates with you, letting those clothes go to someone else who will wear them is a win.

You can even make it a group effort—having a donation pile alongside your friends’ piles can make the process feel more empowering than sad. And if you’re feeling extra entrepreneurial, consider listing them on Depop—a perfect option for reselling those items in good condition.

Either way, getting rid of the stuff that no longer fits isn’t just about clearing out space in your closet—it’s about passing it on and making room for the new pieces that celebrate your evolving body and style.