I’m a Size 14 and I Finally Found Trousers That Don’t Gap at the Waist

Autum Love fashion blog review of Express End of Season Sale outfit.png

Disclaimer: This post is in partnership with Express , a brand I love. All opinions here are my own.

I recently flew to Santa Monica for a quick work trip—but packing for it? Stressful, as usual.

I’m 5’1”, wear a size 14, and have a postpartum belly that still lingers no matter how many times I “start over on Monday.” So finding pants that actually fit my hips and my waist? Practically a myth.

That’s why when I slipped on these trousers from Express and realized they didn’t gape in the back… I literally stared in the mirror like: Wait, is this what it feels like when clothes fit right?

Here’s the thing—at AutumLove.com, I don’t just post cute outfits for the vibes. I test pieces on a real, midsize body (mine). And these trousers? They passed every test:

  • No waist gap

  • Comfortable enough to walk around all day

  • Polished enough for dinner reservations

  • Actually made me feel good in my skin

If you’ve been struggling to find pants that flatter without the constant tug-tuck-adjust routine, these might just be your new go-to.

P.S. Express is running their End of Season Sale through July 31st, so now’s a good time to snag summer staples (like the ones I wore on this trip) before they’re gone.

Autum Love Express try-on for midsize women – size 14 outfits

Compression bodysuits and a visible belly line? A horror story. But this one passed the test. I sized up to a large (normally a medium) because tight compression + a muffin top = a bloaty disaster. This one held me in, didn’t roll up, and layered perfectly under trousers.

Autum Love Express try-on for midsize women – size 14 outfits

Body Contour Compression High Neck Bodysuit

$34.00

I’m wearing a Size L

Planning your fall wardrobe? Don’t miss the Fall Wardrobe Checklist—it’s the go-to list for layering like a pro without overthinking your outfits. Grab the checklist here

The Trousers That Didn’t Gap in the Back

Summer outfit from Express styled by Autum Love

These are so good. Not stiff, not clingy, just a soft, drapey fabric that felt comfortable but looked put-together. And no back-gap. Let me repeat: No. Back. Gap. I got the regular length (I’m 5’1”), and they were a little long, but perfect with a low block heel. If the short version is sold out, you can still make these work or tailor them. They’re worth it.

Autumn Love blog Express haul – size 14 relaxed trousers and bodysuit

High-Waisted Relaxed Trousers

$88.00

I’m Wearing a Size 14 Regular

The Dress That Made Me Believe in Mirror Pics Again

Autum Love midsize outfit idea in Santa Monica – Express crochet dress

This dress is a moment. It’s soft, stretchy, not itchy (I had to triple check that), and hugs in the right places. I sized down to a medium after reading reviews, and it was the right move. I wore shapewear for a smoother look and added a gold belt to elevate it. It’s ageless, flattering, and can easily be layered with a denim jacket or blazer if you’re not into showing arms.

Autum Love midsize outfit idea in Santa Monica – Express crochet dress

Metallic Crochet Scoop Neck Maxi Sweater Dress

$98.00

I’m wearing a Size M

The Everyday Dress for Girls Who Hate Dresses

Autumn Love fashion blog review of Express End of Season Sale outfit

I wasn’t expecting to love this, but now I want it in every color. It’s easy, comfy, and doesn’t scream “trying too hard.” I added shaper shorts underneath and threw a sweater over it, but this could easily be styled with sneakers, a cropped jacket, or even layered under a crewneck. Lip gloss, blush, and you're done.

Autumn Love fashion blog review of Express End of Season Sale outfit

Mixed Media V-Neck Sleeveless Drop Waist Midi Dress

$98.00

I’m wearing a size M

Creator Images used for editorial purposes only. All rights belong to their respective creators. We always link and give credit.

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Autum Love

Autum Love is the founder of AutumLove.com and MensOutfitsDaily.com. With a BFA in Fashion Design and certifications in Body Image and Virtual Styling, she’s all about keeping style real, practical, and confidence-boosting. Autum’s mission is simple: to help women look good and feel even better, no matter where life takes them.

Her expertise has been featured in Newsweek, Apartment Guide, StyleCaster, and InStyle, where she shares fresh, no-nonsense fashion insights. For Autum, style isn’t just about clothes—it’s about showing up as your best self, every day.

http://www.autumlove.com
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