When you live with arthritis, you may need to make changes in how you dress, but it's possible to look and feel stylish, even with arthritis.

When there’s a special occasion, it’s fun to dress to the nines and pull out all of your favorite jewelry. But when you live with arthritis, you may need to make changes in how you dress. After all, smaller buttons can be nearly impossible to do up now, and you've almost certainly put away your favorite heels. Even some jewelry might not be possible for you to wear anymore, between joint pain and swelling in the fingers that makes rings difficult and the overwhelming task of closing tiny clasps on necklaces.

But even with arthritis, you can still look stylish and feel fabulous. While you may not be able to wear precisely what you did before your arthritis, there's no reason to despair. You can still look great with a little creativity.

Seek out convenient trends

Fashion is always changing, and sometimes what's in style will intersect with what you need. Have you noticed many women are wearing shawls lately, for example? They're very popular right now, and wraps are too. These are easy to put on and wear, and can be a great alternative to a cardigan you would need to button. You can find delicate shawls in all colors - even metallic - to complement your favorite dress.

Other on-trend pieces that may be arthritis-friendly for you include oversized sweaters and pull-on boots. The good news about these fads is that they're available everywhere. If you'd like to try out the latest styles, you can simply go where you've always gone to shop for clothes and see how they work for you. If your favorite store is a larger one, they may have free personal shopping services, too. If you tell the personal shopper what your limitations are, he or she can help you find what you're looking for in a way that will be both beautiful and doable.

Don't forget the accessories

Using clasps may not be an option for you anymore, and rings may be a thing of the past - but that doesn't mean you need to give up jewelry. There are plenty of ways to add a little shine to your look without having to endure any pain. Start by looking for bracelets made with elastic. There are some available that no one would know are elastic without you telling them. If you look a little, you can find them in nearly any color and style that you would like.

For necklaces, look for dramatic pieces that are long enough to put on over your head. This way, you'll never have to deal with hooks and latches when you'd like to wear a necklace. You can also double extremely long necklaces for a different look.

Finally, shoes can be a sore subject for women with arthritis. Keep an eye out for fashionable, supportive flats whenever you happen to be near a shoe store - you'll want to start a collection. If you need orthopedic shoes, don't worry. The industry has been making more and more attractive versions over the years, so you're not confined to bulky white sneakers. A quick Internet search should give you plenty of material for your next shoe-shopping trip.