Beware Rihanna-style winter fashion trend, says doctor

A popular winter fashion trend could put you at greater risk of back problems and urinary tract infections (UTIs), health experts warn.

Boleros are back, baby, and with them come the cropped coats. But while they offer an undeniably chic silhouette—as demonstrated by singer Rihanna during Paris Fashion Week 2024—leaving your lower back exposed in this glamorous get-up comes at a cost.

“The lower back plays a role in maintaining overall body warmth due to the presence of large muscle groups that are particularly sensitive to cold,” Dr. Masarat Jilani, a doctor who works with bladder care company Jude, told Newsweek. “Insufficient coverage of this area may enhance the sensation of chill. This then requires your body to work harder to maintain a stable core temperature.”

This extended cold exposure can result in muscle stiffness and strain, potentially causing pain in the lower back. But that’s not all.

“Cold exposure does not directly contribute to infections or harm the kidneys (despite what you may have been told),” Jilani said. “However, stress from prolonged cold, combined with reduced hydration or changes in bathroom habits, can indirectly contribute to an increased risk or severity of urinary tract infections.”

Indeed, cropped coats aren’t the only winter fashion trend that can cause problems down there.

“Leather trousers might look good, but they do not allow air to circulate freely around your body, creating a warm and moist haven for bacteria in the very place you would rather stay fresh and clean,” Jilani previously told Newsweek. “[Leather pants] may also contribute to an increased risk of urinary tract infections, particularly if you are already prone to them.”

UTIs are a common infection and usually aren’t a significant threat to our health. However, in 2019 alone 237,000 deaths recorded globally were related to these infections. Increasingly, the bacteria that cause UTIs are also becoming resistant to antibiotics, making them harder to treat.

Luckily, if you do want to join the cropped coat club, there are things you can do to minimize your risk of developing these health problems.

“If you want to enjoy this trend and also ensure comfort and warmth, it’s advisable to wear high-quality thermal layers that help retain heat, and on particularly cold days opting for a longer wool coat will provide additional protection for your core,” Jilani said.

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