Having a wardrobe you love and that fits you perfectly can be life changing, especially for plus size women. It’s about finding pieces that look good and feel good. Whether you’re a professional woman navigating business wear or a fashionista defining your style, having the right essentials is key.
Introduction
Creating a wardrobe with essentials that fit your body shape can give you confidence and make getting dressed a pleasure not a pain. Plus size wardrobe essentials are about more than just clothes; they’re about feeling good in your own skin. This will help you curate a collection for every occasion, from business meetings to casual days out.
Tops of Every Style
Camisole
A camisole is a versatile piece that can be worn on its own or layered under jackets and cardigans. Look for camisoles made of breathable fabrics like cotton or silk that can be both comfortable and stylish. Size inclusive brands often have camisoles with adjustable straps so you can get a perfect fit.
Whether you’re wearing it with jeans for a casual look or layering it under a blazer for a professional look, a well fitting camisole is a must have. Remember, it’s all about the fabric that feels good against your skin and your body shape.
Tank Top
Tank tops are another must have for any plus size capsule wardrobe. They’re great for layering and can add a splash of color to an outfit. Look for tanks with wider straps for more support and coverage.
When shopping for tank tops look for different necklines like V neck or scoop neck to see what works best for your body shape. A well tailored tank top can go from weekend wear to under blazer staple in your work wardrobe.
T-shirt
No wardrobe is complete without a basic T-shirt. Whether plain or patterned T-shirts are super versatile. Look for high quality cotton or blends with a bit of stretch for comfort.
A well fitting T-shirt can be dressed up with a statement necklace or kept simple for a casual day out. Size inclusive brands often have a range of colours and prints so you can find something that suits your style.
Turtleneck
A turtleneck is a layering piece, especially for colder months. It can be worn under dresses, blazers or on its own. Look for turtlenecks in neutral colors like black, grey and navy.
Turtlenecks made from soft stretchy materials will give you comfort and a flattering shape. This is a must have in your plus size wardrobe essentials.
Sweater
Sweaters are a necessity. Choose different styles from chunky knits to lightweight options. Look for sweaters with interesting details like cable knits or ribbing that can add texture to your look.
Sweaters can be layered over shirts or worn on its own. They’re great for work to evening wear or casual weekends. Make sure the fit is comfortable and not too tight so you can layer over.
Cardigan
A cardigan is a versatile piece that can instantly dress up your outfit. Whether long and flowy or short and fitted cardigans are great for adding an extra layer of warmth and style.
Choose a cardigan in a neutral color for maximum versatility. You can throw it over a camisole, T-shirt or dress to add an extra layer while still looking stylish.
Silk Blouse
A silk blouse is a luxury piece for your wardrobe. It’s great for work and can be dressed up or down. Look for blouses with a tailored fit to suit your body shape.
Silk blouses come in different styles from button downs to wrap designs. They’re breathable and add glamour to any outfit making them a must have in your plus size capsule wardrobe.
White Button Down Shirt
A crisp white button down shirt is a classic piece. It’s versatile enough to be worn with jeans, skirts or under blazers. Make sure the shirt fits well across the bust and shoulders for the best look.
Layer it under sweaters, pair it with slacks or wear it with a skirt for a more polished look. The options are endless with this timeless piece.
Blazers and Jackets
Fitted Blazer
A fitted blazer is a must have for any professional woman. It can be worn over dresses, with slacks or even with jeans for a more polished casual look. Look for blazers with a bit of stretch for comfort.
A well tailored blazer can shape your body and add a polished finish to any outfit. Choose one in a neutral color like black or navy so it can be paired with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Tailored Leather or Denim Jacket
A tailored leather or denim jacket will add an edge to any outfit. These jackets can be worn over dresses, with jeans or layered with sweaters. Look for jackets with a good fit across the shoulders and chest.
Leather jackets bring a bit of rock ‘n’ roll to your look, denim jackets bring a casual timeless vibe. Both are essentials for a versatile plus size wardrobe.
Pants and Skirts
Jeans
Every wardrobe needs a pair of well fitted jeans. Choose dark wash for a more polished look and lighter wash for casual occasions. Look for jeans with a bit of stretch for comfort.
Jeans can be dressed up with a blouse and heels or kept casual with a T-shirt and sneakers. They’re a staple piece that should be comfortable and flattering.
Khakis
Khakis are a great alternative to jeans. They’re comfortable and can be dressed up or down. Look for khakis with a tailored fit to shape your body.
Wear khakis with a blouse and blazer for a professional look or with a T-shirt and sneakers for a more relaxed look. Easy to style and a must have.
Slacks
A pair of well fitted slacks is an essential for any professional wardrobe. Choose slacks in neutral colors like black, grey or navy for maximum versatility. Look for styles with a bit of stretch for comfort.
Slacks can be worn with blouses, blazers or sweaters for a polished look. Perfect for office wear and can be easily dressed up for evening events.
Classic Skirt
A classic skirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. Look for skirts in flattering shapes like A-line or pencil. Choose neutral colors for maximum versatility.
Wear a classic skirt with a blouse and blazer for a professional look or with a T-shirt and sneakers for a more relaxed look. A well fitted skirt is a staple in any plus size wardrobe.
The Basic Black Suit
Black Suit
A black suit is a classic piece for any wardrobe. It’s perfect for work and can be broken down into individual pieces for more versatility. Look for suits with a tailored fit to suit your body shape.
The jacket can be worn over dresses or with jeans, the pants can be worn with various tops. A black suit is an essential for any professional woman.
A Dress for Every Occasion
“Little Black Dress”
The “little black dress” (LBD) is a classic piece every woman should own. It’s versatile and can be dressed up or down. Look for a dress that flatters your body shape and is comfortable to wear.
Wear your LBD with heels and statement jewelry for an evening out or with a cardigan and flats for a more relaxed look. The LBD is a timeless piece for your wardrobe.
Day Dress
A day dress is a versatile piece that can be worn for many occasions. Look for dresses in breathable fabrics and flattering shapes. Wrap dresses are great for plus size women.
Day dresses can be dressed up with heels and accessories or kept casual with sandals and a denim jacket. Perfect for day to evening wear.
Black Sparkly Dress
A black sparkly dress is for special occasions. Look for dresses with flattering shapes and comfortable fabrics. You’ll feel like a star in this dress.
Wear with heels and statement jewelery for a glamorous look. A black sparkly dress is an essential for any occasion.
Finish with Outerwear
Tailored Trench Coat
A tailored trench coat is a classic piece that can be worn over anything. Look for trench coats with a good fit across the shoulders and a belted waist to cinch in your silhouette.
Trench coats are perfect for transitional seasons and add a bit of polish to your look. Choose a neutral color for maximum versatility.
Long Wool/Cashmere Coat
A long wool or cashmere coat is for colder months. Look for coats with a good fit and quality fabric. This coat will keep you warm and on trend.
Wear with anything for a polished look. A long wool or cashmere coat is a must have for your winter wardrobe.
Conclusion
Building a plus size wardrobe that’s both stylish and functional is all about finding pieces that work for your body shape and lifestyle. From versatile tops to essential outerwear, every piece counts in building a wardrobe you love. Remember, the key to a successful plus size wardrobe is comfort, fit and style. Invest in pieces that make you feel confident and beautiful and you’ll always have something to wear. Ready to level up your wardrobe? Start curating your essentials now. Happy styling!
