Women’s plus-size business attire is about embracing your curves with confidence and style.

Finding sharp and comfortable work clothes if you are a plus size can be tricky. It’s important to feel good and look polished because when you do, you project confidence! You deserve to have work clothes that fit well and make you feel amazing. Sadly, lots of stores don’t offer a great selection for plus size women’s business attire. This lack of options can make shopping a frustrating experience.

Understanding Business Professional Attire

“Business professional” can look a little different depending on where you work! Some offices are super traditional and might require suits. Other offices are more relaxed and okay with dress pants and a nice top.

It’s totally possible to look professional and still let your own style shine through. Maybe you love bold colors – try a bright blouse under a blazer. Or maybe you’re into funky jewelry – a statement necklace can add personality to a simple dress.

Key Pieces for a Plus-Size Business Professional Attire

Blazers and Jackets

Structured blazers in classic colors (black, navy) and bold hues (deep red, emerald green).
Finding a blazer that fits just right is like finding a superpower! Here’s the secret:

• Shoulders: The seam should sit right at the edge of your shoulder. If it’s creeping towards your neck or sliding down your arm, it’s a no-go.
• Hug, but not too tight: You should be able to comfortably button the blazer. You should still have a little room to breathe. Give it a hug test! Can you comfortably wrap your arms around yourself?
• Length: A classic blazer usually hits around your hip. Longer blazers are trendy, but can be tricky to pull off.
• Move around: Reach for the sky, bend down, and try a little dance move. Your blazer should move with you, not feel stiff or restrictive.
• Check the back: No bunching or pulling! The fabric should lay smoothly.

Most importantly, you should feel amazing when you put on the blazer!  Don’t be afraid to try on a bunch of different sizes and styles until you find “the one.”

Tops and Blouses

Focus on tops that make you feel confident and cool for a stylish and comfy plus-size business professional capsule wardrobe. Think about fabrics, breathable is best. Look for materials like cotton, silk, or linen that let your skin breathe and help you stay comfortable all day. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture.

Some cuts are more flattering than others. Wrap tops are universally flattering on most body types. While V-necks create a longer, leaner look. Tops with rouching or draping can camouflage areas you might be self-conscious about.

Some great options:

• Well-tailored button-down shirt: A classic choice that can be dressed up or down.
• Simple blouse with interesting details: Like ruffles, lace, or a unique neckline.
• Comfortable knit top: Perfect for layering or wearing on its own.

Remember, the key is to choose tops that make you feel good and look polished.

Pants and Skirts

Tailored Trousers give you a polished and professional look. Ensure they fit comfortably around your waist and hips. The length should be just right, grazing the top of your shoes.

Pencil Skirts are classic and flattering, creating a sleek silhouette. They should hug your curves without being too tight and hit around the knee or just below.

A-line Skirts are universally flattering and comfortable, with a shape that’s wider towards the bottom. The waistband should sit comfortably at your natural waist. The length can vary from just above the knee to midi length.

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Fit

• Pay attention to the fabric: Choose materials with a bit of stretch for comfort and ease of movement.
• Consider your body shape: Different styles flatter different figures.
• Don’t be afraid to tailor: A little tailoring can make a big difference in how your clothes fit and feel.

With these tips, you’ll be able to build a capsule wardrobe. You will have versatile and stylish bottoms that make you feel confident. You’ll be ready to take on the workday!

Plus Size Business Attire Dresses

Business professional means dressing to impress. Think sophisticated, polished, and powerful. Here are some plus size business attire dress styles that fit the bill:

• Sheath Dress: This classic is a staple for a reason. It’s sleek, flattering, and can be easily dressed up with a blazer or statement jewelry.
• Shift Dress: A simple, straight dress that hits at or just above the knee. It’s a blank canvas for accessorizing.
• Tailored Dress: This could be a dress with sharp lines. It may have interesting details like pleats or a peplum. It could also be made from a more structured fabric. It shows you pay attention to detail.

Important Note: For business professional attire, these plus size dresses should almost always be paired with a blazer or jacket.

Styling Tips and Outfit Ideas

How to Accessorize for a Polished Look

• Jewelry: Choose classic and elegant pieces. A statement necklace can work, but keep it refined, not flashy. Pearls, simple gold or silver jewelry, and watches are always a good choice.
• Shoes: Closed-toe heels are the standard. Aim for a moderate heel height (2-3 inches) and make sure they’re in excellent condition.
• Hosiery: Tights or stockings in a neutral color are usually expected in business professional settings, especially in colder months.
• Bags: A structured handbag, like a satchel or top-handle bag, looks polished and professional.
• Scarves: A silk scarf can add a touch of color and sophistication.

Having a mix-and-match wardrobe is key! If you have a few core pieces like blazers, pants, skirts, and blouses, you can create tons of different outfits. That way, you’ll always have something to wear. It does not matter if you have a big meeting or a casual Friday at the office.

Pieces like a basic white button-up shirt and blazers can be used for work, casual, and going out. It’s all about styling. Check out my styling guides to find ways to get the most out of your essential pieces.

Where to Shop Plus-Size Business Attire

Universal Standard:

Universal Standard is known for its inclusive size range (00-40), ensuring a great fit for everyone. They use high-quality fabrics and construction, so you can invest in pieces that will last.

They offer classic sheath dresses and tailored pants. Modern blouses and blazers are also available. These options provide a variety of styles to suit different tastes. Consider their “Foundation” Collection. This capsule wardrobe collection offers essential pieces. These pieces can be mixed and matched to create endless outfits.

Eileen Fisher:

Eileen Fisher is known for its minimalist aesthetic and timeless designs. These designs can be a great fit for business professional settings. Their designs often feature relaxed fits and flowing silhouettes, offering comfort and ease of movement. While Eileen Fisher offers plus sizes, their selection might be more limited compared to Universal Standard.

Online Consignment Shops:

• Affordable Options: Consignment shops offer pre-owned clothing at a fraction of the original price. This makes it easier to build a business professional wardrobe on a budget.
• Sustainable Choice: Buying secondhand is a great way to reduce textile waste and minimize your environmental impact.
• Unique Finds: You can often discover unique and vintage pieces that add personality to your wardrobe.
• Popular Options: Check out sites like The RealReal, ThredUp, and Poshmark for a wide variety of plus-size business attire.

Additional Tips:

• Shop online and in-store: Explore both online and brick-and-mortar stores to find the best selection and fit.
• Don’t be afraid to tailor: A well-fitting garment makes all the difference. Consider having your clothes tailored for a perfect fit.
• Accessorize strategically: Use accessories to elevate your look and express your personal style.
• Invest in key pieces: Start with essential pieces like a well-tailored blazer, a classic sheath dress, and versatile trousers.

Key Takeaways:

• Quality matters: Invest in well-made clothes in high-quality fabrics.
• Fit is essential: Your clothes should fit impeccably.
• Keep it classy: Avoid anything too trendy, revealing, or distracting.
• Accessorize strategically: Choose accessories that enhance your look and convey confidence.

Confidence is key in the workplace. The right plus size women’s business attire can play a big role in how you feel. Choose pieces that flatter your figure, express your personality, and make you feel ready to conquer the day. When you walk into a room feeling confident and comfortable, you command attention and respect.