5 Tips to Dress Professionally when Plus Size

In the society we live in, it’s not surprising that many curvy women find it difficult to dress professionally and build their perfect plus size work wear. But it doesn’t have to be.

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or you’re a seasoned professional, these tips will help you put your best foot forward and make a great impression.

 

1. First of all, be confident! You’re gorgeous!

(Source: Arghavan Borumand)

I don’t like clichés, but this is true: your clothes can enhance your body, but your attitude is essential for making or breaking your outfit.

Us women must learn to love and cherish ourselves, respect and honor our bodies: all of them are unique and perfect. Once we recognize our beauty, it becomes easier to dress in a way that highlights our favorite features and minimizes what we call “flaws” (the parts of our bodies that we’d like to improve).

Remember that studies show that professional attire boosts our self-esteem and enhances our decision-making process. If you need to shop for work outfits, I encourage you to make the most of it. This can be the start of your journey of personal and professional development.

 

2. Quality is a game-changer

(Source: Odevai Wear)

Especially for work attire, always choose quality over quantity. In the long run, high-quality pieces will turn out to be the best financial choice, as they last longer and need less maintenance.

But what does quality mean in fashion? First of all, every piece must fit you well and flatter your figure: discard pieces that are too tight or too loose. Make sure the clothes you choose are the right length, and that the seams are even and well-finished.

Another quality factor is the fabric. Avoid clingy ones such as polyesters (they usually look cheap and are uncomfortable to wear) and go for natural, breathable ones like silk, cotton, linen, and bamboo. These simple but fundamental details will immediately make you feel expensive and sophisticated.

Here are some tips for choosing high-quality work attire:

• Look for clothes made from natural fabrics, such as wool, cotton, and silk. These fabrics are more durable and breathable than synthetic fabrics, and they will also drape better on your body.
• Pay attention to the construction of the garment. Look for even stitching, finished seams, and high-quality buttons and zippers.
• Choose pieces that are timeless and classic, so you can wear them for years to come.
• Invest in good-quality, well-fitting underwear: that’s one of the best secrets to slaying your outfits.

 

3. Balance the Volumes

(Source: Divno)

Never wear a loose top AND a loose bottom in the same outfit. Going all-loose will add unnecessary volume to your figure. If you don’t want to wear a form-fitting outfit, choose between a loose bottom with a fitted top or, vice versa, a loose top with a fitted bottom.

Remember that loose and oversized are different. Although we do love cozy oversized pieces, they’re too casual for a business setting. The best professional clothing for curvy women is well-fitted clothes, especially as this also accentuates your legs and makes them appear longer.

Here are some tips for balancing the volumes in your outfits:

• If you’re wearing a loose top, tuck it into your pants or skirt to create a more defined waistline.
• If you’re wearing a loose bottom, pair it with a fitted top to create a more balanced silhouette.
• Use belts and other accessories to accentuate your waistline and create a more flattering look.

(Source: I Want More)

Be careful when choosing the volumes of the different parts of a garment. Generally, curvy women are more flattered by fitted sleeves (instead of voluminous ones) and A-line skirts and dresses. While ruffles are wonderful, tiered long skirts add way too much volume.

Here are some specific tips for choosing flattering sleeves and skirts:

• Look for sleeves that are fitted at the shoulder and bicep and then flare out slightly at the wrist. This will create a more flattering hourglass shape.
• Avoid sleeves that are too puffy or too tight.
• Choose A-line skirts and dresses that hug at the waist and then flare out gradually towards the hem. This will create a more balanced and flattering silhouette.
• Avoid skirts and dresses that are too tight or too loose.

 

4. Forget about the All-black 

(Source: 11honore + Dia & Co.)

So much has been said about the colors that a plus-size woman should wear. Fortunately, most of what is popularly said has been refuted.

• First of all, forget the all-black style. Darker colors, such as black, navy blue, and burgundy, are very professional and can be slimming and flattering on most skin tones, but this should not prevent you from experimenting with other colors.
• Choose colors that flatter your skin tone: don’t be afraid to experiment with lighter but still classy colors, such as white, cream, and light blue, if they enhance your beauty (armochromy can help you find your perfect color palette).
• Don’t be afraid of prints either: polka dots, floral, animal, geometric… You can experiment as you like in a more casual and less formal setting. Just remember that anyone is flattered by a print that is relative in size to their body: curvy and plus-sized women are normally gorgeous with medium to large prints, while tiny prints can look “off” and lost.

(Source: Muy Bonita)

Here are some specific color and print combinations that are the best for plus size work wear:

• Black and white: This classic combination is always in style and looks great on everyone.
• Navy blue and white: This nautical-inspired look is both professional and stylish.
• Burgundy and cream: This rich and sophisticated color combination is perfect for the office.
• Olive green and black: This edgy and modern look is perfect for women who want to stand out.
• Floral prints: they can be very flattering on plus size women. Choose a print with a small to medium scale and avoid prints that are too busy.
• Geometric prints: they can also be flattering on plus size women. Choose prints with simple, clean lines and avoid prints that are too overwhelming.

 

5. The Art of Accessorizing

(Source: Monostil)

Accessories and shoes can play a big role in elevating your plus size work wear and making you look and feel your best.

As a plus-size woman there are so many items that flatter your figure while at work:

• Accessories. Such as prints, choose accessories that are in proportion to your body. If you have a larger frame, opt for larger statement pieces, like bold earrings or a chunky necklace. If you have a smaller frame, choose more delicate accessories, such as thin chains or small stud earrings. Don’t overdo with jewellery and accesories: one luxury piece is perfect. Never forget the professional allure of an elegant watch.

• Bags. While micro- and small-sized bags are best for petite figures, plus-sized ladies are more flattered by medium to large bags. Choose a stylish but functional bag, both in shape and in color. Neutral-colored bags, such as black, brown, and navy, are versatile and can be worn with a variety of outfits. Don’t underestimate the role of quality materials: they can give your bag great structure, making it appear luxurious even if it is unbranded.

• Shoes. Choose shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. Heels can add length and sophistication to your outfit, but make sure they are a height that you can walk in comfortably. Flats and loafers are also great options for work outfits, especially without straps (they cut your image). In general, curvy figures are more enhanced by rounded toe shapes than pointed ones.

(Source: Nordstrom)

Conclusion

Ladies, I hope these suggestions can help you have fun experimenting with your professional attire. My desire is that you find a great style for your plus size work wear! It will accompany your outstanding career.

 

(Featured image: Freepik)