5 wardrobe essentials for a plus-size figure

It used to be that the fashion options for the plus sized woman were limited. In recent years that has changed. No longer is a larger woman relegated to loud prints and big fitting clothing. Manufacturers have begun making great basic clothing as well as season to season fashions for a woman with a plus sized figure.

While the season to season fashions are fun and exciting, and there is a place for them in your wardrobe, there are true essentials in a wardrobe that are not found “this season” only. These are basic items that any woman, including a woman with a plus sized figure, needs to form a foundation of a great wardrobe.

Whatever your situation, whether your career calls for business or casual clothing, whether you work out of the home or are a stay at home mom, if you own five key garments, you will have the basis of a fabulous wardrobe on which to build.

The five wardrobe essentials for a plus size figure are:

1. A good pair of black pants. Dressed up or dressed down depending on the situation, black pants are a key to any wardrobe. They should fit very well and special attention should be paid to the length. They should be long enough to wear with a two inch heal but not too long or you won’t be able to wear them with flat heels. Another thing to remember for these or any other pants is that those with a plus size figure should avoid pleats. Finally, the material should be non-fading. A faded pair of black pants are no longer useful as a fundamental piece of your wardrobe.

2. A plain white blouse. The classic white blouse is a must-have. It is one of those pieces of clothing that complements everything else in your wardrobe. Have a casual date? Pair the blouse with jeans or khakis, brown shoes and some fun jewelry and you’re good to go. Have a business meeting? Pair it with black slacks, black shoes and conservative jewelry and you’re ready for any meeting. And, don’t forget summer’s version of the plain white blouse – the perfect fitting white t-shirt.

3. A great fitting pair of jeans. No matter what size your figure, finding a great fitting pair of jeans is a chore. But, it is worth the effort. A pair of five pocket, strait or slight boot cut, medium to dark wash jeans will work really well as your basic pair. The woman with the plus size figure should look for a pair with a fuller cut, but they should not be too loose in the seat or legs. The best thing about jeans is that they go with everything. Dress them up with a blouse and a pair of healed boots or down with a sweatshirt and sneakers. For those who do not wear jeans, an alternative to them is a good pair of khakis.

4. A black blazer. This is another one of those basic pieces that can be dressed up or down. Ideally, the blazer should be the same tone of black as your basic black pants so they can be worn as a suit. Buying them together will help you go a long way in having a great basic wardrobe. Those with a plus size figure should pay extra attention to the fit. It should be loose enough to wear a light sweater underneath, but it should not be boxy. You should consider having it professionally tailored to ensure a proper fit. A good black blazer can be a part of a suit for business or dressy occasions, paired with jeans and a white shirt for casual, or used as a light jacket. Now that’s versatile.

5. A pair of black shoes you love. These can be leather boots, black loafers or mules, or heels. Boots, if the shaft is ¾ in length or higher, are the most versatile. They go with jeans, slacks or long skirts. Buy the best you can afford for a few reasons. To begin with, the better the shoe, the better it will be for your foot. A good, comfortable fit is important in all your shoes to help prevent foot problems later. Secondly, a well made pair of shoes will last longer. If taken care of properly, they can last a few years unlike cheaper shoes that you may need to replace after one year. Finally good shoes just plain look better.

When choosing the essentials of your wardrobe, remember a few fundamental things. Get them as well fitting as possible. If they don’t fit great, you will not look your best in them. Buy the best quality you can afford. You’ll have better looking clothing that will last longer. Use these basics as the foundation to a wardrobe that you can personalize to your exact style. Add the colors and accessories that you love to make these basics your own. Whether your style is conservative or funky, preppy or bohemian, there is a place for each of these wardrobe essentials in your closet.