In recent years, the fashion industry has become much more inclusive, celebrating women of all shapes and sizes, both on the catwalk and in the streets. When it comes to plus-size fashion, workwear has evolved and brands are creating more sophisticated, flattering pieces to help accentuate a woman's natural curves. However, with our busy lifestyles and endless responsibilities, it can be hard to curate a new look for every day of the week.
Enter the work capsule wardrobe.
“A capsule wardrobe is a collection of high-quality, versatile and essential pieces that define your style and that you truly love to wear," explains Naina Singla, a fashion stylist and style expert in Washington, DC.
"When I work with plus-size clients, I always remind them that the same styles, silhouettes and fabrics that look great in regular sizing also look amazing in their wardrobes," she adds. "A well-tailored blazer, a wrap dress, wide leg trousers and a chic midi skirt are timeless pieces that flatter every body type."
Along with Singa, we also spoke with Samantha Brown, a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of “Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale," to provide helpful styling tips for plus-size women in order to feel both comfortable and confident at work.
Keep scrolling to find the best expert-recommended and editor-tested plus size work-appropriate clothing and accessories from Lane Bryant, Universal Standard, Hill House Home and more.
What to look for in a plus-size work capsule wardrobe
Whether you're in the office three, four or five days a week, finding work-appropriate clothing can be a challenge, especially if you're a plus-size woman.
"Vests are a fun piece to experiment with as they highlight curves, define a waistline and typically have a more open neckline to elongate and balance a plus-size frame," explains Brown. "Statement belts are great for adding visual interest and creating an hourglass shape. Wide-leg trousers can help balance out a tummy and give the illusion of height," she adds.
Singla also recommends choosing quality fabrics, such as ponte, crepe, wool, cotton and cashmere which help slim the body and feel elevated for work or everyday wear. "I also like to pay attention to proportion, balancing volume on top with a slimmer pant or pairing wide leg trousers with a more fitted knit," she suggests.
"Tailoring is another detail I always recommend so that pieces feel customized and intentional," notes Singla. "Accessories are key too. Belts, structured handbags and the right shoes finish a look and give it that polished touch."
When it comes to a capsule wardrobe, Singla says it's imperative to understand your personal style and design outfits that'll help make getting dressed easier. "When you know the silhouettes, fabrics and pairings that work best for you, it takes away the guesswork and helps you feel more confident in your choices. A capsule built on this approach not only makes your wardrobe functional but also ensures it feels true to your style," she mentions.
The best expert-recommended and editor-tested plus-size work capsule clothing
"A slip dress is one of my favorite pieces to include in a fall capsule because it is so versatile and easy to style," states Singla. "For work, I love it layered under a blazer or jacket for a polished look, and you can also wear it over a simple turtleneck for added warmth and interest. Pairing it with tall boots or ankle boots gives it that chic, modern feel that works beautifully for the season," she continues.
Associate editor Kamari Stewart recently wore this adorable dress to the US Open, which, in my opinion, is one of the best sporting events for style. “The tie-waist is figure flattering, the sleeves give it a bit of flair and it’s the perfect length," she explains. "I wore it with both tan flats and black flats and both paired well. I love that the colors are jewel tones because I find them to be really flattering," Stewart adds.
Singla also recommends a classic V-neck cashmere knit for a plus size work capsule. "This piece is incredibly versatile and works beautifully in so many settings," she mentions. "It pairs easily with jeans and a white tee under it for a more casual work look, but it also adds a soft texture to crepe or satin trousers for something more elevated. I love it with midi and maxi skirts and boots for fall since it creates a polished, modern outfit without feeling overdone. Because the knit is thin and lightweight, it layers seamlessly under a blazer, making it a true wardrobe essential that transitions effortlessly between different looks," Singla explains.
"I am and have always been a blazer person," says Stewart. "I love to throw one on over a plain shirt and jeans, paired with flats or boots. It makes you look put together and you barely did any work! I also love that this one has pockets that zip so you can actually use them for storage!" she raves.
"I’ve been a fan of flare jeans since before they came back in style because I love the way they look with boots," notes Stewart. "I think it’s important to keep at least one pair in your closet, especially in dark wash denim," she mentions.
Brown recommends this tailored, modern vest from Spanx. "This vest is made from a thick, supportive material and runs to size 3X," she says. "The open bottom helps to slim the waist," she adds.
Looking for a pair of wide-leg pants for the office? You're in luck! "These trousers come in a bunch of colors and have a slimming waistband, plus low-set pleating to help slim and downplay thicker thighs," notes Brown.
"For a plus-size capsule collection, I recommend the Spanx Ponte Wide Leg Pant as a polished and versatile staple," shares Singla. "Made from premium Ponte fabric, this pant gives a smooth, streamlined fit from the tummy through the hip. The high-rise waist and comfortable four-way stretch make it great for all-day wear and the wide-leg silhouette feels modern and flattering. With no zippers, buttons or pockets at the hips, it creates a clean line that works beautifully with blouses, knits and blazers," she says.
I [Wise] typically wear a size medium, but have a larger bust, so I am always looking for a bit of stretch in my tops. Due to the loose fit of the smocked bodice, I feel extremely comfortable in this Ellie Nap dress and not confined at all. The chocolate gingham print is perfect for fall and looks great paired with the Hill House Home Belle Bow as well.
The best expert-recommended and editor-tested plus size work capsule accessories
Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo tested nine pairs of wide-calf boots as part of our Ranked series. These fashionable and comfy riding boots won for "best budget buy."
"They slid on easily and feature an ankle zipper that’s meant to be unzipped before trying them on," explains Shigo. "I am generally not a fan of an ankle zipper; it makes no sense to me, but these did help to get them on," she shares.
A good quality belt should be a staple in every woman's work capsule wardrobe. "This brown suede belt is a perfect way to reference the Western trend while keeping things elevated and chic," explains Brown.
"Brown suede Mary Janes or ballet flats are such a great addition to a fall capsule because they bring together two elements that feel especially right for the season," says Singla. "Suede adds that soft, textured finish that instantly makes an outfit look more luxe and interesting, and the color brown is still going strong this fall. I love how versatile they are because you can wear them with denim, tailored trousers or skirts and they always add that touch of richness and polish that completes a look," she adds.
I absolutely love this oversized leather tote bag for the office! This splurge-worthy bag is ultra chic, durable and extremely spacious. It safely holds my key, wallet and most importantly, my laptop. Anytime I use this bag, I get so many compliments from women on the street!
Frequently asked questions
When it comes to fall work fashion, neutrals, statement belts, bomber jackets, lingerie and plaid are in.
"Some of the key work trends for fall 2025 are color palettes including brown, pistachio and chartreuse alongside jewel tones, suede, vests, statement belts, polka dots, plaid and funnel neck jackets," says Brown.
"You can level up your workwear with outerwear that shows a little more personality," suggests Singla. "A funnel neck coat feels sleek and modern while a bomber jacket adds a sporty edge that looks great over tailored trousers or even a slip dress for the office," she adds.
Singla also says lingerie dressing is becoming more popular. "This trend is about incorporating silky camisoles, lace trim skirts or slip style dresses into your work looks in a way that still feels polished," she states. "Layer under blazers or pair with structured pieces so the look is soft yet refined," she continues.
Also, plaid is making a resurgence in fashion this fall. "From blazers to trousers and skirts, plaid is everywhere this season and it always brings in that preppy, polished feel," she notes. "If you are not sure where to start, try a plaid midi skirt with a knit and tall boots for an easy, elevated work outfit," Singla shares.
It's no secret that owning a capsule wardrobe for work makes it easier to get dressed in the morning. "By curating a streamlined and versatile collection, you can simplify your mornings and always feel polished and professional without the stress of daily outfit decisions," Singla explains.
"A capsule also allows you to invest in fewer, but better items in fabrics and silhouettes that will carry you through the season and beyond. I believe there is luxury in simplicity, and a beautifully curated capsule creates a wardrobe that feels elevated, modern and completely true to your personal style," she shares.
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How we chose
Allie Wise is an associate editor for Shop TODAY who has been reviewing and testing products since 2022. She specializes in mature skin care, style and travel, so this article is right up her alley (pun intended).
Wise also spoke with celebrity and fashion stylists who provided their expert insight and product recommendations for plus-size apparel and accessories. To round out the list, she also asked her fellow editors to share their tried-and-true work-fashion staples as well.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on plus-size fashion. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Naina Singla is a fashion stylist and style expert in Washington, DC. She specializes in curating capsule wardrobes focused on simplicity and versatility.
- Samantha Brown is a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of “Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale.”
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag