The Business casual look is sophisticated and put together so is a great choice for your workwear wardrobe or ‘dressed-up’ out of the office style but what does business casual even mean? See our top tips for how to dress business casual plus size and how you can create the style.
Business Casual can be super confusing as the phrase is literally two completely opposite things! For us, when we hear business casual, we think of office wear that Is open to self expression and adding your own personal touch and is super easy to transition from day to night.
Start With a Neutral Palette
This style is all about understated class so we recommend going for a neutral palette for your basics. Think blacks, whites, browns, navys, greys and tans. Then layer with more colourful hues or add in some pattern with shirts, blouses and accessories.
Our top picks include shirt dresses, wide leg pants or chinos, single-breasted blazers and pencil skirts. If a dress is more your style, try a classic sheath/shift dress or midi style.
Dress for Your Body Shape
Dressing for your body shape is always a good look and this works really well when dressing business casual. Not only does it reflect that you are a complete BOSS who is in command of your business and your body but also that you know exactly what works for you.Not to mention, when you wear a killer outfit it can do wonders for your confidence.
Transition Your Look
Business casual rather than your usual stuffy corporate dress code lends itself to easily transitioning your look from the office to the bar, restaurant or heading out for a first date.
By ditching the blazer, swapping your shoes, top or even just changing your bag you can instantly create a more ‘off-duty’ vibe.
All About the Fit
We know that finding clothes that fit you in all the right places can be a little bit of a struggle (read total nightmare) for us plus size babes. Wearing clothes that really fit you can not only help you feel more confident but also make you look more professional too - always a good thing in a work setting.
To do this we recommend knowing your measurements so you can check the size chart before buying online. Read the reviews about a product to see if it's going to be true to size or if it runs a little bigger/smaller. The type of fabric your clothes are made from can also really make a difference in fit, so always check the fabric label. If you do end up buying something you love that doesn’t quite fit the way you want it to, hire a tailor to adjust the fit or take up the hem.
Accessorize Your Style
Don't be afraid to accessorize. Add personal flair to your plus-size business casual outfits with jewellery like a long pendant, cute brooch, chunky bangles or those earrings you’ve been eyeing up in the sales.
Belts are also ideal for adding depth or contrast to your business casual look or even accentuating your waist and creating an hourglass silhouette.
When choosing a bag for your business casual dress code, bigger is better. Look for tote styles, satchels and large shoulder bags. These are great for balancing out your proportions but also mean that you can carry all your essentials.
Post your business casual PSOOTDs on Insyze or on the Plus Size Outfit Share group on Facebook and show us your looks, get style advice and more.