10 Chic Essentials Worth Adding to Your Plus-Size Capsule Wardrobe

Crafting a wardrobe from the ground up is no joke. As a fashion editor, I know the impact of an outfit. Donning the perfect combo adds a splash of vigor to the day-to-day realities of the world, and nothing beats looking put-together. Sometimes it takes months and even years to find the perfect pieces to round out your wardrobe—oftentimes much longer if you’re plus-size. Since I believe everyone has access to solid, stylish clothing options, I’ve taken it upon myself to highlight some major wardrobe staples and where you can find them in plus sizes from across the internet.

Yes, you heard right. I’m calling all plus-size fashion hopefuls. This is the place for you. Are you on the hunt for the perfect pair of plus jeans? Is sweater weather meaningless without a chic knit? Are you tired of trying on boot after boot and dress after dress and nothing hits quite right? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Keep scrolling to uncover my top plus-size shopping picks to make crafting your plus-size-friendly capsule wardrobe a walk in the park.

Jeans

Everyone deserves a gorgeous pair of denim. Bonus points if it's the perfect mix of classic and trendy. You can't go wrong with dark-wash styles, but I'm personally a sucker for a light pair. Wide-leg styles are trending big time, and there are so many great options out there.

Button-Down Tops

It's best to start with the simple things, so I focused on finding some seriously good button-down tops at varying price points that are all still quality. I've personally owned button-downs from most of the brands included below, so I know you're in good hands. You can't beat the classics.

Skirts

For those warmer months and in between seasons, skirts are my favorite item to build my outfits around. Whether it's a more structured column or pencil skirt or a free-flowing plaid design, skirts are the perfect way to take a break from pants and try something new.

Everyday Sweater/Cardigan

There are not many things more satisfying than a chic knit. I've included some selections that are great year-round. From the softest cashmere to short-sleeve knits, there's a little dose of cozy for everyone.

Trousers/Pants

Sometimes you don't want to wear jeans, and that's perfectly okay. In times like these, try sleek trousers or a versatile pant. You can't go wrong with a classic black trouser, but I'm also a big fan of stripes, wide-leg styles, fun colors, and more. Do wear some breezy linen pieces for those extra toasty days. Dress up your trousers/pants with a chic blouse or button-down or dress it down with a T-shirt or slouchy sweater. The options are truly endless.

Dresses

There's something so satisfying about wearing one item and being done. Dresses are amazing, and a great one makes the world go round (or at the very least rounds out your closet). Do you need a solid everyday LBD? I got you. Wedding-guest options? Perhaps a formal style? Say less.

Coats

Coats make everything look so much better. Need proof? What's the quickest way to elevate your favorite sweatsuit? A coat. Need protection from rain but don't want to sacrifice style? Throw on a trench. Those longline wool-blend beauties make you look chic and keep the shivers at bay.

Jackets/Blazers

Okay, I'll admit I'm partial to a gorgeous leather (or faux-leather) jacket. However, I've included some fun styles that are oh so versatile. Since I live in Southern California, coats aren't always the best outerwear option, but for most mild weather, your favorite light jacket or blazer is appropriate.

Boots

Up until very recently, stylish wide-calf options for boots were almost impossible to find. However, brands like Dolce Vita and Vince Camuto (among others) have really stepped up the extended-size boot options.

Loafers/Flats

Flats have been booming in popularity over the last couple of years. Pretty, wide-width options are slowly but surely starting to appear in the flats-and-loafers category. I actually own a few of the pairs of shoes below, and I think all are really great options that mix and match easily with all the other fashion items you see in this story.

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.