Plus Size Outfit Ideas for Everyday Wear
Beyond the standard leggings and long tunic combo, plus size everyday outfit ideas are thin on the ground. And I'm certainly not knocking the leggings + tunic look, especially since I wear it myself quite a bit. Vikki Vi Slim Leg Pants paired with a 2 Pocket Swing Tunic is absolutely *chef's kiss*.
But there are a lot more options for us than that.
The Strategy
I'll never tell you that you need to conceal any part of your body. That being said, pants that are too tight around your middle for comfort and tops short enough to show off your midsection aren't really what we're looking for here. That look just draws attention to how ill fitting the outfit is.
Aside from Vikki Vi, we carry some great everyday pieces from Karen Kane and Kiyonna.
That doesn't mean we need to turn to baggy, oversized clothing. What we're looking for are tops that are longer than waist length and just a little relaxed fitting. I mean the top should be about 2 inches bigger around than you are. Add pants and a jacket that also fit well and we're in business.
Tops
We want a top that's designed to be worn untucked. A pretty hem is a beautiful thing to behold. Look for rounded hems, fringes, and criss-cross layers. Straight across hems are cute too.
Be sure to look past the current trend of photographing models with some or all of the top tucked into their pants. Just because you see one photo of a top tucked in, you can't assume it's really meant to be worn that way. Fashion isn't always logical, so we all have to just roll with it.
Some designers use the word, "tunic" to mean a top with a little extra length, as well as something that goes down to your mid-thighs. Again, this is something that doesn't make a lot of sense to us as consumers. It does mean something to designers and manufacturers, so they're not going to stop.
My point is that you're probably shopping online and you may need to take some time browsing to find some great pieces. It's totally worth the effort.
Pants
You can absolutely find plus size jeans that fit you wonderfully. Just remember that different jeans are made for different bodies. So be patient and expect to have to make some returns. Once you find the style that's for you, you can stop searching and order multiples.
Jeans and leggings aren't your only option. Pull on pants, with an elastic or drawstring waistband come in slim, regular, and wide leg options.
Jackets
The right jacket can keep you warm without looking frumpy or sporty. You want something that works with most of your outfits, and that doesn't mean that it has to be longer than your top.
There's nothing wrong with owning several different jackets. It's easy to forget that since shopping can be such a hassle. Some jackets will go better with certain outfits than others.
Wearing a jacket or coat that you love makes it a lot easier to leave the house on a cold day.
Trust Your Instincts
The difficult part is finding a designer/brand that has everyday clothing that suits your personal style. Once you've done that, you can browse their offerings looking for pieces that jump out at you. You can look to the model photos for inspiration (though, seriously, only tuck in your top if you actually want to).
Aside from Vikki Vi, we have some great everyday looks from Karen Kane and Kiyonna.