Whether you’re working from home, or an office, sometimes finding work wear for curvy bodies can be a challenge. Until now. Here’s a round up of the best places to shop plus size work wear in Australia.
I don’t mention it often, but I have a side gig (or a few) where I am a freelance writer and social media manager. I wear many hats, but apparently not much work wear 👀. Just recently I was flying to Melbourne for work, and my editor asked that I wear smart work clothing because we were meeting with clients. Now, working from home for the past 15 years means that my wardrobe isn’t work wear heavy, but I threw together a blazer and a dress and hoped it passed (it did).
But, it made me realise that it feels like the right, adult-like thing to do, to invest in one proper work wear outfit (even though the terms are pretty loose these days), so I search, researched and found which online stores offer clothing suitable for work for us curvy women.
Tips for buying plus size work wear
♡ Check the measurements. As an owner of juicy arms, I’ll often find with blazers they’re a beautiful fit, except for the tops of my arms. It’s always a good idea to check the measurements for your correct size, or even try on in store (if possible). I find Forever New and Taking Shape are great for beautiful blazers that fit.
♡ Opt for classic styles. Work wear isn’t something I wear every day or even every month, and it’s quite an investment, so choosing more classic styles and colours is a way to make it last and not date before you’ve had your chance to get your wear’s worth.
♡ In warmer climates and months, try linen. Linen work wear is really beautiful and a great way to wear business-style attire through the warmer months.
Where to shop plus size work wear in Australia
Forever New
With beautiful blazers, work pants, blouses and skirts, there are loads of work wear options at Forever New in beautiful colourways. I have a Forever New blazer and I adore the tailoring, and style.
Taking Shape
Taking Shape has been a constant reliable for myself, and many other Aussie women over the years. Their sizing is generous, and the quality is always on point.
You & All
For on trend pieces You & All is always a fun spot to check out, especially because their pieces are on the more affordable prices.
Birdsnest
Birdsnest always has quality pieces, often made in Australia, with a really clear sizing system (and lots of reviews, so be sure to check those out). I am loving the teal suit above, it’s simply stylish while making a statement.
Next
A UK business that offers free shipping for all orders over $80, Next does stylish pieces up to size 26. Personally I find the sizing challenging, so be sure to check out the size chart to make sure your piece is right for you.
ASOS
A favourite among curvy women, I found ASOS to be a great spot to buy on-trend fashion buys. While the quality can be hit and miss, it’s great for grabbing a few things, trying them on and seeing what tickles your fancy.
The Iconic
With loads on brands, there’s lots of stylish, ever-changing options for plus size work wear at The Iconic. One of my favourite brands is Atmos&Here for affordable, and well made pieces.
Suzanne Grae
With an array of shirts, blazers, pants and skirts, Suzanne Grae is a go-to for women’s plus size work wear. Many of their pants have stretch in them, making them a comfortable wear while also stylish.
Jacqui E
I own a lot of Jacqui E, and find them a good go-to for classic styles that are both comfortable and well made. They do a great work-appropriate dress, and comfortable pants.
Commonry
I haven’t tried Commonry yet, but it’s on my list! With a focus on fit, and high quality garments, Commonry delivers beautiful styles for work. I hope they extend their sizing a little more soon!
Harlow
One of my favourite Aussie labels, Harlow is an Australian owned fashion label, that also produces in Australia. Following the philosophy ‘buy once, buy well’ Harlow’s pieces last year after year.
Karen Millen
A global brand, Karen Millen specialises in office-attire and womens wear, with a focus on styles that are flattering on the silhouette.
Portmans
As soon as Portmans extended their sizing I grabbed a pink blazer (doesn’t every wardrobe need one?) and a bright blue skirt. I found the quality to be great, and the sizing true-to-size.
Embody
Another Aussie label to keep an eye out for, Embody deliver on-trend pieces for curvy bodies, and often in delicious colourways like the blue suit above. They’re on the pricier side, but they last well.
Know an Australian plus size work wear store that I could add to the list? Get in touch, I’m always happy to support new brands and businesses.
A little note. For the past 15 years, I’ve loved writing and sharing my life, the good and bad, with you, my beautiful readers. Over those years I’ve often recommended products, and services that I’ve tested, tried and/or researched. Off my blog, I’ve always been the person that people go to to ask, “Do you know what the best X is?” I’ll often publish blog posts or guides to products that I’m having fun researching, and would recommend. Some of those posts, like this one, may include paid inclusions (where I may receive a small commission at no cost to you), but I promise to only feature products that I have or would happily buy myself. Honesty and transparency is, and always will be super important to me, because I know it’s important to you too.
