How To Build a Plus Sized Wardrobe For $150 Or Less

As a bigger woman all of my life I have always struggled with finding clothing that fit, flattered and didn’t break the bank.  One of the things I have learned through the years is that quality really is more important than quantity in this case.  Although at times I don’t have everything I would like to have in my wardrobe, I have learned How To Build A Plus Sized Wardrobe For $150 Or Less.  This takes a bit of time, some attention to detail and work, but at the end of the season you will be thankful you built up the basics so you could look great regardless of your size.

First off let’s face it – no matter where you are as a plus sized woman it can be embarrassing and frustrating to go shopping.  Whether you are happy with the size you are in or working to lose weight, get healthy and see that size get smaller what you wear along the journey will help you have confidence and feel good no matter where you are.  Trust me, I know from experience.  I’ve had days where I stood in the bathroom in tears because I had nothing in my closet that I felt comfortable in or thought I looked good in.  So having a few basics to work with goes a long way toward making you feel better about yourself.  Feeling comfortable brings a smile and let me tell you now – nothing improves the way you look like having joy and a smile on your face.

HOW TO BUILD A PLUS SIZED WARDROBE FOR $150 OR LESS

Find a good pair of jeans that fit your body and most importantly you like.  They can be flare leg, boot cut, skinny jeans, dark wash, light wash, black, white or neon orange.  It doesn’t matter what they look like as long as you feel good in them, they fit your shape well and they are durable.  These are going to be the base of your wardrobe. I love these from JCPenney at around $40 regular price.  They do go on sale routinely for $20-$25 though so watch for sales.  A lower cost option can be found in these at Walmart for under $20.  Ideally the jeans you choose can also double as capri pants or crop pants when the legs are rolled and cuffed.  

Find that one dress that is versatile and looks great on your figure. The LBD or Little Black Dress is a universal fashion staple, but that doesn’t mean you are limited to just black or just a traditional dress.  I do recommend finding a dress that you can dress up or down, accessorize easily for different looks and that ultimately flatters your figure well.  Simple slip dresses, wrap dresses, sheaths and A-Line skirt styles are common and typically flattering to fuller figures.  A few of my personal favorites are these found at Mod Cloth.  They have amazing styles that are more vintage than modern, but I have found the plus sizes there are true to fit and much more flattering than some other places I have shopped.  While their off the rack price can be a bit high, I have grabbed simple dresses for $18-$30 there on many occasions.  They are also great for accessories & shoes too!

Grab a few simple v-neck or scoop neck tanks in solid colors.  Seriously, I can’t say enough about this as a perfect way to mix up your wardrobe without spending a ton of money.  This is also a great way to add the seasons “hot” colors to your wardrobe without buying a ton of items.  These simple cotton tees are great for layering under a cardigan, sweater, blazer or stand alone with some nice statement piece jewelry.  These Just My Size tees at Walmart are under $6 and come in a variety of colors.  I also love the slighty higher priced versions at JCPenney that have a bit more stretch and softness.

Accessories are a girls best friend.  Nothing dresses up and changes a wardrobe piece quite like some nice pieces of jewelry, a scarf or shoes.  I love grabbing a necklace or bracelet in the latest trend at places like Mod Cloth, Stella & Dot or Jane.  They are always having good sales that make these pieces totally affordable. But I am also known to head over to the local $1 Jewelry store and browse for hot pieces.

Layering pieces build great style.  One of the best ways to take a dress or pant from day to night is to add another layer in a contrasting color.  Cardigans, sweaters and blazers are a great way to do this.  Check your favorite department stores for a style that suits you and grab a versatile color like black, white or cream.  I personally picked up a nice black lace cardigan for only $4 on clearance at JCPenney a few years ago. 

Add in the fun extras.  Watch sales for things like fun sundresses, strappy sandals and cute bags to include in your rotation.  The cardigan you buy can double as a great layer for sun dresses.  Your little black (or red) dress is dressed up quickly with a cute pair of strappy sandals and a fun bag.

There will be things that cost more you may want to add in increments.  As you are able to afford them, investing in a few other pieces will help make your wardrobe easier to rotate and add a bit of style you will love having.  A good quality swimsuit is an investment that some may need and others may be able to do without.  If your summer involves trips to the beach, lake or local pool this may be something you want to put a nice amount of money into for proper fit.  Nice dress pants, a handful of cute bermuda shorts and some tunics are great investments that will make you feel beautiful no matter where you go. If you have the money to invest and want a quality dress that is versatile and tailored to fit your body perfectly check out Abbey Post Made to Measure Custom Dresses.  I recently reviewed one and I have to say it is the best wardrobe piece I have ever owned. 

Looking good as a plus sized woman doesn’t have to break your bank or be impossible. It’s all about building on what your features are and what flatters your figure the most.  Find a trusted friend to go shopping with you and give opinions on different styles and sizes to make sure you get the best fit and look amazing in what you buy.  No matter what you choose as your personal style you can easily build a plus sized wardrobe for a reasonable amount of money that is easy to add to as needed and able.