Ultimate Guide to Chic Plus-Size Workwear Brands in the UK: Elevate Your Professional Wardrobe to Plus-Size Workwear
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, finding the perfect workwear can be a daunting task, especially for plus-size women. However, the landscape is changing, and there are now numerous brands that cater specifically to curvy women, offering stylish, comfortable, and high-quality workwear. This guide will help you navigate the best plus-size workwear brands in the UK, ensuring you look and feel great in your professional attire.
Understanding Your Needs
Before diving into the brands, it’s essential to understand what makes great plus-size workwear. Here are some key considerations:
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Check the Measurements
Always check the measurements to ensure the best fit. Brands like Forever New and Taking Shape, popular in Australia but also available internationally, emphasize the importance of accurate sizing to avoid issues like tight armholes or ill-fitting blazers[1].
Opt for Classic Styles
Investing in classic styles and neutral colors can make your workwear last longer and remain relevant despite changing fashion trends. This approach ensures you get the most out of your investment and can mix and match pieces effortlessly[1].
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Consider the Fabric
For warmer days, linen workwear is a great option. It’s breathable, stylish, and perfect for maintaining a professional look during the summer months[1].
Top Plus-Size Workwear Brands in the UK
Here are some of the best plus-size workwear brands in the UK, each offering unique features and benefits.
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer is a stalwart in British fashion, and their plus-size workwear collection is no exception. They offer a wide range of pieces, including shirt dresses, wrap dresses, and trousers, all designed with flattering features like tie waists and voluminous sleeves. M&S also provides free store collection for added convenience[3].
Key Features:
- Wide range of styles and fabrics
- Flattering designs with tie waists and voluminous sleeves
- Free store collection
Seasalt
Seasalt is known for its sustainable and ethically made clothing, catering up to a UK size 28. Their collection includes pieces made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled fibers. Seasalt’s commitment to sustainability makes it an excellent choice for those who care about the environment and ethical fashion practices[5].
Key Features:
- Sustainable and ethically made clothing
- Inclusive sizing up to UK size 28
- High-street prices with quality materials
Lora Gene
Lora Gene is a certified B-Corp that prioritizes minimizing waste throughout the product life cycle. Their clothing is made to order, ensuring a perfect fit and reducing unnecessary production. Lora Gene caters up to a UK size 28 and is known for its high-quality, ethically made garments[5].
Key Features:
- Made to order to minimize waste
- Certified B-Corp with high social and environmental standards
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
Snag
Snag is famous for its tights but also offers a range of plus-size clothing, including leggings, t-shirts, skirts, and swimwear. They cater up to a UK size 38 and are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers[5].
Key Features:
- Extended sizing up to UK size 38
- Ethically made clothing with fair wages and safe working conditions
- Fun and functional pieces beyond just tights
Ethical and Sustainable Options
For those who prioritize ethical and sustainable fashion, here are some brands that stand out:
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective offers activewear and tops made from recycled materials like plastic and Cupro (a fiber made from cotton industry waste). Their clothing is produced in SA8000-certified factories, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions. They also have a recycling program to turn old pieces into new ones[5].
Key Features:
- Made from recycled materials
- SA8000-certified factories
- Recycling program for old pieces
The Emperor’s Old Clothes
This brand is part of the growing ethical fashion scene in the UK, offering beautiful, handmade clothing. They prioritize sustainability and ethical practices, making them a great choice for those who want to look good and do good[5].
Key Features:
- Handmade clothing with a focus on sustainability
- Ethical practices throughout the production process
- Unique and high-quality pieces
Practical Tips for Shopping Plus-Size Workwear
Here are some practical tips to help you shop for plus-size workwear effectively:
Know Your Body
Understanding your body shape and what works best for you is crucial. Look for styles that flatter your figure and make you feel confident.
Mix and Match
Invest in pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This approach will help you build a versatile wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Read Reviews
Always read reviews from other customers to get a better idea of the fit, quality, and comfort of the clothing.
Take Advantage of Free Shipping and Returns
Many brands offer free standard delivery and returns, which can be a lifesaver when shopping online. Marks & Spencer and other brands often provide these services to make your shopping experience smoother[3].
Detailed Comparison of Top Brands
Here is a detailed comparison of some of the top plus-size workwear brands in the UK:
| Brand | Size Range | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marks & Spencer | 10-24 | Wide range of styles, flattering designs, free store collection | £35-£275 |
| Seasalt | 10-28 | Sustainable, ethically made, GOTS-certified organic cotton | £-£££ |
| Lora Gene | 10-28 | Made to order, certified B-Corp, high-quality materials | ££-£££ |
| Snag | 10-38 | Extended sizing, ethically made, fun and functional pieces | £-£££ |
| Girlfriend Collective | 10-26 | Recycled materials, SA8000-certified factories, recycling program | ££-£££ |
Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes
Finding the right workwear can be a transformative experience. Here’s an anecdote from a blogger who recently invested in plus-size workwear:
“I recently had to meet with clients and realized my wardrobe was lacking in smart work clothing. After researching, I found Forever New and Taking Shape to be great resources for plus-size women. I invested in a blazer and a dress, and it made all the difference. I felt confident and professional, and it was a great investment for my career”[1].
Building a chic plus-size workwear wardrobe is easier than ever, thanks to the numerous brands now catering to curvy women. Whether you’re looking for sustainable options like Seasalt and Lora Gene, or ethical activewear from Girlfriend Collective, there’s something for everyone.
Remember to check the measurements, opt for classic styles, and consider the fabric to ensure you’re getting the best fit and comfort. Take advantage of free shipping and returns, read reviews, and don’t be afraid to mix and match pieces to create a versatile wardrobe.
With these tips and the top brands highlighted here, you’ll be well on your way to elevating your professional wardrobe and looking fabulous every day.
Final Tips for Your Workwear Wardrobe
- Invest in Quality: High-quality pieces may cost more upfront but will last longer and perform better.
- Stay Updated with Fashion Trends: Follow fashion blogs and influencers to stay informed about the latest trends and how to incorporate them into your workwear.
- Post on Instagram: Share your favorite workwear outfits on Instagram to inspire others and get feedback on your style.
- View Post Feedback: Engage with your followers by reading their comments and using their feedback to refine your style.
By following these tips and shopping from the best plus-size workwear brands, you’ll be able to create a wardrobe that not only looks great but also makes you feel confident and professional every day.