20 Fashion Items that Every Woman Should Have
(Plus Size Wardrobe Staples)

How many times have you stood in front of your closet wondering what to wear. Even with dozens of options looking back at you, it just doesn’t seem like there’s much to go with.

This is a problem that many plus size women face each day, and yet it’s also a problem that’s easy to remedy when you have all of the basic staple fashion items available.

When you have these 20 basic items, you will be able to mix and match to coordinate a stylish outfit for virtually any occasion.

The key to each piece is to be timeless, so that you can get the most out of your wardrobe for many years to come.

Although some images in this post may not show plus size models, each item does have plus sizes. This post contains affiliate links.

Tops of Every Style

1 – Camisole

A camisole is a lovely fashion piece that can easily work with any outfit and occasion. Most camisoles will have a decorative trim which adds a fun feminine touch.

You can choose a solid neutral color to easily mix and match it with other clothes, but if you would like to have your cami as a bright splash of color, make sure to choose something that isn’t too trendy (i.e. neon colors or patterns).

Romwe Women's Plus Size Casual Spaghetti Strap Camisole Women's Cami with Built in Bra Cup and Adjustable Strap JUST MY SIZE Women's Lace Tank Agnes Orinda Plus Size Cami Tank TIYOMI Plus Size Tank Top MakeMeChic Women's Plus Size Casual Scallop Trim Camisole 7th Element Plus Size Tank Top for Women Plus Size V Neck Spaghetti Strap Camisole Women's Plus Size V Neck Lace Trim Loose Fit Top Plus Size Floral Spaghetti Strap Cami Women's Plus Size Lace Trim Sleeveless Cami Tank Top 32 Degrees Women's Cool Flowy Cami with Built-in Cups MANER Women's Plus Size Cami Casual Pleated Chiffon Tank Top with Beaded Strap TIANZHU Women's Lace Detail Loose Fit Sleeveless Tank Top Women's Plus-Size Charmeuse Camisole with Medallion Lace Verdusa Women's Plus Size Sleeveless Floral Print Spaghetti Strap Camisole

2 – Tank Top

A basic cotton tank top is perhaps one of the most versatile clothing pieces that you could possibly have in your closet.

A black or white tank top can easily be used for casual outings, workouts or slip under a blazer for a professional look. They are light, easy to wear and very easy to dress up when you need something a little more fashionable.

JUST MY SIZE Women's Cooldri Performance Scoopneck Tank Top V FOR CITY Tank Top 2 Pack Eytino Women's Plus Size Tank Top Plus Size V Neck Tshirt for Women LARACE Tank Top for Women EIMIN Women's Pleated Scoop Neck Sleeveless Stretch Basic Soft Tank Top Amazon Essentials Women's Swing Tank Women's Plus Size Sleeveless Double Layer Casual Chiffon Tank Top Plus Size Tank Top Sweetheart Neck Casual Shirt Eytino Women Plus Size Tank Top IN'VOLAND Women's Sequin Sleeveless Sparkle Top Epic MMA Gear Long Flowy Sleeveless Tunic Top For Women

3 – T-shirt

A standard t-shirt is another versatile piece that can work from day to night. Wear it on its own with a pair of jeans for a clean casual look, or pair it with a skirt and some bold accessories for a fun dressed up look.

The t-shirt cut should be carefully considered for many plus size women, since the neckline will make or break your look.

If you are heavier in the tummy area, choose a v-neck style to draw eyes upward instead of focusing on the belly.

If you have a large chest and feel uncomfortable with too much gaping, try a boat neck style or a wide crew neck.

SAMPEEL Women's Summer V Neck Casual T-shirt

ALLEGRACE Women's Casual Scoop Collar Plus Size T-Shirt Amazon Essentials Women's Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt Florboom Plus Size Women's High Low T-Shirt BELAROI Women's Plus Size V-Neck T-Shirt with Pocket JUST MY SIZE Women's Plus-Size Short Sleeve Crew Neck Tee Just My Size Women's Plus-Size Short Sleeve V-Neck Tee Women's Loose Top Amazon Essentials Women's Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt Women's Plus Size Loose V Neck T-Shirt

4 – Turtleneck

A turtleneck may be a seasonal clothing piece, but it’s a great item to have on hand for cooler weather.

Choose a basic turtleneck style (ie. not cowl neck) and make sure it has a good fit and solid color for more versatility.

Wear it under jackets, throw on a shawl or dress it up with pearls for a more sophisticated look.

Hanna Nikole Women's Ultra-Soft & Stretchy Turtleneck MakeMeChic Women's Plus Size Cut Out Turtleneck LARACE Women Turtleneck Knit Sweater Women's Plus Size Warm Short Sleeve Turtleneck Top STRETCH IS COMFORT Women's Plus Size Relaxed and Regular Turtleneck SOLY HUX Women's Plus Size Turtleneck Long Sleeve Slim Fit Amazon Essentials Women's Classic-Fit Lightweight Long-Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater Woman Within Women's Plus Size Perfect Long-Sleeve Turtleneck Tee Shirt MakeMeChic Women's Plus Size Casual Turtleneck SweatyRocks Women's Plus Size Short Sleeve Mock Neck Top LILLUSORY Womens Turtleneck Oversized Long Batwing Sleeve COOTRY Women’s Plus Size Turtleneck Mock Neck Top Hanna Nikole Plus Size Turtleneck Sweater

5 – Sweater

Everyone needs at least one basic sweater in their wardrobe. A solid black sweater is a great fashion item that works well for most occasions.

You can dress it up with a skirt, create a business casual look with a pair of slacks, or jazz it up with stylish jeans and funky jewelry for a fun party look.

Just like t-shirts, choose a neckline that fits comfortably around your neck and one that will draw attention away from “problem areas”.

Amazon Essentials Women's Fisherman Cable Long-Sleeve Crewneck Sweater Amazon Essentials Women's Long-Sleeve Lightweight Crewneck Sweater Amazon Essentials Women's Lightweight Long-Sleeve Cable Crewneck Sweater RITERA Plus Size Tops for Women Long Sleeve V/Cowl Neck Lightweight Sweatshirt Hanna Nikole Women's Plus Size Crew Neck Knit Pullover Vamtac Women's Cable Knit Long Sleeve Sweater LARACE Cowl Neck Sweatshirt For Women Verdusa Women's Plus Size Casual Off Shoulder Sweater Long Sleeve Knit Top BELAROI V Neck Sweater Bulotus Women's Long Sleeve Cowl Neck Sweater with Pockets

6 – Cardigan

There are many uses for a cardigan in a neutral solid color. They are a great layering piece, give you extra warmth and add more depth to a look.

The most common cardigan style is the round neck with plain buttons.

You can wear it buttoned up for a more proper preppy look, open for a relaxed dressy look, or closed with just one or two buttons done up at the waist, which will emphasize feminine curves.

How easy is that? One cardigan can instantly give you several different looks.

Amazon Essentials Women's Lightweight Open-Front Cardigan Sweater BELAROI Women's Plus Size Cardigan LARACE Open Front Knit Cardigan with Pockets Women's Plus Size Cardigan TIANZHU Lightweight Crochet Cardigan for Women Eytino Women's Plus Size Cardigan Short Sleeve Waffle Knit POSESHE Women's Plus Size Casual Lightweight Open Front Cardigan QUALFORT Women's Knit Cardigan Shiaili Classic Plus Size Sweaters for Women Oversized Long Cardigan CHICWISH Women's Classy Light Tan/Black Open Front Knit Coat Cardigan Shiaili Long Plus Size Cardigans for Women Easy to Wear Open Front Clothing

7 – Silk Blouse

A silk blouse may not seem like an obvious choice as a staple wardrobe item, but it’s a great fashion piece to have on hand.

Wear it under a blazer for a more formal professional look, wear it on its own with a skirt for a sexy sophisticated look, or pair it with a good pair of jeans for a fun party look.

Add a touch of class to any outfit with a good silk blouse, and if you can’t afford silk, satin will give you the same results.

ZOMVA Women's 2024 Plus Size Satin Blouse IN'VOLAND Women's Long Sleeve Button Down Plus Size Satin Blouse Maysoar Women's Frill Mock Neck Silk Blouse IN'VOLAND Women's Plus Size V Neck Blouse HOTOUCH Silk Button Down Shirt GRACE KARIN Women's Satin Silk Blouse LYANER Women's Satin Drape Long Sleeve Blouse Chigant Silk Long Sleeve Blouse

8 – White Button Down Shirt

A white button-down shirt is a great choice for day or night. It can be paired with jeans or khakis for a clean casual look or paired with business wear for a professional look.

It’s a great easy choice for those days you just don’t want to think about what you want to wear but still look great.

MCEDAR Women's Oversized Button Down Shirt IN'VOLAND Women's Linen Button Down Shirt with Pocket Floerns Women's Plus Size Button Down Half Sleeve Shirt WDIRARA Women's Plus Size Button Up Long Sleeve Curve Hem Blouse TIANZHU Women's Plus Size Button Down Short Sleeve V Neck Top Plus Size 3/4 Sleeve Shirt for Women Riders by Lee Indigo Women's Plus Size Easy Care ¾ Sleeve Woven Shirt LALAGEN Womens Plus Size Oversized Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt IN'VOLAND Womens Plus Size Button Down Linen Shirt

Blazers and Jackets

Layering clothing pieces is a good rule to follow in order to keep you looking good and feeling comfortable in any situation.

Add a fitted blazer or tailored jacket to give you that extra look of style, but also giving you the option to lose layers when feeling warm.

9 – Fitted Blazer

A fitted blazer is an essential wardrobe piece because it adds more structure to an outfit without looking like a suit or outerwear.

Add a silk blouse or feminine camisole underneath a fitted blazer for a dressy look or add it to a basic t-shirt or tank for a more fashionable casual look.

Agnes Orinda Women's Plus Size Blazer KOJOOIN Womens Plus Size Casual Long Sleeve Blazer Agnes Orinda Women's Plus Size Casual Blazer Womens Plus Size Casual Pocketed Blazer Hybrid & Company Women's Comfy Blazer Agnes Orinda Plus Size Blazers for Women WDIRARA Women's Plus Size Button Blazer Jacket Women's Plus Size Long Sleeve Suit Jacket

 

10 – Tailored Leather or Denim Jacket

A good tailored jacket is perhaps one of the most difficult plus size fashion items to find, because most plus size jackets are made to fit a wide range of body shapes. Denim and leather are recommended since they are classic timeless fabrics that look great on anybody. It’s important to take some time to find a good jacket that can be tailored to your body shape. Don’t settle for any old style, consider this a fashion investment that will make you look and feel amazing.

Agnes Orinda Women's Plus Size Long Sleeve Collarless Denim Jacket Levi's Women's Original Trucker Jacket Lock and Love Women's Removable Hooded Faux Leather Jacket MakeMeChic Women's Plus Size Faux Leather Cropped Jacket Agnes Orinda Women's Plus Size Denim Jacket uxcell Women's Plus Size Button Closed Cropped Denim Jacket Geschallino Women's Plus Size Faux Leather Jacket SERYU Leather Jacket for Women Fahsyee Women's Faux Leather Jacket

Pants and Skirts

To complete a basic outfit, you’ll need some bottoms.

Many women will have multiple pairs of black pants or skirts because each one fits differently. Sometimes we keep items that we know don’t fit well, simply because we like the style. Pants and skirts should never feel uncomfortable or make you feel less than confident.

Get a good set of bottoms and invest a little extra money to have them perfectly tailored to your body. A few great bottoms will easily knock out a closet full of less-than-desirable bottoms.

11 – Jeans

Most people love a good pair of jeans. Once you break them in, they are your friend for life.

Surprisingly, jeans have been around through all of the ages and have become one of the most loved fashion pieces on Earth. They are incredibly versatile and come in a wide range of styles to work with every body shape out there.

Find yourself a good pair of jeans and wear absolutely anything you want with them. Everything goes!

Gboomo Womens Plus Size Skinny Jeans Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Women's Curvy Totally Shaping Straight Jeans Lee Women's Plus Size Instantly Slims Classic Relaxed Fit Monroe Straight Leg Jean Silver Jeans Co. Women's Plus Size Elyse Mid Rise Comfort Fit Straight Leg Jeans Silver Jeans Co. Women's Plus Size Boyfriend Mid Rise Slim Leg Jeans LALAGEN Women's Plus Size Skinny Jeans Riders by Lee Indigo Women's Plus Size Midrise Straight Leg Jean

12 – Khakis

Unlike jeans, a pressed pair of khaki pants are not as versatile but necessary nonetheless. A good pair of khakis are just the thing for casual or business casual occasions.

They can easily be paired with a basic t-shirt, button down shirt, turtleneck or sweater. Add a tailored jacket for a little more depth and you’re good to go.

Lee Women's Plus Size Wrinkle Free Relaxed Fit Straight Leg Pant Gboomo Women's Plus Size Stretchy High Waisted Pants with Pockets Briggs Women's Plus Size Super Stretch Pants Lee Women's Plus Size Relaxed Fit All Day Straight Leg Pant Eytino Women's Plus Size Corduroy Elastic Pants with Pockets

 

13 – Slacks

A pair of quality slacks really makes a difference in an outfit. Depending on the type of top you choose to wear with them, they can instantly go from professional to formal to a fun party look. Choose a neutral color like black or dark charcoal.

Lee Women's Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex Motion Trouser Pant Briggs New York Women's Plus Size Pants Plus Size Stretch Dress Pants for Women Lee Women's Plus Size Relaxed Fit All Day Straight Leg Pant Gboomo Women's Plus Size Dress Pants with Pockets Hanna Nikole Women's Plus Size High Waisted Stretch Trousers with Pocket Plus Size Women's Straight-Leg Dress Pants Catherine's Women's Plus Size Curvy Slim Leg Pant Amazon Aware Women's Ponte Knit Slim Pant Briggs New York Women's Plus Size Super Stretch Pants

14 – Classic Skirt

There are tons of different skirt styles out there.

Some are seasonal and others are trendy at the moment. While they all look great at the moment, it’s important to get a timeless classic skirt style that can work with multiple items in your wardrobe.

Choose from either a-line, flared, or pencil skirt styles for a wider range of use. It’s also recommended to choose a neutral color that can easily be dressed up with any color.

Kasper Women's Plus Size Stretch Crepe Skimmer Skirt Star Vixen Women's Knee Length Classic Stretch Ponte Knit Pencil Skirt Verdusa Women's Plus Size High Waist Knee Length Bodycon Pencil Skirt SSOULM Women's High Waist Flare A-Line Midi Skirt Milumia Women's Plus Size High Elastic Waist Long Bodycon Maxi Pencil Skirt Star Vixen Women's Plus-Size Knee Length Full Skater Skirt Hanna Nikole Plus Size Black Skirt with Pockets Classic Plus Size Skirts for Women Stretch Pleated Midi Skirt Hanna Nikole Women's Plus Size Pencil Skirt Kate Kasin Pencil Skirt with Wrap Front Women's Plus Size Casual Midi Elastic Waist Skirt with Pockets

The Basic Black Suit

A standard black suit is something that many people lack in their wardrobes. A good black suit is something that comes in handy more often than not, and instantly gives you a professional look when needed.

15 – Black Suit

The beauty with a black suit is the fact that you can remove the blazer to look more relaxed, and change up the tops to suit each occasion. Add shimmery silk or satin for something a little more formal, or throw on a basic white tank top for a more corporate look.

Agnes Orinda Plus Size Business Suit for Women Aro Lora Women's Plus Size 2 Piece Suit Set Women's Plus Size Two Piece Elastic Waist Straight Leg Suit Jessica London Women's Plus Size Two Piece Single Breasted Jacket Skirt Suit Set Jessica London Women's Plus Size Two Piece Single Breasted Dress Suit Roaman's Women's Plus Size Two-Piece Skirt Suit with Shawl-Collar Women's 3 Piece Plus Size Suit IyMoo Women's Plus Size 3 Piece Suit

A Dress for Every Occasion

Simple, feminine and fashionable, dresses are another problem area for women. You can have a closet full of dresses, yet feel like there’s nothing to wear.

The problem with this is that you have too many options and don’t know which one to choose.

Invest in a basic set of dresses that can take you from day to night, then add accessories to suit each occasion.

16 – “Little Black Dress”

The famed little black dress.

Every woman thinks she needs a little dress to complete her wardrobe but really, a basic black dress that fits well is what everyone really means.

The length can be anything from above the knee to cocktail length. It all depends on which length you feel most comfortable in.

It is not recommended to choose a maxi dress style since this style goes in and out of fashion all the time. Try a classic style that looks and fits well and dress it up as necessary.

POSESHE Women's Plus Size Summer Dress with Pockets POSESHE Women's Plus Size Sleeveless V-Neck Sundress with Pockets Nemidor Women's Plus Size Ruched Wrap Dress Women's Plus Size Casual Dress with Pockets Nmoder Women's Plus Size Stretchy Flared Wrap Dress London Times Women's Short Sleeve Crepe Fit and Flare Midi with Waist Button Detail Hanna Nikole Chiffon Cape Dress Women's Plus Size Casual Mini Dress Women's Sexy Plus Size Lapel Shirt Dress

17 – Day Dress

A simple day dress is often overlooked in women’s wardrobes, yet it’s one of the most versatile pieces that a woman could own.

A basic day dress is quick to put on and easy to dress up or down with other clothes and accessories.

Add a cardigan, jacket or blazer then dress up with jewelry.

POSESHE Women's Summer Dress with Pockets kissmay Plus Size Women's V Neck Cocktail Party Dress with Pockets Women's Casual Dress Agmibrelr Women's Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Dress ALLEGRACE Square Neck Summer Casual Flowy Maxi Dress Women's Plus Size Tiered Maxi Dress with Pockets Nemidor Women's Casual Plus Size Summer Floral Print Dress with Pockets Women's Lapel Shirt Dress Floerns Women's Plus Size Wrap V Neck Short Sleeve Dress RITERA Short Sleeve Colorful V Neck Dress Agnes Orinda Plus Size Dress for Women Amazon Essentials Women's Waisted Maxi Dress

18 – Black Sparkly Dress

A black sparkly dress is essential to have, even if you won’t be wearing it on a regular basis.

Try to find a cocktail length dress so it can work with any occasion, but keep in mind what works best with your body and what makes you feel amazing. Other lengths can easily work with most occasion (just avoid short dresses to formal events).

Choose a dress with subtle sparkle so that you have a feminine dressy look but can also ramp it up for something more special.

Parara Plus Size Mesh Cocktail Evening Dress Pinup Fashion Women's Cape Dress with Chiffon Overlay Floerns Women's Plus Size V Neck Sleeveless Sequin Cocktail Party Midi Dress IN'VOLAND Plus Size Women's Glitter Dress IN'VOLAND Women's Sequin Plus Size V Neck Party Dress Ever-Pretty Women's Plus Size V-Neck Shimmery Flutter Sleeve Evening Dress Floerns Women's Plus Size Glitter Wrap V Neck Short Sleeve A Line Dress

Finish Off with Outerwear

Good quality outerwear is a necessity in every woman’s wardrobe. They are the fashion pieces that can will protect you from the elements, but also show off your personality and sense of style.

Get the best quality that you can afford because they are the only wardrobe pieces that are not easily replaced, and should be kept for the longest haul.

19 – Tailored Trench Coat

Trench coats are great pieces to have for cool rainy days.

The tailored look gives you a professional structured look while also looking totally fashionable. Tie the belt around your waist to emphasize curves or tie the belt behind your back for a slight flared look.

GRACE KARIN Women's Trench Coat with Pockets FARVALUE Women's Waterproof Trench Coat with Removable Hood Agnes Orinda Women's Plus Size Long Winter Coat CURLBIUTY Women's Pea Coat Double Breasted A Line Long Trench Coat CREATMO US Women's Trench Coat with Detachable Hood Hanna Nikole Women's Plus Size Wool Dress Coat Chrisuno Women's Double Breasted Trench Coat with Detachable Hood

20 – Long Wool/Cashmere Coat

A calf or ankle length coat will not only keep you protected from the cool weather, but it also hides any length skirt or dress that you may be wearing underneath.

Wearing an awkward length that doesn’t really cover your clothes gives you a sloppy look and depending on the weather, may even ruin your clothes.

chouyatou Women's Big Notch Lapel Single Breasted Mid-Long Wool Blend Coat Roaman's Women's Plus Size Long Wool-Blend Coat Jessica London Women's Plus Size Long Wool-Blend Coat With Faux Fur Collar Aprsfn Women's Double-breasted Wool Blend Jacket

The next time you’re standing in front of your closet wondering what to wear, take a quick inventory of your wardrobe pieces to see if you have these basic 20 items that every woman should have. If not, create a day to purge old unfashionable items and go shopping!