For plus-size women, finding the right dress pants suit is essential for looking and feeling confident in various settings. Whether it’s a formal business meeting, a job interview, or a special event that requires a polished appearance, a well-fitting plus-size dress pants suit can make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll explore all aspects of these suits, from understanding sizing to different styles available and where to purchase them.
Understanding Sizing for Women’s Plus-Size Dress Pants Suits
General Plus-Size Sizing
Plus-size sizing in the fashion industry typically caters to women with larger body frames. Usually, plus-size starts around size 14. However, the actual measurements associated with each size can vary significantly among different brands. For instance, a size 14 plus-size dress pants suit might have a bust measurement in the range of 42-44 inches. The waist could measure approximately 36-38 inches, and the hips might be around 46-48 inches. But it’s crucial to note that these are just general guidelines. Brands often develop their sizing charts based on their target customers’ body shapes and the specific style of the suit. Some brands may size more generously to provide a looser fit, while others might offer a more tailored look within the plus-size range.
Fit Considerations for Dress Pants Suits
Bust Fit in the Jacket: The fit around the bust in a plus-size dress pants suit jacket is extremely important. If you have a larger bust, the jacket should provide enough room without feeling tight or constricting. Look for jackets with features like darting. Darting is a technique where the fabric is pinched and sewn to shape the garment around the bust, resulting in a more flattering fit. Some jackets may also come with a built-in bra or additional support features to enhance comfort and fit. When checking the sizing chart, pay close attention to the bust measurement. If the jacket’s bust size is smaller than your actual bust measurement, it may pull at the buttons or seams, creating an unflattering and uncomfortable look. For example, if your bust measures 45 inches and the jacket you’re considering has a bust size of 43 inches for its size, it’s likely to be too small.
Waist Fit in the Jacket and Pants: In the jacket, a proper waist fit can create an hourglass shape and add a touch of elegance. If the jacket has a defined waist, make sure the waistband or the area that cinches the waist doesn’t dig into your skin. Elasticized waists in jackets can be a great option as they offer a more comfortable and flexible fit, especially if you plan to move around a lot. For the pants, the waist should fit snugly but not too tightly. A too-tight waistband can cause discomfort and create unflattering bulges. Elasticized waists in pants can also be beneficial, but they should still maintain a neat appearance. Some pants may have adjustable waist tabs, which allow you to customize the fit according to your comfort level.
Hip and Thigh Fit in the Pants: The fit around the hips and thighs in plus-size dress pants is crucial for both comfort and style. The pants should have enough room to allow for free movement. You should be able to walk, sit, and bend without the pants feeling restrictive. A-line or wide-leg pants styles are often great for plus-size women as they provide ample room for the hips and thighs while creating a balanced and stylish silhouette. If the pants are too tight in the hip and thigh area, they can not only be uncomfortable but also show unwanted lines and make you feel self-conscious. Measure your hips and thighs accurately and compare these measurements with the sizing chart of the pants you’re interested in.
Length of the Pants and Jacket: The length of the pants is important. They should be long enough to cover your shoes appropriately. For a more formal look, the pants should just touch the top of your shoes or have a slight break (a small fold or crease at the bottom of the pant leg). If the pants are too short, they can look awkward and make your legs appear shorter. On the other hand, if they’re too long, they may bunch up around your feet and create a messy look. The length of the jacket also matters. A well-fitting jacket should end at the appropriate point on your torso. For a more traditional look, the jacket should end around the hips. If it’s too short, it may not provide enough coverage, and if it’s too long, it can make you look shorter and overwhelmed by the garment.
Styles of Women’s Plus-Size Dress Pants Suits
Traditional Business Suits
Tailored Wool Suits: Tailored wool plus-size dress pants suits are a classic choice for a professional look. Wool is a high-quality fabric that is known for its durability, warmth, and a smooth, sophisticated appearance. These suits usually have a well-fitted jacket with a structured silhouette. The pants are often straight-leg or slightly tapered. A black or navy wool suit is a staple in any professional wardrobe. You can pair a black wool suit with a white blouse and a pair of black pumps for a timeless, formal look. The tailored fit of the suit helps to create a sleek and polished appearance, making it suitable for important business meetings, job interviews, or corporate events.
Pinstripe Suits: Pinstripe plus-size dress pants suits add a touch of style and authority to your look. The thin stripes on the fabric can create an elongating effect, making you appear taller and slimmer. Pinstripe suits can be made from various fabrics, including wool, polyester-wool blends, or even lightweight cotton blends for a more summer-friendly option. A gray pinstripe suit is a popular choice. You can wear it with a colored blouse, such as a light blue or a soft pink, to add a pop of color while still maintaining a professional look. The jacket of a pinstripe suit often has a traditional notch-lapel design, and the pants may have a flat-front or pleated style, depending on your preference.
Suit Separates for Mix-and-Match: Suit separates are a versatile option for plus-size women. You can buy a jacket and pants separately, allowing you to mix and match different pieces to create multiple outfits. For example, a black blazer can be paired with a pair of charcoal-gray pants for a more formal look or with a pair of colorful, printed pants for a more creative and stylish ensemble. The advantage of suit separates is that you can create different looks depending on the occasion. You can also replace a worn-out or damaged piece without having to buy an entire new suit. Separates are available in various styles, from traditional tailored jackets to more modern, relaxed-fit options.
Modern and Trendy Suits
Crop-Top and High-Waisted Pants Suits: Crop-top and high-waisted pants plus-size dress pants suits offer a modern and stylish twist on the traditional suit. The crop top part of the suit is usually a shorter-length jacket that ends above the waist, paired with high-waisted pants. This style can create an illusion of a longer torso and legs. The crop top can be made from different fabrics, such as a structured polyester blend for a more formal look or a stretchy jersey material for a more casual-yet-stylish option. High-waisted pants can be wide-leg or straight-leg. A crop-top and high-waisted pants suit in a bold color like red or royal blue can make a statement at a business-casual event or a fashion-forward workplace.
Printed Suits: Printed plus-size dress pants suits are a great way to add some personality to your professional look. Prints can range from subtle geometric patterns to bold floral designs. A floral-printed suit can be a refreshing choice for a spring or summer business event. The key is to choose a print that is not too overwhelming and still maintains a professional appearance. The jacket and pants of a printed suit should be coordinated well. You can pair a printed suit with a solid-colored blouse and simple accessories to balance the look. Printed suits can be made from various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, or a blend, depending on the desired texture and durability.
Sheath Dress and Pants Combo Suits: Some plus-size dress pants suits come in a unique combination of a sheath dress and pants. The sheath dress is a form-fitting, knee-length dress, and the pants can be worn underneath or separately. This style offers versatility as you can wear the sheath dress on its own for a more formal, dressy look or add the pants for a more covered-up and professional appearance. The sheath dress and pants can be made from the same fabric, such as a smooth satin or a structured wool blend. You can accessorize this type of suit with a belt to define the waist and add some style.
Where to Find Women’s Plus-Size Dress Pants Suits
Plus-Size Specialty Stores
Lane Bryant: Lane Bryant is a well-known plus-size specialty store that offers a wide range of dress pants suits. Their website is user-friendly, with detailed product descriptions and sizing charts. Lane Bryant has a variety of styles, from traditional business suits to more modern and trendy options. They also often have sales and promotions, making it possible to find a great suit at an affordable price. The store staff are usually knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect fit. If you visit their physical store, they can assist you in trying on different styles and sizes to ensure you get the right suit for your needs.
Eloquii: Eloquii focuses on providing fashionable and well-fitted plus-size clothing, including dress pants suits. Their collection features modern and trendy designs. The website has a great selection of suits for different occasions, and they also offer styling tips and outfit ideas. Eloquii is known for its quality fabrics and attention to detail in suit construction. They use high-quality materials that not only look good but also feel comfortable on the body. Whether you’re looking for a classic black suit for a job interview or a trendy printed suit for a business-casual event, Eloquii has options to suit your taste.
Torrid: Torrid caters to young, fashion-forward plus-size women. They have a unique range of dress pants suits with edgy and trendy designs. If you’re looking for a suit with a punk-inspired print or a more avant-garde style, Torrid is a great place to start. Their sizing is inclusive, and they often release new collections to keep up with the latest fashion trends. The store staff are usually up-to-date on the latest styles and can help you put together a great outfit.
Department Stores
Macy’s: Macy’s is a large department store that has an extensive online and in-store selection of plus-size dress pants suits. They carry a variety of brands, from well-known designers to their own house brands. Shopping at Macy’s gives you the advantage of being able to compare different styles and prices. They also have regular sales and discounts. You can choose to pick up your order in-store if it’s more convenient. The store layout makes it easy to find the plus-size section, and the staff can help you locate the dress pants suits you’re interested in.
Nordstrom: Nordstrom offers a high-quality selection of plus-size dress pants suits. They carry a mix of designer and mid-range brands. Their customer service is excellent, and they provide detailed sizing information. Nordstrom also has a great return policy, which is useful when shopping for suits online. You can find a wide range of styles, from classic to contemporary, at Nordstrom. They often have exclusive collections and collaborations, which can offer unique dress pants suit options.
Bloomingdale’s: Bloomingdale’s is another department store that has a good selection of plus-size dress pants suits. They focus on fashion-forward and high-end options. The store’s website has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to search for the perfect suit. Bloomingdale’s often has exclusive collections and collaborations, which can offer unique dress pants suit options. If you’re looking for a more luxurious or designer-inspired dress pants suit, Bloomingdale’s is a good place to check out.
Online Retailers
Amazon: Amazon has a vast selection of plus-size dress pants suits from various sellers and brands. You can find everything from budget-friendly options to more expensive, designer-inspired suits. The advantage of shopping on Amazon is the large number of customer reviews. These reviews can give you an idea of the suit’s fit, quality, and how it looks in real life. Amazon also offers fast shipping options, and with Amazon Prime, you can get free two-day shipping on eligible items. You can filter your search by size, style, color, and price to find the perfect dress pants suit quickly.
ASOS Curve: ASOS Curve is ASOS’s plus-size range, and it offers a great selection of dress pants suits. They carry a mix of their own brand and other well-known labels. ASOS Curve is known for its trendy and fashion-forward designs. The website has a useful filtering system, allowing you to easily find suits based on size, style, color, and price. They also offer free returns in many countries, which is convenient if the suit doesn’t fit as expected. You can explore their new arrivals and popular styles to stay on top of the latest trends.
Zulily: Zulily specializes in offering discounted clothing, including plus-size dress pants suits. They have a rotating selection of brands and styles. Zulily often offers deep discounts on suits, but the inventory changes frequently. You need to act quickly if you see a suit you like. The website has a simple interface, and they provide sizing information for each suit. Zulily is a great option if you’re looking for a good deal on a plus-size dress pants suit.
Tips for Buying Women’s Plus-Size Dress Pants Suits
Read Reviews
Before buying a plus-size dress pants suit, read the customer reviews. Reviews can tell you a lot about the suit. They can inform you about the quality of the fabric. For example, if customers complain that the fabric is thin or of poor quality, you might want to think twice. Reviews also give insights into how true the size is to the sizing chart. If many customers say that a particular suit runs small, you might need to size up. They can also tell you about the durability of the suit, such as if the colors fade quickly after washing or if the seams start to come apart easily.
Check the Return Policy
Make sure to check the return policy of the store or website you’re buying from. Since you can’t try on the suit before purchasing, it’s important to know that you can return it if it doesn’t fit properly or if you’re not satisfied with the quality. Some stores offer free returns, while others may charge a fee. Also, pay attention to the time limit for returns. A store with a good return policy gives you more peace of mind when shopping online. For example, if a store has a 30-day return policy, you have enough time to try on the suit at home and decide if it’s the right one for you.
Consider the Occasion
Think about the occasion when choosing a plus-size dress pants suit. For a formal business meeting or a job interview, a traditional, well-tailored suit in a classic color like black or navy is usually the best choice. For a more business-casual event, you can opt for a more modern or printed suit. Also, consider the time of year. A lightweight suit made from cotton or a breathable blend is suitable for summer, while a heavier wool suit is better for winter. The dress code of the event or workplace should also influence your choice.
Try to Get a Sense of the Fabric
Even if you’re shopping online, try to get a sense of the fabric. Read the product description carefully to understand what the suit is made of. If you have sensitive skin or prefer certain types of fabrics, make sure to choose a suit made from a fabric that suits you. You can also look at close-up images of the fabric to get an idea of its texture. For example, if the fabric looks too rough in the image, it might not be comfortable to wear for an extended period.
Conclusion
Women’s plus-size dress pants suits offer a wide range of options for looking professional and stylish. By understanding sizing, exploring different styles, and knowing where to find them, you can build a collection of suits that make you feel confident and ready to take on any occasion. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or attending a special event, there’s a plus-size dress pants suit out there that will help you make a great impression. So, don’t be afraid to explore and invest in the right suits to enhance your personal and professional style.
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