putting together a (plus sized) wardrobe - dorothy perkins

It's difficult to build a wardrobe when you are a "plus" size. Sure, there are stores that carry extended sizes, like Ann Taylor or Loft, but these sizes are usually only available on the Internet. And, stores have made the shopping experience more arduous by now requiring that these sizes be returned via mail rather than allowing you to take your returns in store.

And let's not even get started on how each store has a different idea when it comes to sizing. My wardrobe varies greatly, depending on where I shop. It's frustrating.

What this all means is that I have to cobble my wardrobe together from various places. Most of my clothes are now ordered on the Internet, though I can generally buy many tops and even dresses from "straight" sized stores. Each brand has an aesthetic, but it gets frustrating when you look at options for extended sizes and realize that they seem to full into certain traps like flowing fabrics, long skirts, open cardigans, long tunic tops. Then there's the same complaints that have been lobbied at these stores for some time now - what they offer is often garish, brightly colored, bedazzled, rhinestoned, or otherwise dated or not on trend. Other brands go in the opposite direction, only offering clothes that are fit for teenagers or students.

So how do you find a plus sized wardrobe that you can wear to work that makes you feel professional and looks good? Be prepared to shop around. I've done a lot of it, and want to share some of the sites that I've found that don't tend to be on everyone's radar.

First up - Dorothy Perkins, a UK retailer.

I was very excited to see that one of my favorite UK stores is now shipping to the US (and offering free shipping for orders over $75). Their prices are reasonable, the styles are current, and they have a wide range of offerings, including talls and petites. In my experience, the sizing is fairly generous for the Dorothy Perkins brand clothing. They also offer many other brands, and these tend to be a little more restrictive. The quality of the clothing is good for the price.

Dorothy Perkins has a great combination of basics and fashion forward pieces, and also offers options for a variety of different styles. Here are my personal picks:

The black-twist cowl neck dress, at $44, is a great work basic.

Put a bird on it! $39.

This navy jacket is a great piece, because it cuts at just the right place and is right on trend. $69

I can't help but love this floral pencil skirt. $45.

I really like grandma style cardigans, and this fan stitch cardigan is pretty and also classic enough for work. $49

There is a wide range of shoes, bags, and accessories available as well. In my experience the bags have a cheap look - they look the price you pay for them. I have never ordered the shoes since they tend to border on the silly, with loads of platforms, bows, and other options that just don't fit my style. The offerings are definitely very "English." I've also never ordered any accessories, so I am not sure as to their quality. 

Overall, though, I would definitely recommend the clothing - Dorothy Perkins always has a wide range of styles on offer, and is a rare store where you can find trendy pieces in extended sizes that are also work appropriate.