How to Dress Your Curves
A Size 18 Workwear Edit
Hey dolls!
You know my philosophy: dressing for the beautiful body you have right now is key. But let's be real – as we embrace healthier habits, weight release can naturally become part of our journey.
So, how do we build a wardrobe that makes us feel amazing today and has staying power for years to come?
(I personally aim for at least five years of rotation!)
Today, I'm taking you shopping with me at Madewell to show you exactly how I navigate this!
I’m working on a regular style edit series for you dolls where I can share outfits that are work-focused and some based on being out and about in jeans, and another for dressier occasions like brunch. In my style Edits, you’ll see how to dress your curves in beautiful colors, timeless textures, and cuts that are going to work for your silhouette now, whether you’re up or down a few pounds.
When we're looking at making investments in our wardrobe, especially with my goal of keeping pieces in rotation for five years or more, it's smart to consider items that will carry us through different versions of our bodies. That's why I look for prints, colors, fabrics, and styles that lean towards a capsule wardrobe aesthetic. Think about it: suede skirts are never going to go out of style, and as our bodies evolve, we can always get things tailored to maintain that perfect fit.
Let’s break this down…
Work Chic (Neutral Palette, Timeless Style):
One of the things I love about Madewell, besides their denim, are the details they put into their pieces. The textures, the cuts, the hemlines, even the sleeve details can feel incredibly chic and make you feel like you paid a lot more. Many of the pieces I tried on should go up to at least a size 20, if not a size 22 or XXL.
For reference my sizes are: Height: 5’10 Top: size 14 Bottom: size 18 Shoe: 11 wide.
Eyelet Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress in Cotton ($158) – Chic texture and sleeve details elevate any work look.
Bubble-Hem Mini Shirtdress in Pinstripe Poplin ($138) – Classic cut that can be worn alone or with a blazer for versatile wear.
Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress ($168) – very structured, no give. If you’re busty, be mindful.
Single-Breasted Trench Coat ($298) - A timeless layering piece that pulls any outfit together.
Eyelet Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress in Cotton ($158) – Chic texture and sleeve details elevate any work look. I’m wearing a size XL.
Bubble-Hem Mini Shirtdress in Pinstripe Poplin ($138) – Classic cut that can be worn alone or with a blazer for versatile wear. I’m wearing a size XL
Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress ($168) – very structured, no give. If you’re busty, be mindful. I’m wearing a size 10, it did not fit. I’d give a size 14 a try but would prefer a size 16.
Single-Breasted Trench Coat ($298) - A timeless layering piece that pulls any outfit together. I am wearing a size XL and it closed around my hips well. What you can’t see is the brilliant button detail that keeps the belt from slipping out of the loop when worn open like this. So good!
Ultimately, you deserve cute clothes right now. Don’t wait for a future version of yourself to invest in feeling good in what you wear.
If you're still with me, soaking up all the style goodness, thank you so much for your incredible support! All the links to the pieces I tried on are affiliate links. If you shop through them, it’s no cost to you and it supports my work – you might even buy me a cup of coffee! 😉
Thanks for joining me on my journey, dolls. Confidence is the ultimate accessory. Go out there and rock your beautiful self!
XOXO,
CeCe Olisa