10 Outfit Formulas That Actually Work for Plus Size Bodies
There’s no one way to dress a plus size body.
These outfit formulas are here to help you experiment, not conform.
When you’ve spent years being told your body is “hard to dress,” experimentation can feel risky.
But style shouldn’t feel like a test you have to pass.
For plus size folks, outfit formulas can be a gentle, low-pressure way to try something new. They offer a place to start, not a box to stay inside. These aren’t prescriptive rules. They’re flexible shapes that can help you explore new silhouettes, test out proportions, or experiment with a different style vibe without feeling lost or overwhelmed.
Why outfit formulas can support style discovery
If getting dressed often feels overwhelming or like you are stuck in the pattern of wearing your clothes in the same way over and over, formulas can help. They remove some of the mental load so you can focus on how a look actually feels, instead of trying to reinvent the wheel every morning. They can also help you view your clothing in a new light, and encourage combinations you might not have previously considered.
They're especially helpful if:
• you’re rebuilding your style
• you're navigating physical changes
• you’re craving ease, but you still want to try out fresh styling ideas
• you want to try something new without buying a whole new wardrobe
1. Matching set + statement outer layer
• polished without trying too hard
• easy to break apart and restyle in different ways
• great for experimenting with bold outerwear, accessories, or textures
• think: a textural matching set with a leather blazer on top
→ Why it works: a coordinated base gives you freedom to get creative on top!
2. Flowy blouse + wide-leg pants + pointed shoe
• a relaxed, easeful combo that still feels intentional
• finish the look with something structured—like a pointed toe shoe or sharp bag—for contrast
→ Why it works: the softness of the pieces moves with your body, while an angular accessory brings just enough edge to create balance. For me personally, I lean into this look when I’m having a bit of an insecure day. It provides me with coverage, but the sharpness of the accessories keeps it looking very polished
3. Soft dress + edgy shoe
• balances delicate fabrics with grounded footwear
• great for testing a femme look without feeling overly styled
• easy to add layers or change accessories for different moods
• you can also skip the “edgy” footwear and use a sneaker instead, for something effortlessly cool and modern.
→ Why it works: explores tension in a look—playful vs. strong, flowy vs. structured
4. Longline duster + fitted base
• great for layering without adding bulk
• lets you play with length, shape, and movement
• works across seasons and styles: casual, work, or dressy
→ Why it works: the contrast between the streamlined base and the flowing outer layer creates depth, and the longer silhouette adds a bit of drama without sacrificing comfort
5. High-rise pant + boxy cropped top
• great for playing with silhouette
• works well if you’re curious about showing shape without too much skin exposure due to the high rise
→ Why it works: lets you test proportion without discomfort
6. MiNi skirt + oversized LONGLINE sweater
• great for cooler seasons or transitional styling
• explores volume on top and exposure on the bottom
• easy to try with different footwear to shift the look & feel of the outfit (think: knee-high boots, combat boots, loafers, kitten heel)
→ Why it works: when we think of the Rule of Thirds in styling, we assume that high rise bottoms paired with a cropped or tucked-in top must be the way to go. This flips that structure, and lets you assess which one you feel more comfortable with. Some people like one or the other, others love both.
7. Structured jacket + DRESS, jumpsuit, one-piece base
• combines ease and polish
• ideal for experimenting with layering and vertical lines
→ Why it works: the one-piece base keeps things simple, while the structured layer adds shape and dimension—making the whole outfit feel more intentional with very minimal effort. I love a swishy dress with a super structured, tailored blazer.
8. Textured top + patterned pant
• a bold but approachable way to mix visual elements without any layering required
• great for experimenting with print and texture in a balanced way
• start with a neutral or tonal palette if you’re new to mixing bold themes
→ Why it works: pairing two standout elements—like a crushed silk or ribbed knit and a unique print—creates interest without needing accessories or complicated styling
9. Button-down shirt (open or closed) + soft tank or tee + your go-to denim
• a total classic with room for play
• try layering, tying, or contrasting textures
• great for testing out unexpected combinations or accessories
→ Why it works: modular, versatile, and easy to tweak each time
10. Statement piece + everything else pared down
• lets one bold piece be the focus
• great for testing out prints, colour, or trendy styles (without having to indulge in a big wardrobe haul)
→ Why it works: simplifies experimentation—one new thing at a time
You don’t need to have youR style fully fleshed out to try new things
Experimenting with style can feel overwhelming. There’s a pressure to “get it right,” to only wear what’s flattering, to minimize risk—especially when you exist in a marginalized body that is so often prone to criticism and commentary from others. But trying something new should feel light, fun and ultimately inconsequential. Outfit formulas are here to support—not define—you. They’re jumping-off points, not destinations. They are, I hope, a digestible and safe way for you to experiment!
Curious to explore your personal style, without the pressure?
If you’re craving more freedom and direction as you play with your style, I can help.
Together, we’ll experiment in a way that makes sense for your body, your needs, and your lifestyle—so that getting dressed starts feeling creative again.
→ Explore Styling Services
→ Or reach out: hi@heensie.style
your style deserves room to grow. And so do you.