This is just Part 1 of my plus size work capsule for summer 2022.
I will show you more outfits and add more pieces to the capsule wardrobe in future posts.
Part 2 is now up!
So make sure you’ve subscribed to receive this series and all of my new posts by email.
Plus Size Work Capsule for Summer – Part 1
As Always, a Disclaimer
Let me preface this with what I regularly say when creating a capsule: I am NOT a minimalist.
If you’re looking for a minimalist capsule, I’m not your girl.
I am an unapologetic clothes horse. Every closet in my house, plus a spare bedroom, plus half of my dining room, is full of clothes! (I need an intervention.)
So this is a collection of ‘mix and match’ outfit ideas for spring and summer work wear.
Summer Heat & Cardigans
When I write a blog post I try to anticipate concerns and questions based on previous feedback.
So in this case, I already know two things will come up.
The first is dressing for summer heat and suggesting cardigans.
First, I understand some people live in extreme climates.
I myself live in a swamp town where the humidity alone could kill so I can sympathize.
However, in my experience, even when it was hotter than the hinges of hell outside, my office was an icebox.
That said, I firmly believe in layers all summer long.
A lightweight cotton or linen cardigan can be a great asset when you can’t control the thermostat.
However, as soon as I show an outfit with an optional cardi for summer, I get hate.
So I made it a point to show several variations in this post without cardigans for those who lack imagination. 😉
But, obviously, any layer is always optional. And carrying your cardi or packing it in a tote works great!
Dress codes & Sandals
The second issue I know will be discussed is: where are the sandals?
After all, it is summer!
When it comes to sandals, let me start with saying something no one likes: sandals always look less professional than a closed-toe flat or heel.
In fact, some might argue that open-toes and sandals are inappropriate for work, especially in a business casual or professional setting.
But every organization has a dress code so I’d use that as the guide.
Some workplaces don’t allow open-toed shoes. And sometimes it’s about safety.
I’ve worked at places where we had to wear “shoes you can run in.”
Yes, I have had MANY interesting jobs. And yes, I’ve heard the phrase “we’ve got a runner” in the workplace. Lol.
Point is, if you’re looking for a sandal, take a look at my recent roundups of wide width bight heeled sandals, neutral heeled sandals, and flat sandals.
But for this post, I’ll be showing flats, like these coral beauties that come in wide width.
Part 1: Coral Pants & White Top
I have to break this project down into smaller segments because my ADD brain can’t handle it. Seriously. Lol.
Point is, there will be more outfits AND more pieces to add to this capsule coming soon!
But, first, we’ll start with some simple outfit ideas with plus size coral wide leg trousers and a white peplum top.
If wide legs aren’t your thing, I found a bunch of alternatives, including capris!
The first four combinations show how some of the accessories can be switched up.
As I said, more coordinating pieces and accessories coming soon!
Plus Size Work Capsule for Summer – Coral Pants & White Top
These plus size work looks feature statement necklaces. The first is a gorgeous stone necklace.
Multi Necklaces
The second statement necklace is an on-trend mint acrylic chain necklace.
Mint Necklaces
If you’re looking for an optional cardigan- take a look at these outfit ideas. Mix and match!
Plus Size Work Capsule for Summer – with Cardis
You can see I also switch up some of the accessories like the tan or mint tote bag.
Plus Size Work Capsule for Summer – Beige Cardigan
Beige and Tan Cardigans
Like I said, more details, pieces, and outfits coming soon! So be sure to subscribe and stay tuned!
Plus Size Work Capsule for Summer – Part 1
Shop the Capsule
Plus Size White Peplum Top {also comes in petite} (similar, less $ similar, less $ similar, less $ similar)
Plus Size Navy Top* (similar, less $ similar)
Plus Size Floral Sleeveless Top (short sleeve, less $ similar)
Plus Size Coral Cardigan or here (longer, here, or here, less $ similar, less $ similar)
Plus Size Coral Wide Leg Pants (similar, similar, similar, petite, cropped)
Plus Size Tan Ankle Pants (similar, similar, cropped, less $ similar)
Nude Flats, here, here, or here {also come in wide width} (less $ similar, less $/wide, less $/wide)
Coral Flats {also come in wide width} (similar, similar, similar)
Plus Size Tan Cardigan (less $ similar, less $ similar, less $ similar)
Plus Size Mint Pants (wide leg, linen, petite, less $ similar)
Tan Tote Bag, here, or here (larger, largest, less $ similar, less $ similar)
Plus Size White Cardigan (linen, similar, similar, similar or here, similar)
Plus Size Navy Cardigan (similar or here, similar, less $ similar)
Stone Statement Necklace (similar, similar, less $/silver, less $ similar, less $ similar, less $ similar)
Mint Chain Necklace (similar, similar)
Gold Chain Bracelet (less $ similar)
Coral Bracelet (less $ similar)
Lip Oil in “Pop Coral” or here (less $ in “Peachy Cheeks”)
Mint Tote Bag, here, or here (smaller, similar, less $ similar, less $ similar)
*For an extra 15% off use code: CCLOVESALEXA
Go here for Part 2.
More coming soon, including outfits and coordinating clothes and accessories!
Did you enjoy this type of post? Please let me know in the comments below.
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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on or purchase through certain links, I may receive a small commission.
I love this capsule, as I have all of your posts! I look forward to seeing what you have put together! I agree with everything you said about cool offices and professional dress codes etc as that is exactly how it is at my workplace. I have so many cardigans in all colors that I wear all summer long. Not only is it practical, I think it finishes the whole outfit. Thanks for all the gorgeous outfits you share!
Thanks so much, Mary Ann! And I agree about how a cardi can “complete the look.” Really looks more polished too.
Absolutely gorgeous Alexa. I work in health care and can’t wear anything open toed so I appreciate your closed toed options. Thank you 😊
Thanks, Linda! And so glad you find the closed-toed flats helpful!
I love these capsules! I work from home so I am a little sad that I can’t justify buying a whole capsule of outfits, but I enjoy picking out a few pieces (like the statement necklace and square neck top) to add to my wardrobe. Thank you for putting these together. 🙂
Thanks, Kim. ❤ Fun accessories (perfect for Zoom meetings) coming in Part 3!
I am currently wearing the mint pants from Eloquii, the white peplum top from Amazon and the chunky necklace from Shein. I love this necklace!! So fun and bold. Even my 17 year old daughter aporoved! Thanks for your inspirations.
Haha! You know you’ve made it when you get a 17 year old’s approval! 🤣❤️
Everything about this capsule speaks my language. This is one on my favorite posts you have created.
Oh wow! That’s great to hear!
I just bought a wide leg pair of coral pants, and was wondering what to wear with them. Problem solved! Thanks for all the great ideas.
Perfect!
This is absolutely amazing!! I needed this capsule so badly for work!! I love that necklace from Stella and Dot!!
Thanks Alexa!!!!!
Thanks, Trisha! And me too… it’s stunning!
Beautiful curation!
I always have lightweight cardis. They are perfect with sleeveless or cami tops. I have to hide my arms. Nothing I do deflabs them!
Your mother of the bride posts helped me a lot too!
Thanks, Lisa! And I can relate to arm-coverage needs. I like to keep a variety of cardis and shrugs on hand year-round.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!
You’re welcome! ❤
Thanks Alexa! I don’t have to dress for work any more, but l do enjoy these capsules, they help me save money by allowing me to focus on one or two pieces per season to add, for a ton of new outfits! I have a version of all the cardi’s, two of the slacks (a darker orange and a tan color from previous capsules), and of course a few white tops! I even have a blouse with a print in pinks and oranges with some denim blue in the print, BUT l really love the print you picked out! It reminds me of Liberty prints and it’s on my list for summer, along with a pair of mint pants (and a mint bag and chunky necklace , girl’s gotta shop lol) and a square neck navy pullover. Thanks for making my life easier! I feel much more confident and pulled together thanks to you!! Happy Summer! x Val
That’s great to hear, Val! I’m a little in love with mint right now.
The colors are so on fleek, I love the work capsules. They help me pull it all together and it is so easy getting ready in the mornings.
Thanks! More coming soon!
I’m new to your site and I can’t wait to buy everything on it. The colors are so pretty and the necklaces are perfect with the clothing. Thank you for the outfits.
Thanks, Nonnie! And welcome!