Basics

• Business clothes utilize a different set of style rules than casual clothing. In the business world, less is often more, and silhouette conveys messages of power and position. Therefore, it helps to keep certain things in mind when structuring a business wardrobe.
  
  To start, opt for classic staples in basic colors such as gray, black and navy, adding other colors after you've assembled your core components in these foundation shades. Throw in some bright colors for good measure; shells are great for that little bit of eye-catching style. Use the smallest pieces, such as scarves or brooches, for the bright patterns and statements. It's also nice to mix in some sophisticated patterns and different textures along the way.
  
  These days, it's empowering to be beautiful, large and in charge. Don't be afraid of mohair sweaters, soft neckline ruffles, cute belts and a bit of sparkle.
  
  

Plus-Size Jackets

• With the plus-size body, it's very important to note that the harsh lines of businesswear can emphasize not-so-good traits unduly, or hide assets. Suits can look shapeless or overly masculine. The answer to this is to purchase suit jackets that have good structural accents--princess seams in the front that will emphasize the waist, or medium-length plackets rather than long or short ones. The princess seams will nip in the waist and add dimension to the body, while the medium placket will lengthen the body. Watch for suits that button right above the cleavage, not lower. Belts also accent the form.
  
  Make sure that the suit jacket hits slightly above the widest part of the hips. The key is to always keep the eyes upward, and to not have a horizontal line (in this case, the hem of the jacket) landing on the hipline itself. Button the jacket and lower your arms while looking in a mirror. Are the buttons sitting well, or is the placket gaping and pulling? If it is, go one size up. Next, look at the sleeve length. It should come right to the ball joint of your wrist. Can you move and swing your arms without feeling constricted? If these things all check out, buy the jacket.
  
  

Buying Nice Pants

• Several pairs of nice pants will last you for years, and can be mixed with suit components, sweaters and pretty tops. However, watch out when buying black, since there are different shades of that wardrobe standby.
  
  Plus-size ladies want to watch out for pants that are too tight, too baggy or too short. Well-fitting trousers will smooth out thighs and flatter curves without looking tacky. A really flattering fit is a straight cut that falls in a clean line down the leg. Boot-cut pants are really nice, too. Stay away from anything tapered. When determining the proper hem length, wear shoes that you would normally wear to work, or something comparable. Hems these days are a little longer than they used to be, so don't be afraid to have just the lower half of the shoe peeking out, rather than the whole thing.
  
  As far as fabric is concerned, favor textiles that have some stretch--but not too much. Look for about 5 percent Lycra Spandex. The little bit of give controls the figure, lifts the bottom and will keep you feeling unconfined throughout the day.
  
  

The Softer Side

• Now that you have some good staples, it's time to talk about shirts and dresses. These are good things for breaking up the monotony of day-to-day suit wearing. Look for pretty shapes like wrap dresses, shirt dresses and dresses made from sweater knits. These are great on their own, or layered over those well-fitting pants that you picked up. Avoid huge patterns, big plaid checks and dowdy flower prints.
  
  With shirts, try not to buy things that exhibit "the girls" too prominently. Plus-size women need to exercise caution with necklines and bustlines, since large breasts can cause noticeable pulling. Use the button tips for jackets while purchasing button-down blouses and V-neck shirts. Once again, that little bit of Spandex helps a lot. Also look for Modal, a super-soft luxury knit that feels amazing next to the skin. Shirts are one place where you can really show off your femininity. Bold florals, soft stripes, and tie-neck accents are playful and professional. Black pants, a tuxedo ruffle blouse, and a smart jacket can look devastating, posh and stylish.
  
  

Foundations

• Of course, all of this great clothing is meaningless without a good base to layer it over. During business hours, stay away from bras that have padding or push-up structures. Buy bras that have wide straps to evenly distribute the weight of heavy breast tissue over the back. Make certain that you don't fall victim to "quadro-boob," which is what happens when breast tissue spills over the top of the bra cup; get a professional fitting if you notice your breasts falling out of the top or bottom of your cups.
  
  For structure and support of the bottom, try control top stockings or body-shaping wear. However, these can feel restrictive for all-day wear, depending on how much support the garment offers. To avoid panty lines, purchase undies that have invisible seams or special camouflage edge finishes.
  
  Building a business wardrobe that works for your plus-size figure is easy, and there are many great stores online and in the malls to start the journey. Never be afraid to ask for help. If there are questions or doubts about a purchase, take a picture of the item and sleep on it. Make the investment in yourself one that you'll benefit from again and again.