Plus size workwear in my eyes was never fashionable. It was there to serve a purpose- and by purpose I mean boring, and drab. When I first started working, wearing jeans was relegated to Friday's. Monday-Thursday was filled with slacks, cardigans and button ups. Now don't get me wrong, I love me a good button up, but 10 years ago things were just for me to put on so I can look appropriate. Looking good and getting dressed for work was not a concept that I felt happened at the same time.

To see how much plus size fashion has changed makes my heart skip a beat. Plus size fashion is not at the finish line when it comes to size, quality, and options, but it has improved such that there is something for everyone. So if you are plus size and you want good quality pieces to wear to work where would you go? Straight sized women have Everlane and Theory, but where does a big girl go for upscale classics? Two words- Universal Standard.

Universal Standard is not new to the blog. I featured their collab with actress Danielle Brooks. Now a sweater dress is definitely an item that you can wear to work, but this post is dedicated to workwear staples. As a pant and tee type of gal, I was going to feature only the pants, but then I saw the Unity Cut Out Skirt. I love a good pencil skirt, but the cut out took the skirt to the next level. As of late, finding a good pencil skirt that hits me at the right spot on my leg has been hard. This skirt is perfect for those that are inbetweenies. Now I am 5'5", so I am technically not petite, but my inseam is not the standard of 29-30 inches, so skirts have hit in a weird place. This skirt fit me like a dream. I wear a M in their clothes which is equivalent to a 18/20. Size M definitely fits well across these hips. This comes in Eggshell as well as Black.

When it comes to work basics, a turtleneck is definitely in my arsenal. With the weather being so bipolar here in NYC, I need to stay warm no matter what. I came across 32 Degrees and their Heat Tech clothes use your body heat to keep you warm, but wisks away sweat to keep you from overheating. I have these tops and leggings in all of their colors. They have been the saving grace for me this season. These lightweight tee's are great for layering without all the extra bulk.

With this look, I was inspired by the 60's beatnik fashion. Beatnik's wardrobe consisted of black and white classics. Turtlenecks, stripes, and pants and skirts in slim silhouettes were a must. Also, you can't forget their main accessory, the beret. In order to create my look, all that I needed was in my closet. I wore my favorite coat from Modamix, my Rebecca Minkoff crossbody, Sam Edelman pumps, Eloquii belt and a beret. Of course I had to break out Stunna by Fenty Beauty.

I work in a casual environment these days, so my days of dressing up are far and few between. Even though I am in a casual environment, there are still women out there that need great pieces that not only look good, but fit well and can last. If you are in the need for pieces that can have you werking it while at work, then definitely check Universal Standard out.

Universal Standard is a plus size contemporary brand focused on providing you great quality items that are mainstays in your wardrobe. There are pieces in every person's wardrobe that are mainstays, and Universal Standard is all about providing great quality pieces that will never go out of style. If you want clothing straight from the runways, you won't find that here. What you will find are great dresses, button ups, pants, and even coats that are pure classics.

Universal Standard is a fairly new brand, but they are making their presence known. The brand just finished a 12 city tour focused on looking for their next model, as well as hosting a pop up shop. Hosting pop up shops in different cities is a great way to see and try on items in person. The brand is online, but I know for me when I am interested in a new brand having the opportunity to feel and try on the clothes really makes the difference. No two brands fit the same so having the option to try is always an added bonus.

I was given an opportunity to try one of their pieces from their upcoming collaboration collection with Danielle Brooks (acclaimed actress from Orange Is The New Black). The USxDB collection features three pieces in collaboration with the actress. I went with the Dani Sweater Dress in Aubergine. Since the temps are dropping, I wanted to get a piece from the collection that would be extremely versatile despite the changes in weather. This sweater dress was a no brainer. What I love most about the dress, is that you can switch up the collar. I am wearing it like a cowl neck sweater dress since it was chilly today, but you can also wear it as a hoodie (like I did below), or completely off the shoulder.

I decided on Aubergine since I need some more color in my winter wardrobe. I gravitate heavily towards blacks and greys in the winter, and this was my chance to break the cycle. The dress is made of wool and cashmere so on this chilly day here in NYC, I was warm. It's the perfect length for me to wear as is, or with a great pair of leggings. From reading reviews from other blogger boo's that attended their pop up shops their sizing was true to size, so I went with a M which is a 18/20. I won't lie, I was extremely impressed with the quality of the dress. There are a lot of brands that are contemporary but the quality is not there. This is not the case. The quality is impeccable, and yes the price tag is up there, but there are some things I am willing to spend a little more on if I know it will stand the test the time. This dress is definitely an item that is worth it.

The collection will be available online tomorrow so definitely check it out!

Making It Werk

Sweater Weather