Plus Size White Shawl Collared Blouse for
Suits

Having at least one plus size white shawl collared blouse for suits in your closet is an easy way to add simple versatility to your wardrobe. White is such a basic, neutral color that works with almost anything, and white blouses pair well under suit jackets. In addition, the design of shawl collars flatters the plus size body.

Like most collared shirts, shawl collars create a V-neckline, one of the most flattering lines for full figured women. This instant vertical detail draws the eyes up and down instead of side to side, so your body appears longer and leaner. Shawl collars range in width from small to large. In general, follow these tips for the best look in your plus size white shawl collared blouse for suits:

• Petite women should stick to small shawl collars: Some shawl collars can extend almost to the shoulders. Women who are on the shorter side should avoid these super-wide collars; instead, focus on collars that are no more than a couple of inches wide. This won't overwhelm your petite frame.

• Tall women can choose wider shawl collars: Tall plus size women can get away with wearing wider shawl collars. More height allows you more leeway in bolder, dramatic designs.

• Don't wear voluminous shawl collars for work: When shawl collars are popular and prancing down the runway, you may see some that are incredibly wide. Some of these huge collars will make it into stores. While dramatically wide shawl collars can look fashionable and chic, you don't want anything this wide when paired with a business suit.

Once you find a great shawl collared blouse to add to your business blouse collection, how can you get the most mileage out of it? First, think creatively. Even if you buy this top to wear under your favorite suit, there's more than one way to wear it.

• With the basic suit: A white blouse works well with any color suit except for white (this is simply lacking in color and too bland). Wear this top under black, blue, pinstripe, charcoal, red, pink, tan—the possibilities are endless. A crisp white blouse makes it simple to get dressed in the morning, so having more than one on hand is a great way to build a professional wardrobe.

• Pair with a cardigan: You don't have to wear a suit jacket with your blouse. Slip into your slacks or skirt and wear a cardigan on top of your shirt. Arrange the shawl collar to sit outside of your cardigan. For added flair, wear a wide, coordinating fashion belt over your cardigan or affix a sparkling brooch to your sweater.

• Leave the jacket off: In warm weather, a jacket won't be necessary outdoors. You can wear your complete suit while in the office, but remove the jacket if you head out after work for dinner or cocktails.

• With a shawl collar jacket: Should you wear a shawl collared blouse with a shawl collared jacket? You certainly can; just make sure your blouse collar sits atop the jacket collar.

Shop at your favorite plus size retailers when looking for a shawl collared blouse. They may not always be in stock, but will most likely be found with business wear. When fall and winter merchandise move in, you'll have better luck finding shawl collared sweaters, jackets and coats. When you find a white blouse with shawl collar, you'll probably want to get it right then and put it with the other business basics you have in your wardrobe.

Just because you buy a shawl collared top to go with a particular suit doesn't mean you always have to wear it that way. White shirts are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down. Wear it with your suit during the week, but on the weekend, pair it with dressy jeans and heels. This is a shirt you'll find yourself reaching for time and again; its classiness never goes out of style.

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