Everyone at some point has muttered the oh-so familiar question, “Do you think this is work appropriate?”
If you haven’t, you must be one wildly assertive human being, and as an overthinker I'm both jealous and in awe of you.
When I first got my job offer at Mamamia I was excited, but stumped about what to wear. I know the pandemic has really changed the way people dress in a corporate workplace, but you never quite know what the vibe will be until you actually rock up.
In retrospect, I now know that Mamamia has a relaxed dress code that brings out all-round outfit slays. Exhibit A:
Nonetheless, before starting, my family told me to avoid anything form-fitting or short. Not to mention pieces that draw attention to my chest. So practically my entire wardrobe. Great.
So I did what any distressed 20 something year old would do: I complained and overshared on the internet.
I turned to TikTok to document my struggles and triumphs in finding big bust-friendly work 'fits and as a result got lots of insightful recommendations and inspiration.
TikTok helped coin my style as a “casual corporate girlie,” and it’s been good fun ever since. So with that said, here are my top tips for nailing that casual corporate aesthetic, and none of these will tell you to download an outfit planning app.
1. Stay true to your personal style.
If you’re a self-proclaimed fashion girl like me, you would be familiar with the financial sting that comes along with it. So as someone who spends a ridiculous amount of moolah on clothes, one of my mantras is that if I’m pulling out the big bucks, I’m going to re-wear the sh*t out of it - both in and outside the office.
This capsule wardrobe mindset has given me an excuse to identify the styles that bring me joy, and the ones that simply don’t.
This has meant me parting ways with fitted blazers, cropped blouses, camisoles and v-neck t-shirts. I’d always find these pieces made my bust look bulky, yet I would continue to wear them because I felt like I "had to."
As an alternative I’ve opted for boyfriend blazers, turtlenecks, crew neck tees and oversized shirts. These selections feel a lot more “me” and are pieces I will actually reach for, even on weekends.
My latest purchase that I’ve welcomed into my capsule wardrobe is a grey boyfriend style cropped blazer from the label Djerf Avenue, with a matching mini skirt. This set is so comfortable to wear to the office with a shirt and pair of loafers, but come Friday night I'm styling these exact pieces with a corset and sneakers. Balance.
For my baby t-shirt obsession, Realisation Par takes the cake. Not only are they big bust friendly, but they always look so effortless to take from day to night, no matter the occasion. For more affordable options, Uniqlo has almost identical dupes of the iconic SKIMS cotton tees.
3. Transeasonal pieces are a slay.
It’s a universal fact that it’s hot to care about the environment. So by default, that means it’s hot to want to extend the life of your clothing. It’s pure science.
And what better way to do this than by investing in transeasonal pieces? Buying clothing that works in any weather is the key to building a strong wardrobe.
I’m personally obsessed with my trench-style mushroom-coloured coat from Uniqlo. I don't know what kind of wizard sorcery is in this material, because this coat goes with practically anything: jeans, pants, maxi dresses, mini skirts with stockings - it's a forever staple. Bonus points as well because it’s super lightweight and sweat proof.
5. Comfort is key.
If you think I'm willing to venture into the office with blistering feet, ferocious underwire marks or skinny jeans suffocating my stomach, think again. This chick right here is all about comfort.
I am a big advocate for plisse sets. There’s just something about a matching number that automatically makes it look like you have your sh*t together.
My tried and tested plisse recommendation is Showpo’s Becca plisse set, which comes in every colour under the sun. I have one in bright orange and one in black, and love that it gives off elevated pyjama energy. It also happens to be my go-to period office outfit, because it has an elasticised waistband, so there are no rude buttons digging into you.
When it comes to tailored pants, my comfort-first pick would be Princess Polly’s Archer trousers. I own these babies in black, brown and slate grey. From sprinting for the bus, to sitting in on client meetings, to going out for work drinks - these pants are 10/10 on the comfort scale.
- White sneakers for crispiness: Puma Slipstreams and New Balance 990s are my current sneakers of choice to make any outfit look crisp AF. If I have to opt for a dressier shoe, loafers are my next bet. Although ballet slippers are making a steady comeback and I won’t lie, I’m getting tempted…
- Slicked bun for channelling inner boss: Possibly one of my favourite hair hacks I’ve learnt from TikTok is that when your hair is due for wash day but you just can’t be arsed, pop a hair mask on to create an effortless looking slick bun. No one will ever know.
- Work bag for the cherry on top: The hunt for the ultimate work bag is difficult, but once you find a bag you adore, the world is a happier place. Oroton has some great neutral, timeless options. For more colour, Poppy Lissiman tote bags are my pick.
If you made it this far, I hope this article has helped. If you're ever needing more inspo or assistance when it comes to shopping for a casual corporate wardrobe or anything in between, never hesitate to reach out to me.
Signed, your big busted internet bestie xx
Lara Severino is a content creator and Mamamia's Content Manager for Squad. For more, follow her on Instagram and TikTok.
Feature Image: Instagram @carbsmakeitokay/Mamamia.
Want $100? Tell us about your body-changes and go in the running to win one of 3 $100 gift vouchers.
Top Comments