This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The seasons are changing, which means it’s time to do seasonal wardrobe review. You may also be doing a closet purge as you go… so let’s discuss: have you ever regretted purging your closet?

Readers had a great threadjack about this a while ago… we also got into this when we discussed recycling, selling, and donating work clothes.

What Clothes Do Readers Regret Purging?

I am horrible at purging my closet — in part because I still regret giving some things away when I was younger! Were they my size? No. Did they flatter me? Also no. But I still regret giving away things like the J.Crew wool dress and the silver leopard-print silk/wool Dana Buchman blazer.

I am trying to work on this resistance to decluttering clothes (says the woman who is holding on to the 5-sizes-too-small empire-waisted top I wore on my first date with my husband that would make me look positively pregnant right now)… I try to make sure I have pictures of me wearing the item, for example.

Some of the reasons readers regretted closet purges…

Return-To-Office Regret

One reader noted that she really regretted purging her work wardrobe as her employer forced a return to office.

 In particular, I had several beautiful blazers that made me feel very confident and only kept two of the solid color ones and none of the ones with cool patterns or cut. I have some issues with weight fluctuations and body image, so the thought of trying on work clothes right now is causing me no little amount of anxiety & frustration with the increased prices/reduced quality. I definitely regret that lack of foresight. I donated several pieces that were unique and I would have been happier to have them in my closet even if I only wore them once ever again.

I do not regret for a minute purging 1) clothes I will never realistically fit into ever again and 2) the “tier 2” clothing I kept around because I had paid too much for it or was totally wearable, just no longer my style/I didn’t feel good in.

Another woman pointed out that it can be an element of knowing what you have — she’s rediscovered things in her closet that were more than 5 years old, didn’t work when purchased, but she’s happy to have now.

Confidence Clothing

A lot of readers echoed the sentiment that they regretted getting rid of clothes that made them feel confident, even if they were momentarily out of style or not a good fit for their current lifestyle. I do think modern decluttering culture can be a little unforgiving when you’re looking at a piece that you love that fits in the space allotted.

Sure, you can find another blue blazer — but will you find that blue blazer that made you feel amazing? Readers repeatedly mentioned regretting the loss of “confidence clothing” more than trendy pieces.

Difficult-To-Replace Pieces (I.E., Keep The Comfortable Shoes!)

One woman said that after pandemic-era changes to her job and office, she figured she would be casual forever. But then she got an amazing opportunity that required her to speak frequently at industry events.

I weep for all the M.M.LaFleur and suiting I purged but more so for the frumpy but oh so comfortable shoes in my difficult 11w size. I would weigh how much to keep based on how easy or difficult it would be to replace, likelihood of career change, and how classic a piece is. A simple dark sheath isn’t going to go out of style the same way a lot of casual clothes would. But at some point you also need to have practical storage space.

Another reader agreed: “I definitely hear you on footwear – I wear a 10w and have foot, knee and hip problems, and refuse to give up the 2″ heels I tracked down awhile back that I can wear all day without pain.”

(On the flip side, I find that my feet have changed size over the years — yay pregnancy and aging — so I don’t have any real regrets over getting rid of shoes… but then I haven’t been really been a difficult size at any point.)

Size Fluctuations

If your size fluctuates, readers overwhelmingly recommended keeping at least a small backup wardrobe — especially favorite pieces that would be difficult or expensive to replace.

My $.02: keep at least two pairs of pants and any “I loved these” clothes.

(We’ve actually talked about the best weight fluctuation clothes and how to keep a work wardrobe when you’re losing weight!)

Quality Decline

Another big regret from readers: quality decline. Many of us who’ve been shopping for more than a few years deeply regret the decline in quality. (There’s a great Atlantic article [gift link] about this, Your Sweaters are Garbage — a lot of this can be traced back to 2005, when a decades-long trade agreement expired.)

Readers regretted getting rid of wool sweaters, lined pants, and other well-made pieces that are now difficult to replace without spending significantly more. If you’ve already gotten rid of something, though, I wouldn’t second guess yourself too much now — but it might be something to think about if you’re thrifting, or assessing an older family member’s work wardrobe for a purge.

Various Tests Readers Have Used for Closet Purges

If you want closet cleanout tips, these are some of the best systems and tests readers have used for closet purges…

• The Hanger Test: turn all hangers backward and see what you actually wear.
• The Space Test: if your closet is overstuffed, something has to go.
• The Quality Test: many readers hold onto well-made classics even if trends shift.
• The Slow Recycling Test: quarantine pieces before donating them permanently.

Pieces Readers Said Were Worth Keeping

When reflecting on their work wardrobe purge, a number of themes came up for what they kept (or wish they had kept):

• comfortable shoes in hard-to-find sizes
• classic suiting
• quality blazers
• confidence pieces
• occasion-specific workwear

How about you, readers — how often do you purge your closet? What is your litmus test to know if you should purge something? Have you ever regretted purging things?

Add a touch of refined Irish heritage to your accessory collection with the gorgeous range of Newbridge Silverware silver plated bracelets for women. For decades, Newbridge Silverware has been synonymous with exceptional design and quality craftsmanship, creating pieces that effortlessly bridge the gap between everyday luxury and red-carpet glamour. This season’s collection highlights delicate, light-catching cubic zirconia stones, intricate multi-link structures, and the timeless luster of pearls. Whether you are searching for a sentimental gift or a “super star” statement piece to elevate a cocktail dress, these bracelets offer an exquisite, high-shine finish tailored for the modern woman who adores a classic aesthetic.

Clear Cubic Zirconia Bracelet – Shop Now

Bracelet Clear CZ Stones – Shop Now

Triple Circular Bracelet with Clear Stones – Shop Now

Pearl Leaf Link Bracelet – Shop Now

Love Bracelet Clear Stones – Shop Now

Silver Plated Cubic Zirconia Bracelet – Shop Now

For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here

Inject a dose of British wit and timeless glamour into your accessory rotation with the coveted Lulu Guinness leather handbag collection for women. Famously known for blurring the lines between fashion and fine art, the brand’s latest leather lineup masterfully pairs smooth, structured silhouettes with its iconic, signature lip motif. Whether you are leaning toward a polished “minimal mood” structured handheld bag for business meetings or want to turn heads with a vibrant Lulu red quilted crossbody, these premium leather creations act as an instant conversation starter. Step into the world of surrealist luxury and find the ultimate “super star” bag to elevate your everyday wardrobe.

Black Leather Simone Handheld Bag – Shop Now

Black Leather Jordan Shoulder Bag – Shop Now

Black Leather Jolie Crossbody Bag – Shop Now

Lulu Red Quilted Lip Leather Callie Crossbody Bag – Shop Now

Black Quilted Lip Leather Callie Crossbody Bag – Shop Now

Lulu Red Leather Jolie Crossbody Bag – Shop Now

For any questions/feedback regarding the above mentioned products/brands,
please do contact us anytime by clicking here

Memorial Day weekend marks the first real excuse to dress like summer, and the sales that come with it make just looking nearly impossible. Shopbop’s designer sale kicked off early, live today through 5/21 with up to 50% off select styles. I’ve combed through the assortment and found so many great warm-weather finds, from printed pareos and raffia bags to colorful dresses and easy sets. Explore my top picks below, or browse the full sale assortment here!

This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Sure, we all know what wardrobe essentials for work professional women are supposed to have in their closets, but if you’re buying one for the first time or replacing one you’ve worn into the ground, it can be a pain to find exactly the right incarnation in stores. In “The Hunt,” we search the stores for a basic item that every woman should have.

We have a whole post discussing the best women’s T-shirts for layering at the office — and while we always include a plus-size section, I thought I’d do a separate post to discuss some of our favorite options, as well as to round up some unique categories just for plus sizes, including the best basic tees in extended sizes (up to 6X!).

As I noted in the other post, a good basic tee for work should be opaque, not too low cut, and have sleeves. (Know your office — sleeveless looks aren’t acceptable everywhere!) I’ve always been a fan of tees that are thick enough so bra details are still a mystery (although it also helps to wear T-shirt bras — here’s our latest roundup for the best bras to wear to work)!

I would say that a “weekend tee” would have more casual details, such as pockets and shirttails.

New for 2026: We changed a lot of our selections for the best products, actually, while keeping links to some of our favorite classic picks. As always, we’re looking for polished tees that work under blazers, cardigans, and suits — not flimsy weekend-only basics.

{related: 100+ places to shop for plus-size work clothes}

In general, Universal Standard is probably the best overall plus-size tee for work if you want a polished layering basic, while Quince is the best affordable option and Eileen Fisher is best for sustainable natural fibers.

Why Trust Corporette®

At Corporette®, we’ve been covering professional women’s workwear since 2008, and have written hundreds of posts about comfortable office clothing and shoes, business casual wardrobes, and reader-favorite brands for wardrobe essentials. (We just did a big update to our guide to the best women’s suits!)

Our community is one of the best parts of Corporette® — you’ll see a lot of professional women at all career levels, discussing which clothes work for their offices and their lifestyle.

Who This Guide is For

This guide is for women looking for polished plus-size T-shirts for work — especially tees that:

• layer smoothly under blazers and cardigans
• aren’t see-through
• have sleeves suitable for conservative offices (sleeveless looks have come a long way, but know your office!)
• come in extended sizes (including up to 4X, 5X, and 6X at some retailers)
• work for business casual offices, law firms, conferences, and hybrid workplaces
• look more polished than weekend tees

How We Picked the Best Plus-Size Tees

We focused on office-appropriate plus-size tees in cotton, ponte, linen blends, silk blends, and other substantial fabrics — not flimsy casual basics.

{related: the best plus-size women’s workwear – wardrobe essentials!}

The Very Best Plus-Size Tees for Work Outfits

The Best Plus-Size Tee Overall: Universal Standard

Universal Standard is a fabulous basic for layering underneath a blazer, cardigan, or sweater blazer — the fabric is soft but substantial and it drapes well. Some of their tees are even part of US’s Fit Liberty program, which will allow you to exchange sizes up to a year after you’ve worn the shirt.

Other great plus size work tops overall include Quince, LL Bean, Lands’ End, and Talbots.

The Best Affordable Plus-Size Tee: Quince

If you like your price point under $20, I think the best simple tee you can find for work in 2026 is from Quince. Other options in the under $20 category: Amazon Essentials (up to 6X), Lane Bryant, Kohl’s, and Old Navy.

(Similar T-shirt-y options at Quince to consider while you’re there: this stretch silk T-shirt blouse and this sweater tee, which are harder to find on site otherwise.)

For just a bit more, check out affordable office-appropriate T-shirts at L.L. Bean, Lands’ End, J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, J.Jill, and Eddie Bauer.

{related: The Best Plus-Size Suits for Interviews}

The Best Plus-Size Tee with Elbow-Length Sleeves: Chico

I keep hearing great things about Chico’s tees, and the price is right — they’re normally $49, but today they’re marked down to $25. Sizes range from 0-22.

Other great options for polished T-shirts with longer sleeves include this Lauren Ralph Lauren top has been around for years, as well as Lane Bryant’s “Perfect Sleeve” line of tees. J.Jill also has a few!

The Best Plus-Size T-shirt With little Details: Talbots

Talbots is always a great basic for professional clothes in plus sizes — they also have the hard to find “plus petite” category, although fortunately that matters less with T-shirts. I also think of them as one of the most reliable places to go if you want a slightly “elevated” tee with little details like eyelet (pictured), lace, or different cuts, colors, and patterns.

Lands’ End also has a plus petite category — and they also often have T-shirts with similar details. Another few spots with plus-size basics for workwear with little details: J.Crew Factory (up to 3X) and J.Jill (up to 4X).

The Best Sustainable Plus-Size Tee: Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher can be pricey as far as plus-size tees for work go, but most of their clothes are made in the U.S. with sustainable fibers. The most options are of course on the brand’s website, but if you prefer the return policy at Nordstrom there’s also a huge selection there (including this fun teal linen version, pictured).

EF also has an interesting “renew” policy in that they’ll take back old EF clothes, even if they’re worn or damaged. You get a $5 gift certificate and they repurpose the fabric into other creations.

Eco-friendly plus-size clothes can be hard to find, but Eileen Fisher, Ulla Popken, and wool& all offer eco-friendly, basic tees for work.

The Best Polished T-shirt To Wear Beneath a Suit: Anne Klein

This miiight be controversial for a number of reasons — first, some people will tell you you can’t wear T-shirts beneath suits. We totally disagree and always have; if you’re wearing a classic suit there’s no reason you can’t just wear a simple tee beneath the suit. As always, we suggest looking for shirts that don’t have pockets or shirttail hems, and while you don’t want voluminous sleeves (difficult to get into a blazer), you do want SOME sleeves to help you save on drycleaning.

The second reason this might be controversial: this particular pick might not even read “T-shirt” to some people because you may think “blouse” instead.

Whatever you want to call it, Anne Klein has a number of really cute T-shirts right now that I think are the perfect thing to wear beneath suits. Kasper and Tahari are both also flush with good options right now.

Of course, the downside to these types of brands is that they tend to be made with a lot of polyester. If you’re looking for more natural fibers, you can get Pima cotton at LL Bean, Talbots, and Lands’ End, as well as other sustainable, breathable T-shirts from Eileen Fisher and wool&.

{related: Designer Plus-Size Clothing for Professional Women}

FAQ: Plus-Size Tees for Work

Can you wear a T-shirt to the office?

Yes — in most modern business casual offices, a polished T-shirt layered under a blazer or cardigan is completely appropriate. Look for opaque fabrics, structured cuts, and minimal casual detailing. Here’s our whole Guide to Business Casual.

What makes a T-shirt look professional?

Thicker fabrics, clean necklines, sleeves, and tailored drape usually look more polished than thin jersey or oversized weekend tees.

Which brands have the best plus-size basics?

Readers consistently recommend Universal Standard, Talbots, Lands’ End, J.Jill, Quince, and Eileen Fisher for office-friendly plus-size basics.

More Favorite Plus-Size Business Casual Clothes

Looking for something cute to wear with your work-appropriate tees? These are some of our favorite pieces to build work outfits…

Great Sweater Blazers in Plus Sizes

Stylish Plus-Size Blazers

Like this feature? Check out other recent installments!

This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Our daily workwear reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.

Where are we buying beautiful blouses in natural fibers in the year 2026? Tucker is one of the best options out there. They have a wide array of silk blouses in solids and prints, including this vibrant red number with a mock-neck collar.

Pair this with a pair of navy trousers or wear it under a gray suit for a non-boring office look.

The blouse is $275 at Tucker and comes in sizes XXS-2X. 

Sales of note for 5/15:

• Nordstrom – 3800+ items in “new markdowns” — I kind of wonder if they’ve started marking down stuff for their Half-Yearly sale that usually starts the week before Memorial Day. Good deals on Veronica Beard, Vince, Reiss (esp. coats), as well as Wit & Wisdom and NYDJ
• Alexis Bittar – Vault sale! 100s of re-issued archival styles up to 70% off, plus 25% off all full-price styles too
• Ann Taylor – Extra 40% off sale
• Boden – Up to 50% off with new styles added
• J.Crew – 40% off your purchase and 50% off dresses
• J.Crew Factory – Extra 50% off clearance + extra 20% off orders over $125
• Lands’ End – Up to 60% off sitewide + extra 60% off sale and clearance
• Loft – 50% off your purchase, and 5/15 only: take 60% off the LOFT Versa collection
• Mango – Weekend exclusive, 30% off everything, and free shipping with $260+
• M.M.LaFleur – Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off
• Supergoop – 20% off sitewide + free Glow Stick (also, free shipping with $50+)
• Talbots – Extra 40% +15% off all markdowns, plus Summer Fridays One Day Sale (5/15), $19.50 pocket tees and $29.50 relaxed chino shorts.
• Theory – 25% off sitewide
• TOCCIN – 30% off select items with code! (You can’t stack codes, but on full price items try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off!)
• Vivrelle – Looking to own less stuff but still try trends? Use code CORPORETTE for a free month, and borrow high-end designer clothes and bags!

High Sport Tank, Frame Jeans (similar here), Dior Sunglasses, Shoes & Bag, Sherman Field & Dezso Necklaces

These are the pieces worth having in your closet for casual dinners, last-minute plans, or any moment when you want to get dressed quickly and still have your outfit feel like it has a point of view. They’re the foundation pieces that are cut so well, they do the styling for you. Whether it’s an unexpected color, a really tailored shape, or a fabric with a little shine, there’s something special built into each one. They make up the base of a look without feeling too done, so the whole thing feels relaxed but never plain.

We already know the outfit formulas that always work: a tank and jeans, linen pants and a halter top, shorts with a pretty blouse. The fun is playing around with those familiar combinations to build looks that feel one of a kind. Maybe it’s a red kitten heel popping out under wide-leg denim, a pendant necklace that looks like it was found on vacation, or a belt that gives white linen pants a reason to be noticed.

The trick is in the details. Start with an outfit you already know you feel great in, then layer in personality through your accessories. An embellished sandal, a tassel clutch, or a charm necklace can make summer staples feel fresh again with very little effort, perfect for plans that are easy but still deserve a little something.