How to Wear a Plus Size Duster

Duster - it just sounds so cool. With all love and respect to Wild West-style dusters, there are so many great dusters that are way too nice to go anywhere near a dusty trail. OK, but what exactly is a duster? How do I fit them into my wardrobe? Should I even bother? You know I have answers.

What?

Dusters are long, loose-fitting, lightweight jackets. They're meant to be worn open to accentuate the relaxed fit. The fit makes them an ideal piece for plus size women - especially if you're ordering online. They can absolutely be too big or too small for you, but you've got a lot of wiggle room.

For Me?

You can't be too tall or too short to wear a duster. And I'm not just saying that to be all "you do you." Dusters are elegant as all get out. If you're petite, a duster can elongate your outfit - it won't fool anyone into thinking you're 5'8", but it may keep people from calling you Aunt Shorty. If you're tall or average height, then a duster emphasizes your height in a way that makes you positively statuesque.

As for body shape - the duster's relaxed fit means that it won't pull across your hips or tummy. A duster's silhouette won't fight with your shape, no matter what it is.

Why bother?

Dusters are the mike drop of style. If you want to remind everyone that you're the most fashionable gal in the office, a duster will do the trick. It you need to up your style game, throw on a duster. They make any outfit more dramatic.

What Should I Wear With a Duster?

Dusters are all about proportion. I'm not crazy about outfits where the duster is the longest thing you're wearing - that gives it an outerwear look which is fine but makes you look like you're not going to be staying long. 

Wear them with pants and a top, or a dress that's at least two inches longer than the duster. Because of the loose fit, dusters work well with straight skirts, but A-Line skirts may be too voluminous. You'd look and feel like you're drowning in fabric.

OK, But Which Duster?  

We've got quite a few dusters in stock at the moment. They show up in our classic collections and we often carry dusters from other brands. (Pro tip for petites - a long jackets like the Long Kimono Jacket will fit you like a duster.)

We've just gotten in some cocoon style dusters which are more voluminous than the average duster. The style and cut makes the fabric drape in a structured yet relaxed way. We also have a couple of duster length swing vests that are beyond fabulous.

You don't want to go too far outside of your comfort zone when selecting a statement piece - which a duster definitely is. If you like understated looks, then a solid duster is a great choice. If you're bolder, then go for a print.

 OK, You've Convinced Me. But Where Can I Wear a Duster?  

Dusters are perfect for parties and date nights. Some dusters are work-appropriate, though it may depend more on the workplace than the duster. Some dusters can be downright casual, especially if you wear them over jeans.

I wouldn't wear one to a job interview outside of the fashion industry. Job interviews call for more conservative, understated clothes than usual so you should avoid anything flashy. I wouldn't wear a duster to a Little League game. OK, who am I kidding? I would totally do that. But you probably don't enjoy sticking out like a sore thumb as much as I do.

Have Some Fun

Dusters are just fun to wear. So play around to see how you can fit a duster into your wardrobe. (And send us pix!)

Check out our other posts about plus size style.