Plus-size workwear is now widely available. Here is how to get it right.
Check the size range before you choose
Before settling on a garment for the whole team, check how far its size range goes. Some styles stop at XL or 2XL. Others run to 6XL or beyond. Choosing a range that covers everyone from the start avoids mixed styles later.
Plus-size garments are often cut with more room in the body and length, not just wider.
Measure, and allow for movement
Measure chest, waist and length over the clothes worn underneath.
- Chest: around the fullest part, arms relaxed
- Waist: where trousers will sit during work
- Body length: from shoulder to where the hem should fall
- Room to bend, kneel and reach without the hem riding up
PPE must fit too
Hi-vis, coveralls and FR clothing are only protective if they fit. A hi-vis vest that cannot close or a coverall that restricts movement is a risk. Employers must make sure PPE suits the person wearing it. Check that the hi-vis range you pick goes up far enough, and that the class still applies in the larger sizes.
Garments that matter most
Polos, trousers and jackets are where fit shows most. Look for longer body lengths in polos so they stay tucked or cover the waistband when bending. Trousers with an elasticated or adjustable waist suit physical roles. Outer layers should have room for a fleece underneath. Women's plus-size ranges are also available and fit better than men's equivalents.
Handling sizes sensitively
Some staff feel awkward giving their measurements. Use a private size form rather than a shared spreadsheet or asking aloud. Let people check a size chart themselves. Order everyone's garments in the same style so the larger sizes are not visibly different. Treat every measurement as private information and keep the size list with whoever places the order.
Where to put your logo
On larger garments the logo should still look proportionate. A chest logo that suits a medium polo can look small on a 6XL, and one scaled up too far can look odd. Usually the same logo size works with a slight adjustment to position. Your proof will show placement, so check the largest and smallest sizes in the order, not just the middle ones.
Ordering what this guide covers
The garments this guide talks about, such as plus-size workwear, workwear polo shirts and branded hi-vis, can all be ordered from one piece with free logo setup. The logo price drops at 9 and again at 25 garments, and every garment with a small logo counts towards it, whatever the style or colour. Before anything is made, we embroider an actual sample of your logo and email you a photo to approve, or you can pop in to our Hull workshop to see it.
