Designed by Kiwi Ali Caldwell, Taking Shape’s Pretty Basics range is our go-to for colourful, casual, everyday plus-size clothes that are easy to dress up and down. The versatile range ensures we look and feel our best no matter the occasion and caters for dress sizes 12-30.
Whether you’re looking for plus-size activewear, workwear or you’re searching for the perfect backyard barbecue outfit, discover eight key wardrobe staples from Pretty Basics and how we’re styling them this spring and beyond.
8 plus-size style staples from Taking Shape’s Pretty Basics collection

01
Cara Cargo Dress Pant
$79 (usually $179.99) at Taking Shape
Look no further if you’ve been searching for your dream work or occasionwear pant. The Cara Cargo Dress Pant is made from viscose stretch satin fabric with a lovely, lustrous sheen and boasts a flattering and comfortable wide-leg cut.
Whether you pair these pants with a plain white t-shirt or a floaty cotton blouse for an elevated casual look.

02
Cotton Gauze Favourite Dress
from $169.99 at Taking Shape
This floaty, colourful dress is set to see you through summer, taking you from work to dinner in an instant. It’s made from soft natural cotton, allowing for effortless movement.
Wear the dress with sandals, sneakers, or a heel for dressier summer events. The best part? The adjustable drawcord allows you to accentuate your waist while still maintaining an airy shape and feel

03
Castaway Cargo Crop Pant
$119.99 at Taking Shape
If you’re not a fan of shorts but you’re looking for a breezier pant option for spring and summer, these knee-length cropped cargos are a fave of ours.
Made from a luxuriously soft viscose blend that offers just the right amount of stretch, they also have handy side, back, and leg pockets.

04
Reversible Ava Shower Resist Jacket
$109 (usually 324.99) at Taking Shape
Designed with Aotearoa’s unpredictable weather in mind, this reversible jacket is made from a quality, shower-resistant twill.
The best part about the jacket is that it’s essentially a two-in-one style, ensuring more bang for your buck. Depending on your mood, you can swap between the rich green or black sheen colours.
Even better, the Reversible Ava Jacket is practical yet fun. It features microfleece-lined pockets with snaps to keep your hands toasty and your phone and keys secure. What a way to conquer the rain in style.

05
Natural Graphic Print Set
From $149.99 at Taking Shape
This breezy and chic summer set is sure to quickly become a summer wardrobe staple. It can be dressed up and down and mixed and matched throughout the summer months.
Made from highly breathable viscose, both the shirt and pants feature a flattering abstract print that disguises any lumps or bumps. Its eye-catching, contemporary design means you’ll field compliments wherever you go.

07
Ponte Aisling Pinafore Dress
$94 (usually 159.99) at Taking Shape
If you love all things layering or sleeved dresses, you’ll love this pinafore-style dress that allows you to wear it over your favourite tops.
The dress features adjustable straps so you can customise your fit, and it’s made from soft, breathable ponte viscose fabric, making it perfect for those who run hot. Here’s to feeling fabulous in this playful pinafore!

08
Natural Spot Harmony Dress
$269.99 at Taking Shape
Make a statement while accentuating your figure in this flattering spotted cocktail dress, ready for party season. The base layer is made from nylon with added stretch for comfort, while the semi-sheer mesh overlay sparkles with silver foil and velvet spots.
If you like what you see, visit your nearest Taking Shape store for a free personal styling experience, whether you’re after everyday basics, you’d like to refresh your seasonal wardrobe, or you need a dressy outfit for a particular occasion.
As a leader in fashion-forward plus-size clothes, Taking Shape also offers an abundance of practical styling tips and profiles curvy fashionistas on its blog for endless inspiration.
Discover more: Update your wardrobe and level up your style at takingshape.com.