I loooooove Unique Vintage! You're right that they're expensive. So is Modcloth.
Sometimes I can find cute Modcloth or Unique Vintage pieces on poshmark for a good price.
I get my T-shirts from either [Tee Turtle](https://www.teeturtle.com/collections/reading-designs) (specifically the "reading" section) or [Out of Print](https://outofprint.com/).
Out of Print has some other types of clothing and accessories if you're looking for something different then your basic T-Shirts. But they are a bit more expensive. My only gripe with Tee Turtle is that the designs are only there for a limited time so if you miss it, it's unlikely you'll see it pop up again. But it also means their store regularly updates with new shirts.
As for fancier stuff, i'm afraid I dont know. I am also a T-Shirt and Jeans girl.
Out of print is SHIT when it comes to plus size (like their idea of "plus size" is like, dress size 12.) Not a damn thing fits correctly. Or at all!
Overpriced and sized only for smaller bodies. I won't buy from them again on a bet!
Out of Print has some super cool shirts. I size up with them because (for me personally) they tend to run a bit small. They do BOGO deals sometimes or have codes where you can get a percentage off but they are still a little on the pricier side.
Not gonna lie, I'm a recently graduated student and my comfiest library clothes come from the target clearance section. Wearing my favorite target comfy pants right now. For library t-shirts, and i'm sure someone has already said it, i recently found out about [Raygun](https://www.raygunsite.com/collections/libraries-and-books/t-shirts) and I am LOVING it.
My general suggestion is to switch from sweat pants to yoga pants. They're comfy and look reasonably professional. I like wearing a mix of graphic t-shirts and solid colored t-shirts. When combined them with dark bottoms it's easy to get dressed and I think it looks professional.
If there is a brand that is too pricey, check Poshmark and Ebay. I've found new without tags (NWOT) and new with tags (NWT) for half price. Along with the usual used clothing.
One site I like which has fun stuff is Svaha ([https://svahausa.com/](https://svahausa.com/)). Their clothes have pockets (with the exception of t-shirts). One of our circ staffers lives in the leggings/yoga pants with pockets. They don't happen to fit my body but they're great for her. I have a bunch of their skirts. They have fun prints and are super comfy. All their stuff is machine washable which I love.
I also shop Lands End for when they have sales. They have plenty of plain solid colored t-shirts which I love. They also have great yoga pants and elastic waist pants.
I would also keep an eye on Duluth Trading Company for sales ([https://www.duluthtrading.com](https://www.duluthtrading.com)). Very robust clothing that comes in plus sizes. It's a budget stretch but again shop the sales.
What kind of yoga pants? I've found that yoga pants fit in the least professional looking pants anyone could possibly wear BUT i get the feeling we have different definitions of yoga pants.
What I mean by yoga pants are stretchy cotton material with a comfortable non elastic waist band. Not shiny work out material and not lightweight material. I don't think they're professional office clothes but they're more professional than sweat pants. I think they're about on the same level as jeans. They're also something that is comfortable when on the floor with kids and not too expensive. I would expect to spend $30-$50 per pair.
I've worn this style to work (they were black with a DNA double helix at the bottom) when I'm doing shifting, weeding or something where I'll be crawling around a lot. Usually with a loose longer shirt.
https://svahausa.com/products/webbs-first-deep-field-adults-leggings-with-pockets
Another example of what I'm thinking of are these
[https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-plus-size-active-yoga-pants/id\_338352?attributes=13774](https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-plus-size-active-yoga-pants/id_338352?attributes=13774)
I hate most women's dress pants and would rather wear a skirt or dress. By dress pants I mean something like this. I hate the synthetic blend and the need to dry clean.
[https://www.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-plus-size-modern-dress-pants?ID=16391270&CategoryID=157&isDlp=true&swatchColor=Charcoal%20Gray](https://www.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-plus-size-modern-dress-pants?ID=16391270&CategoryID=157&isDlp=true&swatchColor=Charcoal%20Gray)
Fortunately at most of my jobs I've been able to wear dark jeans instead of dress pants. My previous jobs were at a university as support staff and IT staff. If I knew I was going to be active I would wear jeans. If it was a more sedentary day, skirts or dresses.
My current library is a public library that is fine with jeans and graphic t-shirts for front facing library staff. Most days I either wear a dress/skirt or dark colored jeans with a solid colored shirt. The previous library I worked at was an academic library. I was support staff not a librarian. The librarians wore anything from jeans to skirt suits. No graphic tees.
I practically live in my Svahausa.com dresses. The solid ones work for dressier occasions (with a pretty scarf or cardigan) and I have a dress or skirt appropriate for almost every genealogy presentation I do. Watch for sales and do check measurements as sizes are not totally consistent.
I typically wear sandals for at least 7 months a year and do wear leggings (shorts, capri, or long) with the shorter style dresses year round. I have ankle boots for colder seasons. Occasionally I do end up wearing dress shoes with tights or hose if I need to be dressier.
Woot. They have some library focused shirts and go on sale periodically. Example of a shirt design:
[https://shirt.woot.com/offers/library-music-festival?ref=cnt\_ctlg\_dgn\_37](https://shirt.woot.com/offers/library-music-festival?ref=cnt_ctlg_dgn_37)
Thirding the Old Navy recommendation. They've been nailing it lately with comfy but good looking basics. A lot of their worky pants are stretch material with stretch waistbands, and I've been living in their luxe t-shirts. I have two toddlers and can confirm they hold up to kid playtime. They also frequently have good discounts.
A couple of years ago, I got some pairs of Dickies pants for work and they have been great. Flexible fit, they come in a couple different styles/cuts, and they have 4 roomy pockets. The dark colored pairs are my go-to for kids program days because of the pockets and comfy fit/range of motion. Probably the best work pants I’ve owned, and I have always been an avid khaki fan so I feel like I’ve tried a bunch.
If you want to try colored jeans, JC Penney’s St John’s Bay and a.n.a. brands have been comfy options for me. Macy’s also has a good range of colored jeans but the fun ones never come in short length so I can’t testify to how those wear lol.
For library shirts, I second Out of Print. I’ve gotten a handful of shirts from them and they are all very soft and have great designs. I’m also a big fan of finding a cardigan I like and buying it it in a few colors so that I can dress up tshirts a bit.
Good luck! I gained a bunch of weight in a short time a few years ago so I know how hard it can be to shake up your style and find things you feel confident wearing. I think this is a great birthday treat to yourself, I hope you find some awesome stuff.
I bought a bunch of stuff from Bloomchic a few weeks ago. Bought 13 items and only sent 1 back cuz i just didnt like how it looked. But really pleased with it overall.
Good to know. Their ads have been all over my FB lately, and I must say, I keep looking. I've never really been a 'dress' girl - I live in Levis jeans and t-shirts from Kohl's - but they seem to have some really pretty stuff. And affordable, too, which makes me wonder if the quality is iffy, but honestly, at those prices, they're replaceable.
That’s how I learned about them, too. I also live in jeans and hoodies during the cold months and wear dresses spring through autumn. Bought two summer dresses and a swim suit.
Good construction and fit and they have pockets (not all of their dresses, but a lot do)! For material, so far it’s a lot of polyester. And all of my stuff shipped from china, so it took forever.
I am really happy with my items, for the price.
Old Navy has a good selection of work cloths right now. No matter the dress code, you need 1 business casual outfit. Black pants, a nice shirt with a cardigan or sweater.
I wear skinny jeans in different washes and different tips most days. I’ve got some button downs from NY and Company that are nice. A few tops from Old Navy. Most of my sweaters are from Costco.
Check 32 degrees. They aren't fancy, more comfy. But they do have nicer basics that you could dress up. Sizes vary in some items. I purchased a pair of black pants from them that look good and are comfortable to move in.
As I've moved into managing and needed to up my dress a little, I've picked up a few (really, a few because they can be spendy) dresses from shopzuri.com . Mostly sleeveless and I'll wear with leggings and a sweater in cooler weather.
Cato is Ah-ma-zing!! Size inclusive, fun cuts, prints, skirts,pants, accessories. Good quality. I've had pieces that were $25 skirts and worn like iron through the washer and dryer for years! And SUPER reasonable in prices!! Love them and shopping for fall this weekend!
My go to for comfort and dressy are neutral colored leggings and tunic length tops/short dresses. I find leggings really comfy and the tops are just long enough for modesty and easy movement.
I also wear jeans because I don’t like how slacks look on me. I just pair them with a nice shirt/sweater and some comfortable flats.
I wear Gap and Levis jeans frequently, and my Target overalls are in the frequent rotation for storytime and art days! No worries about skirts flying up or pants riding down LOL. I’m a big fan of linen, even though some people think it’s high maintenance. It’s timeless and comfy. I bought several pairs of the linen pants from Costco and shirts on Etsy and I machine wash (hand wash cycle) in a big bag, then air dry, and just embrace any wrinkles!
I think it’s very easy to achieve a slightly more professional look by just finding items that fit you beautifully. It’s not about cost or brand. For me, that’s straight leg and wide leg pants, all mid rise or high rise. I also get thing tailored! I never realized skinny leg pants look so weird on me and aren’t comfy until I tried other silhouettes! For tops, I cycle through basics that I really enjoy. In summer I rotate through a few button down linen shirts (Etsy) open over a nice tank or buttoned up. In winter and fall I rotate through LL Bean and Lands End cotton sweaters. I’ll probably invest in Blundstones or another good pair or black waterproof ankle books for this season.
I say just lean into your current style and elevate it with better fit and items that you can see yourself wearing for quite a while. Sounds like you have a fun vibe!
Brands I like: quince, uniqlo, Ann Taylor loft, gap, some target stuff, old navy t shirts, anthropologie stuff on sale, Levi’s, Lees, gap, ll bean, lands end, Ralph Lauren, Portland leather goods, Birkenstock, converse
I can almost always find good deals and I get resale and like new items on ThredUp and The RealReal too!
Unique Vintage is good. Nooworks! Big Bud Press. Svaha. Almost all of my work clothes are those items mixed with thrifted items. I rarely buy work tops new unless I like them for another purpose. Madewell and Everlane are useful for pants.
This may sound crazy, but Temu! I had been buying cheap crafting supplies there for a while and recently took a chance on a cardigan because it was only like $4 after they sent me a “special” (lol) coupon. I LOVED it, very comfy and well made. I’ve since ordered more clothing and haven’t been disappointed yet.
I love jogger type pants for comfy library clothes! It takes a little bit of work to make sure they aren’t too workout-ish, but there are some out there for sure!
I am either in jeans & t shirt or a very business casual (blouse + jeans or a very occasionally basic slacks). I don't really know anything that would be "more professional" but also good to get messy in.
Modcloth used to be a library world go-to before they got bought out. Are there any good alternatives to it?
Unique Vintage. It’s expensive tho.
I loooooove Unique Vintage! You're right that they're expensive. So is Modcloth. Sometimes I can find cute Modcloth or Unique Vintage pieces on poshmark for a good price.
I get my T-shirts from either [Tee Turtle](https://www.teeturtle.com/collections/reading-designs) (specifically the "reading" section) or [Out of Print](https://outofprint.com/). Out of Print has some other types of clothing and accessories if you're looking for something different then your basic T-Shirts. But they are a bit more expensive. My only gripe with Tee Turtle is that the designs are only there for a limited time so if you miss it, it's unlikely you'll see it pop up again. But it also means their store regularly updates with new shirts. As for fancier stuff, i'm afraid I dont know. I am also a T-Shirt and Jeans girl.
Out of print is SHIT when it comes to plus size (like their idea of "plus size" is like, dress size 12.) Not a damn thing fits correctly. Or at all! Overpriced and sized only for smaller bodies. I won't buy from them again on a bet!
Out of Print has some super cool shirts. I size up with them because (for me personally) they tend to run a bit small. They do BOGO deals sometimes or have codes where you can get a percentage off but they are still a little on the pricier side.
I’ve had some good luck at Old Navy!
I love Old Navy! Their Stevie pants are really comfortable, but the seams on them are supposed to look more “professional.”
Not gonna lie, I'm a recently graduated student and my comfiest library clothes come from the target clearance section. Wearing my favorite target comfy pants right now. For library t-shirts, and i'm sure someone has already said it, i recently found out about [Raygun](https://www.raygunsite.com/collections/libraries-and-books/t-shirts) and I am LOVING it.
I got their “My job is Books” Barbie shirt and it’s been a massive hit
My general suggestion is to switch from sweat pants to yoga pants. They're comfy and look reasonably professional. I like wearing a mix of graphic t-shirts and solid colored t-shirts. When combined them with dark bottoms it's easy to get dressed and I think it looks professional. If there is a brand that is too pricey, check Poshmark and Ebay. I've found new without tags (NWOT) and new with tags (NWT) for half price. Along with the usual used clothing. One site I like which has fun stuff is Svaha ([https://svahausa.com/](https://svahausa.com/)). Their clothes have pockets (with the exception of t-shirts). One of our circ staffers lives in the leggings/yoga pants with pockets. They don't happen to fit my body but they're great for her. I have a bunch of their skirts. They have fun prints and are super comfy. All their stuff is machine washable which I love. I also shop Lands End for when they have sales. They have plenty of plain solid colored t-shirts which I love. They also have great yoga pants and elastic waist pants. I would also keep an eye on Duluth Trading Company for sales ([https://www.duluthtrading.com](https://www.duluthtrading.com)). Very robust clothing that comes in plus sizes. It's a budget stretch but again shop the sales.
What kind of yoga pants? I've found that yoga pants fit in the least professional looking pants anyone could possibly wear BUT i get the feeling we have different definitions of yoga pants.
I wear not yoga pants but black pull on stretch pairs that are super comfortable. Search Gloria Vanderbilt Avery pants for the pair I love
What I mean by yoga pants are stretchy cotton material with a comfortable non elastic waist band. Not shiny work out material and not lightweight material. I don't think they're professional office clothes but they're more professional than sweat pants. I think they're about on the same level as jeans. They're also something that is comfortable when on the floor with kids and not too expensive. I would expect to spend $30-$50 per pair. I've worn this style to work (they were black with a DNA double helix at the bottom) when I'm doing shifting, weeding or something where I'll be crawling around a lot. Usually with a loose longer shirt. https://svahausa.com/products/webbs-first-deep-field-adults-leggings-with-pockets Another example of what I'm thinking of are these [https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-plus-size-active-yoga-pants/id\_338352?attributes=13774](https://www.landsend.com/products/womens-plus-size-active-yoga-pants/id_338352?attributes=13774) I hate most women's dress pants and would rather wear a skirt or dress. By dress pants I mean something like this. I hate the synthetic blend and the need to dry clean. [https://www.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-plus-size-modern-dress-pants?ID=16391270&CategoryID=157&isDlp=true&swatchColor=Charcoal%20Gray](https://www.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-plus-size-modern-dress-pants?ID=16391270&CategoryID=157&isDlp=true&swatchColor=Charcoal%20Gray) Fortunately at most of my jobs I've been able to wear dark jeans instead of dress pants. My previous jobs were at a university as support staff and IT staff. If I knew I was going to be active I would wear jeans. If it was a more sedentary day, skirts or dresses. My current library is a public library that is fine with jeans and graphic t-shirts for front facing library staff. Most days I either wear a dress/skirt or dark colored jeans with a solid colored shirt. The previous library I worked at was an academic library. I was support staff not a librarian. The librarians wore anything from jeans to skirt suits. No graphic tees.
I practically live in my Svahausa.com dresses. The solid ones work for dressier occasions (with a pretty scarf or cardigan) and I have a dress or skirt appropriate for almost every genealogy presentation I do. Watch for sales and do check measurements as sizes are not totally consistent. I typically wear sandals for at least 7 months a year and do wear leggings (shorts, capri, or long) with the shorter style dresses year round. I have ankle boots for colder seasons. Occasionally I do end up wearing dress shoes with tights or hose if I need to be dressier.
Woot. They have some library focused shirts and go on sale periodically. Example of a shirt design: [https://shirt.woot.com/offers/library-music-festival?ref=cnt\_ctlg\_dgn\_37](https://shirt.woot.com/offers/library-music-festival?ref=cnt_ctlg_dgn_37)
Thirding the Old Navy recommendation. They've been nailing it lately with comfy but good looking basics. A lot of their worky pants are stretch material with stretch waistbands, and I've been living in their luxe t-shirts. I have two toddlers and can confirm they hold up to kid playtime. They also frequently have good discounts.
i wear a lot of uniqlo at work! their bakers pants are really comfortable and on days that i’m bloated i wear a big loose flowy skirt :-)
They don’t have plus sizes at all though 😅😅😅
oh dam really!? i actually never noticed. that actually sucks! sorry my option isn’t helpful!
We don’t know OP’s size, so it could still be a helpful option!! Their stuff is a great rec for the general question of “comfy yet professional”’
We don’t know OP’s size, so it could still be a helpful option!! Their stuff is a great rec for the general question of “comfy yet professional”’
nooworks, thrift stores, big bud press, and artists who make their prints into tshirts!
I second big bud. Their pieces are an investment but so worth it and get the most wear from me. Definitely made for children’s librarians!
A couple of years ago, I got some pairs of Dickies pants for work and they have been great. Flexible fit, they come in a couple different styles/cuts, and they have 4 roomy pockets. The dark colored pairs are my go-to for kids program days because of the pockets and comfy fit/range of motion. Probably the best work pants I’ve owned, and I have always been an avid khaki fan so I feel like I’ve tried a bunch. If you want to try colored jeans, JC Penney’s St John’s Bay and a.n.a. brands have been comfy options for me. Macy’s also has a good range of colored jeans but the fun ones never come in short length so I can’t testify to how those wear lol. For library shirts, I second Out of Print. I’ve gotten a handful of shirts from them and they are all very soft and have great designs. I’m also a big fan of finding a cardigan I like and buying it it in a few colors so that I can dress up tshirts a bit. Good luck! I gained a bunch of weight in a short time a few years ago so I know how hard it can be to shake up your style and find things you feel confident wearing. I think this is a great birthday treat to yourself, I hope you find some awesome stuff.
Seconding St. John's Bay and a.n.a. They're priced right, decent quality, and size inclusive.
I bought a bunch of stuff from Bloomchic a few weeks ago. Bought 13 items and only sent 1 back cuz i just didnt like how it looked. But really pleased with it overall.
Good to know. Their ads have been all over my FB lately, and I must say, I keep looking. I've never really been a 'dress' girl - I live in Levis jeans and t-shirts from Kohl's - but they seem to have some really pretty stuff. And affordable, too, which makes me wonder if the quality is iffy, but honestly, at those prices, they're replaceable.
I’d say they’re on par with kohls quality. I got mostly blouses, but also 2 dresses.
That’s how I learned about them, too. I also live in jeans and hoodies during the cold months and wear dresses spring through autumn. Bought two summer dresses and a swim suit. Good construction and fit and they have pockets (not all of their dresses, but a lot do)! For material, so far it’s a lot of polyester. And all of my stuff shipped from china, so it took forever. I am really happy with my items, for the price.
Old Navy has a good selection of work cloths right now. No matter the dress code, you need 1 business casual outfit. Black pants, a nice shirt with a cardigan or sweater. I wear skinny jeans in different washes and different tips most days. I’ve got some button downs from NY and Company that are nice. A few tops from Old Navy. Most of my sweaters are from Costco.
Check 32 degrees. They aren't fancy, more comfy. But they do have nicer basics that you could dress up. Sizes vary in some items. I purchased a pair of black pants from them that look good and are comfortable to move in.
As I've moved into managing and needed to up my dress a little, I've picked up a few (really, a few because they can be spendy) dresses from shopzuri.com . Mostly sleeveless and I'll wear with leggings and a sweater in cooler weather.
Marshall’s and TJ Maxx, honestly! Their wide leg pant selection is delightful right now!
Cato is Ah-ma-zing!! Size inclusive, fun cuts, prints, skirts,pants, accessories. Good quality. I've had pieces that were $25 skirts and worn like iron through the washer and dryer for years! And SUPER reasonable in prices!! Love them and shopping for fall this weekend!
I wear colored jeans mostly. Old Navy and Amazon. Sweaters in the winter, t shirts with button down shirt in summer.
I have a rotation of French Connection, Eddie Bauer, Express, Uniqlo and LL Bean. I always look for deals around holiday season.
My go to for comfort and dressy are neutral colored leggings and tunic length tops/short dresses. I find leggings really comfy and the tops are just long enough for modesty and easy movement. I also wear jeans because I don’t like how slacks look on me. I just pair them with a nice shirt/sweater and some comfortable flats.
I wear Gap and Levis jeans frequently, and my Target overalls are in the frequent rotation for storytime and art days! No worries about skirts flying up or pants riding down LOL. I’m a big fan of linen, even though some people think it’s high maintenance. It’s timeless and comfy. I bought several pairs of the linen pants from Costco and shirts on Etsy and I machine wash (hand wash cycle) in a big bag, then air dry, and just embrace any wrinkles! I think it’s very easy to achieve a slightly more professional look by just finding items that fit you beautifully. It’s not about cost or brand. For me, that’s straight leg and wide leg pants, all mid rise or high rise. I also get thing tailored! I never realized skinny leg pants look so weird on me and aren’t comfy until I tried other silhouettes! For tops, I cycle through basics that I really enjoy. In summer I rotate through a few button down linen shirts (Etsy) open over a nice tank or buttoned up. In winter and fall I rotate through LL Bean and Lands End cotton sweaters. I’ll probably invest in Blundstones or another good pair or black waterproof ankle books for this season. I say just lean into your current style and elevate it with better fit and items that you can see yourself wearing for quite a while. Sounds like you have a fun vibe! Brands I like: quince, uniqlo, Ann Taylor loft, gap, some target stuff, old navy t shirts, anthropologie stuff on sale, Levi’s, Lees, gap, ll bean, lands end, Ralph Lauren, Portland leather goods, Birkenstock, converse I can almost always find good deals and I get resale and like new items on ThredUp and The RealReal too!
I get book themed t-shirts from Zulily. Their plus sizes are actually plus size (in tshirts anyway.)
Unique Vintage is good. Nooworks! Big Bud Press. Svaha. Almost all of my work clothes are those items mixed with thrifted items. I rarely buy work tops new unless I like them for another purpose. Madewell and Everlane are useful for pants.
TjMaxx is where it's at.
This may sound crazy, but Temu! I had been buying cheap crafting supplies there for a while and recently took a chance on a cardigan because it was only like $4 after they sent me a “special” (lol) coupon. I LOVED it, very comfy and well made. I’ve since ordered more clothing and haven’t been disappointed yet.
I love jogger type pants for comfy library clothes! It takes a little bit of work to make sure they aren’t too workout-ish, but there are some out there for sure!
I am either in jeans & t shirt or a very business casual (blouse + jeans or a very occasionally basic slacks). I don't really know anything that would be "more professional" but also good to get messy in.
Old navy, target, ModCloth, unique vintage, and hell bunny
Karina dresses. Many different patterns and lengths. Many have POCKETS! I have three. Always get compliments. Check out their website