Shopping while plus size is a dangerous necessity, especially when it comes to plus size winter essentials. We recently hosted a group trip to Iceland and community member flooded our DM’s asking about our favorites cold-weather pieces and how they performed.
Finding plus size winter clothing that is warm, functional, stylish, and available above a size XL can feel nearly impossible and can force plus-size shoppers to choose between freezing or settling for ill-fitting layers. We followed up with our Iceland Hotties and asked them for feedback and suggestions. Then shopped some of the most size-inclusive brands to take some of the guess work out of it for you.
Plus Size Outerwear
A high-quality outerwear isn’t optional, it’s essential. Yet so many cold weather clothing brands stop at a size 1X and offer boxy, poorly insulated designs for plus-size bodies. We’re sharing pieces that are functional and fashionable.
Why it matters: A well-fitted winter coat can make or break your cold-weather experience. The right one allows you to explore comfortably without feeling restricted or self-conscious.
Expedition Down Waterproof Winter Parka
Squall Waterproof Insulated Parka
Review: This runs true to size, but check the sweep for the true hip measurement.
Suttle Mountain™ Long Insulated Jacket
One of our Iceland Hotties raved about this Ski Jacket.
Plus Size Base Layers
Layering is the secret to staying warm, but the tight arms and rolling waistbands of many base layers can feel like they aren’t designed with plus-size proportions in mind. These are base layers we stand by.
Why it matters: Thermal layers help regulate body temperature, making them a core part of any plus size winter essentials list, especially for travel and outdoor activities.
Smartwool Thermal Merino Wool Base Layer Top
Fleece Full Length Active Legging
Review: Runs true to size and layers well under waterproof layer
Smartwool Thermal Merino Wool Base Layer Bottoms
Women’s Plus Size Base Layer Top and Bottom
Smartwool Thermal Merino Base Layer 1/4 Zip Top
Review: These socks are rated from warm, warmer, and warmest and are good for wide calves.
Plus Size Tops
Oversized sweaters can sometime be bulky, heavy, and impossible to layer under winter coats. Plus-size shoppers are often limited to shapeless or thin knit sweaters that don’t retain warmth. This mix of fashion and active options is anything but.
Why it matters: A great sweater bridges comfort and style, keeping you warm without sacrificing your point of view.
Wildest Venture™ Long Fleece Shaket
Cable Knit Half-Zip Pullover Sweater
Winter Warmth™ Full Zip Hoodie
Luxe Cozy Crew Pullover Sweater
Holly Hideaway™ Waffle Cowl Neck Pullover
Plus Size Bottoms
Shopping for plus size cold weather bottoms is exhausting. Limited sizing, lack of performance gear, and higher price points often make winter travel feel inaccessible. But you deserve warmth, comfort, and style without compromise.
Why it matters: Wind and waterproof pants are one of the most difficult plus size winter essentials to source. They can take multiple buys and try-on’s before finding the right fit. Searching in the men’s department may be a better option depending on the brand.
Columbia Womens Storm Surge II Pants
Review: These wind and waterproof pants have short/regular/long lengths and are true to size.
Plus Size Soft Shell Snow Bibs Pants
Shoes
Footwear is one of the hardest categories for plus-size shoppers, especially in winter. Many brands don’t offer wide calves, wide widths, or supportive soles.
Why it matters: Comfortable winter boots allow you to stay active, explore confidently, and avoid pain.
Three of our Iceland Hotties had these boots and loved them!
Merrell Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
Review: These are available in wide widths have a wide toe box and are great for city walking.
Accessories
Hats, gloves, and scarves are often overlooked, but these plus size winter essentials protect your precious extremities and can help add some personality to your outfit.
Why it matters: The right accessories can significantly increase warmth while elevating your outfit, proving that plus size fashion and function can coexist.
Review: This classic and cozy hat is sized based on head circumference for better fit.
This color is available in up to size XL.
Winter doesn’t have to mean hiding indoors to stay warm or settling for less. With the right plus size winter essentials, you can travel confidently, stay cozy, and look incredible doing it. We’re committed to highlighting inclusive brands, sharing honest resources, and empowering plus-size women to take up space everywhere, even in the snow. Fashion should support your lifestyle, not limit it.
Which of these plus size winter essentials are your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
Disclosure: Some of the links may be affiliate links, and at no cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase. We recommend products and companies we have used, would use, or have been suggested by other fat babes.
