The Best Clothes for Mid-Size Bodies: A Guide to Styles That Actually Fit

Ever feel like you’re stuck in the middle when shopping for clothes? Nothing seems to fit quite right—too tight in one spot, too loose in another. If that sounds familiar, you might be wondering how to find clothes that actually work for a mid-size body.

At Nucleus Clothing, we get it. Sizing can be all over the place, and finding clothes that truly fit shouldn’t feel like a mission. That’s why we design all our pieces using well-loved, well-fitting patterns, testing them on multiple sizes to make sure they look and feel amazing—no matter where you land on the size chart.

What’s Mid-Size, Anyway?

Mid-size typically refers to sizes 10–16, sitting between “standard” and “plus” sizes. But here’s the thing: most brands design their regular and plus-size clothes completely differently, using separate patterns. That’s why if you’re mid-size, things don’t always fit quite right—clothes might be too snug in some areas or too baggy in others.

At Nucleus, we do things differently. We use adjustable sizing in some of our pieces, meaning they cover two sizes (like 2XL/3XL) and come with a tie or wrap feature. This is especially handy if you have a big difference between your top and bottom sizes. Plus, because we base new designs on past bestsellers, we know our pieces work on real bodies, not just size charts.

So, let’s talk about the best clothes for mid-size bodies—versatile, flattering styles that will make you feel amazing.

Style 1: The Everywhere Maxi Dress

If you need a dress that does it all, this is it. The Everywhere Maxi Dress is endlessly versatile, with an adjustable tie front that lets you cinch it in for the perfect fit while adding some drama. The waist tie sits just right to highlight your delicious curves, and the long sleeves can be rolled up when it’s warm.

For colder months, layer it with a coat, a polo neck underneath, tights, and boots. And for a more relaxed vibe? Throw on a hat and sandals for effortless Boho Chic.

Style 2: The Billow Blouse

A lightweight cotton blouse with just the right touch of sheerness, the Billow Blouse is perfect for layering. You can wear it with a camisole, or if you’re feeling bold, just a bra—the sheer fabric adds a sultry touch without revealing too much.

Tuck it into a high-waisted skirt, cinch it at the waist with a belt, or wear it loose and floaty. It’s effortless, breathable, and pairs beautifully with jeans and Birkenstocks for an easy, stylish look.

Style 3: The Osaka Dress

The Osaka Dress is fully adjustable and fits across two sizes, so it works beautifully for mid-size bodies. With its Japanese-inspired floral satin print, it’s perfect for special occasions. The kimono-style sleeves offer stunning movement, and the thin waist tie lets you wrap it in different ways for a custom fit.

Dress it up with heels, go casual with clogs, or style it for winter with boots. It’s one of those pieces you’ll keep reaching for.

Style 4: The Jogger Chino

These jogger chinos are the perfect mix of style and function. Made from a 4-way stretch fabric, they move with you, making them just as great for an office day as they are for an outdoor adventure.

Available in classic colors (including navy and this season’s hot basic, brown), they pair effortlessly with heels or sneakers. Wear them with the Billow Blouse for a polished look, the Hope Blouse for something dressier, or go super casual with our Barely Human T.

Style 5: High-Waisted Undies

Good underwear makes all the difference. Forget shapewear that feels like a straightjacket—our High-Waisted Undies hold everything in without the discomfort. With sheer panels for a sultry touch and double-layered front and back panels for smooth support, they help your clothes sit beautifully while keeping you comfortable all day.

Nucleus Clothing: Designed for Real Bodies

Our clothes are made to last. We’ve had clients come back after 10 years, saying they still wear and love their Nucleus pieces. Sure, we might cost a bit more than fast fashion, but really, not by much. We use local labor paid above a living wage, don’t mass-produce, make to order to reduce waste, and design classic styles with a twist—so you can wear them for years.

If you’re looking for the best clothes for mid-size bodies, we’ve got you covered. Browse our collection and find pieces that fit you beautifully, feel incredible, and stand the test of time.

Made in South Africa, made in plus-sizes, made to order to support slow fashion and reduce overstock.

I write as I get older and come up to my 47th Birthday I began to wonder where the hell time went. This is my inaugural Nucleus Clothing Blog Post. I’m ageing, I’m not sure I’m ageing gracefully or kicking towards the light. I’ll focus this more on how I feel about myself, my body, my face and my style.

When I was younger I was pretty popular, I had an unusual look and a good body. However, I wasn’t that confident in myself and didn’t know what I projected. Basically, I didn’t know what I had and really didn’t take advantage of it. So teach your children to be confident and self-aware in a good way. It’s one of the best gifts we can give them.

Clothing Design For Older Women in South Africa

As I’ve gotten older I’m Curvier, my face is softer, and I’m less edgy in terms of my dress and my alternativeness. However, I’m more confident mainly because I’ve realised perceptions other people have of me don’t really count. It’s the perception I have of myself that counts. I walk on the beach with all my curves on display, in a bikini and I am far less self-aware than I was when I was a young adult.

My face is getting lines, it’s sagging slightly and I have loads of pigmentation and weird bumps. I’m wearing far less make-up than I used to. Maybe it’s a result of the pandemic and not going anywhere but a few years ago you wouldn’t catch me outside without at least a foundation on. Now I go outside without a stitch. I still like make-up but I’m that woman now that wears a bold red lip (day or night) and feels flipping fantastic. I’m trying to love my face as its beauty changes, I’m not 100% sure I’m succeeding but I am trying.

As I get Older Comfortable Clothing Matters Most

I have slightly given into the grey too. Incorporating it rather than banishing it to the outmost reaches of the galaxy. Mainly since my hairdresser says it’s stubborn and grey will out. I wear my curly hair long. Like in Texas where the higher the hair the closer to god. I wear my hair long because it reminds me that I’m still youthful, a woman and feminine. It’s a pain, an actual pain because when I have to brush it to wash it the noises I make a sound like I’m being tortured. It would be easier to cut it off but it’s my power.

Handmade Clothing For Women by Nucleus in Cape Town

Now to style and I think what has changed… I used to spend hours putting the perfect outfit together. As I get older, I’m curvier but I still like my Jeans fitted and before I didn’t like dresses I now do. They just need to suit my body as it is now, I ain’t no wolf in sheep’s clothing. Generally now have a uniform in summer. It’s usually our Oh So Easy Kaftan in a variety of prints and plains, I have about five different ones.

As I get older I choose them because I still want to look good, slightly edgy, comfortable and cool but still decent enough for the school run and the other things I have to do for business during the day. They’re worn to friends for lunch, out to lunch at a restaurant and even walking the dog. When you find your one you just know.

So I’m more comfortable in my own skin, I’m happier with myself and I love myself more. I choose things that make me happy and suit my lifestyle and personality, not what people tell me I must choose. I’m an independent, confident and self-loved woman now!

So As I Get Older This is Where You Can Purchase Nucleus Clothing in South Africa

Zando delivers Nucleus Clothing across South Africa

Takealot delivers Nucleus Clothing in South Africa

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View the Various Nucleus Clothing Stockists Across South Africa

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by Nicole Rasmussen