Best Places to Shop for Plus-Size Clothing

Retailers have increasingly realized the importance of offering plus size options. These stores offer both physical stores and online shopping, making it easier to find and try on clothes. Mainstream brands have expanded their size range so that plus-size customers can enjoy the latest trends without compromising on style or fit.

Highlights of the high street

Retailers like H&M, Target and Old Navy  have significantly expanded their plus-size lines. H&M's plus-size collection includes on-trend items that mirror their regular range, ensuring that plus-size customers don't miss out on the latest fashion. Target's inclusive brand, Ava & Viv, offers stylish, affordable options ranging from casual wear to workwear. Old Navy is known for its wide range of sizes, including plus-size, with a focus on comfort and style, especially in their jeans and activewear.

Shopping experience

The in-store experience at these retailers varies, but generally includes dedicated plus-size departments. This setup provides a more comfortable and focused shopping experience, although availability and selection can vary from location to location. Online shopping provides a wider selection, often accompanied by detailed size guides and customer reviews to help find the perfect fit. The ease of returns and exchanges in these stores also enhances the shopping experience and makes trying on new styles and sizes less daunting.

Dedicated plus-size brands are a cornerstone of plus-size fashion, offering collections specifically designed to meet the needs and preferences of plus-size people. These brands understand the nuances of plus-size body shapes and create clothes that not only fit well, but also flatter and enhance.

Leading brands in plus size fashion

Torrid is a leading name in plus-size fashion, known for its extensive range of trendy, flattering clothing. From casual to formal wear, Torrid offers a wide range of styles to cater to different tastes and occasions. Another prominent brand is Lane Bryant, which combines classic and modern styles with a focus on fit and comfort. Lane Bryant's collections include workwear, casual outfits and elegant evening wear, making it a versatile choice for plus size customers.

Specialty and niche brands

In addition to the dedicated mainstream brands, there are several niche brands worth exploring. Universal Standard, for example, is known for its high-quality, minimalist designs that prioritize inclusion and sustainability. Their size range is one of the widest in the industry, making them a great choice for plus-size outfits and investment pieces. ELOQUII offers fashionable, bold styles that cater to plus-size women who want to draw attention to themselves. From vibrant dresses to chic workwear, their collections emphasize trend-driven designs that don't compromise on fit.

Online shopping has revolutionized the fashion industry, offering unparalleled convenience and variety, especially for plus-size shoppers. Many online retailers offer extensive plus-size collections, allowing customers to browse and buy clothes from the comfort of their own home. The ability to shop a wide range of brands and styles without the limitations of physical store inventory is a significant advantage of online shopping.

Leading online retailers

ASOS Curve is a popular online destination for plus size fashion, offering a great selection of trendy clothing at affordable prices. Their plus size range includes everything from casual basics to evening wear, with regular updates to keep up with the latest fashion trends. Boohoo Plus is another excellent online retailer known for its budget-friendly prices and wide range of styles. They update their collections frequently, ensuring plus-size shoppers have access to the latest fashion.

Navigating online shopping

Shopping for plus size clothing online has its own challenges, such as size inconsistencies and not being able to try on clothes before you buy. However, many online retailers overcome these issues by offering detailed sizing guides, customer reviews and free returns. It's important to check the return and exchange policy before you buy to ensure a hassle-free shopping experience. Additionally, using filters to sort by size, style and price can help streamline the shopping process and make it easier to find what you're looking for.

For those seeking unique, high-quality clothing, boutique stores and independent designers are an excellent alternative to mainstream retailers. These stores often offer a curated selection of clothing with a focus on unique designs, high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. When you shop at boutiques and independent designers, you're not only supporting small businesses, but you also have the opportunity to discover distinctive, unique pieces that stand out.

Highlights from stores

Stores like 11 Honoré offer luxury plus-size clothing from a range of exclusive designers. Their collections include everything from chic dresses to tailored suits and cater to plus-size women who want to invest in stylish, high-quality clothing. Another notable store is Plus BKLYN, which offers a mix of new and vintage plus-size clothing. Their curated selection includes trendy, fashion-forward pieces that are often hard to find elsewhere.

Support independent designers

Independent designers like Christian Siriano and Ashley Nell Tipton are making waves in the plus size fashion industry. Their collections often feature bold, innovative designs that challenge traditional fashion norms and celebrate plus size bodies. By shopping from independent designers, you can support creative talent and find clothes that reflect individuality and personal style.