For plus size women in America, finding affordable, trendy and flattering clothing can be a challenge. With the average American woman now wearing between a size 16-18, the demand for plus size women’s clothing has boomed. However, the supply and variety of offerings has not always kept pace. While there are more options now than ever before, shopping for plus size clothes online or in physical stores can still be frustrating. Identifying retailers and brands selling affordable, on-trend plus size clothing takes research. Here are some tips for plus size women to invest in a stylish, confidence boosting wardrobe.
Know your measurements when shopping for plus size women’s clothing
The first step to building a wardrobe of plus size women’s clothing you love is to know your updated measurements. Sizing is inconsistent across different brands and stores. Don’t assume you wear the same size in everything. Measure your bust, waist, hips, inseam length etc. This saves time and frustration trying on ill-fitting items. Bring your measurements with you when shopping in stores. When buying online, review the specific size charts for each brand or item.
Look for plus size specific brands and lines
Rather than sifting through racks of standard sized clothing, shop brands catering specifically to plus size women’s fashion. These include names like Lane Bryant, Torrid, Eloquii, Universal Standard and others. The selection will be curated for plus size bodies and available in extended sizes. You’re more likely to find on-trend items designed with curve-flattering silhouettes. Shopping specialty plus size brands also means the staff is knowledgeable about fit, style and sizing for bigger bodies.
Try plus exclusive big box and department stores
Major retailers like Target, Nordstrom, Macy’s are expanding plus size clothing offerings. Check out plus exclusive sections like Target’s Ava & Viv, Nordstrom’s Evryday by Chrissy Rutherford and Macy’s The Edit. The quality, style and price point are better than generic plus size sections. Be aware of vanity sizing – a size 18W in one brand may fit very differently than another. Always check measurements.
Look for brands embracing body positivity and inclusivity
An increasing number of brands are responding to demand for plus size clothing by expanding sizing and celebrating diverse bodies in marketing. Good American, Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty, GabiFresh x Swimsuitsforall all feature plus size models and influencers. Buying from brands embracing inclusivity sends a message about the need for more options. Be aware of greenwashing though – some brands just go up to an XL or XXL while appearing size inclusive in ads.
Buy investment wardrobe basics like jeans, blouses in plus size stores
Build your wardrobe with versatile basics like jeans, pants, blouses, dresses from plus specialty retailers. Well-fitting basics in colors and silhouettes you can mix and match will form the foundation. Add trendy fast-fashion pieces each season. Buying high quality plus size basics designed for bigger bodies means an investment wardrobe you’ll wear for years. Pay attention to fabric, construction and structure when evaluating quality and fit. Breathable natural fabrics like cotton and linen make the best basics for plus size women’s clothing.
Shopping for stylish and affordable plus size clothing requires knowing your measurements, identifying brands catering to plus curves, watching for vanity sizing and focusing on quality basics. With some research, plus size women can build a wardrobe of confidence boosting pieces. Focusing on fit, comfort and color over size delivers the satisfaction we all deserve from fashion.