Ooooooh ladies, you've done it now. I keep getting emails from you asking where to shop for kick ass fat girl clothes, and I'm here to deliver. Some of the greatest ladies of fatshion blogging took the time to share their three favorite places for clothing collecting... and if you're lucky some might even tell you where to find babe-a-licious swimsuits as well. Feel free to click their picture to be directed to their personal site, as well as click on every link below to get lost in a sea of fashopportunity. That's not a real word, but it should be.
Hold on to your sexy plus-size britches, its about to get awesome up in here:
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Some summer hot spots with shopping for me are Domino Dollhouse, eShakti and Old Navy. It's a strange mix but Domino Dollhouse covers wild 90's inspired prints and pieces for a perfect statement look in the Nuclear collection. I'm in love and currently owning half of their accessories. eShakti has a much more conservative look with dresses I haven't found in my size anywhere else. I see lots of summer bbq's in their well made fashionable dresses. I threw Old Navy in the mix because while their quality isn't always top notch I can rely on them for well prices basics like shorts and tanks. As for bathing suits I have been seeing ALLIHALLA making some amazing and unique swimwear for summer 2013. She customizes style, fabrics and sizes. Some of her work lately has been amazing and I really want a swimsuit from her.
Asos is probably my favourite place to shop. I buy like 80% of my clothes there. They have a great straight size line which goes up to a UK18, which fits me, but Curve is probably the best plus line around, and carries a lot of stuff I love too.
Modcloth's plus line has really come up in recent times. I think they go upto a 3X in some items but most of the stuff they have is smaller than that, and goes up to just my size. They need to work on expanding their size range, but stylewise, their stuff is what I love best.
I hunt Etsy and eBay for vintage a lot. Obviously there's a far wider selection in the smaller sizes but I've come across many a gem in larger sizes (UK 22-26) while browsing there.
Special mention: I came across AppleCharlotte today and her collection is the best plus size clothing I've ever seen. Although it's not for sale, I think everyone should support her in launching her line. And no, she didn't pay me to say this, I'm just seriously awed by her clothes.
And oh yeah swimsuits - Modcloth does retro one and two piece swimsuits which I really really want, in plus sizes. I THINK they go up to a 4X? Everyone also seems to be talking about Gabifresh's swimsuit collection for Swimsuitsforall, but I don't know anything about it, because I haven't looked at it, except for the galaxy one, which I think is incredibly cute.
When it comes to summer-shopping, I have a set of go-to places that I always find trendy, edgy, young and fresh fashions from that never disappoint. First, I always check out Addition Elle which is my favourite Canadian plus-size clothing store. But my American ladies, not to fret! Additon Elle delivers to the USA online. They have a lovely selection of lingerie, casual wear, dresses, swimsuits and the lot. This is a staple-store for me.
Next, I have to tell you ladies that I am *obsessed* with Chubby Cartwheels which offers edgy, young and hip clothing made by the lovely and talented Shawna Farmer. I have several Chubby Cartwheels body-suits which are absolutely *brilliant* for summer - you can wear them with shorts, pants, skirts, or on their own. Paired with the right undergarments, you could even get away with wearing a bodysuit to the beach.
Lastly, I have to direct you ladies to Domino Dollhouse. If you couldn't already tell, I have a passion for edgy fashion. And Domino Dollhouse is the ho-to for pin-up and edgy clothing.
And for those of you looking for swimsuits other than what Additon Elle and Domino Dollhouse has to offer, check out Monif C and SwimsuitsForAll for some contemporary, sexy plus-size swimwear.
When I was asked by Jes to pick my top three favorite plus size stores for her blog, I thought to myself, "An impossible mission! How can I choose just three!" Then I had a look at her fabulous blog. She definitely has a clear sense of "alternative" style, which I just plain love!
With that in mind, my first choice for summer is most definitely Domino Dollhouse. They have lots of retro inspired pieces as well as unique, edgy ones that can be mixed in (or not!) with more "straight" pieces for an awesome vibe. My favorite part is that most of the tops of dresses/skirts etc. are fitted and then puff out significantly, which means those of us with the pear shaped situation get the best of both worlds--- a tight top and a gloriously flow-y bottom. I personally own a pink crinoline from them, an awesome striped skirt, and a bejeweled, shear purple top (my YouTube channel actually has a haul which shows all of them). AND I believe they have a 20% going on now (Google it quick!).
My second pick, while not totally out there, is Asos Curve. They have some more sophisticated, classic, staple pieces (black skirts and dresses, collared tops etc.) and then LOADS of clothes with clear personality--- prints, sparkles, stripes, a little something for everyone. In my experience, they run big (yay!) and are awesome. They have free shipping both ways too. At this point, about 50% of most frequently worn items hail from here. I love their skater dresses!With that in mind, my first choice for summer is most definitely Domino Dollhouse. They have lots of retro inspired pieces as well as unique, edgy ones that can be mixed in (or not!) with more "straight" pieces for an awesome vibe. My favorite part is that most of the tops of dresses/skirts etc. are fitted and then puff out significantly, which means those of us with the pear shaped situation get the best of both worlds--- a tight top and a gloriously flow-y bottom. I personally own a pink crinoline from them, an awesome striped skirt, and a bejeweled, shear purple top (my YouTube channel actually has a haul which shows all of them). AND I believe they have a 20% going on now (Google it quick!).
My third pick (and this is simply because it is summer) ties Alight and eShakti. I like Alight for their sun dresses :) I have loads from them. I like eShakti for their unique, retro, not-retro, plain, not-plain, printed, solid colored, AMAZING dresses. They totally rock my socks in that department. eShakti also has sizes up to 36 and CUSTOM sizes, which means you can get your very own, personal fit. Summer is most definitely the best season for each of these :). I would say at least 35% of my most worn items are from these stores. In fact, I sit here in a neon striped get-up from eShakti.
I also want to mention a plus size resale place Fattoo (a Facebook group). They are hopping and have lots of turnover! Feel free to search for it on Facebook and join! I sell my stuff pretty quickly on there. There are some good steals there. In addition, Abbeypost is an up and coming website for plus size resale too.
Remember, Curvy IS Beautiful!
Hugsies all you Militant Bakers!
3 Places I shop most:
JIBRI - I can always find a knockout garment from this designer and since she's independent I can confidently walk in a room and not be worrying about someone have the same garment on.
JCPenney - This has been a place that I have recently been shopping a lot at. They have some really cute pieces that I can work into my wardrobe at inexpensive prices.
H&M - Always good for trendy inexpensive finds, fabulous designer collaborations, and funky accessories.
My favorite places for swimsuits are Nakimuli and MonifC. They have vibrant colors and include both fatkinis and whole pieces in their collection. They both really push the boundaries of plus size swimwear.
During the summer, I'm typically in the market for swimsuits, shorts, and fun dresses. My favorite swimsuits have come from Lane Bryant (sizes 14-28). I like their retro style swimsuit, and I especially like that many styles have built in bras. I'm a size 28/30 on the bottom, so I have fewer options when it comes to shorts. I like to get mine from Old Navy Women's Plus (sizes 18 - 30) since they have a lot of choice in lengths, fabrics, and colors. For my dresses, I look to Australian retailer City Chic (sizes 14-24). They have a search function for your size, so I use that to see what dresses are available in the XXL (24). I like that their dresses cover many different styles, so they can appeal to me when I'm feeling girly and also when I'm wanting something a little more dark or edgy.
JIBRI - I can always find a knockout garment from this designer and since she's independent I can confidently walk in a room and not be worrying about someone have the same garment on.
JCPenney - This has been a place that I have recently been shopping a lot at. They have some really cute pieces that I can work into my wardrobe at inexpensive prices.
H&M - Always good for trendy inexpensive finds, fabulous designer collaborations, and funky accessories.
My favorite places for swimsuits are Nakimuli and MonifC. They have vibrant colors and include both fatkinis and whole pieces in their collection. They both really push the boundaries of plus size swimwear.
Being a bit of a bargain hunter and also on a tight budget my favourite places to shop for plus size clothes are:
Plus Sized Clothes Swap - I have been to 4 swaps and have run 1 with my friend Rebecca and have another planned for June in Leeds. Its a simply thing to arrange. Venue is key! Somewhere cheap! We charge and entry fee of £1 and you bring as much or as little as you like. Everything gets put out on tables and everyone just takes what they want. Sizes range from 14 - 38. More and more people come each time and word of mouth has made it very popular. Try putting one on in your area!
New Look Inspire - Sadly they have little to do with the fat community but their prices and range are very good. I buy most items from them. They are missing out on business by not doing underwear for plus sizes. Leggings I tend to buy from straight size stores as most 18/20 will fit my 24/26 bum and are much cheaper than from Plus ranges.
ASOS Curve - They have super styles and a large range but are a little more expensive. I tend to wait for sales. I have also bought from the straight range of oversized tshirts in a size 18 and it was still very large! I have bought Swing dresses in size 18 that also fit perfectly! ASOS is free delivery so it is worth buying a few different sizes at the same time and seeing which fits best then return the others.
Swimwear - I have found Simply Be best for swimwear. Great styles and prices although not very supportive for the larger bust in their bikini range.
Shopping is a laborious but pleasurable task. I wear a size 26 and my wardrobe is filled with clothes from a size 14 to a 28. You have to shop with an open mind and hold clothing up to see if you think it may fit, don't just go by the size on the label. My favourite bricks and mortar stores are Evans, Marks and Spencer, and Monsoon. Not exactly cutting edge but you have to cut your own edge with creative styling and imaginative colour combinations. Don't be put off by a retailers frumpy image, you never know what you might find! I also love vintage items though these are hard to find in the right size. My first stop for online shopping- Asos. They don't water down the trends for larger sizes and offer some great pieces. My second stop- Simply Be- they offer clothes up to a size 32- HELLO!
During the summer, I'm typically in the market for swimsuits, shorts, and fun dresses. My favorite swimsuits have come from Lane Bryant (sizes 14-28). I like their retro style swimsuit, and I especially like that many styles have built in bras. I'm a size 28/30 on the bottom, so I have fewer options when it comes to shorts. I like to get mine from Old Navy Women's Plus (sizes 18 - 30) since they have a lot of choice in lengths, fabrics, and colors. For my dresses, I look to Australian retailer City Chic (sizes 14-24). They have a search function for your size, so I use that to see what dresses are available in the XXL (24). I like that their dresses cover many different styles, so they can appeal to me when I'm feeling girly and also when I'm wanting something a little more dark or edgy.
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This is only part one, and there are more to come. I love these ladies so hard.
Wanna share your shopping secrets in the comments below?
Lets make this the ultimate guide! Ready... GO!
Great post! Some of the shops mentioned I had never heard of before, so I'll definitely have to check those out. I especially didn't know Old Navy went up to size 30. I thought for sure I wouldn't be able to shop there, so thanks for the tip on that, ladies!
ReplyDeleteSome of my personal favorite online shopping sites are Avenue (sizes 14-32) and Roamans (sizes 12-44). Both have cute selections and great sales.
- Kat =^-^=
Old Navy is great because they have also have ultra-petite. They seem to be aware small-statured women who need clothes too, and are sick of shopping in the children's sections!
DeleteTrue that! I have girlfriends who are petites as well. I'll have to let them know. I hope more chains will consider that there are women of all sizes (big and small) and we like to look good! - Kat =^-^=
DeleteAwesome post! It's great to see all these fab bloggers in one place :)
ReplyDeletegoogle law firm
ReplyDeleteFab canadian resource LUCY (lovely, uniquely, curvy, you)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.lucyclothing.ca/
Canadian resource
ReplyDeleteLucy
http://www.lucyclothing.ca/
love, uniquely, curvey, you
I am in love with Igigi. I will some day be Fierce in one of her limited edition gowns. I'll wear it everywhere- grocery shopping.
ReplyDeleteGreat photo-spreads! I pretty much have no fashion-sense, so it is wonderful to see so many beautiful ladies who do :)
ReplyDeleteJust a not from a Canadian perspective if you are faboulosly big like I am old navy is not the place to go or order from. They will not even ship the larger sizes out ( unless they changed recently), so unless you hop the border....
ReplyDeleteBut the other places I am definitely checking out and they look fantastic!
I do like Old Navy but I find their button downs don't work over my large chest, but their knits do . . . It's pricey and not always young looking, but I also really like Lands End for quality pieces like button downs and dress pants. Kohl's sometimes has cute things in their plus department, and of course, who can forget the thrift store! You'll have to dig through the racks more, but when you can get a Lane Bryant blouse for 3.99, its worth the effort.
ReplyDeleteOld Navy is good, tho inconsistent--their knits fit me, but button downs don't. I also recommend Lands End and Kohl's, and of course, thrift stores. You have to dig through the racks more to find good plus size stuff, but it's worth it to snag a Torrid of Lane Bryant blouse for 3.99.
ReplyDeleteThank you thank you thank you for this post!
ReplyDeleteLovely :) Now I am totally going to check out Addition Elle! AND All the lovely ladies you featured!!!! Love it! Totally tweeted etc :D Yay!
ReplyDeleteyay! great post! i'm on the search for shorts (i haven't worn them in years and this is summer i get over myself and do it!)
ReplyDeletei bought this bathing suit from torrid recently. i felt awesome in it in the store and it is SO MUCH CUTER than the terrible skirt one i bought a few years ago because it was the first one i could find that fit. i'm trying to get brave and wear it in public now, it is way more revealing than i usually wear. we'll see how it goes!
great post ! thank you to all of you !!
ReplyDeleteit will be cool if we do a similar about french shop ^^ because, we are sometimes a little late about plus size fashion ^^
Ha! A week before this post I did a round-up on my blog of ALL the shops I have found in the UK that do plus-size, arranged by max size and price. Hopefully it will be useful for UK/Europe fat chicks, and, maybe some ship to the US?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.ellomennopee.com/2013/05/plus-size-shopping-in-uk.html
I second Lands' End. Old Navy is so hit or miss with me (mostly miss) that I wind up returning 9 things out of 10 that I order. Items in the same size often don't fit the same way at all. That doesn't stop me from buying from them, since plus petite ladies have so few choices I hate to narrow it down more.
ReplyDeleteBathing suits are really difficult because I am different sizes on top and bottom and have really big boobs, so swimsuit tops need to be underwire and supportive and all that. There is a local specialty store I will go to if I really need one this season, but it's very expensive, so I'm just going to try not to go swimming. :-/ Isn't that awful? But it's the truth. Ordering a swimsuit would just be too difficult--too much charging up the credit card and then sending things back.
I have a tiny eBay store that mostly sells plus size tops up to 3X (I have more inventory I need to post, and more than that on the way), if anyone wants to take a look: The Smiling Turtle
And I have a blog that I've recently started about being petite and plus-sized. The Smiling Turtle blog I could really use some comments! :)
Thank you! I would add Jessica London (http://www.jessicalondon.com) which has a bunch of great dress designs up to size 26 and in a great variety of fabrics and brilliant colors. I've been living in their maxi dresses this spring!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.barenecessities.com/ and http://www.herroom.com/ both let you shop for swimwear by Bra size, so as an F-G cup I finally for the first time in my life have the courage to wear a bikini in public, as I know that I am not going to fall out. Also, both of them have great return policies: I purchased about 5 styles in different sizes, figured out which ones were the right size and look when I tried them on at home, and then returned the unwanted sizes. I will never attempt to find a two piece swimsuit at a sad store again! Also, I've never felt this good ina bathing suit! 29 and finally in a two piece!!!
ReplyDeleteReading this post inspired me to order from ASOS for the first time today. I chose a lovely green knit dress and some black leggings to go under it.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to their arrival. For years I've felt that I couldn't really express myself through clothing because it's hard an expensive to get the sorts of clothes I like in my size and I just end up wearing lots of black. (When I was thinner, I'd wear black/tie-dye/hippy/gothy/metal stuff.)
I've joined your the militant baker site and look forward to seeking more of your wonderful Shopping Guide for Summer Style post.beauty online stores and makeup online stores
ReplyDeleteI had to take pause and re-read those again. I was surprised at Old Navy. Last time I was in there, I couldn't find anything that in my size (it should be noted that I'm 21 now and the last time I was in there I was 16). So I know where I will be going once I pay my bills!
ReplyDeleteOld Navy doesn't carry the plus size in store, only online. You can get XXL in store, but that is usually it.
DeleteOld Navy only carries plus size clothes online. Usually you can only get up to XXL in store
DeleteLove this post! I wrote one today about what I'm wearing this season!
ReplyDeletehttp://throughgraceandcoffee.blogspot.ca/2013/05/spring-fashion.html
Megan
Hmmm & your dogging stores that cater to skinny people....?
ReplyDeleteI like Maurice's. There is one in my local mall. I am from ky in the U.S. they have things for smaller girls and bigger girls. I am an 18 in pants and a 20 to 22 on top. I can always find things that FIT and are fashionable. They also have great jewelry.
ReplyDeleteI like Maurice's. There is one in my local mall. I am from ky in the U.S. they have things for smaller girls and bigger girls. I am an 18 in pants and a 20 to 22 on top. I can always find things that FIT and are fashionable. They also have great jewelry.
ReplyDeleteI love this post!! Some other sites that are great that were not mentioned are. Eloquii.com, Igigi.com, Kiyonna.com and nordstrom.com
ReplyDelete