*Disclaimer: This story was written before coronavirus was declared a pandemic. Go to the Public Health Agency of Canada website for the latest information on symptoms, prevention, and other resources.
You probably all know and love her dearly: Tess Holliday is one of the most iconic plus-size fashion models and influencers. She has been a huge part of the body positivity movement since 2014 and has made appearances on magazine covers like Cosmopolitan, SELF, and Parents. But the biggest thing people have been dying to know is: how can you dress like her? Most often, Holliday is wearing plus-size brands that we can all order from online, but let’s be honest, that stuff can be expensive and it’s not always what you want.
Here’s how to get Tess Holliday’s Look for under $150!
Look #1:
My finds:
If you’ve been following Tess for any length of time, you’ll know that she loves a good animal print and has a bit of a rock n’ rock vibe. That’s why we couldn’t resist adding in this outfit that’s super easy to re-create. While we couldn’t find a suitable sequin leopard print dress, the outfit is still hot. Don’t skimp on the fishnet socks either — they add in some major sexiness.
Look #2:
My finds:
One of the things we love about Tess’ style is that she is not afraid of colour at all, or something that hugs her body. This is why we love how this dress fits all of her curves and serves beautifully. If you pair it with a contrasting shoe, like these coral mules from Joe Fresh, this outfit would be popping — figuratively and literally.
Look #3:
My finds:
Everyone wants a comfortable, casual look that they can feel good in. This is why it’s important to go digging around at places like Joe Fresh and American Eagle for basics like a jean jacket, and you can find them for cheap. From there, build up this Tess Holliday look out by adding in a tank and some short-shorts. This outfit is perfect for hot summer days, and honestly for showing off your gorgeous thighs. Best part: throw on your favourite pair of sneakers to add in a pop of colour and you can call it a day.
Look #4:
My finds:
Tess is the type of person who doesn’t back down from taking risks with her fashion choses. If the rules say plus-size folks shouldn’t wear prints, she does it and she slays. This is why we love this dress on her. We found the exact one she’s wearing and it looks totally comfortable for the office or everyday life, and of course, it’s affordable too.
Look #5:
My finds:
With the spring/summer time quickly approaching, florals are obviously going to make a big comeback. So of course, we were inspired by Tess Holliday’s love of florals for this outfit and we are obsessed with how cheery the print is. Add in a classic black sandal, a bright lip colour, and you’re good to go!
Articles You May Also Be Interested In:
How To Create A Glowing Makeup Look Using Charlotte Tilbury Products
I Tried Plus-Size Shopping At American Eagle — Here’s What I Found
10 Brands To Shop Online If You Can’t Get Enough Of H&M
How Fake Shopping Reviews Are Taking Over The Internet
Why I’m Not Inspired By The Kendall + Kylie Plus Size Collab With Ashley Stewart
Shopping for pantyhose is one of my worst nightmares, for a variety of reasons. For starters, many places have such a limited size range, to begin with (hello, bodies exist beyond a large or extra-large!) and oftentimes, the plus-size tights that are out there is just plain boring. Trust me, I’ve been down this path one too many times. When you’re plus-size and trying to find something to cover up those bare legs during the fall and winter months, the struggle can be real.
But thanks to a lot of time (and research), I seem to have found 6 brands who are KILLING the plus-size tights game. Take a look!
We Love Colors
The first time I tried on tights from this brand, I immediately fell in love. Not only was I able to get fun and funky styled tights, but they didn’t slouch, or fall down. It was like I had finally found a pair of plus-size tights that – gasp – fit perfectly. Now since you can only order these online, the biggest deal-breaker is the shipping expenses. But my three pairs of tights have lasted nearly two winter seasons, without rips or tears. So consider me a fan who is willing to preach the We Love Colors gospel to one and all.
Sheertex
When I was investigating online about where to find the best tights, many people were raving about Sheertex. I wasn’t sure if the hype was real as the tights are super expensive. But there is a reason! The brand claims that its tights last ten times longer than the competition, and to be honest, they genuinely do. I have pretty long nails, and I didn’t rip into them at all. My only complaint really? The control top is pretty tight, so if that’s not your jam, move along.
Addition Elle
For as long as I can remember, Addition Elle has been my go-to for solid plus-size tights. Not only were they fashionable, but they were also functional. In my experience, they would keep everything in place, and I didn’t have any struggle pulling them up. Over time though, I did find that they stretched a little bit on my body. But otherwise, good value for money.
Hue Tights
After many nights researching in a Facebook group for plus size women, many had recommended Hue Tights as their go-to. I decided it was time to try it out for myself once and for all. Available to directly order via their website, or on Amazon – the tights have several different styles to choose from. They fit pretty true to size with not too much stretch. In the pair I ordered, it came with a control top which was surprisingly comfortable. One thing you may want to consider is that the Hue Tights are surprisingly low rise.
Torrid
Similar to Addition Elle, the tights on offer at Torrid are cheap, cheerful, and necessary. They are surprisingly comfortable and don’t stretch out as much as other tights on the market. It makes them an affordable option for the plus-size consumer who loves to purchase from a brick and mortar store.
Joe Fresh
Recently, Joe Fresh stopped carrying a majority of its plus-size offerings in-store, however, you should still be able to find its tights online and to be honest, I’d grab them. For $6, they are the best value, but probably not the best quality. With that being said, they will get you through a work event or a few weeks in the winter. Besides, if you get a hole in them – who cares? You paid $6 for them!
Articles You May Also Be Interested In:
I Tried Plus Size Shopping At Uniqlo – See How It Went
7 Of The Best Plus Size Launches Of 2019 To Know About
Why I’m Not Inspired By The Kendall + Kylie Plus Size Collab With Ashley Stewart
My Opinion On Victoria’s Secrets New Inclusive Campaign
Why It Might Be Worth It To Invest In A Big Fig Mattress If You’re Plus Size
A few months back, some people in my local plus-size trading group kept on recommending American Eagle as ‘the place to go’ for jeans. Me, the skeptic, was highly dubious of this recommendation. In my head, all I could think about were my evenings at the Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga during high school.
I would go shopping with my friends, and American Eagle was ‘the’ place to shop.
But times had changed since I was 17 years old. For starters, I was no longer the size 16 I once was and now was a full-fledged plus-size (size 18/20, respectively) and would consider myself an apple shape. I really didn’t think this brand, whose entire marketing ethos was appealing to the ‘average American’, would genuinely want to put clothes on a body like mine. But guess what? It does!
While the store doesn’t offer a full range of sizes, there was more selection offered here than at Old Navy which made me shocked. Also, the sales rep greeted me immediately and helped me find a bunch of outfits to try on, without even looking twice at my size or shape. It felt like I had entered the Twilight Zone, to be honest.
So after she consulted with me, we pulled together four different outfits, here are my thoughts about shopping plus-size at American Eagle!
Outfit #1:
Floral pants, size XL – $49.95
Light yellow knitted top, size XL – $34.95
Before we went into the change room, the sales associate told me that most of the items in the store had a loose fit, and she talked to me about the fabrics. The pants were made from a light cotton material, which would be perfect for the spring and I was in LOVE with the pattern! The yellow knit shirt was soft on the skin, and didn’t fit too tight. I did find it a little loose in the arms (for my liking) but overall, this outfit combo was a huge hit for me.
Outfit #2:
Varsity crop hoodie, size XL – $49.95
Black curvy regular jeans, size 20 – $64.95
So prior to heading into American Eagle, everyone was raving about the jeans, so I knew I needed to try them. I scooped up this semi-cropped hoodie to go along with them to give me a sporty look. Overall, I loved the feel of the sweatshirt. Now let’s talk about the jeans! Man oh man, was I disappointed. They fit quite perfectly in the waist but other than that, they were baggy all over, causing weird bunching on the leg and near the crotch — not great.
Outfit #3:
Light blue paper bag pants, size XL – $44.95
Eggplant soft tee, size L – $29.95
The sales associate told me these were her favourite pants, and I was almost positive I had spotted them on Sarah Anne, a plus-size blogger’s Instagram before. I thought I’d give them a try and paired them alongside an eggplant-colored soft tee. The pants were a bit tight to get on, but once they were on, they were totally fine to move around in and super comfortable. Since I sized down in the shirt, I found it hugged my hips and all my curves just the way I liked. My only concern was: would the item hold up in the wash?
Outfit #4:
Black ripped denim mini-skirt, size 18 – $59.95
Oversized white knitted sweater – $54.95
When I originally saw the skirt on the rack, my eyes bulged out of my head a bit. The sales associate said, “Trust me, this is going to look dope on you.” She was not wrong, but also it’s not as short as I anticipated. I thought for sure we were going to have a Britney moment, and I was worried as all hell. The over-sized sweater was comfy as hell. I am not a huge sweater person and I was into this.
Overall, the shopping experience was great — like a lot more positive than I was expecting.
In denim, the retailer carries up to a 24 in store and only an XL in tops, dresses, and some pants. Because so many things were oversized, it was good to try things on. For example – I tried on a size 16 skirt and fit into it but it was TIGHT so a size 18 felt way better. If you, like me, needed convincing to go shop at American Eagle, hopefully, this does it.
Articles You May Also Be Interested In:
Why I’m Not Inspired By The Kendall + Kylie Plus Size Collab With Ashley Stewart
I Tried Plus-Size Shopping At Old Navy – Here’s How It Went
Why It Might Be Worth It To Invest In A Big Fig Mattress If You’re Plus Size
10 Underrated Shopping Destinations In Toronto
Wondering How Your Shopping Habits Affect Climate Change? There’s A Tool For That
In this day and age, it’s kind of a surprising to see, when walking into a store or browsing online, that a brand doesn’t offer inclusive sizing. It’s kind of like when you’re shopping for foundation and you see that there are 7 nude colours and one deep brown shade. What’s even the point in releasing a product that excludes such a large part of the population? This is why we couldn’t be more excited to learn that Canadian fave Aritzia is going to start testing inclusive sizing in its stores.
According to Elle Canada, Aritzia will offer inclusive sizing up to a size 18 in its spring Babaton collection.
The news that the brand was testing inclusive sizing on a trial basis was first reported in The Globe and Mail. Aritzia founder and CEO Brian Hill said, “We’re not sure it’s going to make a meaningful impact to our sales, but we think it’s the right thing to do for our customers.”
As of today, the brands sizing only ranges from An XXXS to A L/XL, or sizes 0 to 10-12.
There’s no word yet on the launch date of this new inclusive collection, but it’s definitely a positive step for the brand. However, for this new spring collection, Aritzia will be using plus size models which is another first for the retailer.
The collection will be available for purchase online at Aritzia.com and at select North American stores.
Articles You May Also Be Interested In:
Why I’m Not Inspired By The Kendall + Kylie Plus Size Collab With Ashley Stewart
What Knix’s All Inclusive Swimwear Line Looks Like On 5 Different Body Types
7 Of The Best Plus Size Launches Of 2019 To Know About
Style Test: I Tried Shopping Plus Size Vintage At Value Village
Why It Might Be Worth It To Invest In A Big Fig Mattress If You’re Plus Size
It has been a good year for plus size fashion, with lots of high-end retailers and mainstream brands expanding their lines. But one of the biggest things that took place was a ton of plus-size collaborations, some which were good (Roxy Earle and Sheertex, yes please!) and some which were downright bad.
One such example of ‘the bad’ was back in November when brand Ashley Stewart announced they would be collaborating with Kendall + Kylie Jenner.
You know them. They’re famous sisters from Keeping Up With The Kardashians. The line, available in sizes 10 through 24, was to feature 7 pieces and almost as soon as it was announced, the plus-size community on the Internet had something to say.
For those keeping track, the Jenner and Kardashian family have had a largely fatphobic past.
When they aren’t promoting fit teas and appetite suppressants via their social media (with complete ignorance mind you), they have used their brands to reinforce unattainable and unrealistic beauty ideals. Who can forget teens rushing to participate in the Kylie Jenner lip challenge in 2015 and seriously injuring themselves?
This is why it is so important when brands do decide to reach out and begin a collaboration with someone for their brand, it is a fit.
Not just for them, but for the community at large. It is so important for brands who talk about being a part of the plus-size community to continue to stay engaged with their consumers and also, the audience they are serving to stay relevant. What do these consumers really want and who would fit our brand?
Let me say this: I would never purchase plus-size clothes from Kendall and Kylie Jenner, and I watch the Kardashians.
I remember when I was growing up, my plus-size idol was Beth Ditto from the band, The Gossip. She had the most incredible style, and to be honest, she was someone I looked up to. So when Evans (a UK retailer) announced in 2009 that it would be collaborating with Ditto for a clothing line, I immediately knew I needed to have it.
I marched down to Holt Renfrew and asking them if they would be carrying it, and they thought I was nuts. But at the time, online shopping wasn’t as sophisticated as it is today. I watched from as far as Beth’s collection sold out and repeat collections followed.
This collaboration kind of set the standard for how plus-size collabs should run in the future, and well, who they should serve.
Just this year, Universal Standard collaborated with Rodarte, J. Crew, and Adidas! When I was visiting New York City, I had the opportunity to go into the showroom and see, feel, and try on the Rodarte collection in-person.
Honestly, I’ve only ever seen Rodarte on the pages of Vogue and it was everything I ever dreamed of and more.
This is why these collabs matter: it gives customers the possibility to have access to contemporary, ready-to-wear fashion in sizes 0-40 from brands we know and love. As soon as I slipped the bright red ruffled jumpsuit while I was at its showroom in New York City, I felt transported into a whole new world.
At the end of the day, as customers, we want to feel excited by the designers or celebrities who are partnering with the brands we know and love.
They don’t necessarily have to be a part of the plus community, but there has to be the right energy for that partnership to make sense. When Christian Siriano teamed up with Lane Bryant, I got that.
All this is to say in 2020, I want brands to take a good hard think before they just decide to collab for the sake of collaborating with someone. Your partnerships need to make sense because at the end of the day, the Internet always talks and you WILL hear it. Sure, Kendall + Kylie Jenner is popular for a lot of people, but they don’t inspire me.
Articles You May Be Interested In:
7 Of The Best Plus Size Launches Of 2019 To Know About
Why More High-End Brands Are Expanding Into Plus Sizes
Why It Might Be Worth It To Invest In A Big Fig Mattress If You’re Plus Size
I Tried Shopping For Plus Size Lingerie At Toronto’s New Knix Store
8 Plus Size Jewellery Designers You Need To Have On Your Radar
When I first discovered Knix way back in 2013, it was just a Kickstarter campaign being shared by some pals. A lot has changed in 6 years for the Toronto-based brand, and its founder and CEO Joanna Griffiths. Not only has the company grown considerably expanding from its original Knix product — the 8-in-1 Evolution bra, a hybrid every day/active bra — but it has since launched a teen line, swimwear and now, a permanent retail store on Queen Street West.
For those who have ever been hesitant to order online, or perhaps never been able to make it to a Knix pop-up shop, this space offers a warm, welcoming and inclusive shopping experience for people of all shapes, sizes, and ages.
Already a big fan of Knix, I was excited to go into the store and check out some of the new products that Knix was offering now that the brand has a physical location.
What could someone expect when they went to the Queen Knix location, and as a plus-size individual did everything fit me?
The store is a pastel dream, and on the racks and just about everything you would find on the website: bras, sport bras, loungewear and more. I decided to get my hands on some new-to-me items and head into the dressing room, where I was paired up with my own personal fitter named Hilary. The change rooms were super cozy and didn’t feel claustrophobic like most change rooms. Bonus: they had the perfect mirror with good lighting for selfies.
Outfit 1:
Evolution Tank in Sweet Fig, $68
Lounge Pant in Black, $65
Both of these items were new to me, and I thought it would be great to try them on. The lounge pants were super soft, and dreamy. They felt like a hybrid between sweat pants and yoga pants, and quite frankly the best thing I had ever tried on. The Evolution Tank was a bit of a different feeling, however. Since it has a bra built-in, it was a bit snug to put on. Hilary explained that this was normal, but to be honest, it was not the most comfortable feeling. I didn’t want to risk keeping the tank and attempting to “break” it in. It did, however, the tank did provide great support. So if you do feel comfortable with this, I would recommend. I tried on the XXL (which fits a 40DD) and it was totally fine!
Outfit 2:
Padded V-Neck Bra in Twilight Magnolia, $68
Evolution Bra in Plum Velvet, $68
For December, the brand released some brand new colours and prints in their classic bras. I have always been a huge fan of the Evolution Bra, so I decided to try it on in the plum velvet colour, to see what it was like. I tried on the 8+ with an extended (my normal bra size is 40DD) and the bra fit, however, I did notice some issues. For starters, I seemed to be rock a little bit too much sideboob (as pictured) and the bottom of the bra kept rolling up. According to the Knix blog, this means I should go up a size, but unfortunately this is the biggest size. However, when I tried on the Padded V-Neck, there was very minimal cup spillage and no band rolling up. To be quite honest, the bra fit so comfortably and I really loved it. I would totally buy it.
Outfit 3:
Longevity Bra in Black, $50
This bra is quite similar to the Evolution Bra is style and shape, but it is longer and therefore it doesn’t have any of the rolling up issues I was having before. Although it’s touted as a sports bra, I felt as if I could wear this as a normal everyday bra.
Outfit 4:
Sleep Set in Navy, $79
It is so difficult to find cute pajamas, so when I found this set in the Knix store, I instantly fell in love. I decided to try on the XXL, as I typically take an 18/20 in most clothes. I wanted to have an oversized look and feel to the set (if possible) and when I tried on the set, it fit and it was cute. But it definitely did not have the oversize look I was hoping to achieve. There was even room in the sleep set (with elastic in the waist), so I had room to move. It was also made from a soft fabric, that I couldn’t stop touching. I really wish it was a bit bigger.
Final Thoughts:
There were a couple items I could not fit into at all while I was at Knix, and that was a shame. I know that as a plus-size individual (18/20 waist and a 40DDD bra size), I’m on the smaller end of plus.
I believe that Knix has been committed to working within the community to fitting individuals and trying to work on expanding their range. Hell, I do really love the line and I did walk out of the store with a few pieces, but I know for people (like me) coming into a physical location will be CRUCIAL because sometimes gambling on bras is no fun.
Get yourself down to a Knix, and see what works for you. Spent about an hour, and work with your personal fitter to find what’s right for you and your body type.
Articles You May Also Be Interested In:
7 Of The Best Plus Size Launches Of 2019 To Know About
Why More High-End Brands Are Expanding Into Plus Sizes
Style Test: I Tried Shopping Plus Size Vintage At Value Village
Why It Might Be Worth It To Invest In A Big Fig Mattress If You’re Plus Size
10 Plus Size Canadian Influencers To Follow On Instagram
As I’ve been getting older and a little bit wiser, I have been trying to take better care of myself, inside and out. One of the biggest investments I have made in recent years was a brand new mattress. In 2017, my partner and I decided to purchase a Casper mattress, and we were both excited about our new bed. Sleep, for many, is an act of self-care and can be a powerful way that a person can start to feel better, and recharge mentally and emotionally.
After owning our Casper for nearly six months, I was happy with it, but I was beginning to realize that I just wasn’t getting the support I needed for my plus-size body.
This, in turn, lead to interrupted periods of sleep and waking up with back pain. To be honest, prior to our Casper purchase, I had never considered that purchasing a mattress, specifically catered to my plus-size body would be a thing. But as I started to do some research, I would soon found out that no two mattresses were built equally.
This is when I discovered Big Fig Mattress for the very first time.
Designed, built and tested in 2016, the mattress company originally touted itself as “the first mattress built specifically to meet the needs of sleepers with a bigger figure.” Reading up on the mattress, it is built specifically to support up to 550 lbs, or a couple with a distributed weight of 1100 lbs. Not too bad!
I don’t think I have ever read about a mattress that could fully support my plus-size body.
All other mattresses would either dip in on the sides or on the edges, leaving me unsupported and vulnerable. Plus, on the Big Fig website, it offers a specific foundation and bed frame (made out of old railway steel), for those who need additional support.
After seeing so many people I know and love online raving about how much they loved the Big Fig Mattress, I decided it was time for me to take the plunge.
In September, the company announced it would be shipping to Canada, with bed sizes ranging from twin to California king, with prices from $1299 to $1999 USD. I placed the order, and in less than a week, the order arrived at my door in three separate pieces: the mattress, the foundation, and the bed frame.
The pieces were all fairly easy to assemble, and pretty straightforward.
Now came the true test: sleeping on the bed! Right now, I have been sleeping on the mattress for just over two weeks. There are some things that I noticed also immediately that were different from my Big Fig Mattress than any other mattress I had slept on.
For starters, I immediately noticed the firmness as soon as I laid down the first night.
At first, I was unsure if this would be comfortable, given how soft the Casper mattress was before. But it turns out, in these last two weeks, I’ve gotten some of the best sleeps ever. No really, I’ve been using an app and my sleep has been much more sound.
I believe that since this mattress utilizes both foam and spring layers to provide support and comfort, I’m basically getting the best of both worlds.
Within a few days of sleeping on the mattress, I had noticed that a lot of my previous back issues were gone.
The way the mattress has been designed support my spine better and helps me rest easy. Plus, it has a ThermoGel treated fabric which helps to lower the body temperature for an actively cool sleeping experience. No more tossing and turning because of how hot I was — what luxury was this?!
Listen, buying a mattress is a BIG decision and when I decided to look into the Big Fig Mattress, I wanted to have all my research done.
Not only is this mattress perfect for plus-size sleepers, but it offers a 20-year warranty, which extends the longevity of the mattress, making it a great value for the money you spend.
I had honestly never considered buying a mattress specifically made for my plus-size body, but now that I did, I don’t think I’ll ever go back. I’m such a happy sleeper and I really appreciate all the thought Big Fig has put into the comfort of their plus-size consumers.
Articles You May Be Interested In:
The 4 Unicorns Of Retail That Are Now Worth Billions
How Hilary MacMillan Made A Statement By Extending To Plus Sizes
8 Plus Size Jewellery Designers You Need To Have On Your Radar
I Updated My Bedroom With $50 At Dollarama & Here’s How It Looks
Why More High-End Brands Are Expanding Into Plus Sizes
The plus-size clothing market is changing, and it’s hard to say if it’s for better or for worse. On November 13th, plus-size luxury e-tailer 11 Honoré (who stock Diane von Furstenberg, Jason Wu, Dolce & Gabbana and Christian Siriano in plus sizes) announced that it had secured $10 million in funding. One of those investors? Nordstrom. Unlike their other department store peers, Nordstrom is hoping to expand its size offerings, hoping to bridge that gap with 11 Honoré.
But it wasn’t the first (and only) clothing retailer that has made the push into high-end plus size fashion.
One of the firsts was Universal Standard, and its founder and chief creative officer, Alexandra Waldman. For years, plus-size shoppers had been asking for a fashion brand for something you’d think would be relatively simple: size-inclusive basics. Yet, until the brand came along, there wasn’t really anything on the market. The best part? The line was full of fashion-forward basics in sizes 10 to 28, which were considered chic and stylish.
However, this line was not cheap, with the average price of an item ranging from $50-200 USD.
For many when clothes range from around $60 to $275, it may not be accessible to all shoppers. The increased price of plus-size clothing has often been referred to as the “fat tax.” According to Business Insider, the “fat tax” is a difference in price between items made for those in the plus-sized community vs. those who are not.
But the Universal Standard team did two things: they tried to challenge consumers’ perception of what plus-size clothing is worth and of course, getting them to believe they are worth it. But they also tried to help provide a solution with their Fit Liberty program.
Through this program, customers were given the ability to buy for the size they were (at that moment) and exchange for another size, if it changed in the following months – for free. It was a radical offering, that many who were uncertain about committing to high-end luxury clothes could get on board with.
It also told customers who were interested in luxury clothes: yes, you’re worth it.
Marketing to plus-size individuals who are interested in high-end luxury brands has been notoriously difficult. The reason being is that some shoppers wanted to hide their bodies or didn’t want to commit to clothing, at a higher price tag, for fear of their bodies changing. But other Canadian fashion designers like Hilary MacMillan and Lesley Hampton, also want to change this.
When I spoke to Hilary MacMillan after her showing at Toronto Fashion Week this year, she mentioned that although she spent considerable time researching the plus market, she was open to talking to women trying the brand, and getting a sense of how the brand fits people’s body shapes. The pricing of her spring/summer collection ranges from $150-300 and fits up to a 6XL.
She is quick to recognize that there is a shift happening in the industry with the plus-size market, and wants to actually pay attention by speaking directly to her customers via social media and her showroom.
Historically speaking, luxury fashion has always been about exclusivity, but the size of the average women in North America is 14 and above.
It’s time for a change, and brands have no choice but to listen to consumer demand and start evolving. For so long, plus-size shoppers didn’t think high-quality experiences existed for them, but now they do.
In the last year, we have seen brands like Henning, And Comfort, Madewell, and Tamara Malas launch into the market to great success. There is clearly space and room for all these brands, now it’s about time to change the marketplace.
Articles You May Be Interested In:
8 Of The Best Stores To Shop At For Plus Size Jeans
How Hilary MacMillan Made A Statement By Extending To Plus Sizes
What It’s Like To Shop For Plus-Size Clothing On Amazon
Why The Fashion Industry Is Still A Long Way From Being Size Inclusive
8 Plus Size Jewellery Designers You Need To Have On Your Radar
For years, I have spent considerable amounts of time ordering clothes online. The reason: because a good chunk of retail stores don’t carry plus sizes in-store. Online shopping for me has become a place where I am the expert on all things fabric, fit, and sizing – who knew? Because I’ve had to do so much online shopping, this is how I’ve developed my own personal style and learned so much about fashion. You see, when you’re plus size and not much is available for your body, you have to try to create outfit magic.
This is why I decided I wanted to test out Amazon’s very own plus-size section.
For a while now, so many people I know in the plus community, have been raving about plus-size Amazon’s clothing. If I can be honest, I was a bit shocked, but I did some digging and according to a report from the data analytics company, CoreSight Research found Amazon Fashion to be the most-shopped apparel retailer in the United States, unseating Walmart as number one. Huh.
Scrolling through the site, you’ll find a selection of cute basics and stylish pieces in sizes up to 6x.
Most are offered on Amazon Prime, which means shipping is available the next day, and the pricing? Legit affordable.
Here are some of the plus-size Amazon outfits I pulled together and my thoughts.
Alfred Dunner Womens Plus-Size Anchor Capri Pants – $41.42,
Riders by Lee Indigo Womens Plus Size Easy Care ¾ Sleeve Woven Shirt Button-Down Shirt – $24.31
I’ve always had such a hard time finding a dress shirt that fits and this one actually fits, with no issues. I was shocked and amazed! While I loved the design on the pants, I didn’t expect them to be a denim fabric. If you work in a more casual office, this would totally be something you could wear to work, or you could wear either piece separately. Honestly, the button-down shirt was the clear winner here for me.
Core 10 Women’s Icon Series – The Warrior Mesh Plus Size Legging – $59.00,
Core 10 Women’s Icon Series – The Warrior Mesh Plus Size Sports Bra – $33.00
I am always on the look for more gear for spinning and I was super excited to see these mesh leggings and matching sports bra, which I’ve seen in Lululemon previously. I decided to try the 2xl and the sizing was much smaller than I expected. It fit but was a tight squeeze. The ratings on both items did mention that the sizing/fit was smaller than average, but for some reason, I didn’t size up. Really kicking myself for not reading the ratings.
Amazon Brand – Daily Ritual Plus Size Long-Sleeve Turtle Neck Sweater Dress – $36.00
I love a good basic, which is why I love shopping at Uniqlo so often. I was really bummed out when this arrived because I received the wrong size. Rather than the 1 or 2x that I normally order, I was sent a 6x. The fabric of the dress is soft and comfortable, and you could totally dress it up or down. I’m hoping I’ll be able to exchange it for my normal size.
Daily Ritual Women’s Supersoft Terry Sleeveless Jumpsuit – $44.00,
Riders by Lee Indigo Women’s Plus-Size Amazon Denim Jacket Button-Down Shirt – $42.99
For so long I have been looking for the perfect jean jacket, and I finally found it. This jacket has inside pockets, plus it goes up to 3x. I paired it with a jumpsuit and I know it’s not quite the jumper from Fleabag, but in my heart, it will do. Besides, I feel like I’m giving off the most casual-cool vibes.
Daily Ritual Women’s Jersey Long-Sleeve Empire-Waist Maxi Dress – $38.00
This plus-size Amazon dress was perfect for spring and summer but honestly, it’s WAY too long for someone as short as me. I am 5’2 and I think you would have to be at the very least 5’10 to wear this dress. The dress is made from cotton material, so it’s light, airy, and it has a lot of movement. Best part? It comes in lots of different colours – I got it in cranberry red as I thought that would be great for fall.
Articles You May Be Interested In:
How Hilary MacMillan Made A Statement By Extending To Plus Sizes
I Tried Plus Size Shopping At Nordstrom Rack & Here’s What Happened
8 Plus Size Jewellery Designers You Need To Have On Your Radar
11 Cult French Pharmacy Beauty Essentials You Can Get On Amazon
10 Plus Size Canadian Influencers To Follow On Instagram
Trust me, jeans are a blessing and a curse. We have all had that moment – picture it with me. You’re lying flat on your back on your bed and you’ve sucked in your tummy. It’s just you and this new pair of jeans, and you’ve almost got them on. Maybe if you suck in your belly and hold in your breathe until your face turns blue, shimmy them on, and zip, they will fit. Maybe, just maybe. But what if, you found jeans that actually fit?
It took me a long time to realize that fitting into jeans didn’t have to be a struggle, no matter your body size. There are brands and companies out there that were specifically committed to fitting plus size bodies well. Ever since I’ve made this discovery, it has been such a relief for me, and what used to be one of my dreaded items to shop, has now become one of my favourites thanks to these plus size jean stores. Real talk!
Here are 8 of the best stores to shop at for plus size jeans!
Universal Standard
Sizes: 00-40
Price: $109 – $164
On my last visit to New York City, I went to the Universal Standard showroom and decided to try on a pair of its jeans in a dark denim wash in a 30” inseam. Can I just say that these jeans are the best I’ve ever had, never wearing out against my thighs or losing their colour? Brilliant.
Levi’s
Sizes: 14-24
Price: $98 – $108
After seeing everyone in a popular Facebook community I was a part of recommend jeans from Levi’s, I decided perhaps it was time to take the plunge. The skinny jean style is inherently more snug than other cuts on this list, and I had to size up from an 18 to a 22, but they fit like they were made to measure, and they make me feel stylish as heck.
Torrid
Sizes: 10-28
Price: $74 – $78
For a long time, everyone has been telling me that their go-to jeans have been from Torrid. While I have not tried them out myself, Torrid pride itself on being well-designed and offering premium stretch. Torrid denim come in three different designs: bootcut, flare, and skinny. So no matter what kind of denim your heart desires there should be one out there for you.
ASOS
Sizes: 14-24
Price: $67 – 70
One of the very first high-waisted jeans I ever purchased was from ASOS Curve. The jeans, designed in the London office, offer petite ranges in its plus offerings. These jeans have so much stretch in them, are super sleek, and stylish. I would absolutely order them again in a heartbeat.
Addition Elle
Sizes: select styles available in sizes 10-32
Prices: $59 – $119
One of my go-to spots for jeans has always been Addition Elle. Recently, the retailer hired a new designer, Andy Thê-Anh, who is offering even more curve-friendly jean designs. While you’ll still find old favourites like the skinny, flare, and straight leg, you’re going to see some variations that are more playful and sophisticated. Plus, the denim is soft and really gentle on the skin.
Good American
Sizes: 12-24
Prices: $250-$265
All over the internet, I have been reading about how amazing Good American jeans are. While the price tag on them is hefty, it seems like the quality and styles are worth it. According to Instagramers and plus-bloggers everywhere, these jeans hug every single curve, and come up high enough and don’t fall down. Plus, Good American seem committed to the plus community by having a big appearance at Curvy Con this year.
Lane Bryant
Sizes: 12-28
Prices: $103-$148
When it comes to jeans, so many of my American friends say Lane Bryant is the best for plus size jeans. The best part: the brand finally started shipping to Canada, so we can finally enjoy the wonder that are its jeans! For example: in its high-rise skinny, there’s a waistband that stretches and molds to your waist, eliminating the dreaded waistband gap. Um, how cool is that? How many times how you found yourself complaining about jeans that have stretched out. It might be worth looking into these!
LOFT
Sizes: 14-26
Prices: $96-$110
Loft’s denim is known for its high-quality and different washes. While I haven’t personally tried these on, the selections available are nice, crisp and perfect for dressing either up or down.