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.
When it comes to plus-size fashion, sometimes shopping for clothes in-person can make people feel much more at ease than shopping online. But the reality is, there aren’t that many brands to choose from, so when you’re trying to decide where to spend your hard-earned dollars, it can be tough. This is why before heading into a store, it’s important to be educated, so you can have an easier shopping experience. Recently I headed out to Canada’s own plus-size boutique, Addition Elle and compared it against the American retail chain, Torrid which was formerly owned by Hot Topic. Yeah, they both sell plus-size clothes and for the most part, have fairly similar offerings, but fundamentally what are the differences between these two retail chains? Well, a lot actually!
Let the battle of the stores begin!
Atmosphere/Cleanliness:
For the sake of transparency sake, I went to visit the Addition Elle and Torrid locations both located near the Toronto Eaton Centre.
Recently, this Addition Elle location I visited underwent a renovation, which gives off a more modern and Scandinavian feel to the store. Think natural wood flooring, green plants, white walls, and stunning furniture.
While the look and feel of Additional Elle may have changed, the atmosphere has not. Staff still is fully present offering help with personal styling or bra fittings, which totally makes me feel seen, valued and attended to. The changerooms are also nice and roomy, with good lighting. Finally, someone has heard our cries for good changeroom lighting.
Over at Torrid, the store is roughly half the size of Addition Elle, and has a similar look and feel to Hot Topic. Okay, maybe it’s a bit brighter, but not by much. Walking through Torrid is almost like trying to navigate a maze: there are racks everywhere, clothes no matter where you turn, and it’s quite overwhelming. I’m guessing this has a lot to do with the size of the store and the layout. Other Torrid locations I have been to, which are larger, feel nothing like this but this store gives me anxiety. Hey, at least the change rooms are comfortable and big!
Assortment/Offering:
So prior to Torrid launching in Canada, the plus-size brand was already quite popular with Canadians, which according to the Globe and Mail accounted for more than half of Torrid’s international business online. Now in the store, you can find everything you would find online, but the pricing hurts.
Instagram/@wildzontars
The Canadian prices are apparently to offset the exchange rate, but man does it feel like a fat tax sometimes. Throughout the store, you’re going to find lots of trendy garments in sizes 12-26, some wide-calf footwear, undergarments, beauty products, and accessories.
A lot of times, I find when I’m browsing through Torrid, it can be really hit or miss.
Sometimes the offerings can be really great, and sometimes you’ll find something that just leaves you questioning everything. The racks have tons of looks ranging from casual chic, to sexy dresses, and every so often there’s a nod to the retailer’s Hot Topic-inspired past. The pieces I have picked up from Torrid, I have loved, but it’s never been a sure-fire win for me.
Instagram/@amascriver
It’s hard to believe that I have been shopping at Addition Elle since I was a teenager, and I have seen many changes with the brand over time with some being good, and some questionable.
Recently the brand announced Andy Thê-Anh as its new design director, and that they would be bringing in labels like Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Body Glove, New Balance, Aldo Shoes, Lucky Brand, and Girlfriend Collective as exclusive partnerships into plus sizing.
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I have to admit, wandering through the store felt different than when I was a teen. The racks had options that were actually hip and cool, but also fashion-forward. Now don’t get it twisted, I still spotted a few items that were in animal print or gave me some mom vibes. But that’s okay because the store has done a total 180 from what I remember. Plus, Addition Elle recently expanded the line to sizes 10-5X and slashed prices so it’s way more affordable. Like, WAY more affordable! Don’t believe me, check out the website for yourself.
Customer Service/Return Policy:
So I’m not going to lie, I had great customer service experiences at both Torrid and Addition Elle, so I really can’t critique the stores on that. When I visited the stores, the sales associates in-store were so kind and helpful. Knowing when to compliment me, and when to offer helpful suggestions. So honestly if you’ve ever felt worried about shopping, period. You’re in good hands at either store.
Instagram/@torrid
Torrid has a pretty extensive return policy, for items purchased in the store or online. First and foremost, you have to have the packing slip or receipt, or else you can’t get a return. An associate may be able to process an exchange for you, but no promises. Right now, the item must be received within 60 days of the purchase date listed on your receipt.
Over at Addition Elle, the policy isn’t as great.
If you order something online or purchase it in-store, you have 30 days (from purchase) to return any unworn, unwashed, unaltered item(s) with the price ticket(s) still attached, to receive a full refund. The retailer also offers a 60-day defect policy for any items that may break or tear, which its Customer Service team handles directly.
The Final Verdict:
Instagram/@styleexpertdenise
I’ve got to be honest here, I have to go with my hometown team and give it to Addition Elle. During my last visit, as I browsed through the racks, the person working that day told me about an upcoming workshop with a local artisan who made body positive art. I never ended up going, but I was just so impressed that Addition Elle was really reaching out into their community to do more for their community, and be more.
Plus, the fact that it lowered prices and brought in some new labels that are known (and loved) by the plus-size community had me super excited for the future of Addition Elle. If you haven’t been to one of the stores recently, or haven’t browsed the website: do it. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Featured Image: StyleDemocracy
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The temperatures have been rising and if you were inspired by the pool party scene in Shrill, then you have been dying to find your very own fat babe pool party. But what to wear? No need to fret, we’ve got you covered. The plus size swimsuit market has stepped it up with sexy styles in a variety of fabrics and cup coverages that ensure your body looks fly as hell while being as comfortable as possible.
Here are some of our go-to stores for plus size swimsuits!
Addition Elle
Instagram/@emyneedsaraincoat by @nadineettom
We stan the Canadian original of plus-size fashion. Not only does Addition Elle have full-piece swimsuits, but there are also bikinis, tankinis, and one-pieces – oh my! While the designs are pretty simple, one thing we do love is that Addition Elle regularly has sales in-store and online, which means you can cop some new suits for as low as $28 or as high as $240.
Swimsuits for All
Instagram/@swimsuitsforall
Honestly one of the first places we check when we’re ordering online for a bikini is Swimsuits for All. This is largely in part to this collaboration line with Gabifresh, which year after year has knocked it out of the park. Both of Gabifresh and Ashley Graham (yes, the plus size model) signature lines go up to a size 24, but the site offers plus-size suits up to a size 28-40. Best part? You can mix and match your top and bottom sizes!
Torrid
Instagram/@brittcattt
Of course, when we think about plus-size fashion, we think Torrid. We were honestly surprised with many of the cute options that Torrid had in store: including cuts, fabrics, designs (hi, there is a Harry Potter themed bikini) and prices. Plus, all of the suits go up to a Torrid size 6 (equivalent to a size 30), which means it’s fairly inclusive. Check out the Swim Fit Guide and then dig in.
Forever 21
Instagram/@forever21plus
Nobody wants to spend a lot of coins when shopping for a bathing suit. This is why we always turn to Forever 21 when it comes to fast fat fashion. The suits are trendy and cheap, the store is has lots of flowy caftans and cover-ups for the beach, and you won’t go broke looking like the baddest babe on the beach. How about dem apples? Forever 21 typically reaches up to a 3X in sizing but sometimes can fit small so it’s best to try things on in the store, or read the reviews online.
Eloquii
Instagram/@eloquii
We are obsessed with anything and everything Eloquii does, and the swimwear line also kills it. With bold colours, lots of colour blocking, and fun retro patterns – you’ll want to snap up all the suits Eloquii has on offer. The suits typically range in price from $90-$45 but every now and then, the site has a major 40-60% off sale. So check in and save big!
Anthropologie
Instagram/@anthropologie
Plus size just launched with Anthropologie, so we’re pretty excited to see the brands first season of swimwear. It’s a pretty small collection with only six suits. The prices also range from $78 to 120, which tracks with the rest of the collection. While it is a small collection, we’re a bit disappointed to see that 90% of the collection is full-piece suites. It’s still cute though!
ModCloth
Instagram/@curvestocontour
It has been called the holy grail of swimwear by some, but ModCloth is the cute, classic, and timeless brand that we’ve come to know and love. With so many options to chose from (no really, there are over 30 suits on the site) that go up to a size 26, the suits do tend to fit a bit small. One big thing: read the online reviews (if you’re unsure) as some of the fabrics and the underwire can change how the suits fit for each body type. Another thing to keep in mind? If you’ve never ordered from the site, you can get 15% off your first purchase. Score!
Shein
Instagram/@sheinofficial
A lot of people have a lot of opinions online about Shein, especially when it comes to the retailers plus-size clothing. Here is our take after reading the reviews: it’s decent but you just need to know your proper and full measurements. Also, the shipping can be a bit slow, but the quality and pricing are all legit. With prices ranging from $9 – $35 for bikinis to kimonos, it’s definitely worth checking out.
Featured Image: Instagram/@swimsuitsforall
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Believe it or not, the average dress size of a Canadian woman is a 14—not a 0, or 4, or even a 6. Now double that shock because in this day and age, a size 14 is considered to be plus-size.
So what’s a fabulous and curvy gal to do when she gets engaged and needs to shop for a wedding dress? Now you can head to your local Torrid store to shop the brand’s new bridesmaid and wedding dress collection.
Torrid’s new wedding dress and bridesmaid dress collection has officially hit stores and it’s about freaking time. We all know how challenging it can be to find not only the right dress and for anyone with curves & swerves, Torrid has your back. Pieces in the collection consist of beautiful lace gowns with sweetheart necklines, some sexy and shorter options, and even a wicked bridal jumpsuit!
Photo via Torrid
“This limited-edition capsule was made with love for curvy women who deserve to look and feel like the beautiful bride they are,” the brand said in a press release. “From traditional lace with detailing like covered buttons, to simpler, contemporary silhouettes, the collection covers a range of choices to fit the brides’ curves and personality.”
Don’t think we forgot about the bridesmaid and wedding guest dresses either. You’ll actually be thrilled to go bridesmaid dress shopping with all the options being not only stylish but actually flattering.
These are dresses you’ll legitimately want to wear again and again.
And for anyone planning on attending weddings, the struggles of finding a suitable dress to wear is real but not any more. Torrid has you covered and the options are endless with blush hued midi dresses, floral pleated gowns, and sexy lace body con numbers to choose from.
Take a closer look at Torrid’s wedding collection below!
Special Occasion Ivory Woven Skater Dress, $89
Photo via Torrid
Ivory Lace Capelet Formal Gown, $168
Photo via Torrid
Special Occasion White Lace Jumpsuit, $148
Photo via Torrid
Special Occasion Lavender Studio Knit Convertible Maxi Dress, $96
Photo via Torrid
Blush Pink Chiffon Cold Shoulder Dress, $51
Photo via Torrid
Feature Image via Torrid
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Being pregnant is the start of a journey, not the end of one – so why do so many retailers make ugly maternity clothes? Your sense of fashion shouldn’t have to suffer just because you’re growing another human.
These days, there’s no need to sacrifice style in order to be comfy, or to accommodate a growing belly.
Some designers have wised up to the wants of pregnant women and have actually designed gorgeous maternity clothes that will help you stay confident and feel beautiful at every stage of your pregnancy.
Here are the best places to shop for stylish maternity clothes:
1. ASOS
The massive online retailer has no interest in excluding pregnant women from its repertoire. Their maternity selection offers a whopping 1100+ pieces, from comfy nightwear to fashionable jeans and leggings. They even make cute maternity swimsuits! While their sizes are wide-ranging on the site, their maternity line only goes up to a 16. Keep that in mind while browsing.
2. Torrid
Speaking of plus-size: Torrid offers plus-size maternity clothing, which includes the essentials (leggings, t-shirts) as well as more specific pieces, like nursing bras. Their selection isn’t huge, but shopping isn’t exactly a one-stop thing, is it? Plus, they offer some essential items, like nursing camisoles – for the days you just can’t deal with bras.
3. Pink Blush
Instagram/ @laspicygringa
Now this is real fashion. Pink Blush offers something for every maternity occasion, including delivery robes (who knew?) to fifteen different types of dresses. They have clothes for baby showers, announcement photoshoots, and nursing. If you can dream it, Pink Blush has it. And they have it in plus-size, too.
4. HATCH
Instagram/ @hatchgal
HATCH makes sure that you don’t have to fall behind trends while pregnant. They have their clothes organized by stage: Not Pregnant, Just Showing, Growing Out, Bumpin’, and Oh Baby! Their light and airy pieces give you a great idea of just how crucial it is for them to keep things comfortable and fashionable for pregnant women. They also have a whole beauty section!
5. Rosie Pope
Rosie Pope has you and your baby covered. While you’re browsing for yourself, perhaps picking up some vacation or loungewear, you can also prepare for your little one. They carry the essentials for a nursery, as well as bags, covers, and other accessories you’ll need once your baby is finally here.
6. A Pea In The Pod
A Pea In The Pod seems to have everything figured out. They offer premium denim (including overalls), gorgeous workwear for the working moms, and even stylish rompers and jumpsuits for those who dare. And for those who want to take a babymoon? Well, they’ve got you covered there, too. If you’re in the market for accessories, they offer diaper bags, bras, and even the must-haves for a hospital bag.
7. H&M
Of the many bigger retailers, H&M has the best handle on what’s fashionable for expecting moms. Their maternity line, MAMA, is packed full of clothes you’d spot on their regular racks, but designed with you in mind. This is a great place to stock up on basics, like leggings and tees, as well as slouchy jumpers. Ah, comfort, the key to a happy pregnancy.
8. Isabella Oliver
Instagram/ @isabellaoliver
The fave of celebs like Angelina Jolie, Isabella Oliver offers high-end, timeless pieces for the effortlessly chic mom-to-be. Most importantly, however, they give back: proceeds from their Mama To Be tee go to the Every Mother Counts charity to support maternal health. They also have a whole page dedicated to myth busting some of the most common misconceptions about maternity clothes.
9. Seraphine
If your pregnancy style inspiration is Kate Middleton, great news: she rocked Seraphine while pregnant! They have a regular maternity collection, as well as a luxe collection for the occasions when you need something a little more formal – including wedding dresses. Other staples include maternity tights, cozy coats and jackets, and even baby clothes!
Featured image: Instagram/ @isabellaoliver
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Calling all Torrid fans: if you’ve ever dreamt of being a model, this might be your big break!
For the first time ever, the plus size retailer will be bringing its Model Search tour to the Canadian market. The brand is looking for women who are confident, sexy and fearless, ages 18 older, and wear sizes 10-30.
Hosted at Oshawa Centre on Saturday, July 29 from 10am to 5pm, the event will feature a specially curated panel of judges including Project Runway Winner, Ashley Nell Tipton and last year’s Model Search winner, Maria Gimena. If you’re unable to make the live casting, the brand is also accepting applications online at Torrid.com/model-search until August 13.
The winner of Torrid’s Model Search will get the once in a lifetime opportunity to be the Face of Torrid 2017, complete with a modelling contract and brand new wardrobe, along with fun ambassador duties like hosting Torrid store openings and events, star in seasonal campaigns and appear on the brand’s social media channels.
Featured Image: Instagram/@mariiagiimena
Get full details about the Torrid 2018 Model Search here.
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