Both you and I know there are not enough retail stores for the average plus size consumer, although the average U.S. women’s dress size is between a 14 and a 16. This means that plus-size is the new average, although most people would never think of it that way. This is why shopping when plus can get a bit frustrating. According to recent research, 62% of Canadians would rather do their shopping with Canadian retailers instead of U.S. retailers. However, when you’re plus size, the options are limited online and offline. We all know about all the larger name plus size retailers like Addition Elle and Joe Fresh, but who are some of the under-the-radar places to shop when you’re plus, online and in-person? Don’t worry, I’ve got you!
Keep reading for 6 under the radar plus size stores to shop!
Long Tall Sally
Long Tall Sally, specifically for tall women 5′8 and over, has size ranges up to 24, which is a huge win for some. The bad news: in 2018, the brand closed its bricks and mortar store in Toronto. But don’t worry, you can still order clothes online, and there are some seriously cute rompers, jeans, and dresses. The best part: you won’t have to worry about fit adjustments for length. Score!
Tamara Malas
I was introduced to Tamara Malas through another plus-size pal and immediately I became obsessed. A few fun facts about the brand: this line has been developed and envisioned by a plus-size woman (Tamara Malas) with all pieces offered exclusively up to a size 32. The line is ethically made in New York City, so the pieces can be a bit on the expensive side ($105 – $355 USD), which realistically is not affordable for all. However, the pieces are absolutely stunning and totally one-of-a-kind. You’ll get compliments for DAYS and if you’re looking for investment pieces, these are it.
SexyPlus Clothing
Stefanie Augusteijn is the owner of SexyPlus boutique which is located in Mississauga. She has long been a champion of the body positive community, fostering dialogue and community. As soon as you step into Augusteijn’s store, you’ll feel a warm and welcoming presence as she and her team walk you through a safe and enjoyable shopping experience. You’ll find brands in-store like Dex, Society Plus, and Joseph Ribkoff to name a few, and most items are offered up to size 22.
Big Bud Press
Over the summer, I kept spotting these rad jumpers on Instagram and Twitter and I had no idea where they were from until a mutual friend bought one: Big Bud Press! This small, ethical brand based out of Los Angeles specializes in size-inclusive, unisex clothes including jackets, pants, and jumpsuits. Currently, it offers up to a 5XL on all items and they come in bright primary colours (think red, yellow and royal blue), or other fun colours like millennial pink. Akin to Tamara Malas, since everything is manufactured in L.A., the prices are a bit higher than average ($70 USD for jackets, $85 for pants and $180 for jumpsuits) but there are often sales, so watch out for that!
River Island
I have heard so much about River Island from my fellow plus-size companions across the pond but never tried the brand out for myself. The prices are totally reasonable ($50-$200 CAN) and the styles are super on-point. I’m currently obsessed with a pink suit (which reminds me of Cher from Clueless) that’s on offer. The brand offers up to a size 28, and currently has a wide variety of pants, dresses, skirts, and tops on offer – perfect for day or evening. One thing to keep in mind: this is shipping from the UK, so there will be taxes and duties, no matter how much you order.
Gussied Up
Gussied Up has been a part of the plus-size community for so long now, and is one of my first stops when going shopping in Toronto. Tucked away on a sleepy strip of Bathurst Street, Victoria McGroarty has dedicated herself to providing customers with cute, fashionable clothes that she would want to wear herself. Right now, clothes are offered up to a size 24 and in-store she carries Joseph Ribkoff, Thigh Society, and more.
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