What are plus sizes? When talking about apparel, a plus
size is generally considered to be size 12 and up. Some manufacturers even
include size 10 as plus sizes.
Sizes are not consistent between manufacturers and
brands, however, so you may wear one size from one brand or manufacturer, and a
totally different size from another brand or manufacturer. I personally wear
anything from size 22 to size 28 depending on the brand, cut, style, material,
and manufacturer.
There are many retailers and designers that offer plus
size clothing, both online and offline.
If you are shopping online and haven’t purchased from a
certain retailer before, one way to determine how ‘true’ their sizes are
without having to actually try on the garments is to check for online reviews
of the clothing or clothing line. Some websites will have reviews on their
sales pages, while others may be found by searching Google, Bing, Yahoo or
other major search engines.
On-site sizing charts may be helpful also, but take the
information in them with a grain of salt. You really can’t be sure how the
apparel will fit you until you try it on, at least the first time you purchase.
If you purchase garments from the same retailer or website after that first
purchase, you will have a better idea of what their sizing information means
for you.
If you shop at Kohls, check out Dana Buchman’s line of plus size clothing. This designer
offers dresses, swimwear, cardigans, tops, and bottoms in bright colors and
interesting designs. Prices range from $45.00 to $70.00 and sizes range from
16W to 24W (also 0x through 3x). The line also includes accessories and jewelry
as well as shoes. Items can be purchased online or in Kohls retail locations.
Another designer that has a plus size line is DKNYC. This
line can be found at several stores including but not limited to Macy’s and
Bloomingdales. Sizes range from 14 to 24 or 0x through 3x; the line contains
dresses, jackets, pants, cardigans, tunics, shirts, and skirts. DKNYC apparel is quite a bit more expensive
than the Dana Buchman line is, with prices ranging from $69.00 to $169.00 at Macys and from $50.00 to
$189.00 at Bloomingdales. Items can be purchased online or at the retail
stores. Spend $99.00 at Macys.com and you’ll get free shipping; spend $150.00
at Bloomingdales.com to get free shipping.
