Capsule Wardrobe: Plus Size Edition (#2)
Welcome to part two of curating your capsule wardrobe as a plus size queen! In part one we talked about figure flattering silhouettes and what kinds of items you should be looking for while curating your capsule. Click here to check out part one. In part two we’re going to talk about how you can create a list of go-to stores when looking for clothes to fill out your capsule. Please keep in mind this will not simply be a list of stores that sell quality clothes in extended sizes, but more of a tool to help you find the stores that suit your needs and personal style.
Before You Shop
As always, it’s best to set some parameters before adding to cart. First, sit down and make a list of criteria you are looking for both in the store as a whole and in the clothes they sell. Good quality and extended sizing should automatically be on your list, but some other examples may include:
shopping online versus in a brick-and-mortar store: while shopping online tends to be less stressful you have to be willing to put in the work of returning an item if it doesn’t work for you. Always check the return policy and read reviews on the ease of returns prior to any purchases. Going to a physical store allows you to try items on before purchasing, but can be stressful, exhausting and/or difficult. It also doesn’t have to be strictly one or the other, you can do a mix of both.
your budget for clothing and shoes: Your finances will ebb and flow month to month so your capsule budget will too. Having a variety of shopping options to suit different budget amounts is the perfect way to reduce stress over curating your capsule.
the description words for your capsule (your overall style): Different stores will cater to different aesthetics and overall styles. Knowing what your personal style is (and isn’t) can help you sort your list of places to try. Make sure to check websites and social media to get an idea of each store’s aesthetic.
color palette for your capsule: Again, different stores will cater to different aesthetics and styles so make sure they are a fit for your personal color palette and style prior to purchasing.
Ready to Shop
Now that you have your criteria set, it’s time to start shopping. I went online and did a search for “quality plus size clothing” and started making a list of the results. If you use Reddit, there are a ton of lists on there already for plus size clothing that I would recommend checking out. Once you have a list made, start doing some recon. Check websites, reviews and social media or just go to one of their locations and lay your eyes on the inventory to get a feel if the store is right for you. Try things on and make purchases when you’re ready.
Keep a rotation of stores that you check when you need more items for your capsule, but always remember to keep some alternate options for when your regular haunts don’t have exactly what you’re looking for. Don’t forget to look into rewards programs for your favorite stores as well. You can get some amazing deals and stretch your budget even further by taking advantage of those programs.
The List
I will give you a list of the main stores I shop in, just to give you a place to start. Please know there are many, many more options out there and if there are places you love please share them below! I am always looking for new places to shop for clothes.
Torrid: This one is my main go-to for pretty much everything. I will not buy jeans anywhere else, they are great quality and last years for me. You can find staples, dresses, workwear, swimwear, lounge sets and workout sets here as well as lingerie. Pricing can sometimes be high, but it’s free to join their rewards program and you get a lot of great benefits, including Torrid Cash and deep discounts on clearance items. I believe their sizing goes up to 5x and they actually make clothing that is figure flattering.
Old Navy: This is a store I have shopped at since I was a teenager. Sizing goes up to 2x, but not always in-store and the fit can be hit-or-miss. You would definitely need to try everything on and be willing to return things if they don’t fit. That being said, this a great place for budget staples and they are the only place I buy leggings.
Alternates: Chic Soul, Impressions Boutique, Maurices and Lane Bryant - these are places I check looking for deals or hidden gems, but I order infrequently and end up returning things.
I hope this helps you get started, please share your thoughts and favorite stores below!
Until next time,
Happy Shopping
