A beach baby since before birth, I’m team summer, even if it leaves me a frizzy, sweaty mess more often than not. Thankfully, after a little exploring online, some new to me plus-size brands with big summer energy popped into my feed. Everything you need for a Queensland summer, from swimwear to activewear (or as I like to call them, clothes), as well as lightweight sets and dresses.
What constitutes ‘big summer vibes’? No compromise on style or trendiness, no mention of flattering (gag). Fun, exciting shapes and designs in a range of sizes. As usual, I cut any brands that didn’t offer at least an AU 22. Which is, let’s face it, the bare minimum we should expect these days. But the majority go larger, and so they should. Grab the anti-chafe cream, and let’s dive in.
Speaking of the Queensland Summer, this brand was started right here; we’re practically neighbours. Bright and colourful swimwear, as well as coordinated sets and separates designed with nostalgic prints and designs. If my style has evolved at all over the past few years, this is what it has morphed into. Casual, elevated styles in a neutral palette. That’s not to say they don’t bring the colour, though; they are doing that too!
Workwear? Really, Suger, are you serious? Yes, yes, I am. From the cheeky shorts to the coveralls, this brand grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let it go. In case you missed it, I’ve gotten into gardening in the past couple of years (it’s a whole thing, don’t ask, haha). It all started with a single raised garden bed, and now I’m making over our entire property with natives and edible plants of all varieties. You can’t really blame me for eyeing off those overalls that look this good on all shapes and sizes. I could be a farmer in those clothes…
On an adventure around the internet, I joined the mailing list and have enjoyed watching the brand unfold ever since. As yet, we have some great options for activewear made closer to home, but the tennis dresses sucked me in. I blame Serena Williams and my short-lived sports superstar ambitions. Oh, and not to mention Clueless and Cruel Intentions. /what kid of 80s baby would I be if I hadn’t wanted to live out my preppy dreams in a tennis dress?
Need itty bitty ‘kinis in your life? Look no further than this recently launched brand. As someone who loves a graphic tee, this is like the graphic tee of swimwear with bright colours and text patterns. So cool. There isn’t a large number of styles available just yet, but that’s a symptom of how early we are getting to the party. Let’s just say that I can’t wait to see what’s next, but for now, this is exactly where you need to be for loud, bold swim pieces.
I’ve chatted with the owner of this brand once or twice on Instagram. But having never worn the range myself, I haven’t included many (if any?) pieces in my plus-size ‘where to buy’ round-ups. But I could resist no longer. There’s something very summery about the light and breezy styles, soft prints and classic designs. There’s a casual comfort to the whole range that calls out for long afternoons in the sunshine, cheese board at the ready. Take a look for yourself; I’m sure you’ll agree.
More hot, hot, hot swimwear action over here! With the added bonus of some of the most fun sunglasses styles I’ve seen in a while. Ochre Lane seems to be another brand that is new’ish with an expanding range. But if your thing is summer neutrals, look no further than the creamy, warm tones of their latest range (plus the orange is a nice touch). Gorgeous! And as a photo-type person, I loved the campaign and social media images for this one; so good. Hard to resist something that calls to me from my Instagram feed as this did.
Are you into the light but bright styles? Can’t seem to get over the smock dress or flippy skirt? Ummm, do I have the brand for you. New to me because I don’t own any of their pieces, but well known to a lot of you, Proud Poppy is a Queensland brand (apparently) that is all about taking a walk on the bright side. IMO. I’ve selected a couple of styles for the photos that are more my personal muted vibe, but if colourful prints and patterns are your things, click the links now and have a good old time!
This new-to-me brand (as in, I hadn’t heard of them before this search) speaks to my new casual, comfortable aesthetic. And wait until you hear this. There are matching mini (kids) versions of the styles! Cuuuute. I’m not sure my nieces will want to go matchy-matchy with me now that they’re all a little older and have their own style, but perhaps one of you can live out that twin life instead. Choose from light summer separates, dresses and recently swimwear and embrace that tonal, never goes out of style, vibe.
This fun addition is a family-run business that, in their own words, creates designs with your ‘peach’ in mind, with silhouettes that are developed to fit and flatter your curves in just the right places. Fashion that makes you feel truly confident, comfortable and amazing in your own skin. Love that! With affordable basics and fun, on-trend pieces for every season, they’re worth a closer look when you’re looking to add toy our wardrobe this summer.
And that wraps things up for this big summer energy post. Don’t forget to check out some of the stores mentioned and share your favourites in the comment. And it’s probably worth mentioning that some of my old favouritesalso offer bright, fun collections this summer. There’s something very summer about fresh summer styles in light, bright colours.
I’ve always loved the glossy pages of a magazine. Not literally, the glossy pages drive me nuts with fingerprints, but you know what I mean. Whether it was about fashion or home decor, far off adventures or food. A lot of why I wanted to be a writer when I was a child was because of magazines. Later, the ads captured my attention just as much as the stories, and it led me to university for Marketing and Advertising. Not that I ever finished that degree, but that’s another story. Haha.
As my Marie Claire was jammed into the mailbox, partially ripping the cover, again. I muttered to myself that it’s no wonder no one subscribes to magazines anymore. Which is a misdirected criticism of magazines that should be directed at the delivery service, for sure. But it got me thinking, wondering as I do.
Do they? Do you subscribe to magazines anymore?
When I restarted that forgotten Marie Claire subscription, it kick-started something in me. Since then, I added Frankie and Peppermint to my regular deliveries to make a grand total of three. As we get closer to renovating the house, more may be added to that list. But why them and not my former favourites like Vogue? It’s pretty simple. Like many magazine readers, I’m tired of the content that I ingest not being relatable. I wanted something made closer to home with stories that were relevant to me.
And so, month after month, as they arrive at my doorstep, filled with inspiration to write, to take photos and to make stuff, I smile. Because sure, I could go to their website and get a lot of the same vibes. But there is something about having that physical magazine in my hands that I love—especially the creamy, matte paper pages of modern magazines.
Ten points for being able to read with snacks. Haha.
So, I flip through the pages, soaking up the article, photos, and people and their stories. Broadening my perspective through others sharing theirs, learning to see things differently. Which has to be part of growing up and essentially staying in a small town like mine. Growing up was easy enough. But, learning to think critically and develop self-awareness and empathy for others doesn’t always come easily.
Without that widening of my interactions, it would be easy to become closed off, fixed in the ways of the people around me. Magazines (and books, too) have been a way to expand beyond what is in front of me. It could happen to you anywhere, I’m sure. Small towns cop the brunt of the stereotype. But I love my people and town, but that will never mean I have to think the same way as anyone else. That’s why I read all I can, from as many different people as I can, as often as I can. What about you?
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The Queensland floods hit the peppermint magazine offices. Please consider supporting them in this challenging time through visiting their website, sharing their content or subscribing to the magazine; head over here to get started.
It’s that time, team, shorts season! I mean, as a Queenslander, pretty much every season is shorts season, but you know what I mean. I’ve talked about how to find and wear shorts as a plus-size woman on this blog before. Of course, I have; this blog is a million years old. There have been many, many posts about shorts. Check them out next if you want some tips.
And, I see you out there. But, those of you who can feel your body physically tighten and the little voice in your head start to work itself up, stop! Seriously, stop that. No matter your shape, size or the current situation with your legs, you can and should wear shorts if you want to. No one cares as much about what you’re wearing as you do, so do what you want. And if someone has a problem, tell them to come and talk to me.
So, I thought I’d take a look around and find some shorts and put together a few outfits for you all. There are a couple of casual options, some that you can dress up for summer evenings, and all that in-between shorts goodness. Sound like a plan? Let’s get on with that.
Outfits for Plus-Size Shorts you’ll be wearing this Summer
Sweet Sweet Pastels
Even for someone like me who wears a lot of black, something about the warmer months has me craving colour. It’s pretty hard to resist. So get your colour fix in soft, pastel tones in sweet candy colours. I love to add colour to my shoes, but tops and other accessories are perfect.
And then, when you pair the ice wash, pale blue, denim with these colours, you’re sweet as (that’s for my NZ friends, lol). Lightwash denim is the perfect addition to your wardrobe; it’s just so versatile no matter the time of year. Don’t you think?
Ladies and gentlemen, nostalgia has entered the chat. When it comes to all things seasonal and on-trend, nostalgic items are top of the shopping list for those who identify as Millenials—especially geriatric types (otherwise known as Zennials).
Grab some shorts that all your favourite teen movies queens would’ve been proud of, and wear your childhood with pride. And no, in case you were about to ask, I don’t think you’re ever too old to wear Powerpuff girl socks.
There’s nothing I enjoy more than having people over for some beverages and a BBQ. Seriously, it could be the only socialising I enjoy doing anymore. I know post lockdown it’s all about the picnics, but I’m firmly team backyard BBQ. That said, this outfit would work for either. And for these kinds of events, you want comfortable, easy to wear clothes that look like you made an effort. Enter my dress as a top (discussed at length in this post) over shorts.
And you know me, I would typically default to a sneaker or a slide with this kind of outfit, but I came across these chunky sandals. They not only are in a great neutral tone (elongating for those with similar skin tones), but the chunky heel looks comfortable, stable and adds points for effort. Of course, nothing says I tried more than a heel.
Am I going to work out, or am I just getting coffee? That is the question? My love of activewear as daily clothing started, officially, when I started working for myself full-time. Working from home meant that comfort won across the board—more than style, more than looking the part, all the things. The good news is that these days, there are plenty of others that feel the same way.
I’ve linked to the range at Active Truth which you folks rave about, but I own bike shorts from so many retailers ranging from Best & Less to Hine Collective. Trust me; once you put bike shorts on, they’ll convert you. My favourite part is taking a simple bike short and crop and turning it into an outfit. If you want or need to. Take an oversized tee, some eye-catching sneakers, and you’re good to go. Pull up those socks, lady, and you’ve got style.
Now we’re back in my comfort zone; welcome to monochrome. I love mixing black and white together in an outfit, and adding printed shorts to the look makes it get up and get out the door approved. There will be no tough decisions to make when you go with this look, not to mention how versatile the shoes and tank are when worn separately.
What’s a flippy short, I hear you ask? Well, it’s a soft short, lots of room in the legs for a wide, easy-wearing fit. Perfect for those with larger bums and thighs that need more room. Soft shorts, the summer update to our favourite soft pants, are comfort dressing at its finest, and yet, you still look like you made an effort. Would recommend.
Links:
New Look Floral Flippy Shorts (other prints available)
You know what I mean, right? I can picture it now, the European cities, wine on the terrace, your days spent adventuring nut never breaking a sweat. I may not be able to promise you international travel or decedent adventures, but this look will transport you there all on its own. Effortless style, impossibly chic, perfect for those who are looking to holiday at home.
The higher waist and flat fronted waistband of these shorts make them easy to dress up or down. Add the matching jacket (yes, you heard that correctly) and a heeled sandal and you’re all set for your evening. But during the day, paired with stripes and denim, you’ll be exploring in comfort. Now, excuse me, I’m going to grab a wine and pretend I’m on vacation.
There you go, team, my plus-size summer shorts round up. I hope you were able to take away some inspiration for your summer shorts style! At the very least, you are now feeling more confident to put together items in your wardrobe. So, get those legs out into the world; summer is coming up fast. I can’t wait to see what you come up with, so tag me on Insta, I want to see.
Buying a plus size coat isn’t something I do every year. But, when it comes to my wardrobe, an investment plus size coat is my go-to. I want something I can wear year after year, and I recommend that to you too. So, when you’re looking for a winter coat, take your time, purchase one, and it will last you for years to come. It’s an investment.
And investing in your wardrobe is something that I find women shopping for plus-size clothing avoid. Why? Because they assume/hope/plan to be smaller next year. Sometimes it’s not even that obvious that you’re doing it. But, it’s true; I hear it all the time. But believe me, you can invest in your wardrobe now, at the size you are, just as you are, because you’re worth it. And let’s be honest, does much ever really change?
Years ago I was lucky enough to be gifted, by a friend, not the brand, a grey trench coat that is now in its seventh or eighth year for me. It did go missing for a year or so in the middle (it was at my sister’s house). That coat goes with everything, is warm enough for the coldest days but light enough when worn open, to manage the winter evenings here that aren’t super cold. That’s my hot tip for you when you’re looking for your own plus size coat, look for something you love. Be picky. Buy once. Let’s get started.
I started the hunt for a plus-size jacket because Vanessa, who reads this blog, asked if I’d spotted anything on my travels. And I had, but none that suited her needs or that she hadn’t already seen and put aside. So, on Facebook, I reached out to you guys, and you came through with the links! Just as you always do. I found a few new retailers and brands that are offering some awesome stuff. My favourite part about crowdsourcing this kind of information; we don’t get stuck shopping in the same spots.
Where to Buy a Plus Size Jacket Under $150
This post is about where to buy an affordable plus-size jacket for under $150. In even better news, the majority are under $100. Some of them are available in a variety of colours in the same style. So, if that’s something you’re interested in, hang around. If you’re more interested in purchasing an investment coat or jacket, I’ve got a post featuring those coming in the next day or two. Let’s get started, shall we?
fifteen. Birdsnest Belle Bird Belle Wide Collar Jacket | sixteen. Yarratrail Longline Showerproof Jacket
There you go, team, what did you think? When I look around for these posts, I do my best to select a wide range of styles. That said, I know my own personal style does creep into these lists a little. So, let me know. Have you spotted a plus size jacket in the wild that we should take a look at? Where do you buy your jackets from? Are you more likely to invest in one jacket kind of person, or a buy lots of cheap and cheerful ones?
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*content warning, some conversations in this article about weight and fatphobia may be triggering to some readers
As I scrolled through the street style pictures from Australian Fashion Week and it got me thinking. And no, it wasn’t the lack of plus-size representation. I’ve talked about that before. Every damn year, I’m tired of waiting for this type of inclusion to catch up. What got me thinking was the actual street style fashion and how casual and laidback it was. Planned and executed, obviously, but think ill-fitting/oversized suits, denim and sneakers, flats and basic tees.
I’m team casual style, and loungewear is definitely having a continuing moment. I’ve pinned many outfits to inspire me to get more creative with my own style. But what if I showed up at Fashion Week in a similar style. You know, if they invited fat people ever. Would a similar outfit on my size 24 body be considered stylish and cutting edge, or would it be deemed too casual, not put together enough or sloppy?
Because that’s how people view fat people, right?
God forbid your style, like mine, leans towards minimal, basic items. That’s not good enough. To be considered stylish, a plus-size person in our society, you must appear to be making an effort above and beyond that made by a straight-sized counterpart. Look at the strawberry dress situation with Tess Holliday and the strawberry dress. The linked article sums it up perfectly with this quote.
“I definitely empathize with what Tess has said about her dress experience; fashion is often centered around how affluent, white, cis-gender bodies look in clothing,” says Dallas-based influencer Rosey Blair. “Oversized T-shirts paired with bike shorts are edgy and carefree when depicted on a thin person — but on a fat person would be considered lazy, sloppy, and unintentional.”
HA! Imagine if the person calling for this diversity wasn’t acceptably fat?
Even if you look outside the inner circle of Australian ‘plus-size’ Instagrammers, things can get a little repetitive. There is a certain hyper-feminine look, plenty of body-positive skin on show, sourced from select stores who stop sizing at an AU20/22. Where is the variety? Why is there still one specific look to strive for if you’re a fat woman? Why is it that we have to look a certain way, even when selecting our own personal style?
Even the media coverage of this whole situation deals with more mid-sized women and brands with extended sizing, at best. With my limited research, women who haven’t experienced living in a fat body. A body that is large enough that the media deems it unacceptable to speak. Imagine that? It seems to me these articles and perhaps the sources within them are looking for just the next size or two to be included. To welcome them into the fold and forget the rest.
I think it is because we are still trying to fit into an idea of what we should be. The line in the sand was moved a little, but we’re still not considered, counted or deemed worthy of being part of the conversation. I remember as a teen that clothing stores would size out at a 16, now it’s a size 18/20. It’s not enough, and while the debate continues to be about health and worthiness to be included, you’re missing the point.
But fear not, I’m here to tell you that you can do what you want.
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t shop in stores that actually cater to you and what you enjoy wearing. Look to these Fashion Week images for inspiration if that works for you. But put it aside if not. You are allowed to wearing whatever makes you feel stylish, confident and happy. The world will have to catch up. That’s my plan anyway; feel free to hang out here with me. Around here, we do what we want and will always be trying harder to do better for those who feel forgotten, left behind or unworthy.
You know the weather is getting chilly around here when I start wearing my knit dresses. As someone who hates feeling trapped in overly warm places, clothes or situations, I’ll only wear a knit dress when I KNOW it will be cold. And that I will definitely, without a doubt, need the warmth. It’s a whole thing. But I love this brief moment that my hometown turns on the winter. When we all get to pretend all those winter clothes are actually useful to own.
We’ve only seen a peek of winter, but I was keen, what can I say?
I took this knit dress out of my draw and out it onto my body at the very first twinkle of the possibility of it being cold. This year, I’m going for it. I’m usually such a summer kid. But I find myself craving the colder months more and more as I get older. Blame it on a love of red wine and fires. Or maybe it’s Desiree’s fault? She’s always been such a winter kid. But whatever it is, here for it. The sheer amount of winter content we’ve already had on the blog this year demonstrates that.
And so, I pull on the Docs, which are still a little firm across the bridge of my foot, and we went to eat all the sushi that the local place could offer. Another bonus of the knit dress, plenty of room for activities. With all that cosy warmth and stretch, you can do whatever you’re doing and still have all the comfort of being at home in your PJs.
I used to wear this dress with knee-high boots a lot, which I loved, that’s the post tagged above, but it was a little rough on the knit. Going with an ankle boot meant fewer snags and pilling on the knit. That’s a hot tip; you have to treat your knit well if you want it to last. And fold it, don’t hang it. I’ve lost plenty of knits to hanging them up, especially since I have to cut out all the dangly things because I hate the feel of them on my skin.
The best part about a knit dress is that you can pull them out year after year; it’s always a look.
I can’t link this dress, but some amazing Australian brands are offering knit dresses, whether it’s neutral like this or one of this season’s stunning tonal colours that would make the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Places like Hope & Harvest and their stunning green oversized maxi or Harlow Australia and their chic styles you can wear together or separately. Most overseas websites have reduced or cleared their winter stock now, so that’s also worth looking for a final-run, end of the line piece.
The most clicks in the AW2021 trends report were to some beautiful jewel-coloured plus-size jumpers. Heading into the cooler months here, chunky, soft, cosy jumpers are in high demand; I get it. Defined as (yeah, I looked it up, eldest daughter mode engaged) a knitted garment typically with long sleeves, worn over the upper body; jumper. With that in mind, I went looking a little further afield and found some GOLD.
The best part about a jumper is that you can wear them with anything. Literally, anything you like. You can dress them up or down, wear them around the house or out on the town. Even the images (grabbed from the retailers) below show the range of ways you can style them. My personal favourite is jeans and boots or over a dress. I love that a statement colour or a chunky knit pattern can do all the hard work for you.
Years ago, my sister bought the wrong size of a mustard knit jumper and gave it to me. To say that I wore that jumper to death is an understatement. Even now, it’s still in my wardrobe because I won’t part with it. Buy well, and you’ll have your jumper for seasons to come. This sort of look never goes out of style.
Heading out into the world this week was interesting. It was cool enough for a coat, locally, but still warm enough that you could wear slides. Or, at least, I could. I know, don’t come for me, I’m warm-blooded, what can I say? I ran around doing a few errands, picking up groceries and reminding myself why I hate spending too much time at the shops. We spotted these doors, and despite a large amount of flora growing around it, I decided it was a perfect spot to grab some photos.
Perfect may be a stretch, but we got them anyway – Victory!
Why? Because as far as I’m concerned, you need a long cardigan in your wardrobe no matter the season (see the flashbacks below for proof). It’s an easy throw on with whatever you’re wearing, they come back into style year after year, and a good quality one will last you for a number of those returns, especially if you find a fit that works for you. I love the style like this knit coat, which can be wrapped around the body. But I also love the chunkier knit, throw on cardigan style too, like this one.
And can we talk for a moment about how much my hair just keeps dropping colour!? Haha. Yes, this time it was helped by the ocean, but those blonde ends (from when my hair was blue) are determined to live out their blonde life. BUT. Watch this space, I think I might dig out the leftover pink shampoo I have here and colour my hair. Before my next scheduled appointment to top up the copper, that is. I’m not trying to get myself in trouble with my sister/hairdresser here, it’s the same brand they use in the salon, so I’ve been given the all-clear. Pink hair for a while? Don’t mind if I do. And that, my friends, is that. Have a great week.
I mentioned on Instagram that I was breaking in some new Docs and didn’t know if I could take it. This old girl is so far past wearing anything that makes her uncomfortable; heck, most days I refuse to wear a bra. And those who know know breaking in a new pair of Dr Martens is some next level feet (ankle, heel) pain you can endure. Read the comments on the Instagram post; it’s not a “me thing”. But the other thing we know is that once you wear them in, once the leather gives and you’re through the worst, Docs are soft and wonderful, and you can live your life in them. So, you suffer. And you do it happily for the love of the Docs.
A little while ago, I put this outfit, with a maxi rather than a midi length dress, in one of my casual capsule wardrobe boards. Before the post had even launched, I’d picked up the coat from Cotton On. The fact it was basically summer already, and I wouldn’t be wearing it for a while didn’t bother me. I knew the time would come.
And so, a few months passed. Into my inbox came an offer I couldn’t refuse, and I ordered my newest pair of boots; the Pascal. The reviews said the softer leather would be easier to break (boy, I hope they’re right). And I just loved the extra texture on them. They arrived, and I love them. I mean, I set up an entire scene in my office to snap some photos – obsessed. But after an initial fit test, I put them on the shelf to wait.
My outfit was complete and ready for the very first sight of winter on the horizon. Which came and went while I hid out at home, not really feeling it. When I put together the post about winter trends I’m looking forward to here in AUS, I remembered the coat was in my wardrobe somewhere, and it was time to drag it out. So, after committing to showing up and sharing what I’m wearing more, I put it together on a hanger and waited for my chance.
On an ordinary day, as the sun slid toward the horizon, that husband of mine asked if I wanted to get dressed (casual is kind around here) and grab dinner. Dressed! Actually dressed. Well, yes, sir, I did want to get dressed. So, with a flick of a hanger and some grunts of excursion, I was dressed and ready to go. Boots, check. Jacket, yup. The moment had arrived. And I hobbled into it boldly.
By the time we returned home, my feet were done, my belly was full, and we’d snapped some photos near an industrial shed as the sun dipped. Perfect. Would recommend trying for yourself. Speaking of which, would anyone like to volunteer to wear in my Docs? It pays terribly, but I’m sure the job satisfaction will be all you need, right? HA.
Have you been wondering what’s new in Australian Plus-Size Fashion for Autumn/Winter? Phew – that’s a mouthful! I’ve been taking a look around (mostly looking for boots; where did you find boots this year?), and these are the trends I see everywhere. Some have been popping up for a little while, and some are fresh for the AW/2021 season. Now, you know me, and when you see this list, you’ll see there is one, maybe two, that I’ll be getting on board with. But there’s plenty of other goodness for the rest of you, too.
And no, no one here expects you to rush out and purchase anything. We’re much too old for that. But I also know that it’s handy to have a little help from a friend when staying on-trend. Someone to do the legwork, find some great items and make the whole process easier. Since I was doing my research about some of Australia’s best plus-size retailers and brands on what was out there, I thought I’d be that person for you. Let’s dive into what I found, shall we?
Trends, Styles + Tips – Australian Plus-Size Fashion Trends for 2021
Knits as far as your eye can see
Please don’t roll your eyes at me, Meryl! Knits for winter, groundbreaking, right? Well, before you click away, hear me out. This season, I see many statement knits, knit sets, knit dresses, and skirts for a fun take on the normal cozy favourites. It was hard to narrow this section down, so you will find that most retailers will have more than one offering in this category, so make sure you take a look around.
Who doesn’t want to be a picnic, right? This trend is hanging on from Spring/Summer and is seeing a lot of brands bring out options in deeper and darker tones as we move into the cooler seasons. When you’re after a fun gingham or a moody plaid, there is a lot out there at the moment. And I don’t know about you, but I’m still not over The Queens Gambit and all the stunning checks (or the breathtaking cinematography), so why not wear them too? This is such a go-to dress for me, and I think you’ll find something similar that works the same in your wardrobe.
If you’ve been here for longer than a minute, you should have guessed this is the bracket I’ll be dipping the most into for my AW2021. I’m living for the matching tracksuits, basics in stripes and warm tones, as well as those small details that make an item more than your average loungewear piece. Shop these styles if you’ve committed to the “stay at home” aesthetic and won’t give it up. Or, if, like me, you believe sneakers are never going out of style.
If you came past the gingham etc., section, you’d know that sleeves are 100% a thing, so much so that I had to give them their own section. Big sleeves or small, this season, they’re saying something. Another carryover trend, I think this one is just waiting for the chance to get out in the world in a big way. Heck, even I’ve worn some outfits with a sleeve; this checked monochrome dress or this one that shows up in some of my profile images. As someone with broad shoulders, I used to worry about going big with a statement sleeve or shoulder pad. But do you know what? It’s too much fun not to!
We’ve already spoken about matching tracksuits, but what about the one-piece jumpsuit? As simple as a dress with the convenience of pants, that’s always been my favourite part. Plus, they make dressing up so easy. You’ll see that I’m a massive fan of a jumpsuit (I own the Hope & Harvest one in the first row, #2) from posts on the blog, but I can’t seem to make overalls work for me. If you have this secret magic, please let me know your secrets! That’s the major upside of this coming season; there is a cut and fit to suit everyone and their comfort zone.
Heck, I hope you’re feeling well informed about Australian Plus-Size Fashion for Autumn/Winter 2021 team. Because THAT was a mission. You’re lucky you’re cute because I wouldn’t spend this amount of time rounding up images and links for just anyone. Haha. So, tell me, what’s your wardrobe look like this year? Are you adding much to it or going with what you have? Due to an expanding waistline, I’ve had to get some new jeans. But other than that, it was a knit or two for me, maybe a tracksuit or two (that I don’t need), and the search continues for a pair of decent ankle boots.
I know what I’m talking about when it comes to plus size clothes for teenagers. How? Well, I’ve been over 5’10” since I was 12. To say that I was a plus-size teen is an understatement. I was tall, large and in varying stages of puppy fat and angst-driven disordered eating between an Australian size 12 to 18 the entire time. I was thinking about that the other weekend when my nieces visited. Tall, slim girls have the issue of length when it comes to buying clothes. They had other issues with fit, but that got me thinking about teenage girls shopping for clothing right now.
The girls, just like me, the plus girls.
When I was a teenager there wasn’t a lot of options shopping wise. I remember losing a bit of weight in my senior years and finding that I could fit back into the mainstream stores who by this stage were regularly stocking a 14/16. What a relief! Bye-bye peasant skirts and men’s board shorts. I do remember once though, in a change-room, when my Mum handed me clothing in a size 14/16 that she mentioned it was as far it as it went, sizing wise. That stuck with me and not because I was upset she pointed this out to me. But because I was not that big of a person. HOW could this be the largest sizes available to women. Why was that even a thing?
Luckily teens have way more options today.
LOTS AND LOTS of options. And while I think you should get your staple items from the excellent Australian online retailers that were in this post or from the brands I listed in my post about minimalist plus size clothing, a teenage girl wants to be fashionable, to wear what her friends are wearing, to be cool. In this post, we’re going to give you some options for where to buy plus size clothes for teenagers; some local and overseas options for the young adult market. Clothes that are more on-trend than wardrobe staples. The sort of clothing that helps a teenage girl fit in with her friends instead of having to wear styles older than she is. Let’s get started, shall we?
Where to buy plus size clothes for teenagers
Torrid
With stores throughout the USA, this brand is established and can be counted on to deliver on-trend basics for reasonable prices. The shopping to Australia can be a killer so subscribe to the newsletter for discounted shipping days or split an order with a friend. A shopping tip: I wear my standard Australian size in their denim and the majority of the range. Check out online reviews for more information. There are plenty!
I love Forever 21+ for modern, on-trend pieces. The pricing of the range puts it on par with the likes of Supre and such in Australia. Postage is reasonably fast and affordable. As a size 22/24, I find I’m at the very top of the size chart and would recommend this store for sizes 20 and below. Recently Australian stores have opened but the pricing isn’t on par with the online store and the range is better online. Shop by the look is another great online feature for those developing their own style. Grab your teenager, sit them down with the page open and let them shop.
A great Australian brand featuring great lifestyle pieces for everyday wear. A personal favourite of mine, but don’t tell the kids. When you want to mix quality denim and easy to wear lifestyle pieces, this is the place I recommend you start. Especially denim, the team specialises in great on-trend fits as well as classic shapes. I’ve found any number of styles make their way into my everyday wardrobe. And the best part? Because they’re made of quality fabrics, they’re going to last better than anything you get at cheap competitors stores.
A new addition to the Cotton On (Typo, rubi, Supre) family is the range of Cotton On clothing in Curve. Stocking sizes 16 – 24 in a range of on-trend items that are both seasonal and affordable, but wearable long after the season is done. You’ll get everything here from Jeans to Swimwear, graphic tees to basic loungewear. If your teen is sick of not being able to wear the same cool, causal clothes as their friends, this is a range you want to check out. Not so bad for us oldies either, I featured a number of these items in my casual capsule wardrobe post.
Don’t be afraid fo the slinky fits or sexy shapes on their Instagram account; I assure you this is a teen-friendly brand. Haha. Find anything from casual dresses, t-shirt, light denim and more at this cheap and cheerful online store. It’s a USA based store, but just switch the currency over to AUD when you arrive and you’ll know where you stand price-wise. I love this shop for casual tees and fun items you just can’t find anywhere else.
My fashion-forward friends in blog world turned me on to Misguided Plus and they were so right. By all accounts, the sizing is generous, especially in the styles designed to be oversized. Check out the charts and online reviews because you may find that you need to size down here on some items and upon others. I like to compare this range to the festival chic styling of Sportsgirl with the added punk you just can’t buy here. Loads of cool items that will raise your fashion game no matter your size.
A larger store with a range of clothing, underwear, sports and activewear, City Chic offers a few ‘in-house’ brands that cater to different styles and they’re always incorporating on-trend pieces that are made of higher-quality materials compared to a lot of the big brands. They have a great range of denim and boots too. All the good stuff.
Shop the new-season City Chic range here.
ASOS Curve
A great one-stop-shop for a range of styles, brands and sizes. Plus, if your teen identifies as a boy, there’s an entire section for plus-size men too! Easily one of my favourite places to shop. When I found ASOS Curve at the beginning of my style journey, it was like the world had changed. I’d never been able to find the clothing that suited my style; in fact, I had no idea what my style really was until I could start to explore it with clothing that fits me. Your teen might just find themselves there too.
A little note about your plus size teen if you’re a parent, guardian or concerned adult-type person. Leave them alone. That’s my hot tip. Live well, be an example and leave them alone. I don’t know if you’ve ever been the fat kid, but when you remind them they’re different, you aren’t telling them anything they didn’t know. I speak from experience. We KNOW we don’t fit in and sometimes that hurts. So be cool, love us and let your ideas about what we ‘should be’ go. And finally, if they’re not that into clothes, that’s okay too. It’s hard to care when you feel like you are constantly being excluded from a conversation.
