For the women who've recently transitioned from very fat to normal or relatively thin...
Kalikel
Posts: 9,603 Member
TL;DR - When did you start going into regular stores in the mall and did they have things to fit you? What stores?
Long...
It's been about 25 years since I could shop in non-fat-lady stores. They've switched the sizes around quite a bit in the last 25 years, but I wasn't shopping in normal stores to know wth is going on.
Since I stopped going to The Avenue and Lane Bryant kind of stores, most of my clothes are mail-order because I know how Lands's End, LL Bean and Columbia clothes will fit me. I wore them when I was fattest and just keep ordering smaller sizes. I do buy things in normal sizes at Kohl's because I was standing in the fat lady section when I became confused about what to do when the fat lady section didn't have clothes for me, so I snuck over to the regular section and bought clothes there and now I go to that section.
I'm in a size 13, lol. The 14s are too big and the 12s fit (look fine) but are a little tight for comfort and there's too much bulging fat when I sit for my taste. In about 2 weeks, maybe three, the 12s will be fine. XLs are big, most Ls fit or are big. I haven't tried Ms yet, but know I'm close if not there.
Every single item is sized differently, but that where I am, on average.
I'm thinking maybe I could go to regular stores in the mall. But I don't know. My dream after I started losing - since I never anticipated this weight loss happening when I began - slowly became to buy something in a regular store. BUT my dream is NOT to go in and find out the clothes don't fit yet and have to go back later.
I want to go in and buy something, so I'm trying to wait until that venture will be a success and not a "leave with my tail between my legs" kind of outing.
I realize it may seem very silly...because it kind of IS very silly...but it's my thing, how I feel, what I want.
Do some stores run bigger than others? I don't need the clothes to be on par with the kind of quality you get from Columbia or LL Bean. Any item will do, lol, even if it falls apart quickly. But are there stores that you fit into before others? (I have no intention of ever stepping foot in Abercrombie & Fitch.)
Are the Kohl's sizes like mall sizes? Should I wait until I'm in 10s?
What size were you when you were able to go into regular stores and buy clothes there?
If anyone made it through all that, Thanks!
Long...
It's been about 25 years since I could shop in non-fat-lady stores. They've switched the sizes around quite a bit in the last 25 years, but I wasn't shopping in normal stores to know wth is going on.
Since I stopped going to The Avenue and Lane Bryant kind of stores, most of my clothes are mail-order because I know how Lands's End, LL Bean and Columbia clothes will fit me. I wore them when I was fattest and just keep ordering smaller sizes. I do buy things in normal sizes at Kohl's because I was standing in the fat lady section when I became confused about what to do when the fat lady section didn't have clothes for me, so I snuck over to the regular section and bought clothes there and now I go to that section.
I'm in a size 13, lol. The 14s are too big and the 12s fit (look fine) but are a little tight for comfort and there's too much bulging fat when I sit for my taste. In about 2 weeks, maybe three, the 12s will be fine. XLs are big, most Ls fit or are big. I haven't tried Ms yet, but know I'm close if not there.
Every single item is sized differently, but that where I am, on average.
I'm thinking maybe I could go to regular stores in the mall. But I don't know. My dream after I started losing - since I never anticipated this weight loss happening when I began - slowly became to buy something in a regular store. BUT my dream is NOT to go in and find out the clothes don't fit yet and have to go back later.
I want to go in and buy something, so I'm trying to wait until that venture will be a success and not a "leave with my tail between my legs" kind of outing.
I realize it may seem very silly...because it kind of IS very silly...but it's my thing, how I feel, what I want.Do some stores run bigger than others? I don't need the clothes to be on par with the kind of quality you get from Columbia or LL Bean. Any item will do, lol, even if it falls apart quickly. But are there stores that you fit into before others? (I have no intention of ever stepping foot in Abercrombie & Fitch.)
Are the Kohl's sizes like mall sizes? Should I wait until I'm in 10s?
What size were you when you were able to go into regular stores and buy clothes there?
If anyone made it through all that, Thanks!
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Replies
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Old navy sizes tend to run big. They also have bigger sizes, so either way you should be able to find something.
But if you are a size 10-12 you should be able to shop at most stores. Maybe not teen stores like Abercrombie bc they are cut differently, but jcpenney, gap, old navy, etc. you should be fine!0 -
Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.0 -
I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
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I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
I guess I shouldn't even be in this thread, I've never had to shop in the "fat lady" stores. I only replied because I love clothes and I know a lot about them and sizing.
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Sounds like you should be able to find clothing at just about any store now.
As another poster pointed out:
odd sizes (9,11,13) = Junior's clothing (different cut then women's)
even sizes (8,10,12) = Women's clothing
Old Navy seems to run large.
Definitely get yourself to some stores and hit up a bunch. You will find sizes can vary wildly from brand to brand and even depending on cut.
For the past few months I was an 8-10 (9-11 juniors), but they are all starting to get way to big. I had to run to the car for the diaper bag today and it required me to hold onto my jeans to keep them up. :laugh:
My favorite stores for a large variety of clothing brands are TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Gordmans, and JcPenny.
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Lol, I didn't mean that! I'm really trying to get a feel for how other people went through the transition. But all advice is welcome.strong_curves wrote: »
I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
I guess I shouldn't even be in this thread, I've never had to shop in the "fat lady" stores. I only replied because I love clothes and I know a lot about them and sizing.
Which stores run big? Stores inside the mall, not department stores on the ends. I could always shop in those because they had fat lady sections.
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OP - one thing you could do is to look at the website for whatever store or brand you're considering,
find their sizing chart(s), and see where you fall.
.
Which one of these is not like the other?Kalikel wrote:I don't buy expensive clothes.
Everything I have comes from Columbia, LL Bean, Land's End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart.
That word you are using, I do not think it means what you think it means.
The only one of those I'd consider not to be expensive is Wally World, and I shop there only as a last resort.
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I prefer online shopping
You get to choose multiple sizes, try on in your own home with your own clothes and accessories, take your time deciding and return free of charge
I rarely go into shops any more0 -
I was joking out the 13. Joking poorly, obviously. I'm between a 14 and 12. A friend is swearing that the 12s fit and I'm being ridiculous and wearing my clothes too baggy. "You have a fat girl mentality and you have to stop that!" But I'm still a fat girl, lol. I'll be comfortable in the 12s soon, though. They already go on, but feel tight when I sit. Still too small, IMO...and my opinion is the final word on what I wear, not hers.shadow2soul wrote: »Sounds like you should be able to find clothing at just about any store now.
As another poster pointed out:
odd sizes (9,11,13) = Junior's clothing (different cut then women's)
even sizes (8,10,12) = Women's clothing
Old Navy seems to run large.
Definitely get yourself to some stores and hit up a bunch. You will find sizes can vary wildly from brand to brand and even depending on cut.
For the past few months I was an 8-10 (9-11 juniors), but they are all starting to get way to big. I had to run to the car for the diaper bag today and it required me to hold onto my jeans to keep them up. :laugh:
My favorite stores for a large variety of clothing brands are TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Gordmans, and JcPenny.
I think I'll give it a shot when the 12s are official.
Thanks, guys!!
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Lol, I didn't mean that! I'm really trying to get a feel for how other people went through the transition. But all advice is welcome.strong_curves wrote: »
I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
I guess I shouldn't even be in this thread, I've never had to shop in the "fat lady" stores. I only replied because I love clothes and I know a lot about them and sizing.
Which stores run big? Stores inside the mall, not department stores on the ends. I could always shop in those because they had fat lady sections.
Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy tend to run really big. Stores like Loft, Ann Taylor, etc run big also but not as big as the gap brands. If I were you, I wouldn't online shop just yet. It's probably better for you to find what you like and always try the items on....even if it is annoying! Until you find out which stores, brands fit you the best and you understand their sizing its just better to go in store and try on. What I usually do is get my "size" and then get the next size up that way I can determine which one looks best on me.0 -
Thanks! I think I'll go just before the 4th and buy some goofy 4th of July shirt to wear to the fireworks...if they still sell stuff like that. I honestly don't even look inside the regular stores. I'll find something. (I hope.)Old navy sizes tend to run big. They also have bigger sizes, so either way you should be able to find something.
But if you are a size 10-12 you should be able to shop at most stores. Maybe not teen stores like Abercrombie bc they are cut differently, but jcpenney, gap, old navy, etc. you should be fine!
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Oh, I'm so doing this in person. That's the whole point! I couldn't shop in those stores for 25 years, so I really want to go into one and buy something!!strong_curves wrote: »
Lol, I didn't mean that! I'm really trying to get a feel for how other people went through the transition. But all advice is welcome.strong_curves wrote: »
I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
I guess I shouldn't even be in this thread, I've never had to shop in the "fat lady" stores. I only replied because I love clothes and I know a lot about them and sizing.
Which stores run big? Stores inside the mall, not department stores on the ends. I could always shop in those because they had fat lady sections.
Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy tend to run really big. Stores like Loft, Ann Taylor, etc run big also but not as big as the gap brands. If I were you, I wouldn't online shop just yet. It's probably better for you to find what you like and always try the items on....even if it is annoying! Until you find out which stores, brands fit you the best and you understand their sizing its just better to go in store and try on. What I usually do is get my "size" and then get the next size up that way I can determine which one looks best on me.
GAP ran big way back when I could shop there, which was when they sold rugby shirts with white, rubber buttons. Banana Republic ran ads with people of all races and had some slogan about colors. The Limited was still cool. Nice to know some things don't change.
I no longer care about cool, much too old for that, but it's going to be so fun to buy clothes wherever I want.
I'll totally check out the Gap.
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Oh, I'm so doing this in person. That's the whole point! I couldn't shop in those stores for 25 years, so I really want to go into one and buy something!!strong_curves wrote: »
Lol, I didn't mean that! I'm really trying to get a feel for how other people went through the transition. But all advice is welcome.strong_curves wrote: »
I don't buy expensive clothes. Everything I have comes from Columnia, LL Bean, Lands' End, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. I'm phasing Kohl's out because I've found that Wal-Mart clothes are cheaper and last longer. I don't have the kind of money to buy whole wardrobes of expensive clothes every time I drop a size. Maybe one day I'll buy something really expensive that I can wear for a long time, but that's a long way off!strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
When did you go from shopping in fat lady stores to just walking into any old store in the mall and buying something?
I guess I shouldn't even be in this thread, I've never had to shop in the "fat lady" stores. I only replied because I love clothes and I know a lot about them and sizing.
Which stores run big? Stores inside the mall, not department stores on the ends. I could always shop in those because they had fat lady sections.
Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy tend to run really big. Stores like Loft, Ann Taylor, etc run big also but not as big as the gap brands. If I were you, I wouldn't online shop just yet. It's probably better for you to find what you like and always try the items on....even if it is annoying! Until you find out which stores, brands fit you the best and you understand their sizing its just better to go in store and try on. What I usually do is get my "size" and then get the next size up that way I can determine which one looks best on me.
GAP ran big way back when I could shop there, which was when they sold rugby shirts with white, rubber buttons. Banana Republic ran ads with people of all races and had some slogan about colors. The Limited was still cool. Nice to know some things don't change.
I no longer care about cool, much too old for that, but it's going to be so fun to buy clothes wherever I want.
I'll totally check out the Gap.
Yay! I think you'll be surprised at what sizes can fit you. The only sucky part is sometimes you'll have a few different sizes in your wardrobe. I don't pay attention to the number on the clothes, I pay way more attention to fit. So basically what I'm saying is don't get all wrapped up in that number. If you have to size up just because a bigger size looks better do NOT let that get you down. Sizing, especially for women, is just stupid! Men have it so much better when it comes to sizing imo.
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I haven't been in this position, but wanted to share this: I recently went to the mall (for a watch) and wandered into a bathing suit store. The horror, right?? I've lost weight since last summer, and was curious if a newer/smaller bathing suit would look better. So I tried some on. One DID look better. The others, not at all. Ultimately, I didn't even buy the one that looked good because I want to give it more time and lose a little more weight before I buy another bathing suit (my current ones are fine for now).
The experience was different than in the past. I didn't feel disappointed. I just observed and moved on. Maybe you will feel the same way? Go try and see. If nothing fits, it's merely an observation and you can always go back later.0 -
I love Kohl's. And outlet malls. But I am a discount shopper. I've had lots of luck picking fabrics with give. Find a good tailor. I've bought new stuff, but altering my old suits was way cheaper than buying new ones. And I had some distinctive dresses I'll never be able to buy again. Even new stuff can usually benefit from a nip or a tuck. I'm at my slimmest ever and some stuff, because I'm still hourglass shaped (YAY) just doesn't flatter me. But there's plenty that does.
Just take a day, wear neutral undies, shoes and clothes that are easy to get in and out of and start finding out what works fort he new you! And congrats!!!! 0 -
strong_curves wrote: »Well odd numbered size clothing are juniors clothing which are cut differently than even numbered sized clothing (which are women's sizes). Usually juniors clothing are cut slimmer & straight with not a lot of room for hips, thighs, etc.
Imo, you would do better to not focus so much on the number sizes and just try on everything. Sizing isn't universal, every store uses a different fit model so that's why in 1 store you could wear a size 12 but in another you might be able to fit a size 10 or even an 8. Mall brand stores tend to run larger so they can fit a wider variety of customer. High and some mid end brands tend to run 1 to 2 sizes smaller than mall brands. A store like Kohls, which sells a lot of different brands btw, you will have to try on different sizes until you find the right fit.
all of that
odd sizing is junior (teen) sizing. I can wear a 12ish in ladies tops which is about a 15/17 in juniors (based on my own purchases). but all brands are different- thats just a generalization.
stores have different cut off sizing for their plus sizing but *usually* the cutoff is around a 160 -
Hi! I've only ever gotten up to a size 16 (now between a 14 and 12 like you). I have size issues due to my length, though (I'm 6'0" tall) so I have to spend a bit more on the bottoms.
If you want to feel just amazing, go to New York & Co.. I went there the other day and I bought my first pair of shorts in 5 years! I'm a pear, so I have wide hips, a big bubble butt lol, and thick thighs that rub together. Because of this, I haven't felt comfortable wearing shorts for a while. That ride up into the crotch look was NOT appealing. BUT! On impulse I tried on these cuffed shorts while shopping for new slacks (they have a tall section). They are a rich soft fabric (not jean), are long enough to prevent chafing, and are loose around my thighs (the bliss!). When I went, they had them in a bunch of colors! I bought two, one in grey and one in teal. I like my bottoms looser so I went with a 14, but their sizes went up to 18 from what I saw.
Once you go in, I advise that you try their wrap dresses. It smooths over your trouble areas and hugs your curves, cellulite unseen! In fact, most of their clothes have some give to them and are all very flattering.0 -
I've only shopped Goodwill, which isn't very good with sizes. But as soon as I fit back into a size 6 again, I'll let you know!0
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Hi! I've only ever gotten up to a size 16 (now between a 14 and 12 like you). I have size issues due to my length, though (I'm 6'0" tall) so I have to spend a bit more on the bottoms.
If you want to feel just amazing, go to New York & Co.. I went there the other day and I bought my first pair of shorts in 5 years! I'm a pear, so I have wide hips, a big bubble butt lol, and thick thighs that rub together. Because of this, I haven't felt comfortable wearing shorts for a while. That ride up into the crotch look was NOT appealing. BUT! On impulse I tried on these cuffed shorts while shopping for new slacks (they have a tall section). They are a rich soft fabric (not jean), are long enough to prevent chafing, and are loose around my thighs (the bliss!). When I went, they had them in a bunch of colors! I bought two, one in grey and one in teal. I like my bottoms looser so I went with a 14, but their sizes went up to 18 from what I saw.
Once you go in, I advise that you try their wrap dresses. It smooths over your trouble areas and hugs your curves, cellulite unseen! In fact, most of their clothes have some give to them and are all very flattering.
I forgot about NY & Co. This is a great store to shop at, they have tons of sizes and great styles. Wrap dresses are the bomb.com!!!! They look good on almost all women.0 -
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Yay! I think you'll be surprised at what sizes can fit you. The only sucky part is sometimes you'll have a few different sizes in your wardrobe. I don't pay attention to the number on the clothes, I pay way more attention to fit. So basically what I'm saying is don't get all wrapped up in that number. If you have to size up just because a bigger size looks better do NOT let that get you down. Sizing, especially for women, is just stupid! Men have it so much better when it comes to sizing imo.
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Totally ignore the size number. It can be hard to do, but really, go with what looks flattering and feels good. I have everything from a size 8 to a 12 in my closet. I also have 8s that are waaaay too small, and 12s that I hope to never fit into again. Make it about looking and feeling good 0 -
I know what you mean. I was really afraid to go into new (to me) stores and leave with nothing because I was still too big! I finally started going to non-department stores when I was a size 9/10 and in medium tops. I couldn't believe I could finally fit into stuff from forever21 and Charlotte Russe! And not even close too wit biggest sizes!
I'm sure at your size now you'll find something. Only one way to find out!0 -
Yes, go shop in regular stores. I agree that Gap and Old Navy run a bit big. I also like NY & Co., but I've only ever bought things from them online. I think that their sizes run a tiny bit small. Their quality is pretty decent for the price and they have good sales.
My "big deal" shopping experience was to be able to finally buy a beautiful designer dress from Anthropologie. I ordered something from then online, on sale at a very deep discount and in a size that was likely to be too small. When it arrived, it fit absolutely perfectly. It is a great feeling.
Most of my favorite clothes these days are from TJ Maxx and Marshall's. I try not to spend much money on clothes while my body is still changing, but you can get really nice things there for almost nothing.0 -
Having lost 120 lbs, I started in the plus sizes and had a very difficult time when I needed to shop in the regular stores. Even now, that I have been maintaining for a year and am a size 2, 4 or 6, depending on the brand, I still take at least 2 sizes of everything to try on. It's trial and error. I have been successful at Kohl's, H&M, Old Navy and Macys. Still a little to intimidated to go to some of the other stores, but I will get there.0
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I know in this thread people have mentioned odd numbers are juniors sizes (which true) and even numbers are "women's sizes"--that's incorrect. The standard size for females is called "misses" (I majored in fashion) and the distinction is important because "women's" is often synonymous with plus sizes, and you are not a plus size any more. The distinction is also important, because there is sometimes size overlap (like there is a misses 14 and a women's 14), but the women's clothing item would be cut differently to accommodate a fuller figure. Likewise, if a 13 fits you better than 14's or 12's, it's because your body type is more like a junior's (right now, and that could change). (And there's nothing wrong with that--the only reason there are these different size ranges for women--juniors, misses, women's-- is so that theoretically there is a fit that would work for different body types.)
Some cheaper stores may combine juniors and misses, usually using the misses numeration (even numbers), too. The thing about clothing for women is there is almost no standardization whatsoever compared to men's clothing and women also have extremely varying body types from one another so even three different main cuts of clothes (five, if you count talls and petites) don't accommodate every one.0 -
After reading/skimming most of the posts here, my only question is: Old Navy runs big...? o_o0
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Yup. doesn't matter what you weigh, clothing sizes are a gamble. I'm petite and have to try on EVERYthing because things rarely fit right even though I shop at non "fat-lady" stores. Just clear out a little time, pick the stores with the clothing styles you like the best, eyeball it a little and then try on enough clothes to get the hang of that brand's sizing patterns. I have everything from 0-6 in my closet depending on brand because there's so much inconsistency. Best of luck, you'll get the hang of it eventually 0
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I would recommend trying goodwill or value village stores if they are near you - the clothes are not new, but you can try on a ton of variety, see what labels/designers fit you best and get a whole wardrobe for less than a few items at a "real" store. Dresses are also super comfy and forgiving - as long as the shoulders fit, you can wear the same size dress through several "sizes." I've only been a size 18, down to size 8, now a 12, but that's how I got through size changes happily and comfortably lots of cute and high quality items get donated! 0
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NY & Co is amazing, especially for tops. I've found tops at Chicos that I love (warning: they don't use standard sizes as in I'm a M-L top and I'm a size 1 there) as well as J. Jill. However, I personally find Gap to run small and I think I've only ever found one, maybe two, tops that fit well enough to buy. Ditto Banana Republic, J. Crew, and Express. I personally stick to NY&Co, Chicos, J. Jill, and department stores. If I need a dress then I usually check out Dressbarn. I do agree that Old Navy is a good bet I've found tops that I like at Ann Taylor, but I find their pants to be a tight fit, I couldn't fit their size 12 even though I'm between a 10-12 everywhere else. So basically, yes, you should be able to shop in mall stores and find clothes you like but it may take some trial and error to find the brands that work best for YOUR body! 0
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I have loved Kohl's ever since getting to my highest weight...they seem to always have SOMETHING that fits me. I am now in a 14 and I typically shop at Old Navy, Target and Ross for my clothes ... only 'cause it can be a little pricier for Kohl's if I don't have a coupon.0
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