If you’re a plus-size woman, you know that it can be difficult to find clothes that fit you right AND look great on you. Prior to online shopping, choices were very limited and often it meant having to travel a distance to find a store that catered towards larger woman. Thankfully, you can now shop right at your fingertips and there are several great options to choose from. The following provides tips on what to purchase at a store versus online, some of the top plus-size online stores, and tips for purchasing online.

Store purchase versus online purchase

Although online stores offer the same categories of items that you’ll find at a physical store, unless you specifically know the size and brand that fits you best, intimates should be purchased at a store. You’ll want to be able to try on bras, girdles and such. Once you know what you like and the size you need, then you can purchase the items online.

Bulky items, such as a winter coat, should be purchased at a physical store. If you order the coat online and it doesn’t fit, then you’ll be paying quite a bit in shipping and handling to return the coat.

If a store is running a really good deal that isn’t offered online, then it makes more sense to purchase the items from the store.

Popular plus-size online stores

There are several plus-size online stores that offer a variety of clothing that will appeal to teens through middle-age. Here are just a few of the popular sites and information about each one.

• Catherines.com Catherines is a plus-size only store located in many of the states and is also an online store. One of the nice perks about ordering from Catherines.com is if there is a physical store near you, they will ship the items to the store for free. If there are items that you don’t want to keep, the store will return the items for you for free as well. Catherines.com offers tops, pants, dresses, intimates and swimwear, along with a nice selection of accessories. The online store frequently offers great deals and free shipping. Prices are very reasonable and the clothing is made of good quality. Whether you’re looking for casual wear or something dressy for a special event, Catherines.com is a great choice.
• LaneBryant.com Do you love shopping at Lane Bryant in the mall? Then you’ll love shopping LaneBryant.com! This online store tends to cater more towards younger women; however, it offers a fair amount of clothing that will appeal to older women as well. Jeans, tops, dresses, shoes, intimates…LaneBryant.com has several items to choose from. The site often runs specials, so it’s certainly worth checking from time to time.
• Sonsi.com Sonsi.com is the online marketplace for plus-size shopping. Hundreds of brands are offered, including City Chic, IGIGI, Lane Bryant, Catherines and A Big Attitude. From casual wear to formal wear, Sonsi.com offers both classic and trendy clothes. The site even has a Bridal Boutique which offers a great selection of dresses. In addition to clothing, Sonsi.com offers handbags, luggage, jewelry, fragrances and shoes. In addition to its store, the site contains healthy articles, recipes and advice.
• OneStopPlus.com Very similar to Sonsi.com, OneStopPlus.com offers over 10,000 products in a wide range of sizes and styles. Prices are very reasonable. You can shop by name brand or category. For Halloween fans, they even offer plus-size costumes! In addition to clothing, you’ll find shoes, jewelry, handbags, beauty and home products.
• SimplyBe.com If you’re looking for clothing that is unique, then SimplyBe.com is a good site to check out. You’ll find fashionable tops, jeans, dresses and more in styles that are fun and flattering. Be sure to take advantage of the coupon for first time customers.
• JustMySize.com If you are looking for full figure underwear and bras, JMS is the best place. The quality they provide is superior, while their prices are much lower than those of brand names stores. The best about this store is their free return policy, you will get full refund, no question asked. They also sell plus size clothing, more towards women of 40-60 years old.

Tips for purchasing online

Just as you love to save money when shopping at a store, it’s nice to be able to save money when shopping online. Here are some tips to keep in mind while shopping online:

• Sign up for newsletters. Most online stores encourage you to sign up for their e-newsletters. These newsletters will often let you know about upcoming deals, the latest fashion fad, and sometimes will give you a special promo number to use for a certain percentage off or free shipping and handling.
• Like the Facebook page. If the online store has a Facebook page, be sure to “like” it. By joining the page, you’ll receive notices and deals that only Facebook fans will receive. Some online stores will ask an open-ended question on Facebook and do a drawing for those who participate. This is a great way to win a gift card to the site.
• Search the store. When you Google or Bing for an online plus-size store, there’s a good chance once you click on a store that you’ll see a coupon pop up. Stores want your business and they know that if they offer you a coupon, there’s a good chance you’ll use it.
• Be patient. Many online stores run specials throughout the year. Unless you need an item right away, if you wait a week or two, changes are you can get a good deal on it. Also, it doesn’t hurt to call the number given on the website to find out if there are any upcoming deals. You might get lucky and be offered a deal over the phone.
• Pay attention to deals. Some online stores offer deals that are only good for a specific brand of clothing. It’s important to understand what the deal is. Before you hit the “submit” on an order, double check the figures.
• Consider getting a store card. If the online store offers a store card, this is another great way to save money. You’ll receive notices of deals that are only good for people who have a store card.

More and more retail stores are including clothes for full-figured gals. The next time you’re at Old Navy, JCPenney or Target, check out the clothes.

Whether shopping at a store, or online, it’s nice knowing that plus-size women have options and can look great in their clothes.

Author: Barb Bergerson