by Paula Rosenberg

Created on: August 12, 2008

Isn't it ironic that the average woman wears between a size 12-16 and yet there are relatively few stores that specialize in trendy plus size clothing? Most catalogues and websites that "specialize" in plus size clothing generally offer the same mumu and box cut dress in about 20 different colors. Never fear though there are a handful of stores that cater to plus size customers.

-Department Stores: While mini-malls and outdoor shopping courts have lured customers away from the department store, they are still an excellent source for plus size women. Saks, Nordstrom's, Dillard's, Macy's, and Lord and Taylor all have a plus size department in their stores and on their websites. Macy's Plus Department offers labels such as Nine West, Baby Phat, Apple Bottoms, and their own line INC. These labels are great choices for younger plus size ladies. If you are on a budget J.C. Penny's, Sears, and Kohl's also have plus size departments. Apt. 9 is a label found at Kohls which is very flattering and trendy. Selected Sears stores offer a Jr. Plus section.

-Avenue: The Avenue is a great store to find work staples and some trendy pieces for the plus size wardrobe. There is always a sale going on so it is the perfect place to pick up camisoles, tee shirts, and work out clothes at bargain prices. Avenue also sells Seven for All Mankind jeans in plus sizes. They carry up to size 30 in their clothes. They have a small shoe department as well that specializes in wide with shoes and wide calf boots.

-Ashley Stewart and Lane Bryant: Either or both of these stores are a fixture at most malls or shopping center. They offer trendy dress, tops, and pants. They each have a great accessory section as well. Ashley Stewart stores carry items between sizes 12-26. Lane Bryant goes up to size 28 but has more of a selection in larger sizes on-line then in the stores. Lane Bryant also has a specialized jean and pant section. They offer pants that flatter three different body types, hour glass (their red label), pear shape (their blue label), and apple shape (their yellow label). Lane Bryant also has a decent lingerie section.

Old Navy: This is the best place to stock up on basics. Tee-shirts, PJs, Jeans, and sun dress up to size 20 can be found in the store. Their website has even more selection and carries up to size 30.

-TREAD: TREAD offers a lovely selection of bridesmaids gowns, formal, and casual dresses in standard and plus sizes. Their main store is located in LA but almost every state has a boutique that specializes in TREAD dresses. You can also order directly from their website.

-Lee Lee's Valise: This is by far the nicest plus size boutique in the country. Lee Lee's is located in Brooklyn. The store offers beautiful, trendy, and luxurious pieces in sizes 10-28. While there is only the one location you can order on line at their website.

Happy Shopping.

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