TORRID
If Torrid ever changes its name, I vote for Uber-Trendy. If you’re a teenager and you absolutely would not be caught dead in Lane Bryant or Old Navy then no need to fear, Torrid is here (I know, that sounded horribly corny). The denim selections would make a plus size fashionista fake a stroke just to be offered something free.
Luxe Black Skinny Jean
Tie Wrap Dress
Torrid launched in 2001 to cater to the needs of urban plus size women. Its successive lines have been inspired by fashion icons, runway shows, music and pop cultures. The company carries plus size casual wear, plus size sportswear, plus size cute lingerie and various other accessories. If you’re on the extremes of the scales (too tall or too petite) your retail therapy session may unfortunately not be as satisfying as mine.
Sizes: 12 – 28
Average Cost: $24 – $150
Online: Torrid.com
Outlets: Check Torrid Store Locator
Customer Service Reviews: 4
LANE BRYANT
Any plus size woman knows that once you getting into the working lane, well let’s just say, Torrid won’t suit your needs. Which is where Lane Bryant comes in. Conceptualised in the early 1900s, Lane Bryant prides itself in its strong plus size career wear line and stylish wear for plus size 40 something women.
Classic Pinstripe Trouser
Crochet Trim Blouse
The clothes may be a bit high priced but they make up for it with the absolutely amazing quality and style. Their stores pride themselves on helpful and professional customer service so there aren’t too many lines to wait at.
Sizes: 14 – 28
Average Cost: $19 – $100
Online: Lane Bryant.com
Outlets: Check Lane Bryant Store Locator
Customer Service Reviews: 4
SEALED WITH A KISS (SWAK) DESIGNS
SWAK is definitely the middle ground between Lane Bryant and Torrid. The clothes are trendy but not completely off the wall. A few months ago I was firmly convinced that shops charge us plus size women more on clothes because of the extra fabric they use but SWAK swung this theory on its head. I was pleasantly surprised that you can actually find a full outfit for less than $300 – I mean jeans, shirt and shoes.
Anastacia Maxi Dress
Open Cardigan
SWAK has been in existence since 2006 when its founder Brad Capo set out to meet the needs of many plus size women who want flattering yet practical clothes. The trendy plus size designs can often transition from work to play in a second. They sell direct to customers through their website and ship wholesale to boutiques nationally and internationally. SWAK stores in Roseville and Tahoe are famed for their ever changing merchandise so you can be certain that you won’t be walking around your town and find your shirt’s doppelganger.
Sizes: 14 – 36
Average Cost: $20 – $95
Online: Swak Designs.com
Outlets: Check for a boutiques carrying SWAK designs close to you at Swak Retail Stores
Customer Service Reviews: Rating: 3.5
