The Best Plus-Size Clothing Brands For Women, According To Fashion Experts
After decades of being underrepresented in fashion, finding the best plus-size clothing isn't as tricky as it once was. The plus-size apparel market is thriving; according to Statista, it's worth an estimated $24 billion. With this explosion of demand comes more options, obviously, which means shopping for plus-size fashion is no longer limiting. Instead, everyone from retail giants like Nike to fashion-forward labels like Reformation have embraced more inclusive sizing. The issue now is not so much a lack of options, but finding the very best places to shop for plus-size clothing in what's become a very crowded market.
Reformation is one of our expert's favorite places to shop for plus-size dresses and day-to-night ... [+] pieces.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERSAs a plus-size fashion influencer, Katrina Nichole knows the market well. "I have been a lover of all things fashion since I was a little girl, and have lived in a bigger body my entire life," she says. "My number one priority when I am shopping is finding clothes that actually fit my ultra-curvy body well and look stylish." Fashion influencer Bonnie Wyrick has a similar point of view. She specializes in the mid-size market (sizes 12 through 16), which she defines as "the space between straight sizes and plus." It's category that speaks to "a quickly growing and highly engaging community who, until recently, didn't feel represented in the fashion or social space."
Here, Nichole, Wyrick, and a few other experts share their go-to retailers and the fashion labels they like best, so you can shop and bookmark them. And for more inspiration, check out our guides to the best plus-size leggings and plus-size bras.
GOOD AMERICAN
Always Fits Good Legs Jeans
Sizes: 00-24Average price point: $99-$175
"Good American is one of my favorite places to shop for any kind of plus-size pieces, especially for jeans," says Nichole. "They come in so many different fits based on your body type and size, and they are one of the few places that create trendy jeans for all sizes. Right now, I am in love with their Good '90s jeans, and their Always Fits jeans are perfection for those who fluctuate in size since there's built-in stretch."
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Sizes: 14W–28W and 1X–4XAverage price Point: $98-$148
"Madewell has invested in being more size-inclusive with a large collection of petite, curvy and plus styles," says Wyrick. "Their curvy collection caters to body types who need a couple extra inches in their hips and thighs but don't want that dreadful waist gap. The line is contemporary and the quality is on point with more high end, buttery fabrications."
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Nordstrom
Reformation Mara Dress
Sizes: 0-24Average price point: $128-$328
"Reformation is a sustainable brand that makes some of the most stunning dresses for upscale and formal events. I fell in love with their Michaela dress so much that I actually hiked with it up to the top of the Arches in Moab just to take photos in it," says Nichole. "They have great basics as well, such as skirts, pants and tops."
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Sizes: 0-16Average price point: $70-$100
"One of my favorite things to say is 'show up and show off' because style isn't a size and I truly believe everyone can wear what they want and should have accessibility to do so," says Wyrick. "Want to wear a crop top? Do it. Nervous to wear a tank? Bare those arms. Brands like Showpo make affordable, trendy clothing in sizes 0-18 and can help make that happen. Each item of clothing is often shown on two different body types, to give you a better idea of what it may look like on you."
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ELOQUII
Eloquii Sweetheart Cropped Blouse
Sizes: 14-28Average price point: $50-$170
"Eloquii is a staple store in the plus-size community," says professional stylist and personal shopper McKenzie Crouch. Outside of its wide selection, "it's hip, it's modern, and it has a little bit of everything for every style. Not to mention, the price point and quality is really incredible."
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Sizes: 12-26Price Point: $24-$135
Finding modern tops in plus or extended sizing can be especially difficult. Crouch recommends Asos Curve for stylish additions to your wardrobe. "If you are looking for affordable trendy styles, Asos curve has some of the best discounted pieces," Crouch says. "They also have the edgy looks that you want for a vacation or fun event."
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MOST POPULAR
Sizes: 12-24Average price point: $150-$2,500
11 Honoré, which is now available at Dia and Co, has luxury and quality pieces for mid-size and plus-size figures. "It's nice to shop for luxury plus-size pieces in one space; I don't have to guess if the brands offer my size," say Raena Loper, an editor at Forbes Vetted. Dozens of luxury designer styles are available, from Tanya Taylor to Minnie Rose to Ganni. 11 Honoré also has its own collection with similar luxury styles at a slightly lower price point.
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Revolve
Le Ore Andria Legging
Sizes: 3XS-3XLAverage price point: $45-$255
Nichole finds it hard to choose a favorite among plus-size activewear brands. "Choosing just one brand when it comes to fitness and workout clothing is hard for me since I like so many," she says. "The site that I am currently obsessing over is Bandier. They offer an array of athletic brands, and their selection of colors, patterns and trends are so unique when it comes to the world of plus-size fashion."
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Sizes: 32A-42DD; XXXS-3XAverage price point: $60-$138
"J.Crew's bikinis are my favorite for full coverage, and they have lots of family-friendly one-pieces as well," says Nichole. "If you are looking for bikinis and one-pieces for vacation and sultry getaways, I would also recommend a peek at Good American's swimsuits."
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Sizes: 0-26Average price point: $65-$125
"Just because you may a little belly, doesn't mean you have to rock an outdated tankini," says Wyrick. "We want our curves to be supported yet also want to feel snatched, too. Summersalt swimwear is offers slight compression, is made from sustainable materials and provides designer quality, all for under $100. I've done my time with cheaper swimwear brands in the past and they just don't compare to the quality and fit of this one."
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Save X Fenty
Savage X Fenty Going Platinum Long Robe
Sizes: XS-4XLAverage price point: $15-$100
"I feel cozy yet luxurious in my Savage X Fenty robes," says Loper. The brand offers loungewear, sleepwear, lingerie and more, "I've purchased so many items over the years, I look forward to using my $50 credit each month with my VIP rewards." As a subscriber or VIP, members pay a monthly fee, which goes toward new purchases, and you also get special deals and promotions.
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Sizes: 4XS-4XLAverage price point: $46-$188
"Universal Standard is an amazing brand to shop for basics and they are one of the most inclusive brands on the market with clothing that goes up to a size 40," says Nichole. "I'd also recommend Target for wardrobe basics with solid quality at a great price point. I've worked with them on sponsorships and some of the in-house brands I like best are Ava & Viv and Universal Thread."
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Sizes: 00-26Average price point: $44-$129
"In my twenties, I struggled finding a pair of dress pants that also made me feel confident. They always gapped or pulled across my hips, or bunched when I sat down," says Wyrick. "Slacks tend to be more of an investment, so it was hard to make a purchase that I didn't feel good in. Athleta has a variety of pants that take you to from work to happy hour, from workouts to brunch, in sizes from 00-26." The look and fit, she says, "is chic comfort in one."
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Editor's Pick
GIA/irl
Gia/irl Alaia Top
Sizes: 10-28Average price point: $84-$164
Created by plus-size model Gia Sinatra, the newly launched mid-size to plus-size range offers stylish formal wear, including two-piece sets and dresses that you can wear day or night. "I always reach for my GIA/irl pieces whenever I have a special event—they make an elegant statement," says Loper.
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Material: The best advice for any type of garment is to look for high-quality fabrics that will last. Cotton and denim hold up well and come in a variety of weights and weaves for different levels of breathability. If you'd like pieces with a bit more stretch, consider lyrca, a synthetic fabric with elastane. For durability, polyester has incredibly strong fibers and helps create structure to retain the shape of your garments.
Fit: The best way to optimize the fit of your garment is to know your measurements, says professional stylist McKenzie Crouch. "Definitely keep a tape measure around for online purchases," she says. But, she adds, it's sometimes more important to focus on the fit of the item. "Many women, regardless of size, get caught up in the numerical size of a garment and won't even consider a style if it requires them to go up in size," she says. "I always encourage women to improve the fit regardless of the number."
Return Policy: Mid- or plus-sizes at one brand can vary greatly among brands. A size 20 in one store may fit you perfectly, but it may be too tight in another one. With this in mind, it's always a good idea to confirm the return policy before you click to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mid- And Plus-Size Clothing What is the difference between mid-size and plus-size clothing?Mid-size labels are relatively new, but Crouch categorizes "mid-size" as sizes between 10-16. For plus-size clothing, most brands categorize sizes 18-24 or 1X-6X.
Which brand is good for plus-size?All plus-size and mid-size bodies are different—like with any clothing store, sizes vary from place to place. Shopping with brands that carry two sizes smaller and larger than your standard size is best, just in case you have to size up or down. That said, sizing up and down will only sometimes be an option—when you can't, look for items that have some stretch, this allows you to have more wiggle room when it comes to finding the right size for you.
What's flattering for plus-size and mid-size women?The term flattering can be associated with attempting to look smaller, so wear what makes you feel good on the inside and out, not what makes you look like something or someone else. Search for pieces that make you feel comfortable and confident; you will look and feel the same way.
Do luxury brands make plus-size clothing?Yes, several luxury brands make plus-size clothing. One retailer offering a mix of plus-size luxury designers is 11 Honoré, which is featured above, and includes pieces from Roland Mouret, Baacal and Tanya Taylor. Another luxury brand is Henning, which specializes in elevated closet staples like soft cashmere sweaters and heavyweight leather jackets. Unfortunately, the large majority of European luxury brands don't offer sizes above 46, which is equivalent to a US size 14.
What are the hardest items to find in extended sizing?Crouch has found while working with plus-size clients and listening to their shopping challenges, the biggest issue is having access to stylish clothing. Many plus-size brands offer basics or staples, but on-trend options are much more difficult to get your hands on. "Additionally, many brands don't keep plus-size options in store for easy try on," Crouch explains.
More Size-Inclusive Clothing Brands For WomenDope Black Plus-Size Fashion Designers You Need To Know
This story is part of our new Start. Build. Grow. Series, a celebration of August's Black Business Month.
According to a study by the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education, the average American woman wears between a Misses size 16–18, which is equivalent to a Women's Plus size 20W. But while the plus size clothing market is worth nearly $25 billion, many brands ignore this group completely, leaving customers with few choices.
Thankfully, there are some amazing Black designers and artists who believe that fashionable clothing options shouldn't stop at size 8 and are doing their part to make sure dope style is available to everyone. These are some of our favorite Black plus-sized fashions.
The Best Plus-Size Workout Clothes For Women, According To Active Women
21 items in this article 1 item on sale!
Photo-Illustration: Courtesy of Girlfriend Collective
Although there has been a boon of stylish, size-inclusive brands in the last few years, Vox Creative associate editor Alexis Gaskin says it can still be hard to find and trust options for fashion-forward and supportive activewear online without knowing how they fit. That's where TikTok and Instagram can come in — Gaskin says communities on these platforms for plus-size and fat individuals have made it easier for shoppers to see items in action and how they work on actual large bodies.
In that spirit of not gatekeeping, we talked to Gaskin and 13 other cool women about the leggings, shorts, sports bras, and other activewear they've tried and liked. Read on for comfortable, supportive sportswear that'll get you through your next yoga livestream (and sometimes even double as loungewear on your rest day) at a variety of price points, which we've sorted by style of garment and supplemented with some Strategist-approved pieces. We tried to be as inclusive as possible when looking at sizing, so everything in this list is available in up to (and oftentimes over) 3XL.
Three of the women we spoke to mentioned the Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket Leggings by name. "The Salutation leggings are the best I've ever worn, hands down," says Jessica Rahil, a yoga instructor and body-positivity advocate. "The material and waistband hug the body perfectly," she explains, adding that the material is entirely opaque without feeling overly restrictive or thick. The leggings go up to a size 3XL and are also available in tall and petite sizes, so they'll fit a range of heights in addition to sizes. Fitness influencer Chasi Jernigan is another fan, saying that "the stretch fabric allows you to move unrestricted." Curve model Tatiana Lewis also loves these leggings, especially their pockets (which can fit a phone) and high-rise waist that she says offers full, comfortable coverage.
Two of our experts highlighted Beyond Yoga for the brand's size inclusivity and overall comfort. Gaskin says construction is key when it comes to plus-size activewear, and she likes that these leggings have a slightly longer gusset panel and a supportive high waistband that holds the stomach. And the fabric can't be beat — Gaskin says she fell down a hill while wearing hers once, "but my leggings stayed up, no rips, no nothing." Berriez founder and CEO Emma Zack says she loves Beyond Yoga's bottoms because the material is super soft and sweat-wicking. "I've never felt fabric like that, so I really do believe they're worth the price," she says. Sizes are available up to 4XL.
"I live in my Old Navy leggings," Strategist writer Tembe Denton-Hurst says, adding that they're the best she's tried for the price point. "If they ever discontinue them or switch up the fabric, I'll scream." Lewis also likes these "super-affordable" leggings, which she says are always "eye-catching and go up to a size 4XL."
Lola Getts is a Los Angeles–based athletic-wear company that designs specifically for plus-size customers. Fit model and style influencer Rachel Richardson loves their high-waisted Hi-Rise leggings, which are made with a four-way stretch compression fabric that's comfortable enough for lounging around the house but will also keep you supported during high-impact activities like runs. They're available in sizes up to 3XL.
Richardson also likes these Spanx leggings, promising they offer everything you would expect from the brand: "The leggings are designed to compress and smooth while providing support." The waistband-free style goes up to a 3XL and is so comfortable, she says, that "you won't even realize you are wearing them."
While some leggings can be slightly see-through, Jernigan promises that these are completely opaque, making them versatile enough to wear from the couch to the yoga mat to running errands. They go up to a size 40 and have a four-inch, elastic-covered waistband for added coverage and support.
As the weather warms up, you may want to add a pair of shorts to your workout-gear rotation. "Super Fit Hero's bottoms are made of a buttery fabric that stays up" no matter what you're doing, promises Rihal. In addition to being "buttery" soft, the shorts go up to a size 5XL and have full-size pockets and flat-lock seams to reduce chafing.
$75 at Super Fit Hero
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Zack also owns a pair of bike shorts from Beyond Yoga, and she says she likes that they have a high-rise waistband and come in the brand's signature ultra-soft fabric. She adds that they don't roll up like other bike shorts might, so she doesn't chafe while wearing them for exercise or running errands. "They're just so comfortable, I truly recommend them to everyone," she says. Zack wears a size 1XL and says they fit true to size.
Brand consultant and entrepreneur Megan Ixim says that she is a fan of plus-size athleisure wear that has both "color and functionality." If that sounds like you, she suggests Girlfriend Collective's bike shorts, which come in 12 more colors beyond the black shown. The brand is known for being size-inclusive, and the bike shorts are no exception: They go up to a size 6XL. She likes to style them with the brand's Paloma Bra (more on that below) for "the perfect combination of cool and sophisticated."
$48 at Girlfriend Collective
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Jernigan says that these shorts are "made for movement because the high waist is extra supportive for high-impact exercises like burpees and jumping jacks." The shorts also come in a more neutral black or gray and go up to a size 3XL.
Gaskin says some brands' sport skirts run short on her because they don't consider the length of her stomach. But she says Girlfriend Collective's version stays long and is true to size — she's had hers for over a year, has washed and dried it multiple times, and it's kept its shape. The underlying compression shorts are long enough so they don't cause chafing, Gaskin adds, and she likes that they have multiple hidden pockets. Gaskin also says she likes that Girlfriend Collective has a sustainable ethos — this pair is made from recycled water bottles.
$62 at Girlfriend Collective
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Brandii Stuart, a secondhand and sustainable style expert, says she likes this tangerine skort for its versatility and playful details, like the side slit. "We are not limited to just shorts and leggings for activewear, and the skort gives a fresh style perspective," Stuart says. "You can be playing tennis or wearing it out casually, which allows maximum use of your wardrobe items." Stuart owns the bright orange color, which she says helps her get and stay motivated while working out.
$62 at Girlfriend Collective
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Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell relies on the Girlfriend Collective Paloma Bra to get her through particularly bouncy dance-cardio classes at 305 Fitness. She's not its only fan: "This longline bra made from recycled plastic bottles is super comfy and supportive," adds Y7 and Harlem Yoga Studio teacher Angela Dawn, who notes that the bra is as good for yoga as it is for more cardio-centric exercises like burpees because there's "no spillage at all." Zack says she likes that it's higher cut so her boobs aren't popping out of the top, and the actual band is lower so there's even more coverage and support. It's so compressive "it's kind of hard to take on and off," she says, "But you know what? If I need to keep these ladies in, I gotta do what I gotta do." This level of security means you can really be active without your breasts getting in the way, Stuart says — she says she's also a fan and has had hers for years. The bra goes up to a size 6XL, which can accommodate a DDD bust and a 50-inch band.
$46 at Girlfriend Collective
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Jernigan calls this a "maximum-support sports bra that keeps you bounce-free" while boxing, running, or doing HIIT. Dancer Jessie Diaz-Herrera agrees, calling it the "best sports bra for feeling secure" and saying its size range — which can support up to an H cup and 48 band — is especially great for plus-size women or those with larger busts.
From $60 at Cacique Intimates
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"A quality sports bra can be one of the most difficult things to find as a plus-size individual," explains Ixim, who told us she's only found a handful that make the cut. One of them is Under Armour's Infinity High Sports Bra, which she says is high-quality, breathable, and secure, no matter if you're puttering around the house or sweating to a more high-impact pursuit. "It's a classic sports bra with built-in support that just gets the job done," she says of the bra, which is available in sizes 1XL to 3XL.
Also from our list of the best sports bras for women comes this high-impact sports bra recommended by triathlete Krista Henderson. She told us it's the most supportive bra she's worn. "I tried the Enell and that was it — lots of support without any irritation," she said of the bra. "The sizes range from 32- to 60-inch busts. (I'm a 42-J bra size and wear a 6 in Enell.)"
$80 at Bare Necessities
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For a performance-oriented top with a little more coverage, Richardson is a fan of this Alala cropped jacket, which she says she'd wear with the Alala Captain Ankle Tights. The jacket, which can serve as an extra layer during chilly outdoor workouts, has a mock neck and thumbholes at the sleeve cuffs for added coverage. It goes up to a 3XL.
Singer and content creator Samyra owns a couple of these Beyond Yoga hoodies, which she likes for their breathable, super-soft fabric and full zip she can adjust on hikes when "it'll be a little bit cooler in the morning, and maybe like an hour in, now I'm sweating," she says. And while Samyra says there aren't many options for matching sets in plus-size activewear, this hoodie coordinates easily with the brand's other pieces. These zip-ups come in four colors and sizes up to 4XL.
Stuart says Girlfriend's one-piece is "a style statement and is retro in the best way with a hint of sexiness." And because the unitard contains everything in one for working out — it's bike short-length with a scoop neck, low back, and built-in bra for support — she says it cuts down on pre-workout decision-making. Plus, with a compressive fabric and no waist or center seams, it's made to mold to your body, according to the brand. It comes in six colors and up to 6XL sizing.
$78 at Girlfriend Collective
Buy
If you want to channel Jane Fonda while doing your pilates workout, we suggest taking a cue from contributor Francine Maroukian, who wears one of her four Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Bodysuits for just that. The one-piece, which is available in sizes 00 to 40, is "insanely soft, comfortable, and liberating," according to Maroukian, who says it's ideal for barre classes and bike rides, too. She says its versatility is due to thoughtful design details including no-slip, adjustable straps, a higher neckline, breast support, and a contoured waistband. While the $84 price tag may seem a little steep, a bodysuit does eliminate the need to buy both a sports bra and a pair of leggings.
$118 at Universal Standard
Buy
Zack says she's obsessed with the fit of these colorful cotton socks from Big Bud Press. "You know how some socks grip at the ankle? I hate that when I'm working out," she says. "These are made for, I don't know, not cankles, but like, bigger ankles." Though Zack says she was initially unsure about the $9 price tag, after a year of owning the socks she says they're so worth it — the stretchy crew-lengths stay put without being too tight around the leg and haven't developed any holes, unlike other brands she's tried. They're available in more than 30 bright hues and in regular and large sizing (the latter roughly fits up to a women's size 15 shoe, according to the brand).
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