Fashion for curvy girls

Everything you’ve said has been noted, and I truly appreciate the guidance... I’ll definitely keep those locations in mind for a future trip. One thing, though—the idea of custom sewing just isn't in the cards for me; I really need to buy something ready-to-wear. My history with tailoring hasn't exactly been kind, and even if there were a master tailor in a major hub like Chicago, I simply can't justify the commute. Driving back and forth to a specialist three or four times just doesn't make sense for my schedule or my sanity.

As for my budget, I suppose I fall somewhere in the middle—neither strictly limited nor bottomless. It doesn't necessarily have to be an outfit for a $100, but I certainly can't go dropping a small fortune on a wedding gown either.

Regarding what you mentioned, Kris, about the belt—I actually spotted something quite similar at a boutique in New York, but they only carried petite sizes. There used to be a shop in a nearby city that carried everything from a size 12 upwards... do you happen to know if a place like that still exists?

Nathan Baker, if you ever get the chance, definitely swing by the Ulla Popken over at the Avenue Mall. I was there yesterday with my mom, and honestly, I was so blown away by everything they had that I’m actually bummed they don't carry smaller sizes! 😁 They seriously have a huge selection—everything from skirts to dresses. It’s not exactly budget-friendly either (Mom dropped about $267 on a skirt and a top), but the variety is great, and they carry a solid range of sizes from 14 all the way up to 30.
I actually fell in love with this one specific piece—it's this gorgeous grey lace thing. I'm heading online right now to see if I can find a photo of it on their site.

Edit: nope, no luck, they don't have 😢

And when I brought up Ullu to you all, you were all so skeptical just because it’s a German firm.

Ulla is certainly decent enough—the quality holds up—but I have to admit, it’s a bit of a stretch for the wallet 😢 For instance, you might find yourself paying $97 for a single shirt, and even then, the cut tends to run a little long through the sleeveless portions $167.
Up until fairly recently, I used to pick up most of my wardrobe at Neckermann, but since they shuttered their doors here in the States, I’ve transitioned over to C&A or H&M
. 🙂 Honestly, I couldn't be more satisfied with the change
.

So, this past Saturday, I finally stumbled upon this little boutique tucked inside a Target, and honestly? I walked out feeling like a functioning human being for once. They just had everything—the selection was amazing, and the staff? Absolute legends. They greeted me with actual smiles, went out of their way to hunt down my sizes, and even gave me some really solid style advice... 😍
The girls there totally won me over with how sweet they were. 🙂
I ended up falling head over heels for this gorgeous deep purple cocktail dress, but sadly, it was the very last one in stock and a size too small for me. 🙂

John Ramirez4 said:Ulla is certainly decent enough—the quality holds up—but I have to admit, it’s a bit of a stretch for the wallet 😢 For instance, you might find yourself paying $97 for a single shirt, and even then, the cut tends to run a little long through the sleeveless portions $167.
Up until fairly recently, I used to pick up most of my wardrobe at Neckermann, but since they shuttered their doors here in the States, I’ve transitioned over to C&A or H&M
. 🙂 Honestly, I couldn't be more satisfied with the change
.

I definitely hear you on the price tag, but here's how I look at it: if you're rocking a larger size—and I'm talking 14+—and you actually want clothes that feel high-quality and look stylish, you're probably going to have to drop some cash. Sure, you can find bigger sizes for cheaper at places like C&A, but to me, that stuff looks like literal dish rags. I wouldn't want to waste my hard-earned money on something that feels like it'll fall apart after one wash.

Timothy James9, I totally missed that anyone was being skeptical! Must have flown right over my head. Honestly, though, I'm just genuinely stoked they opened an American location. It's such a win for the plus-size community because I know firsthand how much of a struggle it can be to find cute, flattering clothes when you aren't fitting into standard samples. I've been there, and it's tough! 😍

Peter Gray2 said:Nathan Baker, if you ever get the chance, definitely swing by the Ulla Popken over at the Avenue Mall. I was there yesterday with my mom, and honestly, I was so blown away by everything they had that I’m actually bummed they don't carry smaller sizes! 😁 They seriously have a huge selection—everything from skirts to dresses. It’s not exactly budget-friendly either (Mom dropped about $267 on a skirt and a top), but the variety is great, and they carry a solid range of sizes from 14 all the way up to 30.
I actually fell in love with this one specific piece—it's this gorgeous grey lace thing. I'm heading online right now to see if I can find a photo of it on their site.

Edit: nope, no luck, they don't have 😢

Oh, that’s great, thanks! 🙏I’ll probably make my way through all of those spots by the summer, and if I manage to drop some weight, I’ll definitely aim to go at least twice. Losing it is easy enough, I suppose—it's the gaining that's the real commitment, and I certainly don't plan on doing that. 🤣Since this is for a wedding, honestly, the price isn't even the main concern here; I mean, it’s not like I’m going to go out and buy a whole new skirt and top for every single day of the festivities, so there's no real need to overthink the budget too much. $267I mean, if I were shopping at a place like Target or Old Navy, I’d probably walk away with twice as much for the same amount of cash—but even then, looking at this particular situation... it's really not that significant of a difference.

Arthur Sanders said:So, this past Saturday, I finally stumbled upon this little boutique tucked inside a Target, and honestly? I walked out feeling like a functioning human being for once. They just had everything—the selection was amazing, and the staff? Absolute legends. They greeted me with actual smiles, went out of their way to hunt down my sizes, and even gave me some really solid style advice... 😍
The girls there totally won me over with how sweet they were. 🙂
I ended up falling head over heels for this gorgeous deep purple cocktail dress, but sadly, it was the very last one in stock and a size too small for me. 🙂

Look, I don't want to come across as rude, so I won’t go so far as to ask what size you are—because I’m well aware that for many women out there wearing a US size 10 or 12, finding clothes that actually fit is a constant struggle, let alone finding things they actually *want* to wear. But for me, regardless of my specific measurements, I haven't had much trouble shopping for clothes lately, especially since those retailers we were all discussing popped up over the last few years. Honestly, the only thing that remains an absolute nightmare for me is bras—nothing else. It’s just a constant battle. I frequently have to compromise, and more often than not, I can't find exactly what I'm looking for in my size. It’s particularly infuriating during those big seasonal sales; there’s nothing quite like the frustration of seeing a perfect top on sale, only to realize it's completely unavailable in my size. $6.75 Well, look at me, just another skinny thing in a world where the big players seem to run the show—but honestly, I don't have much of an issue with getting dressed. What I’m trying to get at is, I can't help but wonder if you might be looking in all the wrong places—say, aiming for a size 6 when that isn't your reality—and letting that make you feel terrible, or if perhaps you're actually quite a bit larger than I am (though, frankly, I highly doubt it). 🤣)...🤷

Nathan Baker said:Oh, that’s great, thanks! 🙏I’ll probably make my way through all of those spots by the summer, and if I manage to drop some weight, I’ll definitely aim to go at least twice. Losing it is easy enough, I suppose—it's the gaining that's the real commitment, and I certainly don't plan on doing that. 🤣Since this is for a wedding, honestly, the price isn't even the main concern here; I mean, it’s not like I’m going to go out and buy a whole new skirt and top for every single day of the festivities, so there's no real need to overthink the budget too much. $267I mean, if I were shopping at a place like Target or Old Navy, I’d probably walk away with twice as much for the same amount of cash—but even then, looking at this particular situation... it's really not that significant of a difference.

Look, I don't want to come across as rude, so I won’t go so far as to ask what size you are—because I’m well aware that for many women out there wearing a US size 10 or 12, finding clothes that actually fit is a constant struggle, let alone finding things they actually *want* to wear. But for me, regardless of my specific measurements, I haven't had much trouble shopping for clothes lately, especially since those retailers we were all discussing popped up over the last few years. Honestly, the only thing that remains an absolute nightmare for me is bras—nothing else. It’s just a constant battle. I frequently have to compromise, and more often than not, I can't find exactly what I'm looking for in my size. It’s particularly infuriating during those big seasonal sales; there’s nothing quite like the frustration of seeing a perfect top on sale, only to realize it's completely unavailable in my size. $6.75 Well, look at me, just another skinny thing in a world where the big players seem to run the show—but honestly, I don't have much of an issue with getting dressed. What I’m trying to get at is, I can't help but wonder if you might be looking in all the wrong places—say, aiming for a size 6 when that isn't your reality—and letting that make you feel terrible, or if perhaps you're actually quite a bit larger than I am (though, frankly, I highly doubt it). 🤣)...🤷

I usually wear a US 14. I have a large bust but relatively narrow hips, so even when I manage to button up a shirt over my chest, it's way too baggy around the waist 🙂
Plus, in most of the stores mentioned here, I can't find pants—the ones that fit my thighs and hips are always way too loose at the waist.
Also, I thought this thread was specifically for discussing stores with extended sizing, and I was just sharing my positive experience. So, I really don't get why I got this report? 🤷
p.s. The dress I wanted was a US 16, not a max size 6.

It’s hardly an embarrassment, really... if anything, you should have phrased it the other way around. Based on how you described it, you sound exactly like me, and I struggle with that very same issue—specifically when it comes to button-downs.
I always seem to find something decent enough at Gap, though I frequently have to take things to a tailor to get them taken in a bit; because of my chest, I inevitably have to size up just to get a decent fit, which invariably leaves everything else looking far too baggy around the waist.

John Ramirez4 said:Ulla is certainly decent enough—the quality holds up—but I have to admit, it’s a bit of a stretch for the wallet 😢 For instance, you might find yourself paying $97 for a single shirt, and even then, the cut tends to run a little long through the sleeveless portions $167.
Up until fairly recently, I used to pick up most of my wardrobe at Neckermann, but since they shuttered their doors here in the States, I’ve transitioned over to C&A or H&M
. 🙂 Honestly, I couldn't be more satisfied with the change
.

Does anyone know if there’s an Ulla Popken in Los Angeles? Also, from what I’ve gathered, finding a shirt in a $97 larger size usually means a great deal. Or am I just looking at the expensive stuff because that’s my style?! 😁😍. In LA, I have a few go-to spots where I can actually shop without having a total meltdown over tiny sizes and cheap fabrics. My favorites are Modana at the local mall and City Center, Monsoon downtown, plus Lantea and Marina Rinaldi. I can pick up bits and pieces here and there at other places, but since I wear a US size 14 or 16, those specific shops are my lifesavers. But like I said, you get what you pay for regarding quality.

Timothy Nguyen said:Does anyone know if there’s an Ulla Popken in Los Angeles? Also, from what I’ve gathered, finding a shirt in a $97 larger size usually means a great deal. Or am I just looking at the expensive stuff because that’s my style?! 😁😍. In LA, I have a few go-to spots where I can actually shop without having a total meltdown over tiny sizes and cheap fabrics. My favorites are Modana at the local mall and City Center, Monsoon downtown, plus Lantea and Marina Rinaldi. I can pick up bits and pieces here and there at other places, but since I wear a US size 14 or 16, those specific shops are my lifesavers. But like I said, you get what you pay for regarding quality.

If it's not available, they say it will be... according to their website.

Personally, I wouldn't drop more than $50 on a shirt, and certainly not more than 🤷 on a sweater... even back when I wasn't constantly watching my budget. The only things I'll splurge on are pieces I know I'll be wearing for years, like a solid wool coat, for instance.

Anyway... I couldn't help myself:

http://www.eonline.com/celebrity-news...example-link

🤣

Nathan Baker said:Everything you’ve said has been noted, and I truly appreciate the guidance... I’ll definitely keep those locations in mind for a future trip. One thing, though—the idea of custom sewing just isn't in the cards for me; I really need to buy something ready-to-wear. My history with tailoring hasn't exactly been kind, and even if there were a master tailor in a major hub like Chicago, I simply can't justify the commute. Driving back and forth to a specialist three or four times just doesn't make sense for my schedule or my sanity.

As for my budget, I suppose I fall somewhere in the middle—neither strictly limited nor bottomless. It doesn't necessarily have to be an outfit for a $100, but I certainly can't go dropping a small fortune on a wedding gown either.

Regarding what you mentioned, Kris, about the belt—I actually spotted something quite similar at a boutique in New York, but they only carried petite sizes. There used to be a shop in a nearby city that carried everything from a size 12 upwards... do you happen to know if a place like that still exists?

Honestly, I didn't even know they had it, so I have no clue if it's still out there (or where).

Anyway, that belt H&M uses—the leather one that wraps around your waist and ties in the back—it’s definitely not doing anyone any favors... let's just say it's "flattering" in the loosest sense of the word 🙂. Trust me, I tried it on my worst days 😉.

Angela Martin2 said:Honestly, I didn't even know they had it, so I have no clue if it's still out there (or where).

Anyway, that belt H&M uses—the leather one that wraps around your waist and ties in the back—it’s definitely not doing anyone any favors... let's just say it's "flattering" in the loosest sense of the word 🙂. Trust me, I tried it on my worst days 😉.

Regarding the shop itself... I used to go there... though that might have been a decade ago now, but I seem to recall it being on that street leading from the main square toward the historic district, right behind that big department store near the central plaza (goodness, I can never remember what locals call that massive building behind the main statue, you know the one). Heaven knows if it’s still hanging around somewhere...

And about that belt... you might be onto something there, but I won't know for sure until I actually try it on... assuming I even bother to look for it, depending on what catches my eye.

Nathan Baker said:Regarding the shop itself... I used to go there... though that might have been a decade ago now, but I seem to recall it being on that street leading from the main square toward the historic district, right behind that big department store near the central plaza (goodness, I can never remember what locals call that massive building behind the main statue, you know the one). Heaven knows if it’s still hanging around somewhere...

And about that belt... you might be onto something there, but I won't know for sure until I actually try it on... assuming I even bother to look for it, depending on what catches my eye.

Are you thinking of Harmica? Still not sure, but doesn't matter.

Two other spots popped into my head:

1) Nebo (I only ever went to their Kaptol Center location) and I was honestly obsessed with how their size 12 is actually a true 12 and not some weird 6, plus the cuts were pretty feminine—for my taste, anyway. I was pushing 200 lbs back then, yet I could pull off a size 12 skirt. And it actually looked good.

2) Another shop—can't recall the name—but it's at the start of Radićeva, right by that little alleyway with the winding stairs that takes you up to the historic district. They have these killer cuts that really flatter curves. No clue about sizing, though.

Nathan Baker said:Regarding the shop itself... I used to go there... though that might have been a decade ago now, but I seem to recall it being on that street leading from the main square toward the historic district, right behind that big department store near the central plaza (goodness, I can never remember what locals call that massive building behind the main statue, you know the one). Heaven knows if it’s still hanging around somewhere...

And about that belt... you might be onto something there, but I won't know for sure until I actually try it on... assuming I even bother to look for it, depending on what catches my eye.

Image Haddad isn gone from the area. Apparently, there’s a new spot over on Radnicka, and word on the street is they actually carry plus-size stuff. I haven't made the trip out there myself yet, so who knows if that's even true. Just another thing changing around here.

Angela Martin2 said:Are you thinking of Harmica? Still not sure, but doesn't matter.

Two other spots popped into my head:

1) Nebo (I only ever went to their Kaptol Center location) and I was honestly obsessed with how their size 12 is actually a true 12 and not some weird 6, plus the cuts were pretty feminine—for my taste, anyway. I was pushing 200 lbs back then, yet I could pull off a size 12 skirt. And it actually looked good.

2) Another shop—can't recall the name—but it's at the start of Radićeva, right by that little alleyway with the winding stairs that takes you up to the historic district. They have these killer cuts that really flatter curves. No clue about sizing, though.

It’s pretty weird if you ask me. Usually, they don't bother stitching anything larger than a size 4 in these shops. Just doesn't happen. 🙄 Sometimes you run into something big, but honestly, it’s pretty rare. You’ll find some size 40 pieces that are actually huge—big enough for someone who usually wears a 12 or 14—but then you turn around and hit those other cuts that are so ridiculously tight a 40 feels more like an 8. It's all over the place. 🙄

I know exactly which shop you mean—they always have those gorgeous dresses sitting right there in the window.😍

Jason Moore63 said:Image Haddad isn gone from the area. Apparently, there’s a new spot over on Radnicka, and word on the street is they actually carry plus-size stuff. I haven't made the trip out there myself yet, so who knows if that's even true. Just another thing changing around here.

It’s pretty weird if you ask me. Usually, they don't bother stitching anything larger than a size 4 in these shops. Just doesn't happen. 🙄 Sometimes you run into something big, but honestly, it’s pretty rare. You’ll find some size 40 pieces that are actually huge—big enough for someone who usually wears a 12 or 14—but then you turn around and hit those other cuts that are so ridiculously tight a 40 feels more like an 8. It's all over the place. 🙄

I know exactly which shop you mean—they always have those gorgeous dresses sitting right there in the window.😍

Keep in mind this was like 5 years ago. 😁. Downtown, size 12 🤷. I remember clearly asking twice for a bigger size and the clerk just goes, "Ma'am, this is literally the largest we have." 😬

Popped into that boutique yesterday—the one with those specific dresses. Well, bad news. There's plenty of stuff, sure, but the exact one I wanted? Gone. 😢. Just realized these are the spots where local designers make everything, so it's all unique pieces.
There are maybe 3 or 4 shops upstairs worth checking out—definitely worth trying on things you think would never look good on you 😍. Prices are... well, if it's for a wedding and the dress is absolutely killer, okay, $600 it's not too bad. But for a dress you're planning to wear once a year (like I did)... yeah, it's pricey.

I am certainly not $600 for an orgasm! 🙂

Just mentioning those $267 at Ullae is more than enough...

So I’ve been scrolling through all your posts and honestly? I have to say, a lot of you seem to have this super weird mindset when it comes to how much you're willing to drop on clothes. It was Nathan Baker's post that really got me thinking—they were saying they'd shell out $267 for a wedding dress, but then for stuff they actually wear every single day, like shirts or sweaters, they'd cap it at maybe $50. Like, excuse me? I don't get that logic at all... personally, I always prioritize my daily wardrobe over some fancy shoes for a formal event.

My whole philosophy is pretty simple: I care way more about having comfortable shoes for my everyday grind than those designer heels I'll only wear a couple of times a year for a few hours. If they're uncomfortable, I can deal with a little foot pain once in a while, whatever.

But seriously, the quality and comfort of what I'm wearing on a Tuesday afternoon matters SO much more to me—I need to feel good in my skin, you know? Maybe it's because I tend to hold onto my favorite pieces for years and years, so I don't mind dropping an extra 200-$100 if it means it lasts.

Sorry if I'm totally off base here though...

Jack Gray51 said:So I’ve been scrolling through all your posts and honestly? I have to say, a lot of you seem to have this super weird mindset when it comes to how much you're willing to drop on clothes. It was Nathan Baker's post that really got me thinking—they were saying they'd shell out $267 for a wedding dress, but then for stuff they actually wear every single day, like shirts or sweaters, they'd cap it at maybe $50. Like, excuse me? I don't get that logic at all... personally, I always prioritize my daily wardrobe over some fancy shoes for a formal event.

My whole philosophy is pretty simple: I care way more about having comfortable shoes for my everyday grind than those designer heels I'll only wear a couple of times a year for a few hours. If they're uncomfortable, I can deal with a little foot pain once in a while, whatever.

But seriously, the quality and comfort of what I'm wearing on a Tuesday afternoon matters SO much more to me—I need to feel good in my skin, you know? Maybe it's because I tend to hold onto my favorite pieces for years and years, so I don't mind dropping an extra 200-$100 if it means it lasts.

Sorry if I'm totally off base here though...

I’m not sure. I agree that you need to budget for daily comfort, but when you're working with a limited budget, I’d much rather pick up two shirts for $100 than just one. It gives me more variety to switch things up with
. As for weddings and special events, I view them as distinct moments where I actually want to look sharp. It isn't just any old day; these are the moments captured in photos and memories. For those specific instances, I've never regretted spending the money
. That's my take on clothing, though shoes are a different story altogether. 🤣

Jack Gray51 said:So I’ve been scrolling through all your posts and honestly? I have to say, a lot of you seem to have this super weird mindset when it comes to how much you're willing to drop on clothes. It was Nathan Baker's post that really got me thinking—they were saying they'd shell out $267 for a wedding dress, but then for stuff they actually wear every single day, like shirts or sweaters, they'd cap it at maybe $50. Like, excuse me? I don't get that logic at all... personally, I always prioritize my daily wardrobe over some fancy shoes for a formal event.

My whole philosophy is pretty simple: I care way more about having comfortable shoes for my everyday grind than those designer heels I'll only wear a couple of times a year for a few hours. If they're uncomfortable, I can deal with a little foot pain once in a while, whatever.

But seriously, the quality and comfort of what I'm wearing on a Tuesday afternoon matters SO much more to me—I need to feel good in my skin, you know? Maybe it's because I tend to hold onto my favorite pieces for years and years, so I don't mind dropping an extra 200-$100 if it means it lasts.

Sorry if I'm totally off base here though...

If anyone knows where I can pick up a wedding outfit for under $50, please, let me know. I'm all ears.🙄

That’s an interesting way to look at it. Following that logic, when I eventually get married, I’d need to hunt down a gown for less than $50—and since I’ll probably never wear it again, whereas I might actually use a wedding outfit a few more times, it almost makes sense... or does it?