I’ve always been a bit of a secret fashion lover. Living vicariously through magazines and blogs, but never able to translate the outfits in my head into reality – a combination of my own body issues and a lack of plus-size clothing options.
Now, after a little personal soul-searching and the awakening of local retailers to the demand for stylish plus-size clothing, I’m finally able to start wearing what I want. Sometimes that’s ripped boyfriend jeans and sometimes that’s as many sequins as I can realistically fit on my person. And, that’s what I love about fashion. Making it yours.
Before you start browsing – and important note: even if an item runs, for example, from a size 30 to 42, it might not show in an online store’s plus-size range, as this is generally exclusively kept for items that start at a size 16 / 40. So, it’s always worth checking in the straight size section too, especially if you are a size 40 or 42.
Here are my top five go-to places for plus-size fashion in South Africa:
Spree
Spree really was a game-changer for me. Not only did they pretty much start my obsession with online shopping, but they were one of the first retailers to offer amazing plus-size options, straight from the beginning. I also love that they offer amazing pieces by local designers – many of which go up to a size 42 / 18. You can view their plus-size collection here.
Red dress // White lace cardigan // Purple and gold dress
Zando
A more recent discovery, I simply never knew that Zando offered plus-sizes. Their own brand Utopia offers very affordable pieces, but, with thousands of brands on offer, if you’re looking for variety, then Zando is a good place to start. Hint – not all of their plus-size items appear in the category, so it’s worth browsing the straight sizes too. You can view their plus-size collection here.
Floral dress // White dress // Navy dress
Superbalist
Superbalist doesn’t have a dedicated plus-size section, but many of their items do come in larger sizes – you might just have to browse a little. If I’m looking for a statement piece – like this sequinned jacket – or something a little less mainstream, then this is where I’ll start. You can view the plus-size search here.
Coat // Lace top // Ripped grey jeans
Donna
Donna-Claire has rebranded and relaunched as Donna – and I’m really quite into their new look. Entirely dedicated to plus-size fashion, it’s best to visit a store – but, they do have a limited selection of items available for viewing online.
Mr Price
I could pretend that I swan around in heels and sequins everyday, but honestly, many of my wardrobe staples are from Mr Price. Whether it’s basic t-shirts, the perfect pair of nude pumps or light-weight jackets, I find their pieces versatile and fantastic for their price-point. Again, not all plus-size pieces are in the category, so it’s worth browsing the straight sizes too. You can view their plus-size collection here.
Carla "Carrie" Visser
July 6, 2017I have literally opened up every single link listed above- very excited to go browse now. Time to start embracing every size I’m at x
Irene Burris
September 10, 2018Thanks for sharing great learning and information. Curvy individuals stylish too, It is great that garments organizations have started growing their garments lines by including larger size segments so no lady is left behind and they can shake their curves.
Andrea
November 13, 2018This is just what I was looking for…thank you for sharing this info