My Top 5 places for plus-size shopping

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.

Jeans // Lace sweatshirt // Grey skirt // Striped top