Most states are under a stay-at-home mandate by their governors. Many of the clothing stores you know and love visiting have been closed for quite some time now. For a girl who loves to shop, this can seem like the biggest travesty. Thankfully, online shopping is still a viable option. However, where's a girl supposed to go first? If you're looking for plus-size clothing while you're under quarantine, there are a few key places to go and things to remember. Consider the following tips.
1. Check out social media platforms
Visit sites like Facebook and Instagram. There is a huge plus-size, body-positive community on those platforms. This is especially true for Instagram. If you use hashtags such as "body-positive" or "plus-size fashion", you'll be able to see what women are wearing, how they're putting outfits together and the brands they're wearing. When women do fashion posts on Instagram, they typically tag the brands they're wearing. If there is a specific brand that really resonates with you, you can check out their bio to connect to their official website. As you learn more about the brands you love, social media is helpful because you'll see real women that aren't models who are rocking the clothes. Sometimes, it's hard to see what a garment will look like unless it's on a regular woman instead of a model who's airbrushed and photoshopped to perfection.
2. Take a look at YouTube try-on hauls
YouTube is an incredible platform for anyone who loves to see others try on the clothes first. Many fashion vloggers do YouTube try-on hauls in order to show viewers how the garments fit, how they feel, and more. They'll do extensive reviews so that you're not left with any questions. In exchange for a great review, many vloggers get commissions or sponsorships from the featured brands. If you use the vlogger's promotional code to purchase your garments, you'll get a discount. They'll also get a commission.
3. Do your measurements
Even before you start shopping, measurements are essential. If you're like a lot of people, carbs are consumed on a more frequent basis. You might want to think you're one size when you might be a size or two bigger than before. Do your measurements to know exactly where you stand. Most websites keep measuring charts so that you'll know which sizes fit you perfectly. Even though you can always return a lot of ideas, it's better if you get the right size so that you don't have to go through the hassle of returns.
4. Do a Google search
Sometimes, the best-kept secrets are found in a Google search. If you're looking for unique plus size clothing, it's wise to get more specific about what your definition of unique is. If you like a preppy, nautical style, a brand like Navy Jane will be perfect. If you prefer a 90s grunge look, you'll want to try a brand that produces those options. You can also get creative by finding pieces that you can reconstruct into the vision you desire. Since you're under quarantine, you have more time on your hands to get creative and have fun with your wardrobe.
5. Find resellers who carry plus sizes
There are plenty of amazing reselling platforms such as eBay, Poshmark, and Depop. Do a search on any of these platforms to find clothing that comes in your size. Depending on the brand, you might fit certain clothes differently. As you check out different sites, be sure to pay attention to the descriptions and details of the garment you're interested in. One of the coolest parts of shopping on reseller platforms is that you can personally reach out to the seller for any potential questions you might have before you're ready to purchase. When you shop with resellers, you're bound to find unique pieces that aren't readily available on the market anymore. This is especially true for lovers of vintage pieces.
Even though it might be more fun to walk through the malls, check out the different displays and try on clothes before purchasing, there's still value in online shopping. You can enjoy your shopping spree from the comfort of your couch. You can also enjoy the ease of the items coming straight to your doorstep. As long as you follow these tips, it'll be a pretty straight-forward experience when you're ready to shop online for plus-size clothing.
Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network. Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.