Plus Size Clothing Chart

How to Get the Right Fit

Unfortunately, the best way to be sure you are purchasing the right size will be to try on the clothing. Different designers may size their clothing smaller or larger. One suggestion would be when ordering from a new manufacturer, buy one item and see how it fits. Based on this fit, you can make a more informed choice when making future clothing purchases. It's a lot easier to return or exchange one thing than many.

Plus Size Clothing Charts

When ordering online, you'll get to know the different manufacturers and learn how their plus size clothing chart corresponds to your body type. Just like one size fits all doesn't really work for everyone, plus size clothing charts may have the exact same information from one manufacturer to another, but the clothing line doesn't fit the same. It's best not to worry about what number size you wear, and to go after the right fit. With one company you may have to order a size 18 and another a size 20. If the clothing line isn't geared toward fuller figures, the size can be even larger. Some popular online plus size stores include:

• Catherines
• Silhouettes
• Lane Bryant – Offers plus size clothing charts as you click on each article of clothing.

Another Matter of Fit

Do you wear a petite? Some people envision a size four when they hear the word petite. Actually, a petite size is generally for women who are five feet, four inches and shorter. Finding the right length for sleeves and pant legs is important for a well-groomed look. If you are under this size, consider trying a petite if you haven't already.

How to Measure Yourself

As you study the various plus size clothing charts, don't guess at your size; take your measurements. Many people don't really want to know what their measurements are, but just as many don't want to go through the hassle of sending an article of clothing back because it doesn't fit. If you can, I recommend finding a close friend to do the measuring for you. It's easier and tends to be more accurate than twisting and turning and trying to measure yourself. Many times, when you measure yourself, your weight is not evenly distributed because you're not in a natural position. This can throw off the measurement and give you a wrong reading. Then of course, this means you would most likely order the wrong size.

Instead of going through that, find a friend and get ready to take your measurements. Stand with your weight evenly distributed on both feet. In fact, if you take off your shoes, this can help. As you take your measurements keep these things in mind:

• Are you wearing the bra you'll most likely wear under the clothing you are purchasing? What bra you wear makes a big difference in the fit of your clothes.
• When measuring the bust, bring the tape measure over the fullest part of the bustline.
• Don't pull the tape measure tight, or leave it limp. You want your clothes to feel comfortable but not hang.
• When measuring the waist, again don't pull the tape too tight. If you do, that is how your garment will fit. Find the narrowest part of the waist and measure. This is your “natural” waistline.
• When measuring the hips, bring the tape measure around the fullest part of the hips.
• Measure your inseam. This takes in the length from your crotch to the floor.