Plus-size clothing has often been quite hit and miss. The sizing is either totally out of whack, or the designs themselves just, well, leave a liiiiiittle (read: a lot) to be desired... Oh, and to top things off, they're normally way more expensive than "standard" sizes too. Greeeattt.
As size-inclusive brand consultant and writer Sara Brown (@sarabrowndesigns) explains of her usual shopping experience, "One of my biggest annoyances is the fact that the high street has options, but they're not the options I want." Yep, I couldn't have put it better myself...
What is it with brands mostly just offering variations of the same old smock tops, kaftans, and other shapeless garms that so often seem to be associated with curve sections? Who ever said that everyone size 16 and above only wants to hide their shape? And where are all the options in different fabrics and finishes, different hem lengths and trends?
All this is to say – that when we do find a label that consistently nails the curvy fashion brief, it's particularly worthy of sharing. And after *many* years of research, we've put together a shortlist of the best ones out there:
Best plus size clothing shops:
- ASOS Curve
- Mango
- River Island
- New Look
- H&M
- Simply Be
- Vero Moda
- Savage X Fenty
- Never Fully Dressed
- Chi Chi London
- Neon Rose Store
- Public Desire
- Lucy & Yak
- We Are We Wear
- Phase Eight
- Loud Bodies
- Yaura Fashion
- Mimine AG
- Kai Collective
- Tyler McGillivary
- Karoline Vitto
- Gia IRL
- RaeVynn
- Isolated Heroes
- Selkie
- Rixo
Finally, we've found a selection of shops that do a good blazer (and workwear in general), great formal dresses (including plus-size wedding dresses), cute midi skirts, and even excellent jeans, in extended sizing so you never need to compromise on fit or style.
Scroll down for Cosmo's tried and tested edit of the best brands and shops for curvy and plus-size clothing in the UK.
1. ASOS Curve
Best for: Versatile pieces
ASOS Curve is always going to be our number one curvy girl shop. It's our first destination whenever we're in need of a new outfit because we know they will always come through with the classics and more trend-led pieces too. With sizes ranging from 16-30, we wish more retailers would follow suit. On top of that, they also just have so much choice! There is an endless array of different options updated each week, as well as regular flash sales, meaning this should always be one of your first ports of call for online shopping.
ASOS LUXE Curve co-ord extreme bardot corsetted top in floral jacquard
2. Mango
Best for: Stylish modern design
We are over the moon to hear that Mango has recently integrated its plus-size range 'Violeta by Mango' into its existing womenswear, meaning that they'll be extending their sizing on nearly all of their collections. Yes, Mango!
While the other famous Spanish retailer, Zara, only goes up to a size 18, Mango offers its high-quality designs up to a size 26. And, in our experience, the quality also goes the distance. The pieces are a mix of trend-inspired, as well as lasting staples, including their winter coats, meaning it's easier to justify spending a little more on a piece you love.
As one of our high street favourites, we are so pleased that Mango's focus is on inclusivity and that cool fashion-forward pieces, like quality knits, slick tailoring and stylish denim, are now more accessible to the masses.
3. River Island
Best for: Seasonal buys
When the River Island Plus range finally launched, it didn't disappoint. Although the selection isn't as large as ASOS', the well-curated line goes up to a size 28. This should be your go-to shop for each season's key trend pieces. RI Plus has become our go-to for embellished denim, bright tailoring, and fun night-out dresses. Why not pull out all the stops in head-to-toe denim, topped off with heels and a pearl bag?
4. New Look
Best for: Affordable prices
Props to New Look for being one of the first shops to carry a plus-size range. Starting as their 'Inspire' line, they relaunched as New Look Curves. The best part? The pricing is super affordable too. New Look is a high street favourite because you can fill your basket with on-trend pieces without breaking the bank.
New Look Curves Black Spot Satin Flutter Sleeve Midaxi Dress
5. H&M
Best for: Cool, everyday staples
H&M is a failsafe destination for ultra-fashionable pieces that are still very affordable, as well as all those sought-after designer collaborations, and just generally being a high street go-to. Lately, it feels like their plus size range (H&M+) has definitely seen more love and attention pumped into it, offering timeless and cool wardrobe staples, with relaxed shirts, printed mini dresses and a tonne of modern denim, stylish basics and activewear – all up to a size 30. Hallelujah!
6. Simply Be
Best for: Variety
Simply Be is a plus-size treasure trove. If you want a supportive sports bra for big boobs, they've got it. Swimsuit? Got that too. Wide-fit boots, you've come to the right place. In short, they have everything. Plus, their sizes are just as fab, which is a huge win. Ranging from a size 12-34, this is one of the most inclusive fashion sites you will find.
Simply Be Multi Ombre Stripe Pleated Glitter Mesh One Shoulder Maxi Column Dress
7. Vero Moda
Best for: Timeless pieces
Similarly to Mango, Vero Moda used to have a separate plus size range, called Junarose, which they've since absorbed – and now you'll find all their timeless designs within Vero Moda Curve. The brand offers the latest trends and so many good denim styles, but what you might not know is just how flattering and tailored their cuts are. You will be sure to find some classic pieces to update your wardrobe from here.
This is a great first stop when you're on the hunt for grown-up, work-appropriate clothes that you can also wear on the weekends. We're certain that these elegant classics will be hanging in your wardrobe for years to come.
8. Savage X Fenty
Best for: Mega lingerie
There really is no one quite like Rihanna. The multi-talented megastar's lingerie brand Savage X Fenty is just another example of why we love her. The smoking hot designs and empowering brand ethic have set RiRi's label up to be one of the leading lingerie hotspots, with styles constantly selling out.
Savage X Fenty's affordable products, along with welcome inclusivity, has blown a lot of the competition out of the water. Models are diverse in every form, with campaigns featuring women and men of different sizes, skin tones and ages. Their sizing ranges from 32A to a 46E and XS to 4XL, with each item displayed on their site by models of multiple sizes so you can see how it will *actually* fit. Plus, you can sign up to the VIP membership to get regular juicy discounts.
Savage X Fenty Cotton Essentials Padded Demi Bra
9. Never Fully Dressed
Best for: Stylish prints
Beginning as a one-woman business selling at Portobello and Spitalfields markets, Never Fully Dressed is a UK fashion success story and a brand that'll become your go-to destination for the perfect summer dress. Its curve range, which goes up to a size 26, is filled with modern designs that have a cool edge. Their unique prints make each dress such a stand-out item, that it's a challenge not to add them all to cart. You can never have too many statement dresses, right?
Never Fully Dressed Sequin Maxi Wrap Jaspre Skirt
Never Fully Dressed Khaki Vegan Leather Jaspre Skirt
10. Chi Chi London
Best for: Evening and formal dresses
If you've been looking high and low for a full-on, no-holds-barred party dress, you have come to the right place. From embellished and lace, to metallic and rockabilly, these dresses are definitely not for wallflowers. And, honestly, finally! It's about time curvy gals can shop equally fierce dresses suitable for clubbing, sipping cocktails at the bar, or even for cute date night dins.
We're loving their flowy maxi dresses for formal occasions, plus their flirty and smart sundresses that are perfect to wear to a summer wedding.
Chi Chi London Plus Size One-Shoulder Satin Maxi Dress in Wine
Chi Chi London Plus Size Long Sleeve Glitter Drape Mini Dress in Black
Chi Chi London Plus Size Long Sleeve Off-Shoulder Mini Dress in Blue
Chi Chi London Plus Size One Shoulder Puff Sleeve Bodycon Dress in Red
11. Neon Rose Store
Best for: Trend-led styles
This small independent UK brand is another hidden gem we were happy to discover after being stocked by the saviours at ASOS. Filled with vintage-inspired, trend-led pieces that include pastel leather shackets, patchwork denim and frill blouses with oversized collars. Their designs are so far away from the dowdy plus-size ranges of yesteryear, focusing on contemporary styles and silhouettes, and we couldn't be more stoked.
12. Public Desire
Best for: Cool tailoring and streetwear
Beginning as a mighty popular footwear brand thanks to its standout designs - think chunky Chelsea boots, mega stiletto heels and fashion-forward mules - Public Desire have now branched out into clothing, giving us the killer outfits to match the shoes.
With their plus size offering available on ASOS (just the millionth reason to keep loving ASOS, eh) their designs are available in size UK 18 - 24. With a mix of youthful tailoring, bright bodycon dresses and cool, casual streetwear, this is bound to become you're favourite stop for kitting out your weekend looks.
Public Desire Curve Printed Mesh High Neck Bodysuit
13. Lucy & Yak
Best for: Dungarees & fun patterns
Dreamt up by couple Lucy and Chris during their travels across the world, the brand Lucy & Yak became a reality when they partnered up with Ismail, based in Rajasthan, India to create their dungaree designs. From starting out selling on Depop, the brand has blown up and its bright and fun styles a huge success.
The ethical brand are all about transparency on how and where their clothes are made and they've recently set out their timeline on extending their sizing range too, to include sizes UK 24 - 32. As well as their signature dungarees, in both staple muted colours and loud printed patterns, the range also includes cute printed t-shirts to add to the mix.
14. We Are We Wear
Best for: Sustainable lingerie and swimwear
This eco-friendly brand is filled to the brim with beautiful and delicate lingerie and swimwear that celebrates body positivity. We Are We Wear's colourful eco swimwear edit and evolve collection are made out of unwanted materials like fishing nets, industrial plastics and fabric scraps, which is pretty damn cool and makes shopping with a conscience a doddle.
Founded by best mates Natalie and Chelsea, who met working in the fashion retail industry, they appreciated the absurd body standards women face – and we are all the more grateful for it. Their inclusive sizing ranges from an XS to a 3XL and they are dedicated to creating comfortable fitting garments across the board. Really, what is not to love about them?
15. Loud Bodies
Best for: Sustainable pieces
Loud Bodies is a brand that we discovered through Instagram and it's quickly become one of our favourites. It's a mix of quality wardrobe staples and high fashion pieces that you wouldn't expect from a sustainable plus-size brand.
16. Phase Eight
Best for: Smart basics and occasion dresses
Similarly to Vero Moda, Phase Eight used to have a separate plus size range, called Studio 8, which they've now absorbed. The brand now offers their signature grown-up styling with classic silhouettes and smart separates, ranging from sizes 6 to 26. It's a haven for office dressing, and they also do great occasionwear for a host of different events, filled with delicate floral print summer dresses and embellished jewel-tone gowns.
17. Yaura Fashion
Best for: Fashion forward formalwear
Yaura Fashion is a brand that we discovered through ASOS and it's truly become a favourite for fashion-forward formalwear pieces, that both command attention and offer a uniquely beautiful twist. From stylish dresses that feature draping details and elegant co-ords in rich tones, Yaura is perfect for all of your evening occasions.
18. Mimine AG
Best for: Couture and Ready-to-wear
Founded by Mimine Agbantou, Mimine AG is a luxury brand bringing couture and ready-to-wear pieces to the curve market. Ranging from sizes 12 to 28, the brand offers unique, flattering, and well-fitting designs that draw in all the attention. From their fringe skirts and dresses to their signature bustier designs, you'll be channeling that straight-off-the-runway energy as you sashay into every event.
19. Kai Collective
Best for: Fashion-forward designs
With a major cult following, we'd be surprised if London-based brand Kai Collective hasn't already popped up on your radar. Founded by fashion blogger Fisayo Longe, with cool co-ords and printed dresses, their vibrant designs have been spotted all over Instagram, with sizes ranging from XS to XXXL (UK20).
The brand focuses on enabling confidence and creating a community through their clothing, and their fanbase even includes Beyoncé, so you know you're in good company. After meteoric success over the last few years, the team have decided to work silently for a while, taking a pause on new orders and closing their website until further notice.
Kai Collective Shrumi Long Sleeve Printed Mesh Turtleneck Top
20. Tyler McGillivary
Best for: Dopamine dressing
Combining a love of playful textiles and bold colours with versatile silhouettes, Tyler McGillivary founded her namesake label in 2018. Ranging from sizes XS to 4XL, each collection celebrates creativity, with everything from jellyfish t-shirts and butterfly dresses to flower tops. The brand has been worn by fashion icons like Barbie Ferreira and Nicole Byer, so you're bound to feel like a star.
21. Karoline Vitto
Best for: Empowering the feminine form
Celebrated as a boundary-pushing designer, Karoline Vitto celebrates the parts of our bodies we've been told to 'hide' through her sensual designs. Her designs are exclusively shown on curvy bodies and feature cut-away slip dresses, slinky skirts and low-slung trousers. Available in sizes 6 to 30, Karoline Vitto is a no-brainer if you are looking to celebrate your body (and you absolutely should).
22. Gia IRL
Best for: Date night staples
Founded by plus-size model and brand consultant Gia Sinatra, Gia IRL launched out of frustration with the fashion industry. Unable to find clothing that fit her well and was fashionable too, Gia Sinatra knew she wanted to provide clothing that would make other women feel beautiful, sexy and stylish, no matter their size. And she's done precisely that! These gorgeous styles could take you from vacation to date night, easy.
23. RaeVynn
Best for: Timeless sequin dresses
RaeVynn is a brand we discovered through Wolf & Badger, and aren't we glad we did! Founded in 2022, the brand designs each piece with longevity in mind, creating styles that can be worn time and time again, no matter the season. From mini dresses to crop tops and separates, the brand provides all the sass, and goes up to a size 30. A victory in our book!
24. Isolated Heroes
Best for: sassy dressing
If you're looking for sustainable, stand-out party wear pieces, look no further than Isolated Heroes. With a mission to empower those of all shapes, Isolated Heroes offers the sassiest garms in sizes 6 to 28, and has garnered attention from some of the most fabulous women. Worn by the likes of Miley Cyrus, Paloma Faith, Pixie Lott, and Becky Hill, you know you're in good company.
Isolated Heroes Pastel Blue Carnival Deadstock Sequin Heart Ruffle T-shirt
Isolated Heroes Lilac Naomi Floor Length Organza Ruffle Maxi Dress
25. Selkie
Best for: Romantic fashion
When it comes to fanciful and romantic fashion, Selkie wins time and time again. Offering a range of stand-out party dresses, tops and skirts, their timeless pieces are made to treasure forever and available in sizes XXS-5X. Started by former Wildfox Co-Founder, Kimberley Gordon, the designer brings her love for folklore to create collections that tell a story and present a dreamy world.
26. Rixo
Best for: Vintage style
The brand we now all know and love Rixo was born in 2015, founded by two best friends who shared a love of vintage. Taking inspiration from every era from the Twenties right through to the Seventies, the brand offers timeless pieces that you'll wear – and love –love for years to come. And now with their extended sizing collection, Rixo styles are finally available up to a size 26.
