Did you know the average woman is a size 16-18? At Stitch Fix, we believe every body deserves thoughtfully made clothing that fits beautifully, feels amazing and reflects your unique style.
Plus-size clothing plays a major role in retail today and brings often-ignored sizes into the fashion fold. Our plus-size collection—spanning sizes 14W–28W and 1X–4X+—is built on real client feedback, expert design and a deep commitment to size inclusivity. Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or just looking for a few new favorites, this guide is full of Stitch Fix insight and expert-backed tips to help you feel confident in every outfit.
What is Considered Plus-Size?
Many women don’t actually know their correct clothing size, and moving from straight sizes to plus sizes has no concrete roadmap. An XXL in straight sizes doesn’t equate to a 1X or a 2X, and even when you opt for plus sizes, no brand is the same. How many times have you asked yourself: What size am I? Plus-size clothing is generally considered a women’s size 18 and beyond. “Missy” or “straight” sizes range from 00–16/18, XXS–XXL, whereas plus sizes range from 12W–28W, 0X–4X and greater.
You might think plus sizes are just extended straight sizes, but guess again. Plus-size clothing is cut differently to flatter your figure and is created specifically for the plus-size body. .
How are plus-size clothing patterns cut?
Let’s take a minute to explore patternmaking and standard patterns. A standard garment pattern creates one particular size. Other sizes are then cut by moving up or down based on specific measurements. Plus-size clothing is cut with your curves and shaping in mind. While sizes by brand can vary slightly, these considerations are often the principle upon which most plus-size clothing is created.
Plus-Size Clothing at Stitch Fix
At Stitch Fix, our plus-size clothing is all about form-flattering looks that highlight your curves. We look at shape and body measurements to continually adjust and improve our pattern shaping to deliver the right fit. What sets us apart? We listen. We learn. Most importantly, we take your feedback seriously, using technical expertise, data and real-time responses from our clients. This feedback builds the products we create. We ensure inclusivity by perfecting fit across all of our sizes. That’s right, we have done our homework so you can flaunt your best features in style.
Plus-Size Clothing Brands
We are continually elevating our partnerships with new and noteworthy brands to be size-inclusive. Our collaboration with our vendors ensures that we’re delivering the best fit for every size without sacrificing quality. We carry a range of established plus-size clothing brands, such as Slink Jeans and City Chic, who are just as passionate about size-inclusivity as we are.
Feeling confident and stylish in the same on-trend pieces as your straight-sized friends is a reality at Stitch Fix. Our plus-size clothing is designed to empower all women, regardless of size to appreciate their beauty and truly celebrate themselves.
Now that we know what plus size is— let’s explore five essential ways to get the most out of your plus-size wardrobe.
1. Clothing Fit Tips for Plus Size
A good fit starts with a good foundation. It’s important to know your shape, not just your size. “Understanding your body shape—whether oval, triangle, hourglass, or rectangle—helps you highlight your favorite features,” says Stylist Michelle. Want to discover which body type you have? Check out our post on how to find your body type to learn more.
It’s also not always what’s on the tag—it’s the measurements that matter. Use a measuring tape to track your bust, waist and hips and refer to each brand’s size chart (they will vary).
Be sure to pay attention to key fit points. Fit issues usually show up at the shoulders, bust, waist and hips. Jackets should lie flat at the shoulder seam, button-ups shouldn’t gape at the chest and pants should hug your waist without pulling or bunching.
“As a Stylist who specializes in plus sizes, I look for styles made specifically for your shape—not just larger sizes,” says Michelle. At Stitch Fix, our plus clothing is built on separate fit standards to ensure better proportions for fuller figures. That means armholes that aren’t too roomy, sleeves that fall just right and waist lines that actually hit at your waist.
“Understanding your body shape—whether oval, triangle, hourglass, or rectangle—helps you highlight your favorite features.”
-Michelle, Stylist
2. Enhance Your Plus-Size Silhouette
The top plus size dressing tip: Your curves are a strength, not something to conceal. “Highlighting your silhouette with intention helps balance proportions and makes getting dressed easier and more fun,” says Stylist Erin.
We love styles like wrap dresses, belted tops or high-rise bottoms to create definition at your waist. If you love your arms or neckline, choose scoop or V-necks to frame the area. Prefer a little more structure? Reach for a fitted blazer with stretch that hugs your shape and moves with you.
With dressing any body type, balance is always the key. Looser top? Try a slim-fit bottom. More volume in your skirt or pants? Pair it with a more tailored or tucked-in top to draw attention where you want it.
“Highlighting your silhouette with intention helps balance proportions and makes getting dressed easier and more fun”
-Erin, Stylist
3. Bold Colors + Patterns for Plus Sizes
Yes, you can (and should!) wear bold colors, prints, and playful patterns. “You don’t have to hide behind black—bold color is a power move. Own it.” says Michelle—and we couldn’t agree more. Style is a form of self-expression, and your wardrobe should reflect your personality—not just stick to a “flattering” rulebook.
Vertical stripes elongate, small-scale florals add softness and color-blocking can create fun visual lines. “Strategic blocks of color—especially darker shades at the sides or on bottom—can guide the eye and accentuate your favorite features,” says Stylist Erin. If you’re pattern-curious, try a printed wrap dress or a printed blouse with a neutral base for balance. Love one-piece dressing? A patterned maxi dress in a breathable fabric is equal parts easy and polished—no layering needed.
“Strategic blocks of color—especially darker shades at the sides or on bottom—can guide the eye and accentuate your favorite features”
-Erin, Stylist
4. Best Fabric for Plus Size
Comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing style. At Stitch Fix, our garments are designed with real movement in mind. We use live fit models, technical grading and design feedback to ensure each piece wears comfortably and beautifully. Michelle’s tip?: “Focus on fabric feel as much as fit—movement and comfort go hand in hand with confidence.” The best fabrics offer ease, movement and shape retention—helping you feel good whether you’re running errands or dancing the night away.
Look for knits with stretch, cotton blends and breathable poly-spandex combos that hold their shape. Jersey, ponte and crepe fabrics are great for a polished look that doesn’t pinch or pull.
“Focus on fabric feel as much as fit—movement and comfort go hand in hand with confidence.”
-Michelle, Stylist
5. Structured Plus Size Clothing
When in doubt, a little structure can go a long way. “Garments with intentional tailoring—think darts, seaming, defined waistlines and crisp shoulders—help bring shape and polish to any outfit,” says Michelle.
Reach for structured pieces like tailored blazers, A-line skirts or high-rise trousers to instantly elevate your look. Even relaxed styles can benefit from thoughtful construction, like ruched side seams or a well-placed panel.
“Garments with intentional tailoring—think darts, seaming, defined waistlines and crisp shoulders—help bring shape and polish to any outfit.”
-Michelle, Stylist
Find the right styles that suit your body shape
Feeling excited to partner with your very own Stylist who can help you dress for your body type—and much more? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and let your Stylist do the work for you. They’ll choose just-for-you pieces to save you time (and a trip to the mall). Keep what works, and return the rest—or keep 5+ pieces and get 20% off your entire order. Shipping and returns are always free—no subscription required. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.
