Attention Shoppers
April 27, 2012 10:20 AM Subscribe
I've lost about 35 pounds in the last 6 months (on purpose), and I am now swimming in my clothes. I'm taking my tax refund and my shopoholic best friend to the Mall of America this weekend, where I intend to buy myself clothes that fit. Unfortunately, I don't know what stores I should be looking in. More deets under the cut.
There's a lot at play here. Seriously, I didn't think this would be that complicated...then I sat down and thought about it and realized that I have no clue what I am doing or where I am going.
I am now too small for Lane Bryant and the other plus-size stores that have taken my money for so many years. I am down to about three skirts and five or six tops that fit me - this is an actual build-from-the-ground wardrobe opportunity. I'm excited and nervous (my friend who is coming with me is VERY excited...she loves shopping and helping people spend money). However, I am overwhelmed by the number of choices for straight-sized women: there are literally hundreds of stores for straight-sized women at the Mall of America. The last time I shopped in a straight-sized store was in college - probably Old Navy? I've been there recently and the quality is total crap compared to the way it was 10 years ago. My friend, who is a great resource for plus-size shopping, does not have much experience with the world of straight-sized stores either.
My style is somewhat like that of the Sundance Catalog. I would probably buy the whole catalog if I had the money and was sure I'd fit into their stuff.
I generally like "long clothes": longer skirts, long cardigans, tunics instead of button-downs. You will NEVER EVER see me with a shirt tucked in. Most of my clothes are brown and other earth tones. A few years ago I branched out into the spice tones. My style is kind of earth-mothery, but I frown on twee. I prefer natural fibers to polyester, and I am really hesitant to buy things that I can't take care of myself with my washer and clothesline (e.g. dry clean only clothes).
I am 34 years old and guess my size to be somewhere around a 12-14. I have a big rack, no butt to speak of ("a back with a crack" as my old roommate used to say).
I live in Minnesota, but I am shopping for summer stuff. The temp where I live gets into the 70's and low 80's.
I'm mainly focusing on work clothes for this shopping trip.I work in an environment that is pretty casual - I'm the boss, so although no eyebrows would be raised if I wore jeans, I prefer to look a bit nicer. However, there is absolutely no reason for me to own a suit, a pencil skirt, stiletto heels, or any other sort of Professional Uniform.
Although I'd love to buy clothes of great quality, I don't have a ton of money. Also, I have about 15 more pounds to lose so I don't want to buy any "investment pieces" that I will be swimming in come the end of summer.
So...does anyone have any suggestions for where I might like to shop? The MOA has a ton of stores, but even if The Perfect Elly Vortex Store isn't at the MOA, I'd love to hear about it.
There's a lot at play here. Seriously, I didn't think this would be that complicated...then I sat down and thought about it and realized that I have no clue what I am doing or where I am going.
I am now too small for Lane Bryant and the other plus-size stores that have taken my money for so many years. I am down to about three skirts and five or six tops that fit me - this is an actual build-from-the-ground wardrobe opportunity. I'm excited and nervous (my friend who is coming with me is VERY excited...she loves shopping and helping people spend money). However, I am overwhelmed by the number of choices for straight-sized women: there are literally hundreds of stores for straight-sized women at the Mall of America. The last time I shopped in a straight-sized store was in college - probably Old Navy? I've been there recently and the quality is total crap compared to the way it was 10 years ago. My friend, who is a great resource for plus-size shopping, does not have much experience with the world of straight-sized stores either.
My style is somewhat like that of the Sundance Catalog. I would probably buy the whole catalog if I had the money and was sure I'd fit into their stuff.
I generally like "long clothes": longer skirts, long cardigans, tunics instead of button-downs. You will NEVER EVER see me with a shirt tucked in. Most of my clothes are brown and other earth tones. A few years ago I branched out into the spice tones. My style is kind of earth-mothery, but I frown on twee. I prefer natural fibers to polyester, and I am really hesitant to buy things that I can't take care of myself with my washer and clothesline (e.g. dry clean only clothes).
I am 34 years old and guess my size to be somewhere around a 12-14. I have a big rack, no butt to speak of ("a back with a crack" as my old roommate used to say).
I live in Minnesota, but I am shopping for summer stuff. The temp where I live gets into the 70's and low 80's.
I'm mainly focusing on work clothes for this shopping trip.I work in an environment that is pretty casual - I'm the boss, so although no eyebrows would be raised if I wore jeans, I prefer to look a bit nicer. However, there is absolutely no reason for me to own a suit, a pencil skirt, stiletto heels, or any other sort of Professional Uniform.
Although I'd love to buy clothes of great quality, I don't have a ton of money. Also, I have about 15 more pounds to lose so I don't want to buy any "investment pieces" that I will be swimming in come the end of summer.
So...does anyone have any suggestions for where I might like to shop? The MOA has a ton of stores, but even if The Perfect Elly Vortex Store isn't at the MOA, I'd love to hear about it.
Many skirts and tunics are pretty simple to take in. If you're losing all this weight & have clothes you like already that still fit in the complicated parts (the upper back, or the waist for pants), it'd probably be worth your while to either learn how to take clothes in yourself or to see how much it would cost to get things tailored. It cost me $10 to get a man's shirt tailored 4 blocks from Mitt Romney's fancy beach house, so it'd probably be cheaper in Minneapolis.
posted by akgerber at 10:31 AM on April 27, 2012
posted by akgerber at 10:31 AM on April 27, 2012
Natural fibers and long skirts says J. Jill to me. Also try Eileen Fisher if you have a bit more money.
posted by matildaben at 10:35 AM on April 27, 2012 [4 favorites]
posted by matildaben at 10:35 AM on April 27, 2012 [4 favorites]
Congratulations! This is a good problem to have. But, it is problematic.
Some general advice:
First, go to a good, high-end department store. (I'd actually recommend Nordstrom, they tend to be good for this.) Find someone in the women's clothing section, and give them the executive summary - you've lost a lot of weight recently, and you don't really know what size you are. (Tell them that, even if you have a good guess.) Get recommendations for things, and even if you don't really like the style - try everything on!
The problem here is that, in the world of "straight sizes", as you call them, nothing makes any sense, and there are no engineering-style standards. So, you're going to be, say, a size 10 in [Brand A], a size 12 in [Brand B], a "1X" in [Brand C], etc. Also, if you really are in the "12-14" range as you say, there are a significant number of brands that still consider that "plus-sized". Since, you know, they expect all of their customers to be built like supermodels.
Once you have a picture of sizes and cuts to try, you can go somewhere entirely else to start applying your personal style to your selections.
As to the style question itself, Macy's/Nordstrom/Bloomingdales (increasing order of expense) will have some stuff that looks Sundance-ish. I was also going to suggest J.Jill, but I was beaten to it on preview. :)
posted by Citrus at 10:40 AM on April 27, 2012
Some general advice:
First, go to a good, high-end department store. (I'd actually recommend Nordstrom, they tend to be good for this.) Find someone in the women's clothing section, and give them the executive summary - you've lost a lot of weight recently, and you don't really know what size you are. (Tell them that, even if you have a good guess.) Get recommendations for things, and even if you don't really like the style - try everything on!
The problem here is that, in the world of "straight sizes", as you call them, nothing makes any sense, and there are no engineering-style standards. So, you're going to be, say, a size 10 in [Brand A], a size 12 in [Brand B], a "1X" in [Brand C], etc. Also, if you really are in the "12-14" range as you say, there are a significant number of brands that still consider that "plus-sized". Since, you know, they expect all of their customers to be built like supermodels.
Once you have a picture of sizes and cuts to try, you can go somewhere entirely else to start applying your personal style to your selections.
As to the style question itself, Macy's/Nordstrom/Bloomingdales (increasing order of expense) will have some stuff that looks Sundance-ish. I was also going to suggest J.Jill, but I was beaten to it on preview. :)
posted by Citrus at 10:40 AM on April 27, 2012
Stores that I think of as similar to the Sundance catalog are:
- Coldwater Creek
- Chico's (now supposedly hipper/fresher)
- J. Jill
They specialize in long and drapey, but I fear they are too old for you.
Honestly, in your position, I would go to:
- Nordstrom Rack (discount, but much more expensive than my normal "discount" price point
- Marshalls (LOTS of stuff to browse; not just one aesthetic so you can try on a variety of styles and shapes)
- H&M (reputation for being the crappiest of the disposable clothes. Yet, I've gotten pieces there that have lasted for years (linen, cotton, etc) there's tons of fun, on-trend clothes to try on, not a huge commitment.)
I love the idea of Buying a New Wardrobe, but I find it takes me some time to find my groove with a new shape. Stuff I was sure I'd love sometimes doesn't work out.
Maybe buy a Beta New Wardrobe this weekend and then reevaluate after wearing it for a few weeks?
Also, I am about your size but shaped differently (pear, significant hippage) and I find going to J. Crew to be the height of demoralizing. The clothes are very tiny.
posted by purpleclover at 10:42 AM on April 27, 2012 [2 favorites]
- Coldwater Creek
- Chico's (now supposedly hipper/fresher)
- J. Jill
They specialize in long and drapey, but I fear they are too old for you.
Honestly, in your position, I would go to:
- Nordstrom Rack (discount, but much more expensive than my normal "discount" price point
- Marshalls (LOTS of stuff to browse; not just one aesthetic so you can try on a variety of styles and shapes)
- H&M (reputation for being the crappiest of the disposable clothes. Yet, I've gotten pieces there that have lasted for years (linen, cotton, etc) there's tons of fun, on-trend clothes to try on, not a huge commitment.)
I love the idea of Buying a New Wardrobe, but I find it takes me some time to find my groove with a new shape. Stuff I was sure I'd love sometimes doesn't work out.
Maybe buy a Beta New Wardrobe this weekend and then reevaluate after wearing it for a few weeks?
Also, I am about your size but shaped differently (pear, significant hippage) and I find going to J. Crew to be the height of demoralizing. The clothes are very tiny.
posted by purpleclover at 10:42 AM on April 27, 2012 [2 favorites]
Best answer: I generally like "long clothes": longer skirts, long cardigans, tunics instead of button-downs.
Reconsider this - these are shapes that you were comfortable in because they flow and skim all the places you wanted to hide. However these are also things that can easily make you look both old and add pounds where there are none. And yes, it is going to take time for you to get comfortable with that idea.
In practical terms you will not be able to buy a whole new wardrobe in a day. Work out where your key needs are at the moment - tops or bottoms that fit and what kind of weather. Then focus on those items.
Start with foundation garments - if nothing else fits any more they won't either. Invest in a bra that fits - it will make everything else look much better.
Then you want to look for clothes that fit you and that highlight the rack without looking trashy.
V-necks, wrap styles, not under any circumstances any neckline that starts directly with your collar bones. If you think a warp style shows too much cleavage get a vest top for underneath it to preserve your modesty. That sort of style will still fit if you loose a bit more weight because you can probably adjust it a bit at the waist.
You want to identify a waistline. Seriously - no more tunics other than as cover up at the beach.
And you need to find a way of balancing your top half with your skirt/trouser choices - the aim is to create the illusion of an hour glass shape. Have fun!
posted by koahiatamadl at 10:43 AM on April 27, 2012 [12 favorites]
Reconsider this - these are shapes that you were comfortable in because they flow and skim all the places you wanted to hide. However these are also things that can easily make you look both old and add pounds where there are none. And yes, it is going to take time for you to get comfortable with that idea.
In practical terms you will not be able to buy a whole new wardrobe in a day. Work out where your key needs are at the moment - tops or bottoms that fit and what kind of weather. Then focus on those items.
Start with foundation garments - if nothing else fits any more they won't either. Invest in a bra that fits - it will make everything else look much better.
Then you want to look for clothes that fit you and that highlight the rack without looking trashy.
V-necks, wrap styles, not under any circumstances any neckline that starts directly with your collar bones. If you think a warp style shows too much cleavage get a vest top for underneath it to preserve your modesty. That sort of style will still fit if you loose a bit more weight because you can probably adjust it a bit at the waist.
You want to identify a waistline. Seriously - no more tunics other than as cover up at the beach.
And you need to find a way of balancing your top half with your skirt/trouser choices - the aim is to create the illusion of an hour glass shape. Have fun!
posted by koahiatamadl at 10:43 AM on April 27, 2012 [12 favorites]
Since you need to build a wardrobe from the ground up and your are (understandably) a bit overwhelmed, you may want to go to one of the major department stores such as Nordstrom, or Macy's and see if they have a free personal shopper service. Maxi skirts seem to be "on trend" this summer, so you should be able to find long skirts at any store.Also an experienced personal shopper should be able to offer up some other options that will work with your new body shape, that you might love, but would have never thought of trying on.
Also, I would agree with matildaben, that Eileen Fisher (which some Nordstrom's carry) would be a sophisticated take on your personal style, but it is expensive. You can find some pieces at the end of season sales though.
posted by kaybdc at 10:46 AM on April 27, 2012
Also, I would agree with matildaben, that Eileen Fisher (which some Nordstrom's carry) would be a sophisticated take on your personal style, but it is expensive. You can find some pieces at the end of season sales though.
posted by kaybdc at 10:46 AM on April 27, 2012
Response by poster: Oh: and one more thing that I should have mentioned -
First stop is a department store (don't know which) to get a proper bra fitting. I'm going to also get my general measurements taken so that I'll have numbers to bring with me to other stores. I figure I'll buy some undergarments, change into them, and then go clothes shopping once I'm in a bra that actually fits.
posted by Elly Vortex at 10:48 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
First stop is a department store (don't know which) to get a proper bra fitting. I'm going to also get my general measurements taken so that I'll have numbers to bring with me to other stores. I figure I'll buy some undergarments, change into them, and then go clothes shopping once I'm in a bra that actually fits.
posted by Elly Vortex at 10:48 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
I recommend getting a bra fitting at Nordstrom.
Be prepared to spend an astonishing amount on the bra.
posted by purpleclover at 10:51 AM on April 27, 2012 [6 favorites]
Be prepared to spend an astonishing amount on the bra.
posted by purpleclover at 10:51 AM on April 27, 2012 [6 favorites]
Nordstrom for the bra fitting, definitely. And then stick around Nordstrom for a while; they have good-quality stuff and the prices often aren't too steep.
If you're looking for specific wardrobe elements that will stick around as you lose weight, I recommend open, drapey cardigans (like this) and skirts. They seem to be most forgiving of weight loss/gain. Fitted knit tops and pants are a lot less versatile.
posted by Metroid Baby at 11:10 AM on April 27, 2012
If you're looking for specific wardrobe elements that will stick around as you lose weight, I recommend open, drapey cardigans (like this) and skirts. They seem to be most forgiving of weight loss/gain. Fitted knit tops and pants are a lot less versatile.
posted by Metroid Baby at 11:10 AM on April 27, 2012
I am about your size with what sounds like similar proportions, and I do most of my clothes shopping at Macy's, including bra sizing. I'd shop Nordstrom instead if I could afford it, but I think Macy's is overall a lot cheaper. Personally I get tired going to lots of different stores, and I do not have luck finding good fits/sizes in stores like Limited, Banana, Gap, Old Navy, etc. (though I do often find pieces I like online later). You're a little smaller than me though, so give 'em a shot if you're up for it!
Of Macy's brands, I navigate towards INC, Style & Co, and Alfani. Things are a little bright this season, but I hope that doesn't put you off. All 3 brands make great tunic tops that I think might do what you're looking for (and might fit better longer even as you continue to lose weight - good for you, by the way!)
posted by juliplease at 11:10 AM on April 27, 2012
Of Macy's brands, I navigate towards INC, Style & Co, and Alfani. Things are a little bright this season, but I hope that doesn't put you off. All 3 brands make great tunic tops that I think might do what you're looking for (and might fit better longer even as you continue to lose weight - good for you, by the way!)
posted by juliplease at 11:10 AM on April 27, 2012
Best answer: What Size Am I? is a really neat tool that a woman developed recently. You plug in your measurements and it'll tell you which brands are your best bet (since each brand tends to have a somewhat consistent ratio of waist/hip measurements, for example) and what size you need. It's no replacement for trying things on, certainly, but it might give you a good idea of what stores to start at.
posted by duien at 11:11 AM on April 27, 2012 [10 favorites]
posted by duien at 11:11 AM on April 27, 2012 [10 favorites]
I am a fellow apple-shaped woman, who's now straddling the plus size fence. I have to nth the bra advice. Worth every penny.
If you're at all in the market for inexpensive jeans that look decent, I've been happy with the Denizen (aka Levi's) line at Target. They look better on me than the "yellow," aka, "no-ass" Lane Bryant jeans ever did.
Be aware that your body shape has probably changed at least a little, and be open to trying on stuff to which you might have been averse before. I still don't much like wrap dresses (sorry, the young rope-rider) or belts, but I wear flutter tops sometimes now -- and that was a big NO for me in the past. YMMV, of course.
posted by gnomeloaf at 11:15 AM on April 27, 2012
If you're at all in the market for inexpensive jeans that look decent, I've been happy with the Denizen (aka Levi's) line at Target. They look better on me than the "yellow," aka, "no-ass" Lane Bryant jeans ever did.
Be aware that your body shape has probably changed at least a little, and be open to trying on stuff to which you might have been averse before. I still don't much like wrap dresses (sorry, the young rope-rider) or belts, but I wear flutter tops sometimes now -- and that was a big NO for me in the past. YMMV, of course.
posted by gnomeloaf at 11:15 AM on April 27, 2012
You might try Lucky Brand for some of their non-jeans offerings. Their sizes run a bit larger than Gap and JCrew, their shirts tend to have roomy chest areas, and they're targeted more at your age than some of the recommendations above, such as Coldwater Creek and JJill.
posted by asphericalcow at 11:18 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by asphericalcow at 11:18 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
If you have a large bust you should check out size 12W or 0X (Talbots calls it X) for tops and jackets.
Further sounding like a broken record, figure out what colors are best on you. Clues: What you like best and are drawn to, what makes your face look well-rested even if you are not, and what you use in home decor.
posted by jgirl at 11:21 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
Further sounding like a broken record, figure out what colors are best on you. Clues: What you like best and are drawn to, what makes your face look well-rested even if you are not, and what you use in home decor.
posted by jgirl at 11:21 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: this is great! Thank you all so much!
Particular thanks to koahiatamadl. You know, I didn't even think about WHY I like the clothes that I like. Years of wearing the same stuff - my happy Long Clothes - well, it just sort of gets familiar and comfortable after a while, doesn't it? I didn't put much thought into it because it just WAS and it was always that way. And yeah, long and flowy clothes did more than just keep me from being arrested for indecency. It was a protective shell that I was perfectly happy with. I COULD have gone with short and tight then (but didn't) and I could go with short and tight now. At least, I could try it. :-)
I'm going to send my shopping friend the link to this Askmefi question, and make her promise to encourage me to try stuff that I wouldn't normally try.
Specific stores:
Coldwater Creek does look a bit mature for me but I'm sure that I can find something there.
Eileen Fisher looks great but wow...expensive.
Jjill gives me a real beachy vibe as opposed to my foresty vibe, but - like with Coldwater Creek - I'll give it a try.
I like wrap dresses but I am always hesitant to try them on - I have a regrettable tattoo on my sternum that I keep covered up. I have yet to meet a wrap dress that convinces me it will not slowly creep open, exposing my college indiscretion to the world.
posted by Elly Vortex at 11:21 AM on April 27, 2012
Particular thanks to koahiatamadl. You know, I didn't even think about WHY I like the clothes that I like. Years of wearing the same stuff - my happy Long Clothes - well, it just sort of gets familiar and comfortable after a while, doesn't it? I didn't put much thought into it because it just WAS and it was always that way. And yeah, long and flowy clothes did more than just keep me from being arrested for indecency. It was a protective shell that I was perfectly happy with. I COULD have gone with short and tight then (but didn't) and I could go with short and tight now. At least, I could try it. :-)
I'm going to send my shopping friend the link to this Askmefi question, and make her promise to encourage me to try stuff that I wouldn't normally try.
Specific stores:
Coldwater Creek does look a bit mature for me but I'm sure that I can find something there.
Eileen Fisher looks great but wow...expensive.
Jjill gives me a real beachy vibe as opposed to my foresty vibe, but - like with Coldwater Creek - I'll give it a try.
I like wrap dresses but I am always hesitant to try them on - I have a regrettable tattoo on my sternum that I keep covered up. I have yet to meet a wrap dress that convinces me it will not slowly creep open, exposing my college indiscretion to the world.
posted by Elly Vortex at 11:21 AM on April 27, 2012
You might find that you are now in between the plus sizes and standard. For me, 14R and 16R are too small in most cuts, and 16W and 18W are too big. Size 14W is just right, but those are VERY hard to find anywhere except the big department store. So don't get discouraged if you still have to shop in the Women's section, just hunt down those 14W's.
posted by raisingsand at 11:35 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by raisingsand at 11:35 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
I have a wrap dress that I love but for Important Work Meetings, I worry that I may be showing too much of my stuff - Wig Tape to the rescue when a tank top or shell underneath won't work.
Also if you are like me, you may have to go to several departments or stores - my clothes range from a standard 12 to a 16W and a Medium to a 1X depending on the brand. I actually found it less scary (though not as fun) to buy clothes when I was a size 24 because the lack of choice was at least simple.
I also found after a big size change that it took a few seasons for me to get a personal style I felt worked for me. Don't beat yourself up if you buy stuff and don't like it in 6 months.
Good luck & go you!
posted by pointystick at 11:38 AM on April 27, 2012
Also if you are like me, you may have to go to several departments or stores - my clothes range from a standard 12 to a 16W and a Medium to a 1X depending on the brand. I actually found it less scary (though not as fun) to buy clothes when I was a size 24 because the lack of choice was at least simple.
I also found after a big size change that it took a few seasons for me to get a personal style I felt worked for me. Don't beat yourself up if you buy stuff and don't like it in 6 months.
Good luck & go you!
posted by pointystick at 11:38 AM on April 27, 2012
I shop at MOA pretty regularly and am close to your size. I would try J Jill---sometimes I get lucky there, sometimes not. You don't mention your height, but I am taller and like Long Tall Sally at MOA. It's good for longer skirts and dresses. Nordstroms----I am biased, I could probably shop only there and never miss other stores. Ann Taylor is good for flowy things, but I'd avoid LOFT-I find it cheap and the fabrics are awful. Bloomingdales and Macys are SO BIG at MOA that you get overwhelmed but if you have time and patience, you will find nice things at both places. There is a new store called Hot Mama there---don't know if you are a Mama, per say, but I find it's a good resource for women in that "too old for Forever 21, too young for Chico's" category---I'm your age and find myself there sometimes.
Sometimes Coldwater Creek and J.S. Banks (or something like that) have smaller sizes and a flowy look but they can skew older so just choose carefully.
Have fun and congrats on the weight loss!
posted by supercapitalist at 11:40 AM on April 27, 2012
Sometimes Coldwater Creek and J.S. Banks (or something like that) have smaller sizes and a flowy look but they can skew older so just choose carefully.
Have fun and congrats on the weight loss!
posted by supercapitalist at 11:40 AM on April 27, 2012
I just want to chime in with those who say "don't buy too much!" Unless you're very hard on clothes or don't have regular access to laundry you can probably get by with two or three bottoms and five to seven tops (for work clothes) and a few "weekend" pieces.
posted by mskyle at 11:49 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by mskyle at 11:49 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
Nordstrom is so awesome. Definitely get your bra fitting there, unless there's an actual old-school lingerie shop (not Victoria's Secret) as an alternative. And Nordstrom Rack is a great source for bargains.
Coldwater Creek and J. Jill are hit and miss; they usually have a few nice, simple things amidst the overly cutesy and too matronly stuff. I see from the directory that there's a White House Black Market, which is a crapshoot but sometimes has some attractive, well-made pieces, so check that out.
Flowy skirts are a great look on average-sized women, just as they are on plump and fat women. Pairing them with more fitted tops (I agree that flowy tunic plus flowy skirt isn't a look that works well for most size 12-14 women) is a way to update the look you like to reflect your new shape--Eddie Bauer has some well-made dressier knit tops, and I've seen some nice things from Macy's labels like Jones New York and Tahari this season. White House Black Market often has cute blouses.
Be ready to try bunches of things on. Sizes are so inconsistent--even within design lines, you might find that you take a 12 in the blue flouncy Ralph Lauren skirt and a 16 in the exact same Ralph Lauren flouncy skirt, only in red, because they were made in different factories.
I almost always wear juniors' jeans, because I have no hips or bottom. I see they have a Delia's there, which is where a lot of my jeans come from--their 13/15/17 size range tends to work for my 10/12 department store range. Also American Eagle, even though I feel like the oldest human in the world when I go in there.
posted by Sidhedevil at 12:00 PM on April 27, 2012
Coldwater Creek and J. Jill are hit and miss; they usually have a few nice, simple things amidst the overly cutesy and too matronly stuff. I see from the directory that there's a White House Black Market, which is a crapshoot but sometimes has some attractive, well-made pieces, so check that out.
Flowy skirts are a great look on average-sized women, just as they are on plump and fat women. Pairing them with more fitted tops (I agree that flowy tunic plus flowy skirt isn't a look that works well for most size 12-14 women) is a way to update the look you like to reflect your new shape--Eddie Bauer has some well-made dressier knit tops, and I've seen some nice things from Macy's labels like Jones New York and Tahari this season. White House Black Market often has cute blouses.
Be ready to try bunches of things on. Sizes are so inconsistent--even within design lines, you might find that you take a 12 in the blue flouncy Ralph Lauren skirt and a 16 in the exact same Ralph Lauren flouncy skirt, only in red, because they were made in different factories.
I almost always wear juniors' jeans, because I have no hips or bottom. I see they have a Delia's there, which is where a lot of my jeans come from--their 13/15/17 size range tends to work for my 10/12 department store range. Also American Eagle, even though I feel like the oldest human in the world when I go in there.
posted by Sidhedevil at 12:00 PM on April 27, 2012
Oooh, my favorite subject!
Yes to both J Jill and Eileen Fisher. J Jill *can* have stuff that seems a little more, er....frumpy, BUT you can also find some very cute stuff there as well and there is always tons of stuff on sale. I have several Eileen Fisher things that I LOVE and have never paid full price. The secret is to keep an eye on their sale rack. The Macy's at MOA does not have Eileen Fisher, but the ones at Ridgedale and Southdale do.
Also seconding H & M. It's cheap, but still better quality than Old Navy and I think it's GREAT for basics.
Based on your love of the Sundance catalog, I think you might like the kind of clothes that shops like Aeropostale and American Eagle have. Because they're geared to the younger crowd, they might have smaller sizes, but if you can fit into their clothes, I think they have some really cute casual wear.
I also like long clothes and they happily are in style right now. Don't discount the Gap. They have a lot of nice billowy, long (or both) tops right now in neutral colors.
ALSO, don't forget our own local Len Druskin. He has a ton of shops everywhere, called Len and Len Druskin. One is pretty cheap and one is more expensive but there appears to be one at the MOA now. The cheap one is THE BEST. Lots of finds in there along with lots of wtf? clothing. Along the same lines is Forever 21 - I would not wear about 85% of the stuff there but they have SO MUCH STUFF that I've had a few good finds there. Plus, because oversized stuff is fashionable now, they'll probably have a lot of it.
You also might find a few things you like at Loft. Some of the stuff seems a little cheap but they do have some simple cotton sundresses or summery shirts that I've found in the past. And they have nice colors.
Have fun!
posted by triggerfinger at 12:02 PM on April 27, 2012
Yes to both J Jill and Eileen Fisher. J Jill *can* have stuff that seems a little more, er....frumpy, BUT you can also find some very cute stuff there as well and there is always tons of stuff on sale. I have several Eileen Fisher things that I LOVE and have never paid full price. The secret is to keep an eye on their sale rack. The Macy's at MOA does not have Eileen Fisher, but the ones at Ridgedale and Southdale do.
Also seconding H & M. It's cheap, but still better quality than Old Navy and I think it's GREAT for basics.
Based on your love of the Sundance catalog, I think you might like the kind of clothes that shops like Aeropostale and American Eagle have. Because they're geared to the younger crowd, they might have smaller sizes, but if you can fit into their clothes, I think they have some really cute casual wear.
I also like long clothes and they happily are in style right now. Don't discount the Gap. They have a lot of nice billowy, long (or both) tops right now in neutral colors.
ALSO, don't forget our own local Len Druskin. He has a ton of shops everywhere, called Len and Len Druskin. One is pretty cheap and one is more expensive but there appears to be one at the MOA now. The cheap one is THE BEST. Lots of finds in there along with lots of wtf? clothing. Along the same lines is Forever 21 - I would not wear about 85% of the stuff there but they have SO MUCH STUFF that I've had a few good finds there. Plus, because oversized stuff is fashionable now, they'll probably have a lot of it.
You also might find a few things you like at Loft. Some of the stuff seems a little cheap but they do have some simple cotton sundresses or summery shirts that I've found in the past. And they have nice colors.
Have fun!
posted by triggerfinger at 12:02 PM on April 27, 2012
I have yet to meet a wrap dress that convinces me it will not slowly creep open, exposing my college indiscretion to the world.
When I want to assure that I will only bare a moderate amount of cleavage in a wrap dress, I wear a camisole under it. Actually I do this with most low cut dresses when I want to be a little more covered up. I wear camisoles under almost everything (I hate the way tags in the side seams of shirts feel); I feel like they are a pretty essential staple. They might be something to consider adding to your wardrobe alongside other new under things. I have some from Target that are really nice, and some from Old Navy that are alright (but they were $1.99 or some crazy ridiculous price like that).
Good luck with the MOA! I don't have advice on particular stores, but if you need a break, I recommend a bubble tea at Chatime or if you need something with more legs, a cocktail at the Twin City Grill.
posted by radioaction at 12:03 PM on April 27, 2012
When I want to assure that I will only bare a moderate amount of cleavage in a wrap dress, I wear a camisole under it. Actually I do this with most low cut dresses when I want to be a little more covered up. I wear camisoles under almost everything (I hate the way tags in the side seams of shirts feel); I feel like they are a pretty essential staple. They might be something to consider adding to your wardrobe alongside other new under things. I have some from Target that are really nice, and some from Old Navy that are alright (but they were $1.99 or some crazy ridiculous price like that).
Good luck with the MOA! I don't have advice on particular stores, but if you need a break, I recommend a bubble tea at Chatime or if you need something with more legs, a cocktail at the Twin City Grill.
posted by radioaction at 12:03 PM on April 27, 2012
My Mom likes flowy clothes too and she's a petite little scrap of a thing. Eileen Fisher is her splurge brand, the clothes are flowy and soft without being overwhelming or shapeless. Very flattering. She has stuff that must be 20 years old too. So maybe buy one nice piece if you find one.
posted by fshgrl at 12:10 PM on April 27, 2012
posted by fshgrl at 12:10 PM on April 27, 2012
If MOA has an Eddie Bauer, try there, especially for tops. My mom is about your size and loves their clothes, but the styling of a lot of their stuff is cute/classic and non-old lady enough that I've found some of my favorite things there (I'm 22).
posted by MadamM at 1:37 PM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
posted by MadamM at 1:37 PM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]
N-thing the advice about getting a bra fitting at Nordstrom's. I also think everyone's ideas about brands are spot-on. Lucky Brand (Macy's carries it) might definitely fit your vibe and is younger feeling than Chico's. Definitely try some department stores and play around.
Once you know your measurements, maybe revisit Sundance. Their return policy doesn't look too bad!
(Unsolicited advice: wear comfy shoes and base clothes that are easy to get on and off. Bring a hairtie if you have long hair. Also snacks and a bottle of water in your purse. A shopping expedition requires fuel!)
Your comment about your sternum tattoo made me think of this, advice about using makeup to cover it up: http://thehairpin.com/2011/02/put-makeup-on-your-legs Personally, because the way I'm built I can primarily only wear wrap dresses with camisoles as someone else mentioned above. I need those under lots of dresses, actually. Hope you find some fantastic stuff!
posted by purple_bird at 2:07 PM on April 27, 2012
Once you know your measurements, maybe revisit Sundance. Their return policy doesn't look too bad!
(Unsolicited advice: wear comfy shoes and base clothes that are easy to get on and off. Bring a hairtie if you have long hair. Also snacks and a bottle of water in your purse. A shopping expedition requires fuel!)
Your comment about your sternum tattoo made me think of this, advice about using makeup to cover it up: http://thehairpin.com/2011/02/put-makeup-on-your-legs Personally, because the way I'm built I can primarily only wear wrap dresses with camisoles as someone else mentioned above. I need those under lots of dresses, actually. Hope you find some fantastic stuff!
posted by purple_bird at 2:07 PM on April 27, 2012
Best answer: Ok. So. I am not built anything like you. And I hate shopping. But.
Not so much with where to shop, but with how. I say this because many places have a potential to be your new place. Like others above, I suspect that with some branching out and experimentation, loose and flowy may not be your default look for much longer. OK. I lied, here are some places you should check out. In the Mall of America, I see a White House/Black Market (s148 opening soon, so maybe next time), New York and Company(s276), Loft (n184), J Jill (s145), Francesca's Collections (s116), 2 Ann Taylor locations (s218, n355), Cache (w132) while I've never been in one, this tunic caught my eye, Chico's (s160), Coldwater Creek (s166), Christopher and Banks (s270) whose website at least has a "women's" section, in addition to "straight sizes." But because sizes are weird, I don't know what 18W means to them. And finally, ArdenB (s138) which might skew a little young for you. Avoid BeBe and Aerie and Charlotte Russe. While you might find a perfectly suitable (and utterly disposable) garment in each of those places, the sounds of teenagers cracking their gum and reporting their weekends trysts will drive you (ok, ME) up the wall and into tears. (In MoA there is also an Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, an H&M, a JCrew, a Nordstrom, a Nordstrom Rack, and a Marshalls, all selling men's and women's clothes. The places I linked all sell only women's clothes.)
Don't try to spend all day trying to find all the garments. Focus on your mission. 2 Bras. 2 pants. 1 skirt. 5 tops. 1 pair of shoes. Your numbers may vary. Make a list, prepare to check things off it so that you can stop trying on pants when you are satisfied that you have met your pants quota. If your day ends and you still want/need 2 more shirts...you'll have clarity about why that happened. Try to get things that all coordinate with each other. So, maybe not purple pants this trip, unless they're $10 or you absolutely love to wear purple pants and have always rocked purple pants. Bring your work shoes. Wear sneakers to the mall. Try on your skirts and pants with the shoes you actually wear to work. True, you can get pants hemmed, but sometimes a shoe makes or breaks a garment.
Ok. Now to the really meaty stuff of how to shop to revamp your wardrobe.
Step one: Visit Polyvore or some other fashion-y website and find a few "looks" that you really like. Or just pictures of pieces you like. Make notes about why you like them. The fit? The color? The draping? The accessory? The shoe? Email these links and notes to your sidekick. Ask her if she notices any trends. You probably won't be able to put your finger on it. Bring all those notes and your friend's impressions/wording to your Nordstrom visit. Separate these looks for work/meetings/weekend/evening/whatever your life divides into. Don't dump looks for being "impractical" or "too expensive" or "not for your shape" yet. Do that after you try things on, never before. The Polyvore looks will give you some clues about where to try shopping.
Step two: Select a number of places you will visit. Not necessarily the exact places, but the number. This might be 5, it might be 10, it might be 15. Pick a number that feels good for you. For me, with a sidekick, that number tops out at 10. I have friends who can be effective if they shop in 30 places in one day. I probably stop being effective at 5, but 10 is where I start to go crazy. Why is this number so different from person to person? Because people are all different. So. If you picked 15 and you start to feel crazy at 10, stop. If you picked 15 and you still feel super energetic and awesome and not at all demoralized, continue shopping. Optional: visit the Mall of America Directory and loosely map your route. You might find that you can skip the whole Sears Corner (unless you want to try out the Land's End pants that were suggested up there.) If you do this, you can look at the stores websites and write down the names of some items you think you want to try on at J Jill or Eileen Fisher or wherever. Or print pictures. (Obviously, I would go shopping with a raft of printed pages if colored ink dripped out of my kitchen faucet. Visual aids make my life easier.) Work some not clothes treats into your route. Lunch. A purse or sunglasses or a new pair of earrings.
Step two B: Park by Nordstrom. Start there, buy the bra (unless some other store like Macy's in the Mall is having a fabulous bra sale the day you go. And can be trusted to get you the right size., work the two (or more) shops on the North side of the mall (all the locations that start with N). Go back through Nordstrom, get in the car and drive to the South section of the mall, visit the (however many) shops in that section. Do not try to fight the temptation to visit every other place in the mall selling things you do not need. I say this, because you don't want to schlep your Nordstrom purchases all over the MoA, except the bra. You are right to want to wear the new bra to try on all of your other potential purchases. Take your old bra out to the car and leave it there. Or maybe throw it away. You also may not want to buy the very first things that you see. You want time to think about them, and apply all the things you learned. Around lunch time, you might find that you're still thinking wistfully of that Green Skirt that you tried on at Nordstrom. That's probably a good sign that you should try it on again. You might find very similar things at other shops that are more or less expensive than at Nordstrom. Comparison can be good.
Step three: Try on more than one size. Nordstrom personal shoppers are very good at looking at the fit of an item and knowing if you should go up or down a size. And it's bizarre. I am generally a size 0/2, and have been struggling to gain weight all my life (I'm not complaining, I swear) and in some things at Nordstrom I am a goddamned Large, but in other lines a 0 is far to big. I will never understand the craziness that is women's clothing. Never. Do not take any of this manufacturing sizing and marketing bullshit personally. They want you to feel awful. They want me to feel awful. They want to get our money out of our wallets, not make us feel fulfilled.
Step four: Make notes. What fits/items do you like at the places you go? For me, I know off the top of my head what I can buy, and where. I say it a lot, but certain pants at Banana Republic, they just fit my body. So whenever they have absurd sales, I go scoop them up. I don't bother returning to places that have nothing I like, ever. Same with places that never have anything that flatters my body (I'm looking at you, Old Navy). This next comes with a caveat because vanity sizing changes all the time, but make a note about what size fits you now at each place, so that when you go back you know where to start (though see step three - be willing to roam around the numbers) and decrease some of your shopping stress.
Step five: Don't take the tags off anything when you get home. Try everything on there the next time your sidekick comes over. It's actually better to have a second sidekick for this. Because the first one might be a little invested in the things you already bought. Because she helped you pick them. Yes, she's first and foremost in this to help make you look and feel awesome. But cognitive dissonance is a crazy thing. And so is the lighting in store dressing rooms. Many things will look different at home. Some will look even better. Some. Uh. Won't. And that's ok! You can take them back if you leave the tags on. Wait a few days. Try things on a few times. Pair them up with accessories. Search for them on polyvore and see what looks other folks are creating with them. Move in them around the house. Sit, stand, etc. Just, no grape juice.
Finally. One last thing. Dress who you are today. Treat this body like it is the one you want. I say this not only because life is short, but because you are worth it. Splurge on or save up for the handbag and shoes and sunglasses that you really love. Look for the pants and shirts and skirts on sales. Try ebay once you've gotten a good idea of what fits you from which stores. This doesn't work for lines that vary in there sizes, and sometimes you'll be let down when an item from a past season is the wrong measurement for this season. Watch the sales. Learn the seasonal cycles of discounting. And try to have fun.
posted by bilabial at 2:09 PM on April 27, 2012 [8 favorites]
Not so much with where to shop, but with how. I say this because many places have a potential to be your new place. Like others above, I suspect that with some branching out and experimentation, loose and flowy may not be your default look for much longer. OK. I lied, here are some places you should check out. In the Mall of America, I see a White House/Black Market (s148 opening soon, so maybe next time), New York and Company(s276), Loft (n184), J Jill (s145), Francesca's Collections (s116), 2 Ann Taylor locations (s218, n355), Cache (w132) while I've never been in one, this tunic caught my eye, Chico's (s160), Coldwater Creek (s166), Christopher and Banks (s270) whose website at least has a "women's" section, in addition to "straight sizes." But because sizes are weird, I don't know what 18W means to them. And finally, ArdenB (s138) which might skew a little young for you. Avoid BeBe and Aerie and Charlotte Russe. While you might find a perfectly suitable (and utterly disposable) garment in each of those places, the sounds of teenagers cracking their gum and reporting their weekends trysts will drive you (ok, ME) up the wall and into tears. (In MoA there is also an Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, an H&M, a JCrew, a Nordstrom, a Nordstrom Rack, and a Marshalls, all selling men's and women's clothes. The places I linked all sell only women's clothes.)
Don't try to spend all day trying to find all the garments. Focus on your mission. 2 Bras. 2 pants. 1 skirt. 5 tops. 1 pair of shoes. Your numbers may vary. Make a list, prepare to check things off it so that you can stop trying on pants when you are satisfied that you have met your pants quota. If your day ends and you still want/need 2 more shirts...you'll have clarity about why that happened. Try to get things that all coordinate with each other. So, maybe not purple pants this trip, unless they're $10 or you absolutely love to wear purple pants and have always rocked purple pants. Bring your work shoes. Wear sneakers to the mall. Try on your skirts and pants with the shoes you actually wear to work. True, you can get pants hemmed, but sometimes a shoe makes or breaks a garment.
Ok. Now to the really meaty stuff of how to shop to revamp your wardrobe.
Step one: Visit Polyvore or some other fashion-y website and find a few "looks" that you really like. Or just pictures of pieces you like. Make notes about why you like them. The fit? The color? The draping? The accessory? The shoe? Email these links and notes to your sidekick. Ask her if she notices any trends. You probably won't be able to put your finger on it. Bring all those notes and your friend's impressions/wording to your Nordstrom visit. Separate these looks for work/meetings/weekend/evening/whatever your life divides into. Don't dump looks for being "impractical" or "too expensive" or "not for your shape" yet. Do that after you try things on, never before. The Polyvore looks will give you some clues about where to try shopping.
Step two: Select a number of places you will visit. Not necessarily the exact places, but the number. This might be 5, it might be 10, it might be 15. Pick a number that feels good for you. For me, with a sidekick, that number tops out at 10. I have friends who can be effective if they shop in 30 places in one day. I probably stop being effective at 5, but 10 is where I start to go crazy. Why is this number so different from person to person? Because people are all different. So. If you picked 15 and you start to feel crazy at 10, stop. If you picked 15 and you still feel super energetic and awesome and not at all demoralized, continue shopping. Optional: visit the Mall of America Directory and loosely map your route. You might find that you can skip the whole Sears Corner (unless you want to try out the Land's End pants that were suggested up there.) If you do this, you can look at the stores websites and write down the names of some items you think you want to try on at J Jill or Eileen Fisher or wherever. Or print pictures. (Obviously, I would go shopping with a raft of printed pages if colored ink dripped out of my kitchen faucet. Visual aids make my life easier.) Work some not clothes treats into your route. Lunch. A purse or sunglasses or a new pair of earrings.
Step two B: Park by Nordstrom. Start there, buy the bra (unless some other store like Macy's in the Mall is having a fabulous bra sale the day you go. And can be trusted to get you the right size., work the two (or more) shops on the North side of the mall (all the locations that start with N). Go back through Nordstrom, get in the car and drive to the South section of the mall, visit the (however many) shops in that section. Do not try to fight the temptation to visit every other place in the mall selling things you do not need. I say this, because you don't want to schlep your Nordstrom purchases all over the MoA, except the bra. You are right to want to wear the new bra to try on all of your other potential purchases. Take your old bra out to the car and leave it there. Or maybe throw it away. You also may not want to buy the very first things that you see. You want time to think about them, and apply all the things you learned. Around lunch time, you might find that you're still thinking wistfully of that Green Skirt that you tried on at Nordstrom. That's probably a good sign that you should try it on again. You might find very similar things at other shops that are more or less expensive than at Nordstrom. Comparison can be good.
Step three: Try on more than one size. Nordstrom personal shoppers are very good at looking at the fit of an item and knowing if you should go up or down a size. And it's bizarre. I am generally a size 0/2, and have been struggling to gain weight all my life (I'm not complaining, I swear) and in some things at Nordstrom I am a goddamned Large, but in other lines a 0 is far to big. I will never understand the craziness that is women's clothing. Never. Do not take any of this manufacturing sizing and marketing bullshit personally. They want you to feel awful. They want me to feel awful. They want to get our money out of our wallets, not make us feel fulfilled.
Step four: Make notes. What fits/items do you like at the places you go? For me, I know off the top of my head what I can buy, and where. I say it a lot, but certain pants at Banana Republic, they just fit my body. So whenever they have absurd sales, I go scoop them up. I don't bother returning to places that have nothing I like, ever. Same with places that never have anything that flatters my body (I'm looking at you, Old Navy). This next comes with a caveat because vanity sizing changes all the time, but make a note about what size fits you now at each place, so that when you go back you know where to start (though see step three - be willing to roam around the numbers) and decrease some of your shopping stress.
Step five: Don't take the tags off anything when you get home. Try everything on there the next time your sidekick comes over. It's actually better to have a second sidekick for this. Because the first one might be a little invested in the things you already bought. Because she helped you pick them. Yes, she's first and foremost in this to help make you look and feel awesome. But cognitive dissonance is a crazy thing. And so is the lighting in store dressing rooms. Many things will look different at home. Some will look even better. Some. Uh. Won't. And that's ok! You can take them back if you leave the tags on. Wait a few days. Try things on a few times. Pair them up with accessories. Search for them on polyvore and see what looks other folks are creating with them. Move in them around the house. Sit, stand, etc. Just, no grape juice.
Finally. One last thing. Dress who you are today. Treat this body like it is the one you want. I say this not only because life is short, but because you are worth it. Splurge on or save up for the handbag and shoes and sunglasses that you really love. Look for the pants and shirts and skirts on sales. Try ebay once you've gotten a good idea of what fits you from which stores. This doesn't work for lines that vary in there sizes, and sometimes you'll be let down when an item from a past season is the wrong measurement for this season. Watch the sales. Learn the seasonal cycles of discounting. And try to have fun.
posted by bilabial at 2:09 PM on April 27, 2012 [8 favorites]
I generally like "long clothes": longer skirts, long cardigans, tunics instead of button-downs.
Reconsider this - these are shapes that you were comfortable in because they flow and skim all the places you wanted to hide. However these are also things that can easily make you look both old and add pounds where there are none. And yes, it is going to take time for you to get comfortable with that idea.
This is exactly what I was thinking. It's an easy size to look frumpy. I know it's hard but try not to cover up and at least try different styles, you may be surprised!
posted by Bunglegirl at 4:09 PM on April 27, 2012
Reconsider this - these are shapes that you were comfortable in because they flow and skim all the places you wanted to hide. However these are also things that can easily make you look both old and add pounds where there are none. And yes, it is going to take time for you to get comfortable with that idea.
This is exactly what I was thinking. It's an easy size to look frumpy. I know it's hard but try not to cover up and at least try different styles, you may be surprised!
posted by Bunglegirl at 4:09 PM on April 27, 2012
Pairing your beloved tunics and long sweaters with skinny jeans or narrow skirts will freshen that look. Flowy tops with fitted bottoms and flowy bottoms with fitted tops is a good rule of thumb for most people.
posted by Sidhedevil at 5:04 PM on April 27, 2012 [2 favorites]
posted by Sidhedevil at 5:04 PM on April 27, 2012 [2 favorites]
Planning on a stop in the Barnes and Noble might be a good idea, as well. I tend to find the MoA overwhelming and the Barnes and Noble is the one place without the sensory overload. I'm not sure if they have a cafe for a cup of tea and a sit down.
(Why in the world I read this question, I don't know. Because it was about Minneapolis, I guess.)
posted by hoyland at 5:16 PM on April 27, 2012
(Why in the world I read this question, I don't know. Because it was about Minneapolis, I guess.)
posted by hoyland at 5:16 PM on April 27, 2012
I am of a very similar size to you (14ish in some things, more in others) although I have a big butt in addition to my big chest. I don't know diddly about the Mall of America, but two places I have successfully shopped online recently (and been mad-happy with my purchases) are Texture for skirts and Boden.
I particularly love the Texture comfy skirt, which is a natural fiber, heavy enough to cover some figure flaws, and light enough to plan to wear all summer here in Austin. I believe it would also be work-appropriate in a place where you're a step up from jeans.
posted by immlass at 6:27 PM on April 27, 2012
I particularly love the Texture comfy skirt, which is a natural fiber, heavy enough to cover some figure flaws, and light enough to plan to wear all summer here in Austin. I believe it would also be work-appropriate in a place where you're a step up from jeans.
posted by immlass at 6:27 PM on April 27, 2012
Best answer: This is not going to be a popular suggestion, I am guessing, but since you mention that you don't have a lot of money and you want to buy an entire new wardrobe, I wanted to bring it up.
I am a very frugal shopper and I only shop on the clearance racks of the stores at the mall. The problem with this is that whenever I try looking at clothing on the regular racks, I get complete sticker shock - "you mean I can only buy ONE pair of pants for $70?!" And that is why I can't shop at Nordstrom. Even the sale racks at Nordstrom are pricey, in my opinion (I have found some good deals at J. Jill though and I agree that this would be a good place to look).
What I would do though if I were you - get the fittings done, go to the mall, shop the clearance racks and figure out what sizes and styles look good, buy anything you really fancy, and then proceed over to the Goodwill that's about 5 minutes away (next to the REI with the rock climbing wall), and I would cruise the Goodwill for the styles and brands I had liked. I love picking up huge shopping bags full of my favorite brands like L.L. Bean, Ann Taylor, etc. at the Goodwill. Then I don't even feel bad if I get home and decide I don't like a few of the things. You just have to be willing to spend some time sifting through and past some other not very attractive clothing. You could get yourself a very good start on a new wardrobe for $100-$200 at the Goodwill. Just saying (although you certainly deserve some nice splurging after your success).
posted by treehorn+bunny at 6:43 PM on April 27, 2012 [3 favorites]
I am a very frugal shopper and I only shop on the clearance racks of the stores at the mall. The problem with this is that whenever I try looking at clothing on the regular racks, I get complete sticker shock - "you mean I can only buy ONE pair of pants for $70?!" And that is why I can't shop at Nordstrom. Even the sale racks at Nordstrom are pricey, in my opinion (I have found some good deals at J. Jill though and I agree that this would be a good place to look).
What I would do though if I were you - get the fittings done, go to the mall, shop the clearance racks and figure out what sizes and styles look good, buy anything you really fancy, and then proceed over to the Goodwill that's about 5 minutes away (next to the REI with the rock climbing wall), and I would cruise the Goodwill for the styles and brands I had liked. I love picking up huge shopping bags full of my favorite brands like L.L. Bean, Ann Taylor, etc. at the Goodwill. Then I don't even feel bad if I get home and decide I don't like a few of the things. You just have to be willing to spend some time sifting through and past some other not very attractive clothing. You could get yourself a very good start on a new wardrobe for $100-$200 at the Goodwill. Just saying (although you certainly deserve some nice splurging after your success).
posted by treehorn+bunny at 6:43 PM on April 27, 2012 [3 favorites]
I would definitely second the "Barnes & Noble shop-break" idea. I believe they do have a cafe. If not, there are Caribous aplenty. Getting a bra first thing is fantastic and I was going to suggest it. Another piece is to make sure you have awesome lower-half underwear. I have such a hard time getting the right size/shape undies that fit and don't leave a pantyline. I don't like to spend money when I don't know how they will fit, so I go to Marshall's and buy them for $2 each. These are also usually cuter than the buy-in-bulk underwear.
Also, this is so true: The problem here is that, in the world of "straight sizes", as you call them, nothing makes any sense, and there are no engineering-style standards. So, you're going to be, say, a size 10 in [Brand A], a size 12 in [Brand B], a "1X" in [Brand C], etc. Don't get discouraged. Just remember how great you are--and how it's the clothing-makers who are crazy with regard to sizing, not anything about you or your physique.
I would check out Coldwater Creek for sure.
One store that hasn't been mentioned is Desigual. I have seen the ads for them on buses all season and am really curious to know what it's like. They might have some inspiration, if not things you actually want to wear. There may also be sales since they are new. Here's their sweaters page.
Regarding the type of clothing to find, I would consider moving from all-loose to tight-under-loose, such as a tighter t-shirt under a cardigan or flowing open sweater. A great button-down can provide definition and can be matched with a vest. I like the ones at New York & Co. For the wrap-dress problem, is wearing a scarf an option to cover the tattoo?
Other tips: Make sure you feel and look awesome. Do something neat with your hair, wear the most awesome underwear you own (although you will trade some of it out), wear make-up if you are into that. I find that when I look sloppy, I don't like the clothes as much and don't have as much fun!
Have fun!
posted by ramenopres at 7:30 PM on April 27, 2012
Also, this is so true: The problem here is that, in the world of "straight sizes", as you call them, nothing makes any sense, and there are no engineering-style standards. So, you're going to be, say, a size 10 in [Brand A], a size 12 in [Brand B], a "1X" in [Brand C], etc. Don't get discouraged. Just remember how great you are--and how it's the clothing-makers who are crazy with regard to sizing, not anything about you or your physique.
I would check out Coldwater Creek for sure.
One store that hasn't been mentioned is Desigual. I have seen the ads for them on buses all season and am really curious to know what it's like. They might have some inspiration, if not things you actually want to wear. There may also be sales since they are new. Here's their sweaters page.
Regarding the type of clothing to find, I would consider moving from all-loose to tight-under-loose, such as a tighter t-shirt under a cardigan or flowing open sweater. A great button-down can provide definition and can be matched with a vest. I like the ones at New York & Co. For the wrap-dress problem, is wearing a scarf an option to cover the tattoo?
Other tips: Make sure you feel and look awesome. Do something neat with your hair, wear the most awesome underwear you own (although you will trade some of it out), wear make-up if you are into that. I find that when I look sloppy, I don't like the clothes as much and don't have as much fun!
Have fun!
posted by ramenopres at 7:30 PM on April 27, 2012
P.S. I'd love to see pictures of your favorite purchases!
posted by juliplease at 10:30 PM on April 29, 2012
posted by juliplease at 10:30 PM on April 29, 2012
Response by poster: Hi all,
Just in case anyone wants to know: here's how the day went. I got there at 10am (when stores opened) and, with the exception of lunch, we shopped until 6pm.
(not in any particular order)
* Went to Nordstroms, got fitted for a bra (apparently I've shrunk 4 inches in band size, no wonder I'm swimming in my clothes) and spent a ridiculous amount on an awesome bra. That was the only article of clothing that I paid full price for all day long.
* I went nuts over Eddie Bauer. I used to avoid that store because I thought it was too preppy for me...but it was awesome. There was a lot that I liked, I fit perfectly into a L, but the regular-priced stuff was kind of expensive. I got two shirts and a sweater, all on sale.
* We went to Christopher Banks on a whim. I always thought that was an Old Lady store, and, well, it kind of was...but I found a nice green t-shirt and a skort on sale. I haven't worn a skort in a bazillion years but it was a good length on me, seemed good quality, and I will be able to wear it while biking...and both articles of clothing were on sale. Win, win, win, win.
* I got a pair of jeans at Old Navy. I had a coupon so they were practically free.
* I bought two pair of pants at Columbia Outfitters - camping pants with zip-off legs and a pair of khakis. Both were on sale.
And that was it. All in all, we probably went to about 40 stores. (I KNOW!!) Shopping was kind of surreal and difficult. I kept grabbing clothes that didn't fit, and had to go back and get smaller stuff. I did this a lot. My friend said, "Why aren't you jumping and cheering? You've worked so hard for this!" I'm not sure why I was so subdued. I think that it was just such a "holy crow, this is so weird, shopping in stores that were once forbidden to me. I'm spending lots of money. I have no idea what my body looks like. Weird, weird, weird."
I found department stores completely overwhelming. Apparently in the Plus-size section of department stores, all of the clothes are in one area. In the straight-size section of department stores, the clothes are divided up by designer. I would look at the clothes, get an armload, think I'm done...but wait! There's a whole nother section over here. And another one over here, and another one...all different price points, different sizing, everything. It was confusing and I wound up not getting anything at a big store. I felt like I'd fallen off the back of the fashion turnip truck. So much to see in the big city!
Anyway, I am now going to take treehorn+bunny's suggestion and head for ebay and consignment stores. I have an idea of what I like (even at stores where I didn't buy anything, I tried stuff on and know what size I am) and can get things at a good price.
~ fin ~
posted by Elly Vortex at 12:18 PM on April 30, 2012 [2 favorites]
Just in case anyone wants to know: here's how the day went. I got there at 10am (when stores opened) and, with the exception of lunch, we shopped until 6pm.
(not in any particular order)
* Went to Nordstroms, got fitted for a bra (apparently I've shrunk 4 inches in band size, no wonder I'm swimming in my clothes) and spent a ridiculous amount on an awesome bra. That was the only article of clothing that I paid full price for all day long.
* I went nuts over Eddie Bauer. I used to avoid that store because I thought it was too preppy for me...but it was awesome. There was a lot that I liked, I fit perfectly into a L, but the regular-priced stuff was kind of expensive. I got two shirts and a sweater, all on sale.
* We went to Christopher Banks on a whim. I always thought that was an Old Lady store, and, well, it kind of was...but I found a nice green t-shirt and a skort on sale. I haven't worn a skort in a bazillion years but it was a good length on me, seemed good quality, and I will be able to wear it while biking...and both articles of clothing were on sale. Win, win, win, win.
* I got a pair of jeans at Old Navy. I had a coupon so they were practically free.
* I bought two pair of pants at Columbia Outfitters - camping pants with zip-off legs and a pair of khakis. Both were on sale.
And that was it. All in all, we probably went to about 40 stores. (I KNOW!!) Shopping was kind of surreal and difficult. I kept grabbing clothes that didn't fit, and had to go back and get smaller stuff. I did this a lot. My friend said, "Why aren't you jumping and cheering? You've worked so hard for this!" I'm not sure why I was so subdued. I think that it was just such a "holy crow, this is so weird, shopping in stores that were once forbidden to me. I'm spending lots of money. I have no idea what my body looks like. Weird, weird, weird."
I found department stores completely overwhelming. Apparently in the Plus-size section of department stores, all of the clothes are in one area. In the straight-size section of department stores, the clothes are divided up by designer. I would look at the clothes, get an armload, think I'm done...but wait! There's a whole nother section over here. And another one over here, and another one...all different price points, different sizing, everything. It was confusing and I wound up not getting anything at a big store. I felt like I'd fallen off the back of the fashion turnip truck. So much to see in the big city!
Anyway, I am now going to take treehorn+bunny's suggestion and head for ebay and consignment stores. I have an idea of what I like (even at stores where I didn't buy anything, I tried stuff on and know what size I am) and can get things at a good price.
~ fin ~
posted by Elly Vortex at 12:18 PM on April 30, 2012 [2 favorites]
I asked a similar question recently and one of the best suggestions was to try Kohl's. I don't think there's one in the MOA, but if there's one near you, give it a shot. Or check them out online. And congratulations on the weight loss!!
posted by Addlepated at 9:51 PM on April 30, 2012
posted by Addlepated at 9:51 PM on April 30, 2012
So... in the interest of expanding your wardrobe even more, some local great thrift stores:
Arc Value Village in Maplewood and in South Minneapolis near Penn
Goodwill on White Bear Ave--again in Maplewood--and in Roseville by Snelling
ValuThrift by 94 and McKnight (Maplewood again, sorry)
Now it will be easier to find great things in your size--I have seen many things at these stores in size L. The Arcs are huge and have a lot of great things, and also have nice dressing rooms!
posted by ramenopres at 6:06 PM on May 3, 2012
Arc Value Village in Maplewood and in South Minneapolis near Penn
Goodwill on White Bear Ave--again in Maplewood--and in Roseville by Snelling
ValuThrift by 94 and McKnight (Maplewood again, sorry)
Now it will be easier to find great things in your size--I have seen many things at these stores in size L. The Arcs are huge and have a lot of great things, and also have nice dressing rooms!
posted by ramenopres at 6:06 PM on May 3, 2012
I'm in the process of wardrobe rebuilding. I'm 45, so we won't shop at the same places necessarily, but I had a GREAT time at White House/Black Market recently and found some great foundation pieces, including a dress it would never have crossed my mind to try on, with the help of their awesome personal shopper. And I wouldn't have found the long skirts I wanted if I hadn't opened my mouth to ask for help. Of course, it helps if you like black and white. ;-)
I've done a lot of my shopping from Coldwater Creek. They've got a line of no-iron shirts that I like, but it's otherwise very hit or miss there. A lot of their things are matronly, but I've found a couple of decidedly hip jackets, and those no-iron shirts are workhorses. They still look nice and crisp after repeated washings. I prefer the longsleeved variety, though. I've lost weight, but I've still managed to pop the cuff buttons on the 3/4 sleeve shirts. You can also put a tank under the no-iron shirt and wear it open, so you could keep it in your wardrobe when you lose more weight. If you try the no-iron shirt style there, find your fit, and decide you like it, check their online outlet store for the same or very similar shirt in different colors at a much lower price.... they change colors seasonally, but I've found the sizing and quality in this line to be consistent over the last couple of years. With a skirt or slacks could be a go-to for your office wear.
posted by theplotchickens at 6:56 AM on May 4, 2012
I've done a lot of my shopping from Coldwater Creek. They've got a line of no-iron shirts that I like, but it's otherwise very hit or miss there. A lot of their things are matronly, but I've found a couple of decidedly hip jackets, and those no-iron shirts are workhorses. They still look nice and crisp after repeated washings. I prefer the longsleeved variety, though. I've lost weight, but I've still managed to pop the cuff buttons on the 3/4 sleeve shirts. You can also put a tank under the no-iron shirt and wear it open, so you could keep it in your wardrobe when you lose more weight. If you try the no-iron shirt style there, find your fit, and decide you like it, check their online outlet store for the same or very similar shirt in different colors at a much lower price.... they change colors seasonally, but I've found the sizing and quality in this line to be consistent over the last couple of years. With a skirt or slacks could be a go-to for your office wear.
posted by theplotchickens at 6:56 AM on May 4, 2012
This thread is closed to new comments.
Coldwater Creek is good for longer, drapier things, but the style might be too "mature" for you.
posted by Ideefixe at 10:31 AM on April 27, 2012 [1 favorite]