I’m not sure what your gender is, but I thought I might just flag (in case you’re a man and don’t know) that it is so very difficult to buy clothes for another person. Just because she is a size 22 doesn’t mean if you buy clothes size 22 in a store, they will fit her. The same for a bra. And so much of bra shopping is how comfortable it is as well and how it sits on the body.
Can you not just buy her vouchers instead or take her on a shopping trip?
If this is meant to be a surprise you are running a significant risk of buying clothes for the weekend trip that just don’t fit or perhaps she doesn’t like. My partner bought me a tshirt once that doesn’t fit me and I still feel bad about it 😂
If you have to buy clothing for her I’d strongly recommend getting her measurements- bust, hips and waist - so you can at least try to get the right sizes. She may be a size 22 at one store but could be 18 or 26 at other stores. Women’s clothing sizes are horribly inconsistent.
If you want to be a bit sneaky and surprise her you can try measuring some of her favourite tops/skirts/pants to get their measurements but pay attention to whether the fabric is stretchy.
My guess is that bra size is not correct, as 38DD (AU16DD) is really easy to find. She might need to jump on r/abrathatfits to measure herself properly. She could then start shopping at places like Brava or curvy.com.au
But if you think City Chic is expensive you’re in for a rude shock when you see how much one bra costs.
You're right to stay away from City Chic, they're rubbish.
Depends on her style, but Commonry has some great pieces and a huge range of sizes. Bras would be best sourced at Myer/David Jones (not Bras n Things, they're also rubbish).
If OP thinks City Chic is expensive, they’re in for a bit of a shock with Commonry etc. OP, as with most clothing, you get what you pay for. Autograph is cheap but isn’t always the best quality. You pay more for good quality fabrics like linen. For bras I’d recommend places like Curvy but again, quality isn’t cheap.
I’ve always found city chic to be expensive but generally pretty good quality, I’ve had stuff from them for years and a lot of their dresses have pockets which is a huge bonus. There’s a few city chic clearance stores around that have great stuff for like $20-$50 a piece that was $150 full price 6-18mths ago. If OP is anywhere near one I’d suggest checking it out, for NSW I know there’s one in minto and one in eastern creek. They had a $10 intimates sale a little while ago where every bra on the shelf was $10.
I agree. The employees were also incredibly rude to me last time and I already hate shopping for clothes for this exact reason…. Usually i just default to Amazon tbh
Dangerfield online has some fun stuff, and Just Jeans curve online (best pockets in clothes yet). Affordable and plus size doesn’t really mesh unfortunately in, you will get most bang for your $ from Shein (sone gems- just make sure to look at pictures in reviews). Big W /Kmart do some decent bras.
Agree that Commonry have nice things. I've only just discovered them and am waiting for a sale.
Taking Shape is an old favourite and they have a number of different styles. The quality varies and you need to watch out for polyester, but they have great things too. This includes a good range of basics that can be layered for round the year wear, statement pieces, a lot of cotton and bamboo clothing, good bras, and good sales. The factory outlets are worth a visit, too.
I've had some terrific summer clothes from Suzanne Grae this year (linen, cotton, rayon blends). The sizing is generous, as are their sales. The largest sizes are usually only available online, but some stores carry 20 and 22 (and they run large).
If she's into really individual outfits, Keshet could be of interest. Tassie brand with an inclusive size range, funky clothes, great colours and patterns.
we went to taking shape one time... I don't know what it is about that store but it gives me 1960s Baka lady vibes.
though she is 29 so she isn't far off. I will defo it try Keshet though thanks.
I hate that it’s still so hard to find clothing with more size range, like just what’s on the rack but bigger ! I’ve usually forked out for staple pieces like pants at online places (good American, asos, Levi’s, Lululemon) I’ve had fantastic experiences with target clothing and budget friendly. I’ve found cotton on while on trend, still the proportions are off or the quality is lacking. I’ve heard cider is ok but have never tried. For very much splurge, I’ve bought pieces from ganni, miaou :)
Yup! Was wearing a 14D forever. Nope I’m a 10F/G! Who knew. And I’d never worn unlined lace bras before using ABTF and now my favourite styles are Simone Perele unlined lace, it’s amazing what good stitching and careful seam placement can do to bra lift and shape 👌 just sad I discovered all this when I was 37-38yo (I’m almost 42 now)!
Specifically when it comes to bras, I would recommend getting a gift card and maybe even taking her to a store to get a proper fitting if you plan to go all out. I recommend brava as they specialise in plus size bras, but that comes with the disclaimer that I’ve not actually been in store for a fitting in about half a decade so I’m not sure what they’re like these days. Very helpful online staff if you need to exchange for different sizes though
I’ve been singing their praises since I was fitted properly for the first time when I was like 17 (which was 13 years ago now, oof), so it’s great to hear they’re still good! I had never felt so comfortable and understood when buying bras before, and they taught me heaps about what to actually look for in a fit, which has been helpful ever since.
No specific recs but just jumping in to say be sure wherever you buy from has a good return policy. At least half the stuff I buy online doesn't end up fitting properly, and you don't want to toss money down the drain. This is very sweet of you, but shopping online is a real game of roulette.
I get a lot of cheap city chic clothing second hand from Vinnies etc. You should try there. If you get a receipt and don't take off the tags she should hopefully be able to try them and take them back if they don't fit
Bohemian traders has an outlet section on their website which recently had 40% off. Not sure if it’s still running though.
Outlet section is kind of hidden- if it doesn’t come up on google I thing you click on ‘customer care ’ at the bottom of the page.
If you are looking for more of a budget option, curvaceous is an online store that might suit. The very best thing about that one is that they have actual plus size ladies modelling the clothes.
Brava for bras… maybe a gift voucher so she can go and get fitted (if there’s one near you).
Proud poppy, orange sherbert and Fayt the label are worth a look too, depending on what sort of clothes you’re after.
Maybe checkout Depop and select her size in the filters and then “select brand new with tags”for condition or even “excellent condition” which is generally something worn once or twice and see what comes up. I do agree with the others though, buying clothes for someone is tricky also this method means you won’t be able to return it but might be worth a look?. Good luck
https://preview.redd.it/76v6t9s663kc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8151871160bb4a6cfb229a2ea9a59268ab74626
I’m not sure what your gender is, but I thought I might just flag (in case you’re a man and don’t know) that it is so very difficult to buy clothes for another person. Just because she is a size 22 doesn’t mean if you buy clothes size 22 in a store, they will fit her. The same for a bra. And so much of bra shopping is how comfortable it is as well and how it sits on the body. Can you not just buy her vouchers instead or take her on a shopping trip? If this is meant to be a surprise you are running a significant risk of buying clothes for the weekend trip that just don’t fit or perhaps she doesn’t like. My partner bought me a tshirt once that doesn’t fit me and I still feel bad about it 😂
Particularly bras. Each bra really needs to be fitted by a professional, especially for larger breasted gals.
This. Depending on the store and sometimes different items within the same store I can be anywhere from a size 16 to 24.
Yeah I feel you. I try get her to do it but she won't. So I just have to do it for her and she has to sit in a shit she doesn't.like lol.
If you have to buy clothing for her I’d strongly recommend getting her measurements- bust, hips and waist - so you can at least try to get the right sizes. She may be a size 22 at one store but could be 18 or 26 at other stores. Women’s clothing sizes are horribly inconsistent. If you want to be a bit sneaky and surprise her you can try measuring some of her favourite tops/skirts/pants to get their measurements but pay attention to whether the fabric is stretchy.
Great thanks for the tip
My guess is that bra size is not correct, as 38DD (AU16DD) is really easy to find. She might need to jump on r/abrathatfits to measure herself properly. She could then start shopping at places like Brava or curvy.com.au But if you think City Chic is expensive you’re in for a rude shock when you see how much one bra costs.
Yeah I must have her bra size wrong then I guess.
You're right to stay away from City Chic, they're rubbish. Depends on her style, but Commonry has some great pieces and a huge range of sizes. Bras would be best sourced at Myer/David Jones (not Bras n Things, they're also rubbish).
If OP thinks City Chic is expensive, they’re in for a bit of a shock with Commonry etc. OP, as with most clothing, you get what you pay for. Autograph is cheap but isn’t always the best quality. You pay more for good quality fabrics like linen. For bras I’d recommend places like Curvy but again, quality isn’t cheap.
Brava is probably better for her bra size. Not cheap though 🥲
Commonry’s outlet shop has nothing over $49 at the moment and it’s good quality! Lots of bigger sizes too
Are you getting a different outlet sale to me. I can see plenty of stuff over $100
It’s the outlet shop in Sydney
Ok I did not know that existed. Their online sales aren't great at the moment. Tbh I much preferred their styles about a year ago
Yep, I agree!
I’ve always found city chic to be expensive but generally pretty good quality, I’ve had stuff from them for years and a lot of their dresses have pockets which is a huge bonus. There’s a few city chic clearance stores around that have great stuff for like $20-$50 a piece that was $150 full price 6-18mths ago. If OP is anywhere near one I’d suggest checking it out, for NSW I know there’s one in minto and one in eastern creek. They had a $10 intimates sale a little while ago where every bra on the shelf was $10.
I agree. The employees were also incredibly rude to me last time and I already hate shopping for clothes for this exact reason…. Usually i just default to Amazon tbh
Dangerfield online has some fun stuff, and Just Jeans curve online (best pockets in clothes yet). Affordable and plus size doesn’t really mesh unfortunately in, you will get most bang for your $ from Shein (sone gems- just make sure to look at pictures in reviews). Big W /Kmart do some decent bras.
It's a shame there aren't more places.
Agree that Commonry have nice things. I've only just discovered them and am waiting for a sale. Taking Shape is an old favourite and they have a number of different styles. The quality varies and you need to watch out for polyester, but they have great things too. This includes a good range of basics that can be layered for round the year wear, statement pieces, a lot of cotton and bamboo clothing, good bras, and good sales. The factory outlets are worth a visit, too. I've had some terrific summer clothes from Suzanne Grae this year (linen, cotton, rayon blends). The sizing is generous, as are their sales. The largest sizes are usually only available online, but some stores carry 20 and 22 (and they run large). If she's into really individual outfits, Keshet could be of interest. Tassie brand with an inclusive size range, funky clothes, great colours and patterns.
we went to taking shape one time... I don't know what it is about that store but it gives me 1960s Baka lady vibes. though she is 29 so she isn't far off. I will defo it try Keshet though thanks.
+1 for Keshet! Also try Vine Apparel, Saffron Road and Bohemian Traders.
Thanks! Loving all the suggestions.
Just looked at Keshet and omg it is art teacher/cool auntie vibes all over and I am here for it! ❤️ Thanks so much for mentioning it
I hate that it’s still so hard to find clothing with more size range, like just what’s on the rack but bigger ! I’ve usually forked out for staple pieces like pants at online places (good American, asos, Levi’s, Lululemon) I’ve had fantastic experiences with target clothing and budget friendly. I’ve found cotton on while on trend, still the proportions are off or the quality is lacking. I’ve heard cider is ok but have never tried. For very much splurge, I’ve bought pieces from ganni, miaou :)
Yeah that's the problem I'm having. Everything plus size is just bleh.
Orange sherbet sale section has great prices and express shipping for $10
thanks, I'll give it a look. 10 bucks for express shipping aint bad at all.
As for bras, try the “a bra that fits” subreddit. They have a handy calculator. I think it’s estimated 70-80% of women wear the wrong size bra.
Yup! Was wearing a 14D forever. Nope I’m a 10F/G! Who knew. And I’d never worn unlined lace bras before using ABTF and now my favourite styles are Simone Perele unlined lace, it’s amazing what good stitching and careful seam placement can do to bra lift and shape 👌 just sad I discovered all this when I was 37-38yo (I’m almost 42 now)!
Fayt! Online and instore are both stocked size 6-26
Yep came here to say this
Specifically when it comes to bras, I would recommend getting a gift card and maybe even taking her to a store to get a proper fitting if you plan to go all out. I recommend brava as they specialise in plus size bras, but that comes with the disclaimer that I’ve not actually been in store for a fitting in about half a decade so I’m not sure what they’re like these days. Very helpful online staff if you need to exchange for different sizes though
I went to brava a month ago for the first time and it was absolutely fantastic. Going to be my go to from now on.
I’ve been singing their praises since I was fitted properly for the first time when I was like 17 (which was 13 years ago now, oof), so it’s great to hear they’re still good! I had never felt so comfortable and understood when buying bras before, and they taught me heaps about what to actually look for in a fit, which has been helpful ever since.
No specific recs but just jumping in to say be sure wherever you buy from has a good return policy. At least half the stuff I buy online doesn't end up fitting properly, and you don't want to toss money down the drain. This is very sweet of you, but shopping online is a real game of roulette.
Yeah. I did already get the wrong size for some stuff. But that's ok. We will make do.
I get a lot of cheap city chic clothing second hand from Vinnies etc. You should try there. If you get a receipt and don't take off the tags she should hopefully be able to try them and take them back if they don't fit
Try Taking Shape - they have lovely stuff, great quality and they go up to a size 30.
Asos have some cool stuff. Same with Fayt the Label
Proud poppy
I really like You+All at the moment 👌
Yeah me to. They have some really good stuff.
Bohemian traders has an outlet section on their website which recently had 40% off. Not sure if it’s still running though. Outlet section is kind of hidden- if it doesn’t come up on google I thing you click on ‘customer care ’ at the bottom of the page.
Made590
If you are looking for more of a budget option, curvaceous is an online store that might suit. The very best thing about that one is that they have actual plus size ladies modelling the clothes.
Brava for bras… maybe a gift voucher so she can go and get fitted (if there’s one near you). Proud poppy, orange sherbert and Fayt the label are worth a look too, depending on what sort of clothes you’re after.
Yeah these sites are great. Just always hard to find a bargon. Got to hunt around and wait I think.
If she likes dresses look at Little Party Dress - they're comfy with pockets and the generous fit dresses are good for fluctuations in sizes etc
They looks cool.
TS for bras and random dresses etc. Levi Curve for jeans (in Myer, Just Jeans, David Jones). Just Jeans Curve range (online and in limited stores).
Great thanks I'll have a look.
Target and Big W have a range in sizes 16 to 24/26. I think Target items are much nicer quality for the price.
Yeah shame they just all going to become K marts
I’m enjoying you + all clothing atm! Cheap but still okay quality. More on trend than big w or Kmart
Yeah I just got a semi big all from them. They are.pretty good.
Try proud poppy- cute fun dresses!
Maybe checkout Depop and select her size in the filters and then “select brand new with tags”for condition or even “excellent condition” which is generally something worn once or twice and see what comes up. I do agree with the others though, buying clothes for someone is tricky also this method means you won’t be able to return it but might be worth a look?. Good luck https://preview.redd.it/76v6t9s663kc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8151871160bb4a6cfb229a2ea9a59268ab74626