... Read moreShopping for size 12-14 clothing can sometimes feel challenging, but as a midsize woman myself living in Canada, I've discovered a handful of stores that consistently offer great fits and stylish options. When it comes to office wear, Marks is my reliable destination because their sizing varies by brand but usually falls within M to XL, making it easier to find a comfortable and professional look. One store I can't live without is Old Navy; their pants might stretch after a while, so I often size down, but their "short" length jeans are a game changer for my height.
Amazon is also helpful for those harder-to-find pieces, but I always read reviews carefully to ensure the right fit—especially in pants where fabric and stretch matter a lot. From my experience, brands like Cider offer lovely pieces that fit well within L to 1X ranges, perfect for casual and semi-formal occasions. If blouses are what you need, H&M’s tops usually work great, although their pants tend to run long for me.
For jeans, Old Navy and Walmart are my top picks since they both carry shorter inseams, which is fantastic if you don’t want to alter jeans. I was pleasantly surprised to find Levi’s at Walmart, with short length options that fit perfectly. Marks is unique for sizing women's jeans similar to men's, allowing me to buy exact waist and length measurements. Don't overlook Bootlegger either; their jeans are surprisingly comfortable and flattering.
Dresses and skirts can be tricky, but Marks and Maurices (mostly available in Ontario) never disappoint. Torrid’s maxi dresses come in mid-length options that suit my frame better than traditional maxi lengths. For tops and sweaters, Torrid again offers a good range from 00 to 1X, though fit varies depending on the style. Old Navy and American Eagle also have great tops, though I find American Eagle's more fitted sizing worth noting if you prefer some extra room.
Bras have always been a personal challenge since sizing inconsistencies abound. Torrid, Knix, and Uniqlo are my go-to brands for comfort and support. I highly recommend trying bras in store at Torrid to find the best style since their sizing can be all over the place. Uniqlo sports bras, in particular, get my vote for comfort and quality.
Navigating midsize fashion doesn’t have to be frustrating. These trusted stores have made shopping enjoyable for me, and with a bit of attention to sizing quirks, you’ll find flattering pieces for many occasions. Happy shopping and embracing your midsize style confidently!