I need some new clothes, size 26

ti1980

I always end up in Evans or M&S for clothes usually tops as I wear a size 24/26 on top. With trousers I can usually get into a 20 and sometimes an 18 depending on the shop and a lot more places stock these sizes so its always much easier to find things I like.
I have a couple of weddings to go to next year so know I will need a couple of new outfits in about 4/5 months for those but also I would just like to add to my wardrobe in general. Not really keen on doing it online as things always seem so different once they are in your hands so would rather go to a shop.
I'm not looking for 'throwaway' fashion items either, I like my stuff to last and want to get some basics for my wardrobe as it is looking very bare (I don't enjoy shopping).

I used to shop in MK1 but I think the quality is pretty poor.

Any pointers would be very much appreciated and I'm sure will help many people on here and not just me.:beer:

dmg24

Have you got a Tesco nearby that stocks their larger collection? It is v good!

Alternatively, you could look at Elvi (perhaps only suitable for the older lady?), or if you wanted something really special, you could get something made? It can be a lot more cost effective than you would imagine x

lisyloo

Have you tried Matalan.
They have a "plus" size section although I can't remember what they call it.
Very good value and nice clothes.
I'm sure they will have a sale on at the moment.

I personally love TK Maxx and I'm pretty sure they also cater for all sizes.

mrsdoyle1981

Matalan is a great shop for sizes 16+

I think they go up to a size 26 in one of their ranges which includes lots of nice dressy items too, perfect for the weddings! =D

As with any store, sometimes the fabrics used are a bit ropey, but its definitely worth a look if you have one nearby. Also the prices are very reasonable and the clothes last forever with a little TLC!

Good luck

Dumyat

can second matalan range. I find it very good for both smart and casual stuff.not fuddy duddy, and quality is OK

called rodger and rodger...goes up to 28

Mollymop5

I can vouch for Matalan and also M& co(formerly Mackays).

ti1980

Thanks for the suggestions already, you guys are fast!

Got zillions of Tescos around but not ones that stock a large range of clothing, no Matalans that are easy for me to get to by public transport, I will have to see if I can get a lift from a friend then I could easily do Matalan and find a Tesco that stocks the larger clothing.

I'm not even 30 yet so definitely not looking for the 'older' stuff that you often get in these sizes.

donny_osmonds_mad_fan

matalan is rogers and rogers or that company...very good, but yes tesco, marks and spencers, elvi but its expensive, ulla popken is fantastic quality only got 3 stores in the uk some cheaper some expensive you can mail order it.

I have to say a brilliant way of buying clothes is on ebay from the usa, lots of sellers ship cheaply (about £4) size 26 is about size 22 from the usa or 2xl....seriously I get lots of brand new clothes very cheap, normally about £9 brand new incl postage which when you think evans is about £20-30 its a saving

also have you tried simply be? the sales are good on there...lots of cheap brand new clothes on uk ebay anyways.

it bugs me with evans and i think they have got cocky, there clothes are often poor quality and always shrink when washed, they say you can tumble dry them but i would never ever tumble dry them as you lose 2 sizes or so, tops are often way too short to cover what us curvy ladies want to cover ie mummy tum and my lardy butt....it really winds me up.

I did see in marks the other day a third of their range is going upto a size 24 so more choice...however I am sick of it and going to swear blind to myself 2008 is the year to find the real me under this lard lol...said that for the past 10 years tho lol

penguin83

A site I found last year and have been impressed with is Size Up. I have bought a few things from them and they have all washed well and most importantly lasted! x

mummyyummy_2

try bon marche, although its aimed at older ladies it does have some really funky items too; george at asda; homeshoppingdirect.co.uk ok its mail order but you can always return and has loads of choice; new look.............what I would like to know is who stocks larger bras that can actually be tried on and bought instore apart from outrageous evans??

Tipustyger

I'm a smaller size so I'm not sure but I have often seen a plus size section in Tk Maxx and they are often good quality at great prices. If I ever shop for clothes, I always go there first because of the savings.