Here’s how it feels when a store doesn’t stock your size

“As I reach to the back of every rack to find the largest size in stock, I’m most often met with disappointment as I pull forward a size 14.”

‘Nope. I doubt it. Probably not… definitely not. Maybe I’ll just shop for shoes.’ This is my inner monologue as I walk through any shopping centre, constantly having to consider whether the shops I’m passing will stock my size. Why does it feel like the body-positive movement we advocated so hard for is suddenly plateauing?

Recently, there’s been lots of discussion, both online and offline, about the lack of inclusive sizing in Australian stores. It’s upsetting to see brands remove their larger sizes, effectively alienating their plus-size customers. Some argue that it’s a brand’s prerogative to cut the parts of business that aren’t as profitable but perspective is everything here. If we apply that same logic in other industries, like cosmetics, it just feels like another form of discrimination.

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The average clothing size for women in Australia is between 14 and 16, and this is what a lot of brands consider ‘large’ or ‘extra large’. As a fat person, my fear is that as more stores cut down their size ranges, it will become even harder than it already is for me to find clothing.

I’m an Australian size 20 to 22 and I don’t think it should be this hard to buy a garment that fits me in a store. Over the years, I’ve experienced shopping as a size six and as a size 22 and let me tell you, it’s so much harder to find cute, well-fitting and affordable clothing as a size 22. I honestly believe this feeling is shared by most people above a size 18.

As I reach to the back of every rack to find the largest size in stock, I’m most often met with disappointment as I pull forward a size 14. An unfortunate trend contributing to the erasure of extended sizing is weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Popular ’90s and early 2000s trends like low-rise jeans and tramp stamps are having a renaissance, harking back to a time when fatphobia and public body shaming were arguably the most rife.

Popular Australian stores often have no plus-size options and if they do, they’re usually floral, have a ‘live laugh love’ style quote on the front or are ill-fitting. Sometimes you just need to run into a store and pick something sexy to wear out that night – a task that’s virtually impossible for anyone over a size 18.

All we’re asking for are options, and it seems like an obvious solution. An extended size range would encourage customers to come in and try on multiple sizes to get the perfect fit, instead of people, like me, who are on the cusp of a size 22 and will disregard a size 20 automatically.

Plus-size shopping tips

When I shop in a store, I try to do some research before going in to ensure I won’t be disappointed. If it’s somewhere I haven’t shopped before, I’ll look online and see if they hold plus sizes. Sometimes I’ll even look at Reddit and see if other plus-size women have reviewed the store I’m interested in visiting.

Another great place to look is A Plus Market, which travels around but is often popping up in Coburg. It stocks a variety of small clothing brands catered specifically to plus sizes, meaning there are options galore. I’m also a huge advocate for secondhand shopping.

It’s not easy and takes patience and a good eye, but it’s a great way to find unique and interesting pieces to add to your collection. My top tip is to find op shops near you that organise their clothing by size – this makes it much less daunting when you only have that specific section to look through. I do know Savers do this, plus a few different Sacred Heart Mission thrift stores as well.

Additionally, I suggest following people on social media who are also plus-size such as Jessica Blair, Riley Hemson, Francesca Perks, Carmen and Aisha Nikora.. Create a space where the people you’re watching and are influenced by are those promoting products suited to you. Also, please keep advocating for the important issues. Let brands know you’re here and want to buy their products, but only if they’re available to you.

For any brand owners who want advice from a plus-size person, I’d say to prioritise equality, listen to your customers, offer accommodations where possible and incorporate plus-size models in your marketing. I can assure you the market is there for extended sizing. We want to go shopping feeling confident we’ll be able to try on clothing in the same store as our friends.

As much as I’ve spoken about fatphobia in the fashion industry, I must add that I’m so thankful for the incredible small brands that have prioritised plus sizing. Although it shouldn’t be seen as a big deal, it is, and I appreciate being seen as a priority, not as an afterthought.

For more of the best plus-size labels, head here.