Size, Schmize: A Guide to Navigating Sizing at Popular Plus Size Brands
Let’s be real—shopping for clothes should be as easy as brunch on a Sunday. But thanks to wildly inconsistent sizing across brands, it can feel more like solving a Rubik's cube… blindfolded… while being chased by your delivery driver.
We’re here to help decode the mysterious language of plus size fashion sizing—because whether you’re a “2” at one store or a “22” at another, it shouldn’t be rocket science to find clothes that fit and feel good.
Torrid: The Land of the Double-Digits
If you’ve ever seen a label that says “Size 1” and thought, “Cute, but I left juniors behind in 2004,” welcome to Torrid’s magical numbering system.
Quick Decode:
Torrid uses 1-6 sizing that corresponds with plus sizes.
Their size 1 = 1X = roughly a 14/16
Size 2 = 18/20, Size 3 = 22/24, and so on.
Hot Tip: Torrid runs pretty true to size, especially for curvy bodies with fuller hips and busts. Their fit models are actually mid and plus-size, which helps a ton.
Chico’s: The Math Class You Didn’t Ask For
If you've ever thought, “Wait, why am I a size 3 at Chico’s?” you're not alone. Chico’s decided traditional sizing was too boring and made up their own system.
How It Works:
Their sizes range from 000 to 4, which translate to:
000 = 0, 0 = 4/6, 1 = 8/10, 2 = 12/14, 3 = 16/18, and 4 = 20/22.
Fit Vibe: Chico’s caters to a more mature shopper, but don’t count them out—some of their flowy pieces and jackets are excellent secondhand finds.
Lane Bryant: The OG of Plus Size Fashion
Lane Bryant has been serving curvy babes for decades, and their sizing tends to be more predictable.
What to Know:
Sizes run 10/12 to 28/30
They also offer Cacique for intimates (and their bras actually hold things up, bless).
They label with both numeric (18, 22, etc.) and letter sizing (1X–4X), so always cross-reference.
Pro Tip: Lane Bryant fits fuller busts well, and their pants often have hidden tummy panels that feel like a gentle supportive hug.
So, What’s a Shopper to Do?
With all these unique sizing systems, here’s how to keep your sanity intact:
🧵 Check the Size Chart Every. Single. Time.
Brands love to keep us on our toes. Always check measurements, especially for hips, bust, and waist.
✂️ Read the Reviews
They’re full of gems like “runs big in the arms” or “great if you’re tall!”—AKA, real talk from real people.
🪄 Try Before You Thrift (If You Can)
Thrifted goods don’t come with return policies. Try the brand new if possible so you know your fit—or keep a tape measure handy when secondhand shopping.
📱 Use Social Media for Real-Life Fit References
Creators often share try-ons, brand comparisons, and sizing advice. A few of our faves include:
@readytostare (TikTok & IG) – body-positive styling across sizes
@shannydoots – fun, colorful looks with honest sizing commentary
@thebirdspapaya – size-neutral fashion inspo that keeps it real
Final Thoughts: Numbers Don't Define You
Sizing across brands is inconsistent because (surprise!) there’s no universal standard. So let’s stop letting labels tell us how to feel. Instead, use sizing as a helpful tool—not a judgment. And if you love it? Wear it. End of story.
P.S. Secondhand shopping is a fantastic way to try out these brands without the full retail price tag. Check out curated mid and plus size pieces at ReduceReuseRewear.com and give that gently-loved fashion a second life!