As a curvy woman, I know it can be quite frustrating shopping at the local department store. I can spend hours rummaging through clothing out of date, out of size and out of style, only to find a single gem some days. Sweatshirts with cartoon characters, seasonal patterns or horizontal stripes are paired with elastic high-waist, straight leg jeans. Rows of multicolored plaid blouses hang next to ankle length, floral skirts. I find myself looking longingly at the juniors' department display of assorted hip-hugging, flared jeans and cute, graphic tees with witty sayings about dating, life and having fun. Growing up, I have often thought, “Isn't there somewhere I can buy fun clothing in my size?”

Fortunately, there are places for women like me who are a little bigger, a little curvier and still want to be stylish. There are several boutiques which cater specifically to curvy women. The clothes are higher end and therefore priced accordingly. Traditionally, these boutiques have catered to business women in their thirties or forties, though lately many stores have begun to advertise clothing lines for the younger generation. These lines offer mid- to low-rise pants and fitted tops. Their colors are bolder and their patterns wilder. Lace, ruffles and sequins add distinction and style. However, there are limited stores throughout the US and the UK, and some curvy women still have to drive one to two hours to shop for quality and style.

For these women, an online option is preferable. There are countless online stores catering solely to curvy women, but how do you distinguish quality and fit? Many stores offer online shopping, with shipping to the customer or the local store. These online options are great in that shipping and refunding are easier and more convenient. Some of these boutiques offer clothing aimed at a younger generation, offering everything from graphic tees to maternity wear, swimwear to lingerie. Their clothing lines are fun, sassy and bold. They offer clothing that flatters, as well as makes a statement. Empire waists and wide belts create an hour glass silhouette, while flared and wide leg pants camouflage wide hips. Ruffles and lace create a feminine look, while vintage tees and rock themed hoodies are edgier.

Online stores also feature plus sized models, not skinny girls in smaller versions of the product sold. These models are voluptuous and curvy. A few online sites still tend to prefer models on the smaller end of plus size, while many are now showing girls who are heavier, but still beautiful. Both kinds of sites use real women with real body types. Consumers can identify with these models and envision themselves wearing the clothing. Online boutiques differ in their size ranges, but typically offer sizes 12-32. You can also find sister stores to many of the boutiques which cater to those women with specific tastes. Some boutiques aimed at the younger generation now offer junior plus sizes in half sizes from 13-27. No matter your style choice, each store is full of style gems. You never have to spend hours in the department store again, digging through Grandma's sweats and florals.

Sugessted Online Stores For Curvy Women:

Lane Bryant - Kiyonna - Evans