Path: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu!bloom-beacon.mit.edu!news-out.cwix.com!newsfeed.cwix.com!news!not-for-mail From: stef@bayarea.net (Stef Jones) Newsgroups: soc.support.fat-acceptance,alt.support.big-folks Subject: Clothing for Big Folks: U.S. (FAQ) Part 2/2 Followup-To: soc.support.fat-acceptance Date: 23 Jan 2000 16:29:05 GMT Organization: The Cat & Dragon Lines: 2423 Distribution: world Expires: February 27, 2000 Message-ID: Reply-To: stef@bayarea.net (Stef Jones) NNTP-Posting-Host: baygate.bayarea.net X-Trace: news.bayarea.net 948644945 5490 204.71.212.2 (23 Jan 2000 16:29:05 GMT) X-Complaints-To: abuse@bayarea.net NNTP-Posting-Date: 23 Jan 2000 16:29:05 GMT Summary: This posting is Part 2 of a list of Frequently Asked Questions (and their answers) about clothing for fat people in the U.S. People interested in this information may find more useful information in soc.support.fat-acceptance[.moderated] and alt.support.big-folks. Originator: root@baygate.bayarea.net (Bay Area Internet Solutions) Xref: senator-bedfellow.mit.edu soc.support.fat-acceptance:90219 alt.support.big-folks:44426 Posted-By: auto-faq 3.3 beta (Perl 5.004) Archive-name: fat-acceptance-faq/clothing/us2 Posting-Frequency: monthly to *.answers, bi-weekly to soc.support.fat-acceptance.moderated, soc.support.fat-acceptance and alt.support.big-folks Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Clothing for Big Folks: U.S., Part 2 This is the second half of the document about clothing for fat people in the U.S. It contains companies whose names begin with L-Z and some related questions. If you don't find what you're looking for here, try one of the related FAQs (see question B1 for a complete list). To look for stores in a particular state, try using your browser's or word-processor's search feature to search on the state name. ============================================================ Updated December 99 FAQ maintainer's note: I lost some email related to the U.S. Clothing Part 2 FAQ between June and August 99. If you sent me information for this FAQ during that time, please resend to: stef@bayarea.net ============================================================ Contents SECTION A: FAQ about clothing for big folks in the U.S., Part 2 A1) Where can I find clothing and shoes? Part 2: Companies beginning with letters L-Z A2) What manufacturers make clothes/shoes/spectacles for large folks? A3) Where can I find a wedding dress? A4) Where can I find sewing/knitting patterns? A5) How do I convert between sizes? A6) How can I find clothing for big kids? SECTION B: Information about this FAQ B1) Are there other related FAQs? B2) Posting information B3) Contributors ============================================================ ============================================================ SECTION A: FAQ about clothing for big folks in the U.S. A1) Where can I find clothing and shoes? Part 2: Companies beginning with the letters L-Z This question contains an alphabetized list of large-size clothing/shoes retailers beginning with the letters L-Z. Each retailer is associated with various keywords: Type of store [catalog] Catalog store [internet] Web store [chain] Retail chain store [single] Retail single store. [state name] follows. [consignment] Sells some clothes on consignment [overseas] Will ship overseas [misc] Other lists of clothing resources Whom they make clothing for [women] [men] [unisex] [children] [maternity] Maternity and/or nursing clothing and/or bras. What sizes they make Note: All of the outlets make midsize clothing (1X-3X, women's sizes 16-28), except as noted in the listings. Not all outlets make clothing in all sizes in that range, however. [supersize] 4X or 5X or bigger, women's size 30 and up [petite] Petite women's sizes [tall] Tall women's sizes [custom] Does custom work Type of clothing [accessories] Jewelry, belts [casual] Slacks, nice shirts, blouses, skirts, dresses [career] Suits [costumes] Halloween and other holiday costumes [evening] Evening dresses, evening suits [lingerie] Lingerie, including bras, underwear, sleepwear [outdoors] Jackets, coats, other cold weather gear [shoes] Shoes and boots in large sizes and/or wide widths [sportswear] T-shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants, shorts [swimwear] Bathing suits (men or women) [uniforms] Nurses' uniforms, etc. [wedding] Wedding and wedding-party dresses L'Atmosphere 20 E 14th Street New York, NY 10011 212 620 0822 Another $10 store with a large section of extra size and plus clothing. Most clothes are $5 and $10. Examples of "finds" are hooded ponchos in 3x for $10, a white eyelet long sleeved blouse size 3x for $6 and both a rayon and a demim A line jumper for $10. This is part of a 15 store chain in NYC. Always pleasant surprizes when you come in. LL Bean [internet][catalog][overseas][men][women][casual][sportswear][outdoors][shoes] Freeport, ME 04033 Phone: (800) 221-4221 Web site: http://www.llbean.com/ Women's sizes to 20. Men's pants to 46 in some styles (inseam sometimes to 36), shirts and jackets to XXL Tall in some styles. Shoes in wider sizes. Great quality. Ships FedEx in continental US for no extra charge. Service varies. Some clothing runs small, especially pants/tops, not so much outerwear, which is cut for layering. Lady Dare -- "For the Distinctive Woman sizes 14-32" [single][North Carolina][women][supersize][casual] MP14, Outer Banks Mall P.O. Box 441 Nags Head, NC Phone: 919-441-7461 This is a fairly small store, but they had some unusual clothes there, such as a batiked summer dress. Good quality, kinda high prices. They don't have a catalog, but they have a mailing list and they will notify you if they get something in that you might be interested in. Lady Grace Intimate Apparel [chain][catalog][women][supersize][custom][lingerie][maternity] 61 Exchange St. PO Box 128 Malden, MA 02148 Phone: (800) 922-0504 Email: ladygrace5@aol.com Web site: http://www.ladygrace.com/ Bras and maternity bras to 52-I, bustiers, panties to 9X, girdles. Stores are located on East Coast of US. Send email with name, mailing address, and daytime telephone number for free catalog. Land's End [catalog][internet][women][men][casual][swimwear][sportswear] 1 Land's End Ln. Dodgeville, WI 53595 Phone: (800) 356-4444 Email: mailbox@landsend.com Web site: http://www.landsend.com As of summer 98, Land's End offers about 1/3 of their clothing styles -- invariably the most basic styles -- in larger sizes (men's to 3X, women's to 26). In spring 99, they began offering a couple of women's bathing suit designs in sizes up to 24. But, strangely, not all of their catalogs mention the large sizes -- if you get a catalog that has no large size bathing suits, call them up and complain! Most of their women's bathing suits still go only to 18 or 20. Some shoes in wide widths. Quality is good, prices inexpensive to moderate. Phone service is good (service reps have all the clothing measurements on screen). Their web site has a staggering array of different kinds of sales with great prices, but it can be difficult to find what you're looking for. Shipping is lightning fast. May 99 Lane Bryant Catalog [catalog][women][men][supersize][casual][career][sportswear][evening] [swimwear][lingerie] PO Box 8301 Indianapolis, IN 46283-8301 Phone orders: (800) 477-7070 Customer service: (800) 477-7030 The catalog is not affiliated with the retail stores. Misses' sizes 14-20, women's sizes 36-60. They have strapless and soft-cup bras. They have swimsuits. They use thin models. Clothing varies in quality (for example, buttons sometimes come off easily) and fashion consciousness. If you read the catalog carefully and avoid certain fabrics (such as rayon, which tends to shrink) you can find a few fashionable good quality things. Clothing sizes are usually accurate. Some have praised their silk blouses and Hunter's Run denim leggings. Good sales. Good about taking things back. They may be offering some large and supersize men's clothing to 9X. "I know it's common to pooh-pooh the Lane Bryant and Roaman's catalogs, but the fact is that they *are* the most affordable clothing source for women up to the smaller end of supersize." Dresses and suits are less commonly offered in larger sizes. Lane Bryant Stores [chain][women][casual][career][evening][lingerie][outdoors] Web site: http://www.lanebryant.com/ Mall store owned by The Limited. Not affiliated with the Lane Bryant catalog. Trendy clothing. Not cheap unless you buy on sale. Sizes to 28 or 32. Some people have problems with the quality and fit, others are happy with their clothing. Selections vary a lot by location -- not every store gets every kind of item -- e.g., one branch told me they were not offering swimsuits but the branch at a nearby mall would be. They are now using (smallish) plus-size models in their advertising. A saleswoman at a Lane Bryant store wrote that she is grateful they offer jobs to plus-size women when most retail stores will not, and she finds the attitude at Lane Bryant fat-positive. May 99 Large Lovely Lady [catalog] [wedding] [supersize] [evening] [career] PO Box 4385 Chatsworth, CA 91312-4385 Phone: (818) 709-0950 Catalog $2 Laughing Sisters [catalog][custom][women][supersize][lingerie][maternity] 4514 Manitou Way San Diego CA 92117 Phone: (619) 272-1976 Email: lafngstr@pacbell.net Free catalog They make and sell unusually high quality 100% cotton nightgowns of their own design, old-fashioned, extremely full, and graciously gathered with set-in sleeves. Sizes to super and custom. Well-constructed and high-quality. They also make flannel or summerweight cotton nightgowns for nursing women, with two openings concealed in deep pleats in gathers at the yoke. "The owner is an amusing woman to speak with. She sells her gowns in two sizes, Small and Medium. Medium is for about 24-36+, which she said she named Medium because that's her size and it's her company. She also will custom-size as necessary." Lebow Brothers Clothing for Men and Boys [single][Massachusetts][catalog][internet][men][children] 178 Linden Street Diehl's Plaza Wellesley, MA 02181 Phone: (617) 431-7194, (800) 814-2229 Web site: http://www.tiac.net/users/lebow/ Leggings Plus [internet][women][unisex][sportswear] 36 Pequot Ringwood, NJ 07456 Phone: 201-962-4678 Web site: http://www.nji.com/~leggings/ Email: leggings@nji.com Quite inexpensive leggings, bike shorts, T-shirts to 3X-4X Lightstone's [single][California][men][supersize] 1696 Valencia San Francisco, CA Phone: (415) 282-1243 Men's work clothing to 6X or so. Pricey, but very good quality. Lillian Lavergne Designs [catalog][women][supersize][lingerie] 7401 Lunar Dr. Austin, TX 78745 Phone: (800) 416-0063 Slips and camisoles in sizes XS to 10X. Prices around $40. Linda's Classic Woman [single][Michigan][women] 139 E. Chicago Blvd. Tecumseh, MI Phone: (517)423-7155 Classic women's clothing Lingerie at Large [single][California][catalog][internet][women][lingerie][sportswear][swimwear] 161 Carousel Mall San Bernadino Ca 92401 Phone: 909-885-5611 Fax: 909-624-2288 Email: michelle@lingerieatlarge.com Web site: http://lingerieatlarge.com/ Catalog $5 (comes with $5 coupon) Sizes to 4X (a few items to 5X). Also sells Danskin Plus. The web site uses large models. Bras to 52DDD. Longline bras and bridal corselettes. Half-slips, camisoles, bra liners, teddy and bra extenders, and strapless bras, teddies, baby dolls, garterbelts, gowns, open bust and glow in the dark teddies. Long Elegant Legs [catalog][women][tall] PO Box 1290 Somerville, NJ 08876 Phone orders: (800) 344-2225 Customer service: (800) 344-2235 Fax: (908) 359-0691 Clothes for tall women, up to size 22. Lord & Taylor [chain][women] Department store. Web site: http://www.maycompany.com/Stores/lt_contact.html (lists phone numbers of stores) Good plus-size department. Love Your Peaches Clothing Company [catalog][Internet][supersize][women][evening][swimwear] Phone: 888-274-7499 Email: janelle@loveyourpeaches .com Web site: http://www.loveyourpeaches .com Luxurious fabrics. Sizes to 6X. Small, appealing online and print catalog. Pricy. "I've fallen in love with a silk and velvet lace jacket which I probably won't be able to resist much longer." Jackets reported generously cut. One piece and two piece mix-n-match swimwear. Loving Woman Lingerie and More [single][California][catalog][supersize][lingerie] 425 Broadway Millbrae, CA 94030 Phone: (415) 652-7980 MTF Geriatrics [catalog][women][casual] PO Box 320 Ellis, KS 67637 Phone: (913) 726-4807 Dresses, slips/camisoles, skirts, blouses -- clothing for folks with disabilities. Macy's [chain][women][evening][career][lingerie] Web site: http://www.macys.com Department store. Plus-size clothes in Macy's Woman section. Pricey, evening/career focus. Recommended that you get a "Personal Shopper," who can help if you have problems. Sizes up to 24. Jockey For Her underwear to size 12 or 13. Madame X Lingerie [catalog][women][lingerie] 3023 N. Clark St., Suite 271R Chicago, IL 60657 Catalog $5 Lingerie to 4X (24). Magical Creations Boutique [single][Oregon][supersize][casual][evening] 4232 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland, OR Phone: (503) 288-5450 Plus and supersize designer samples, wearable art, ethnic. Making It Big [single][California][internet][catalog][women][supersize][petite][tall][casual] [career][evening][sportswear][lingerie][swimwear] 501 Aaron St Cotati, CA 94931-3062 Phone: 707-795-1995 Fax: 707-795-4874 Email: mib@bigwomen.com Web site: http://www.bigwomen.com Cottons and rayons, dyed to order, high quality. Moderate prices, especially for a small company that makes its own garments in the U.S. Good source of basics. Some petites, talls. They use large and supersize models. Pretty colors. A few overdyed prints. Variety of pants styles in all sizes and heights. Chlorine resistant swim suits. "Their leggings are the most comfortable garments I've ever worn, in a very soft cotton-lycra mix which does not seem to be available anywhere else. They are receptive to customer comments." Their bike shorts, which are unusually light, work well as chafe guards under skirts. Reported Canadian-friendly. Some people are annoyed because they frequently discontinue styles and colors. Dec 99 Marianne Plus [chain][women][casual] Mall store. Funky clothes at reasonable prices. Cool urban fashion. Marian's Full Figure Designs [catalog][women][casual][sportswear] 385 W. Marigold Altadena, CA 91001 Phone: (213) 681-5845 Catalog $2 (refunded with first order) Tops, shirts, stirrup pants. Marilyn's [catalog][women][lingerie] PO Box 1117 Santa Maria, CA 93456 Phone: (800) 462-4447 Lingerie in sizes 1X-4X. A little pricey. Marshall's [chain][women][men] Discount store. Hit or miss, but sometimes they have good stuff. Marshall Field's [chain] Department store. Sizes to 24-28. Not bad in price if you hit a sale. Quality and selection varies by location. Massey's [catalog][women][shoes] 601 Twelfth St. PO Box 10088 Lynchburg, VA 24506-0088 Phone: (800) 4-MASSEY Women's shoes up to size 14 in a variety of widths. MaxMara [single][California][women] San Francisco, CA Limited selection of larger clothes (sizes 12-22). If their style matches yours, you'll be in heaven. McB's Shoes [catalog][shoes] 715 Market St. San Francisco, CA 94103 Phone: (415) 546-9444, (415) 957-9988 Sizes 6-13, AAAAA-EE. MegWear [catalog][internet][women][custom][supersize][casual][evening][lingerie] 341 Main Street, Suite 13 West Haven, CT 06516 Phone: 203-937-8118, 888-909-2384 Email: megwear@megwear.com Web site: http://www.megwear.com/ "Wild," "daring," "retro" clothing such as leopard print halters and "shrugs," bloomers. As for sizing, most items say "One size fits most, but extreme sizes can be made to order!" Unclear, however, what they consider "extreme." Mid-sized models. No online ordering. Modern Woman [chain][women][supersize][casual][career][evening][lingerie] Phone: (717) 396-9000 (corporate headquarters) Clothing store similar to Lane Bryant; mostly casual and career, some dressy stuff. Their lingerie selection is much better than LB's. Somewhat pricey, but great sales, excellent service. Call corporate headquarters for location near you. Sizes 14-26 mostly, some stuff to size 32. More To Hug [catalog][single][California][internet][women][lingerie][evening] [casual][career] Phone: (800) 850-8525 Web site: http://www.vcnet.com/moretohug/ Stores in Thousand Oaks and Camarillo, CA. More To Love, Too [single][Kentucky][women][supersize][casual][career][evening] Breckenridge Lane South in the Hikes Point area Louisville, KY Sizes from 14 to 36 and can special order anything from a size 3 up to 8x Muldoon's Men's Shop [catalog][internet][single][Wisconsin][men][women][supersize][casual] [career][sportswear][outerwear][lingerie] 1506 South Hastings Way Eau Claire WI 54701, USA Phone: 1-800-942-0783 and (715) 832-3502 Fax: (715) 832-6798 Email: jmuldoon@muldoons.com Web site: http://www.muldoons.com/ Large range of sizes. Reasonable prices. US shipping is free for orders over $100. They also ship to Canada. Lot of variety and colors. They are very nice on the phone. They hem slacks no extra charge. Short, regular, and long-rise trousers, waist sizes from 28 to 80 inches, shirt sizes from 14 1/2 to 24 1/2 inch neck, sleeve lengths from 32 to 40 inches, outerwear from small to 8X big (74-76 inch chest) and talls to 5X. Suits and sport coats from size 34 Extra Short to 60 Long (Extra Longs up to size 54) are in stock; can order up to size 72 Portly Long and 60 Extra Long in suits and sport coats. Sweatshirt and sweatpants up to size 10X Big and 6X Tall. Myles Ahead [catalog][single][Florida][women][supersize][tall] 6652 NW 57 St. Tamarac, FL 33321 Phone: 888-MylesAhead, (305) 724-0500 Fax: (305) 724-7177 Web site: http://www.mylesahead.com When the web site URL changed, I got several notes about it -- this company clearly has a lot of fans! NAAFA Feminist SIG [catalog][unisex] Lynn Meletiche 2065 First Ave. #19-D Dept. RM New York, NY 10029 Phone: (212) 721-8259 Large-size hospital gowns (allow 4-6 weeks for delivery). Nakazawa's [single][New York][women][casual][evening] 132 Thompson St NY, NY 10012 Phone: 212-505-7768 Nancy Lawrence [single][Minnesota][women] Edina, Minnesota Phone: (612) 925-9305 Pricey boutique, sizes 14-26. Nancy's Choice [catalog][shoes] Indianapolis, IN 46201 Misses' sizes 10-20, women's sizes 36-46, also shoes. National Wholesale Co. [catalog][women][lingerie][casual] 400 National Blvd. Lexington, NC 27294 Phone: 910-249-0211 (orders only), 910-249-4202 Fax: 910-249-9326 Pantyhose by the dozen at reasonable prices. Several queen-size styles. Non-run pantyhose in large (up to 200 lbs). Naturally Yours [catalog][women][sportswear] PO Box 86481 Portland, OR 97286 3405 SE 63rd St. Portland, OR 97206 Phone: (503) 777-1027 Leggings in sizes 1X-4X. Neel Gagan [internet][custom][women][casual][evening] Phone: (888) 464 4685, (603) 437 4715 Email: info@gagan.com Web site: http://www.gagan.com Custom-made options for women to design and create their own wardrobe. Offer a number of silk fabrics and colors and embroideries. Traditionally Indian clothes tend to be loose fitting and comfortable without looking big and unattractive. Visit the Design it Yourself section of the site. New Attitude [single][Hawaii][supersize] 1289 Kilauea Ave. Hilo, HI Phone: (808) 935-6055 Clothing "with an island attitude." Sizes 14-34. They ship. New Look [catalog][women][tall] Phone: (800) 998-1985 Tall and BBW. Newport News [catalog][women][casual] Avon Lane Hampton, VA 23630-1244 Phone: (800) 688-2830, (804) 827-9000 (customer service) Formerly Avon Fashions. Casual clothes. Some of their stuff goes up to size 16, 18, 20, 2X. Nicole Summers [catalog] [career] [casual] [evening] PO Box 3003 Winterbrook Way Meridith, NH 03253-3003 Phone: 800-642-6786 Sizes to 26 Nordstrom [catalog][chain][women][career][casual][shoes] Catalog info: PO Box 91018 Seattle WA 98111-9118 Phone: (800) 285-5800, (206) 215-7100 (outside US and Canada) Fax: (800) 285-7288, (208) 215-7288 (outside US and Canada) TDD: (800) 285-7344 Email: npta@nordstrom-pta.com Web site: http://www.nordstrom-pta.com Department store is upscale, service oriented. Plus-size clothes in Encore department. This is a *great* place to find large shoes, especially for women. They will move heaven and earth to find a fit! They have a new plus-size catalog that uses large models. Not A Small World [single][California][consignment][career][casual][sportswear] [evening][lingerie][accessories][swimwear] Monica Francisco 1527 Cypress Street Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Phone: (925) 933-7592 Fax: (925) 933-7592 Email: monica@notasmallworld.com Plus size only consignment shop, sizes 14-4X. Designer labels. Layaways and 24-hour approvals. Consignment split 50/50. Nothing in Moderation [single][Illinois][women] 801 Lake St. Oak Park, IL Phone: (708) 386-9750 Fax: (708) 386-9767 Wearable art, natural fabric, nice women, lots of styles. Ocean Ray Wetsuits [internet][custom][supersize][swimwear] Phone: 800-645-5554 Web site: http://www.oceanray.com/ Wet suits, custom sizing. Web site has very complete price list, including custom suits for people 350 pounds or more. Oddessy Martial Arts and Medieval Supply Center [single][Missouri][internet][unisex][supersize][sportswear] Phone: 1-800-ODDESSY (1-800-633-3779) Email: info@oddessy.com Web site: http://www.oddessy.com Large martial arts uniforms, including Karate gis up to size 12 (equivalent to men's 5X). Also Japanese swords and knives, medieval swords, Karate, Kung Fu, and Tae Kwon Do training equipment, aids and safety gear, and numerous other martial arts and medieval related products and literature. Web site uses some large models. The supersize uniforms are quite expensive. Oh! Susanna [catalog][women][supersize][sportswear] 206 Culver St Chatta, TN 37415 Phone: (615) 874-0792 Shorts, sweats, T-shirts in 5X to 8X. Old Pueblo Traders [catalog] [casual] [petite] [women] [lingerie] [shoes] Palo Verde at 34th St PO Box 27800 Tucson, AZ 85726-7800 Phone: (520) 747-5000 Catalog $2 Orchard Corset Discount Center [internet][single][New York][overseas][women][lingerie][costume] Orchard Corset Center 157 Orchard Street New York, NY 10002 Phone: 877-2OR-CHARD; (212) 674-0786 Email: orchard@bway.net Web site: http://www.bway.net/orchard_bras/ Many kinds and brands of lingerie, sizes to 54-I. Also theatrical, costume and period items. "They've been in business about 70 years and pride themselves on being able to fit just about anyone." But: "I was VERY unhappy with Orchard Corset Center. I ordered panties from them over the phone. I said a size 17. When they arrived they were a size 13. I returned them immediately, but they refused to credit my account." Original Jo's [catalog][women][supersize][sportswear] 8766 Wicklow Lane Dublin, CA 94568-1149 Phone: (800) 352-9156 T-shirts decorated with sayings or pictures, sizes 1X-8X. PS Plus Sizes Plus Savings [chain][women][supersize][casual][career][lingerie] Mall store. Business and casual wear. Very reasonable prices. Sizes up to 30/32 routinely, and sometimes up to 34/36 and 5X. Sizes run large, including the pantyhose and tights. "Decent quality." Pango Pango Swimwear [catalog][women][custom][swimwear] 1905 E. Atlantic Boulevard Pompano Beach, FL 33060-6562 Phone: (305) 786-0255 Really skimpy, really sleazy swimsuits, mostly bikinis. Bottoms up to XXL (45"-47" hips). Tops have cup sizes AA to F, and they make the band to your measurements. They do special requests. Paradise on a Hanger [catalog][unisex][supersize][casual] Phone: 800-921-3050 in the USA, 970-921-3050 elsewhere Email: hotshirts@hotshirts.com Web site: http://www.hotshirts.com Mail-order Hawaiian shirt company. Many shirts to 7X. Parsinen Design [catalog][women] 1011 Boren Ave., Suite 178 Seattle, WA 98104 Phone: (206) 682-9814, (800) 422-5808 Fax: (206) 329-0944 Paula Sanders Plus Size and Super Size Custom Clothing [internet][single][women][supersize][custom][casual][career][evening] [wedding][accessories] Web site: http://www.paulasanders.com Custom clothing: Send email describing what you have in mind. "I have spoken to Paula several times and she appears to be very customer service oriented and eager to please her clients." Site also offers ready-made accessories and hats, a gallery of art images featuring large women, and *The Big Girls Blue Book*, a resource guide for plus and supersize women. Peacock Clothes [single][California][women][supersize] 311 Town & Country Village Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Phone: (408) 730-0941 Carries XL-XXXL (28 can fit up to 500lbs or more). Reasonable prices. Some people think quality is good, a few disagree. One comment: "Deborah always produces high quality merchandise, and the price reflects the quality. Deborah makes anything you want. She provides polite advice, but if you insist you need a green and yellow sequined rain slicker with pink poodles and purple dinosaurs, that's what you'll get." Peggy Lutz Plus [catalog][internet][single][California][custom][petite][tall] [supersize][women][casual][career][evening][lingerie] 7650 Bell Road Windsor, CA 95492 Phone: (707) 837-1897 Fax: (707) 837-1899 Email: peg@peglutz.com Web page: http://www.plus-size.com Catalog w/ fabric swatches $5 (refundable upon order). Elegant designs and high-quality interesting fabrics. Good selection of sizes. Not cheap. Catalog and web site use plus size models and older models. "She will literally sew anything for you that you want in any fabric that she has. Peggy's designs get more beautiful and refined every year, and she has an intuitive sense of what looks good on plus-size bodies...She is very pleasant and will spend all the time you need...offering suggestions and taking notes about any modifications you want." Lutz was a featured designer in the Winter 1997 (Rosie O'Donnell issue) of Radiance. "Excellent service. I ordered a dress from her for a wedding, and when it came it was the wrong size. She made it over for me in time for the wedding." Penney Lynn Designs [internet][unisex][children][sportswear] Keri Byrne Web site: http://www.pennylynn.com Hand decorated Vneck and crewneck tshirts and crewneck sweatshirts in childrens to plus sizes (to 3X). May 99 Phoenix Pryor, Oklahoma. Phone: 918.825.6152. Wholesale supplier of large-size t-shirts. Marilyn Wann: "I like them the best of all the t-shirt companies I've used for FAT!SO?. They recently instituted a $200 minimum for orders." Phoenix Big and Tall Has merged with Repp Big & Tall (listed below). Plus Active Wear Co. [catalog][women][supersize][sportswear] P.O. Box 337 3216 Kirkwood Hwy Wilmington, DE 19808 Phone: 877 994 5353 Fax: 877 633 9439 Email: plusactive@earthlink.net T-shirts to 9X, leggings to 8X, denim shirts, walking shorts up to 3X, palm weights, exercise videos, casual clothing, AquaJogger swimwear. Prices are lower than Junonia's. Email to request free catalog. Oct 99 Plus Size Outlet 104 Greensprings Highway Birmingham, AL 35209 Phone: (205) 916-0144 or (205) 916-0078 http://www.plussizeoutlet.com/ Free shipping with your first order in the continental U.S. Sizes 1X-10X. Ship anywhere. Mostly they carry casual wear up to a size 10x; they have a great t-dress. Some career wear, beaded clothing up to 4x, "foundations," and coats, sometimes as closeouts from Lane Bryant and other stores. Good prices and quality. Family-owned business. Plus Woman [catalog][custom][women][supersize][tall][petite][casual][career] [sportswear][uniforms] 60 Laurel Haven Fairview, NC 28730 Phone: 800-628-5525, 704-628-3562 Email: pluswoman2@aol.com Web site: http://www.pluswoman.com Each season they put out a catalog with a selection of fabrics and a selection of separates. You can get most separates in any fabric and you can specify inseam, length; sleeve length; neckline type, and so on. For my taste, the separates fabrics tend too much toward polyester and rayon and busy prints, but they are getting better each season. They also carry casual clothing and sportswear from other manufacturers. Sizes 1X-9X. They do custom work with a one-time $10 pattern fee. Good quality. Good customer service and prompt delivery. They now carry scrubs. Oct 99 Poley's Big & Tall [internet][catalog][men][supersize][casual][outdoors] Email: poleyk@rcinet.com Web site: http://www.poley's.com Men's clothes up to 4XT and 8X. Prairie Rose Lingerie [catalog][women][lingerie] New addresses: Vendredi Enterprises 1030 E. El Camino Real #314 Sunnyvale, CA 94087 PO Box 70817 Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Phone: 408-739-4192 Fax: 408-739-4192 Catalog $10 (refunded with $50 order) Lingerie in sizes 40-46, variety of colors, fabrics, and styles. Large-size models. Pretty Plus Plus [single][New York][women][consignment] Madison Ave, around 90th St. Manhattan, NY Phone: (212) 427-4724 Consignment store with good large-size clothing. Pretty Woman Plus [single][Illinois][women] Peoria, IL Good quality, somewhat expensive. Primadonna [single][North Carolina][women][casual] Durham, NC Ethnic clothes up to size 24 or so. PrimaDonna [single][California][women][accessories][casual][career] [evening][lingerie][outdoors][shoes] 2020 South Bascom Avenue, #C Campbell, CA 95008 Phone: (408) 377-3370 Fax: (408) 377-7090 Email: florab@msn.com Consignment store. Carry assortment of large-size catalogues. Will look for a particular item for a customer and call them if it comes in. Consignor is paid 50% of the sale price for new items (with their original tags) and 40% on "gently used" items. 2 sales per year. QVC [catalog][women][accessories] QVC (one of the home shopping television channels) offers high-quality clothing at (usually) good prices. The Forgotten Woman (see retail for women) hosts shows on QVC, as does August Max Woman. Other names sold include Le Chute, DVFurstenberg, etc. About 90% of the clothing lines they sell include plus sizes (to 3X/26-28). They deliver within 5 working days and have a "no questions asked" 30-day money-back return. They also have large-size models working right alongside thin models. On the jewelry end of things, they usually offer rings up to size 10, and they occasionally have the longer bracelets. Queen of Hearts [catalog][women] 19 Merrick Ave. Merrick, NY 11566 Phone: (516) 377-1357 Catalogue $5 Sizes 14-22/24 Rainy County Knit Wear [catalog][custom][women][unisex][casual] PO Box 7852 Everett, WA 98201-0852 Phone: (206) 653-7189 Custom-made sweaters. RealSize.com [catalog][internet][women][petite][tall][casual][career][evening][swimwear] [accessories] Phone: 877 900 7325 (toll free) Web site: http://www.realsize.com Mid-size clothing from several designers including Delta Burke. Some items to size 28/3X. Prices very reasonable. Also watches, exercise videos. Nov 99 Regalia [catalog][women][lingerie] 3740 East 34th St. Tuscon, AZ 85713-5305 Phone orders: (800) 362-8420 Customer service: (602) 748-8600 Catalog $1 Bras up to sizes F & G. Connected with Intimate Appeal. Rennar Boutique [single][New Jersey][women][supersize][custom][casual][career][evening] [wedding] 800 Broadway Bayonne, NJ 07002 Phone: (201) 823-3043 Up to 8/10X. They will work with you by photos/swatches, and over the phone. "Ask for Keith or Dianne." Wide range of clothing - from casual chic, day-to-evening, formalwear. One person said they were pricey, another said prices were reasonable considering they make to order and do adjustments. Good quality clothing. They're praised for their dedication to their customers. Nov 99 Repp Ltd. Big & Tall [catalog][internet][men][tall][supersize][career][casual][shoes][sportswear][swimwear] 1492 Bluegrass Lakes Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30201 Phone: 800-690-REPP Fax: 800-225-6072 Web site: http://www.reppbynet.com/ Brand name men's careerwear and sportswear. Most items to size 4XT and 6X; some items to 8X. Some shoes to size 16 EEEE. Most items on the expensive side. Secure online ordering. Dec 99 Ripley Custom Shirtmaker [catalog][single][Louisiana][internet][men][custom][casual][evening] 222 City Park Avenue New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone: (504) 488-2288 Fax: (214) 941-3340 Web site: http://www.ripleyshirts.com Manufacturer of upscale men's custom shirts (dress and western style). You send them $5 and they send you a "Shirting Packet." It contains measuring instructions, a tape measure, 100+ fabric samples and a brochure illustrating different pocket designs, cuffs, collars, etc. The $5 can be credited to your first order. Roaman's [catalog][women][outdoors][swimwear][casual][career][sportswear][lingerie] [uniforms] PO Box 8360 Indianapolis, IN 46283-8360 Phone: (800) 274-7130 (24 hour ordering) Sister company of Lane Bryant catalog. Also seems affiliated with the Sears catalog. Women's sizes 38-60. Most items are relatively inexpensive. Some unattractive pieces. Some random sexy pieces. Cute casuals. Nice coats. Swimsuits. Scrubs. Rochester's Big & Tall Clothing [chain][men][career] There's a store in San Francisco, 1-415-982-6455. They sell, among other things, suits. Rocky Mountain Clothing [catalog][women][casual] Phone: (800) 688-4449 Call to find a location in your area where they sell this company's jeans and blouses. Currently sizes up to 26, soon up to 30. Roselyn [single][California][catalog][women][supersize][career][evening][lingerie] [sportswear][casual] 347 14th St. Oakland, CA 94612 Phone: (510) 444-7472 Fax (510) 444-4754 Dresses, suits, lingerie, girdles and bustiers, gowns, hosiery, Danskin. Plus and supersizes. Ross [chain][women] Discount store (Midwest and West Coast) with selection of large sizes, 14-28. Selection can be spotty. Ross Unlimited [single][Georgia][women][custom][supersize][lingerie][casual] 366 Flat Shoals Ave., SE Atlanta, GA 30316 Phone: (404) 522-4083 If they don't have your size, they will custom-make clothing for you (such as jeans) if you purchase at least six of the item. Supersize underwear. Royal Resources Vendredi Enterprises New address: 1030 E. El Camino Real #314 Sunnyvale, CA 94087 POBox 70817 Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Phone: 408-739-4192 Fax: 408-739-4192 Information and source directory for large folks. Information on clothing, shoes, and much more. This is not a catalog, but a book -- cost is $29.95. Royal Woman [catalog][women][casual] 14 East 38th St. 14th floor New York NY 10016 Catalog $2. Women's sizes 14-46 in natural silks and cotton. Capes, dresses, blouses, sweaters, sleepwear. Ruthie's Big Galz Boutique [single][California][women] 1307 First St. Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 255-7737, (800) 655-7738 Fax: (707) 255-8789 Saks Fifth Avenue "Salon Z" [chain][women][lingerie] Beautiful silk and cotton nightwear. "Pricey, definitely, but they carry *quality* - Tomatsu, Jones, etc. And they have good sales." Sara's Shoes [catalog][custom][unisex][shoes] 5638 County Rd., #102 Guffey, CO 80820 Shoes, boots, and sandals made to your foot, ankle, and calf measurements. Very casual styles, Birkenstock-type foot shape. High-quality materials and work, very comfortable and durable. Prices run about $125-$250. May take several months to receive the finished shoes. Sav-On Surplus [single][California][men][supersize][outdoors][casual] Hawthorne St. Lawndale, CA Men's camping, outdoors, and regular clothes up to size 8X. Reasonable prices. Says Who? [single][California][catalog][supersize][women][casual][career][evening] [sportswear] Two locations: 3903 Piedmont Ave. Oakland, CA 94611 Phone: (510) 547-5181 and 539 Bryant St. Palo Alto, CA 94301 Phone: (415) 324-3511 Catalog $1. Very nice clothes. Somewhat expensive. Mostly simple and casual. Some swimsuits. They are adding size 0 and size 5X to their lineup. Scarlet Crane [catalog][women] PO Box 1931-R Sausalito, CA 94966 Natural fiber clothing. Seams to Fit [single][California][women][consignment] 6527 Telegraph Ave. Oakland, CA 94609 Phone: (510) 428-9463 Big dressing rooms. Responsible and honest. Great clothes, both consignment and new. Affiliated with Says Who? (see above). Sears [catalog][chain][men][women][supersize][shoes] Phone: 800-948-8800 (catalog ordering) Web site: http://www.sears.com/ Clothing very similar to that in Roamans catalog. Several free specialty catalogs. Regular catalog sizes to women's 24, plus catalog sizes to women's 56 or men's 8X. Big and wide shoes. Apparel in stores goes to women's size 24. Mails within US only (but there is also a Sears Canada -- phone 800-267-3277 in Canada for more information). Semi Q Fashions [women][evening] Phone: (213) 623-9713 Sensual Adventures [single][women][supersize][lingerie] 8967 Taft Street Pembroke Pines, Fl 33024 Phone: 954-704-4114 Fax 954-704-4113 Thigh-high stockings, cat suits in many colors to 4x, pantyhose to 5-6x, one-piece garter belt and stockings. Owner Alma will respond to customer requests. Serendipity [single][Indiana][women] Indianapolis, IN Sheer Mahogany [catalog][women][lingerie] 3870 Crenshaw Blvd, #781 Los Angeles, CA 90008 Catalog $6. Lingerie up to 5X. Silhouettes [catalog][internet][women][petite][supersize][evening][casual][lingerie] [accessories][shoes] 340 Poplar St. Hanover, PA 17333-0069 and 5 Avery Row Roanoke, VA 24012-8567 Phone: (800) 852-2822 Web site: http://www.silhouettes.com Most items to 26, some items to 34 (their sizing runs roomy). Some petites. Moderate prices (a little more than Lane Bryant/Roaman's, less than small catalog companies such as Making It Big). Good variety of stylish, young clothes. They use thin models (one person noted that Lands End models are larger). One comment that items are frequently on backorder. Several complaints about poor quality fabrics and clothing arriving with tears, stains, etc. Others have had good experiences and are pleased with the clothing quality. Their customer service and return policy is reported good. Web ordering. Dec 99 Silver Lining [single][Georgia][women][supersize][lingerie][wedding][sportswear] Buckhead Court, 3872 Roswell Road Atlanta, Georgia 30342 Phone: (404) 237-9911, (888) 237-9911 Fax: (404) 237-8385 Web site: http://www.silverliningplus.com/ "They carry very nice things, and they're extremely helpful. They carry "foundation wear" and a great selection of bras in a wide range of sizes, as well as sexy lingerie (I understand they're pretty popular with Atlanta's TV population for that) and some exercise/cruisewear. They've recently added wedding gowns, as well. They've special-ordered items for me in the past--in fact, they went to some trouble to track down the precise color stockings I needed in the right size. The hosiery on their web page goes up to 7X. Most of the lingerie I've found in their store goes up to a 4X. Both owners are BBWs." Sizes Unlimited See The Avenue in part 1. Sizes Woman See The Avenue in part 1. The Smart Saver [catalog][women][lingerie] PO Box 105 Wasco, IL 60183-0105 Bras up to size 48DD. Reasonably priced. Smart Size See The Avenue in part 1. Softspots [catalog][women][shoes][lingerie] Phone: 800-735-4994 Comfortable well made shoes in a wide range of sizes. Expensive but long lasting. They also have a few clothing articles that are plus sized and things like back supports and support hose. SoHo Woman on the Park [single][New York][women] 32 West 40th Street New York, NY 10018 Located in Manhattan. Carries sizes from 14 to 26. The clothes are reported to be "beautiful and unusual," "one-of-a-kind... non-restricting and in luscious fabrics that are especially designed and lot-dyed by the owner, Penny Healey." Spiegel [catalog][women][men][career][evening][casual][coats][lingerie] PO 182555 Columbus, OH 43218-2555 Automated order line: 800-448-7070 (must be current customer) New customer satisfaction: 800-474-5555 Order questions: 800-706-7600 Catalog requests: 800-345-4500 Web site: http://www.spiegel.com They offer a line of midsize clothing for women called "For You." Their retail "For You" stores no longer exist. Some men's items to 2X. They use thin models. Spencer's Gifts [chain][unisex][costumes] Mall store. Halloween costumes in plus sizes. Stage Clothes USA [internet][women][lingerie] Web site: http://www.stageclothes.com/ Lingerie and sex toys for regular and plus-size women to 4X. Torso extenders (they snap onto the crotch area of a teddy and add 4"-6" length), choker extenders, and chain bra extenders. They use large models in the large-size section of their web site. Stan's King Size Men's Shop [single][California][men][supersize] 7428 University Ave. La Mesa, CA 91941 Phone: (619) 469-0336 Some very large sizes. Stormy Leather [single][California][men][women][lingerie] 1158 Howard Street San Francisco, CA 94103 Phone: (415) 626-1672 Web site: http://www.stormyleather.com/ Manufactures, wholesales, and retails fetish attire and sex toys. Leather, lingerie, and fetish wear in sizes to 6X (sizes run small -- 6x corresponds to 52-inch bust, 44-inch waist, and 54-inch hips). Dildo harnesses to 60-inch hip. Pricey and well made. A variety of other stores stock their merchandise; see their web site for more information. Stout Men's Shop [single][Massachusetts][catalog][overseas][men][supersize][casual] [career][swimwear] 59 Temple Pl. Boston, MA Phone: (617) 542-5397 Slacks on the rack up to 92". Swimsuits. Great selection. Worldwide mail order. Suits that go up to size 70 (and higher per order). Stuarts Plus [chain][women] Mall store. Owned by the people who own Stuarts. Trendier and cheaper than Lane Bryant. Styleplus Catalogue [catalog][women][lingerie] 1201 North Dearborn Parkway Suite 134 Chicago, IL 60610 Phone: (800) 34-STILE Beautiful lingerie, photographed on large models. Sue Brett [catalog][women][sportswear][casual][lingerie][shoes] Dept. A Indianapolis, IN 46207 Sportswear, dresses, lingerie, shoes, in misses' 10-24, women's 34-52, and half sizes. Suits Me Swimwear [catalog][women][swimwear] 2377 Deltona Blvd. Spring Hill, FL 34606 Phone: (904) 666-1485 Bathing suits designed to fit all sizes of folks. Easy to put on and take off -- They are tie-on wraparound swimsuits that can be fastened either as a one-piece suit or as a bikini. Four sizes: up to 60 lbs, 60-120 lbs, 120-250 lbs, and 250+ lbs. Sula and the Snapdragon [single][Massachusetts][women] 393 Commercial Street Provincetown, MA 02657 Phone: (508) 487-7200 Nice clothes up to 3X. Suzanne Henri, Inc. [catalog][women][lingerie] PO Box 2399 Appomattox, VA 24522 Phone: (800) 634-2590 No-underwire bras in a wide range of sizes up to 60MM. They use their own sizing system. The bras are very comfortable to wear, and never ride up or cut into the shoulders. Syd & Sam [internet][women][supersize][petite][tall][casual][career][evening] [lingerie][sportswear] Web site: http://www.sydandsam.com/ Outlet store. Variety of sizes and manufacturers, including Onyx Night, We Be Bop. Some areas under construction. Nov 99 Sweet Cheeks [catalog][women][supersize] PO Box 7767 Redlands, CA 92375 Phone: (909) 792-7014 Fax: (909) 792-5060 Original fun fashions, sizes 1X-6X. Sweet Dreams Intimates [single][New York][women][supersize][lingerie][swimwear] 81 Route 111 Smithtown NY 11787 Phone: (516) 462-9097 Bras 34B to 60H. Swimwear to 26. Lingerie sizes 1X-6X. Sweeter Measures [catalog][women][custom][supersize][casual][uniforms][career] [sportswear][lingerie] PO Box 340 819 Front St Gibbon, NE 68840 Phone: (308) 468-5156 Catalog $2. Sizes up to 60 or 70 and custom. Some people find the quality good, some not so. May be a little pricey. They carry nurses' uniforms. They will custom-make clothing (for instance, a skirt to match a blouse or jacket they offer) -- their custom measurement guides are very complete. They offer an unconditional guarantee (but custom fitted items are not returnable) and will send fabric swatches. Owner: Nancy Kollars Sylvia's Swimwear [single][Washington][women][supersize][swimwear] Stores in Bellevue and Seattle. Tafford Uniforms [single][Pennsylvania][catalog][uniforms] Tafford Showroom 104 Park Drive Montgomeryville, PA Phone: 215-643-9666 ext. 241 -- The Scrub Shop 134 South 11th Street Philadelphia, PA Phone: 215-351-6222 Free catalog: 1-800-283-0065. Their sizes run to 6x (the 4x size is very generous), also sizes 4 to 32. They are primarily a catalog company but have two stores in which you receive 20% off the catalog price as well as a very cheap discontinued area of the store and various sales. The salespeople are very nice to deal with. Target [chain][men][casual][swimwear] Discount chain. Swimsuits up to about 24. Inexpensive. Reasonable selection of big and tall men's clothing (up to about XXXL and XXXLT). The Big Page Web site: http://www.thebigpage.com/ "Big and tall men's one stop Internet shop." Links to a number of online retailers of big and/or tall men's clothing, shoes, and accessories. Today's Proud Women Mail returned 4/97 Today's Woman [chain][women][casual][evening][lingerie][sportswear][swimwear] Chain of stores in Florida (mostly). They carry Exquisite Form bras, midsize clothing, and some accessories. Somewhat pricey, but the discount rack has bargains. Clothing ranges from sportswear to semi-formal. Swimsuits and a limited selection of lingerie. They use larger size models in their store advertisements. Triumph Hosiery Corporation [internet][overseas][women][supersize][lingerie] 2700 N. 29th Ave., Suite 105 Hollywood, Florida 33020 Phone: (954) 929-6021 Fax: (954) 963-3344 E-Mail: hosiery@bellsouth.net Web site: http://www.triumph-hosiery.com/ Largesse Hosiery for women size 160-450 lbs. Two Sisters - Fashions for the Generous Figure [internet][women][petite][supersize][outdoors][casual][career] [evening][lingerie] Texas Phone: (800) 343-9559 Fax: (800) 343-9559 or (915) 580-7909 Email: twosisters@marshill.com Web site: http://www.marshill.com/twosisters/ Internet-only catalog. Clothing tends to be in polyester or poly blends and prints. Some clothing comes in petite sizes. Prices range from inexpensive to moderate. They use large-size models and give the model's height and the size she is wearing. Ulla Popken [internet][catalog][women][petite][career][casual] Towson Town Center, 4th floor 825 Dulaney Valley Road Towson, MD 21204 10610 Beaver Dam Hunt Valley, MD 21030 Phone: (410) 494-8108, (800) 245-8552 Fax: 410-329-1320 Web site: http://www.ullapopken.com/ Sophisticated designs including career clothes and classics. They make all their clothing themselves. They like viscose, rayon, and slinky fibers, but also offer some cottons and cotton blends. Sizes to 30/32. They give an indication of the fit for each garment: relaxed fit, slim fit, etc. Prices have come down some, too. "Quite impressed with their fit and very beautiful fabrics." "Many of their clothes have beautiful detailing that you can't see in the catalog pictures." One person complained that a swimsuit fell apart soon after she received it. In June 99 some people were complaining that every time they order, the items have been "discontinued" or the largest sizes are not available. Urban Basics [single][Colorado][women][lingerie][casual][outdoors] The Seasons Mall Avon, CO Phone: (970) 845-7820 Now carries sizes 14-26. Seems to specialize in denim items. Valentina 29799 Northwestern Highway Apple Gate Square Southfield, MI 48034 Phone: 810-354-4560 Fax: 810-354-4012 "I have been shopping there since 1985. The boutique carries a large selection of stylish, quality fashions from sizes 14 to 34. One-of-a-kind fashions. Attention and service provided to customers is excellent. Layaway is available. Prices range from moderately expensive to excellent sales." Valley Department Store [single][California][men][women][supersize][accessories] 245 N. Euclid Ave. Ontario, CA 91762 Phone: (909) 984-8646 Large selection, friendly staff, clothing and accessories. Women's clothing in 16-18 to 30-32W. Men's clothing to 10X shirts, pants up to about 64. They have said that they will mail clothes. Value City [single][Illinois][men][women] Chicago area Carries large men's clothes up to 4X and women's clothes to about 24 or 26. Vermont Country Store [catalog][women][lingerie] PO Box 3000 Manchester Center, VT 05255-3000 Phone: (802) 362-2400 Web site: http://vermontcountrystore.com/vcs/vcs.htm Slips, chafe shields, mumus, robes, float dresses. Sizes vary; some items to 28, most smaller. Good prices, good quality. They also sell 100% cotton mid-thigh panties which do a good job of preventing chafing and protecting stockings. Vibrant Handknits USA [catalog][custom][women][casual] Historic Savage Mill 8600 Foundry St Savage, MD 20763 Phone: (800) 765-KNIT High-quality art sweaters in sizes 16-28. Will do custom work. Village East at Gottschalks [chain][women][casual][career][evening][lingerie] Most malls with Gottschalks have a Village East next door; it's their large women's department. Though the prices are a little steep, they have nice evening wear. Accessories but no shoes. Some undergarments (mostly slips) and granny nighties; no cute lingerie. Lots of separates. Vivian Young [catalog][women][lingerie] 9291 Greenwich Dr Huntington Beach, CA 92615-8333 Bras. Votta's Wearable Art [catalog][women][accessories] PO Box 243 Wilmington, IL 60481 Catalog $2 (refunded with first order) Large-size bangles and bracelets. W & M's Fantasy Fashions [catalog][single][Pennsylvania][women][lingerie][swimwear][casual] 5664 Sandylake-Polk Rd Sandylake, PA 16145 Phone: (412) 376-7057 Fax: (412) 458-7631 Email: cocoon@nauticom.net Catalog $3. Lingerie and clothing up to size 4X. WalkUSA [catalog][unisex][sportswear][outdoors] 6310 Nancy Ridge Drive, #101 San Diego, CA 92121 Phone: (800) 445-2209 Men's and women's walking shorts and activewear up to 2XL. Tell them you want larger sizes! WalMart [chain][women][men][casual][swimwear][sportswear] Some large size clothing up to 24 or 26, including lines by Richard Simmons and Kathie Lee. Large size t-shirts, shorts, and sweatpants. Inexpensive men's pants (cotton and polyester slacks, jeans) up to size 50. Swimwear to size 25. Oct 99 WaterWear [catalog][single][New Hampshire][swimwear] Riverview Mill Wilton, NH 03086 Phone: (800) 321-SUIT Aquatic fitness wear, chlorine resistant fabric, sizes to 28. We Be Bop [catalog][internet][single][California][women][supersize][casual][evening] Two locations: 1903 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA 94115 Phone: (415) 771-7294 and 1380 10th St., Berkeley Web site: http://www.webebop.com Kicky hip loose clothes, beautiful prints, up to size 4X. We Be Bop items also carried in other plus-size stores. Web site features plus-size models and online ordering. You can also pre-order items from their next season's collection. Wedding Place [single][Indiana][women][wedding] Fort Wayne IN Boutique. One bride-to-be called them up to make an appointment and told them of her encounter with fatphobic salespeople at a local wedding chain. When she arrived for her appointment, a BBW saleswoman was waiting for her. She was very pleased with the service. WearGuard [catalog][internet][unisex][supersize][outdoors][casual] 141 Longwater Drive Norwell, MA 02061 Phone: (800) 388-3300 Fax: 800-436-3132 Web site: http://www.wearguard.com/ Work clothes, outdoors clothes, some casual clothing. Some of their stuff is available up to 5X. Westport Woman [chain][women][career][casual] Chain in California, possibly elsewhere. One in Folsom and one in Vacaville. Very nice clothes, from good blue jeans through handmade sweaters and good suits. Reasonable prices. Wide and Comfortable [single][Oregon][internet][unisex][supersize][custom][casual][outdoors] Roseann and Joe Hall 8021 SE Stark Street Portland, Oregon, 97215 Phone: (503) 261-9222 Email: widecomfy@aol.com or widecomf@teleport.com T-Shirts to 12X, Henley's three button tab shirts to 8X and 10X. Sweats to 8X right now, looking at a company that goes to 12X. Shorts to 10x. Tank tops to 8X, in both mens and womens styles. Jersey Pants & Baggy pants. Jeans & Stretch jeans to 66 inches. Twill work pants to 74 inch waist. Custom sewing. Willow Ridge [casual] [career] [catalog] [midsize] 421 Landmark Dr Wilmington, NC 28410 Phone: (800) 388-8555, (800) 388-2012 customer service Winged Elephant Designs [catalog][internet][custom][accessories] Web site: http://wingedelephant.martynet.org Original bracelet/anklet/necklace designs in plus sizes, customizable to any size. Reasonable prices, online ordering, special offers. Winter Silks [catalog][men][women][unisex][lingerie][casual] 2700 Laura Ln. PO Box 620130 Middleton, WI 53562 Phone: (800) 648-7455 Email: webmaster@wintersilks.com Web site: http://www.wintersilks.com/ Silk long johns, shorts, robes, and so on. Some styles up to unisex (men's) 2X. A few styles up to women's 3X. Call and ask for more large sizes. Wisotta Trader [catalog][men][women][shoes] Phone: 800-833-6421 They have a good variety of walking shoes, both men's and women's, in wide widths. Woman's World [chain][women][petite][casual][career] Mall store. They carry women's petites and sizes up to 26. WorkAbles for Women [catalog][women][outdoors] Oak Valley Clinton, PA 15026-0214 Phone: (800) 826-9317 Cold weather wear up to size 20W or 22W. Call and ask for larger sizes. They sell, among other things, long underwear, polar pants, wind pants, and wool pants with access panels so that using the bathroom in the wilderness does not require baring all. Worldesigns Incorporated [catalog][Internet][men][supersize][accessories] PO Box 355 New York City, NY 10024 http://members.aol.com/wdinyc Fanny packs 59"-92" and tailored cotton long-sleeved shirts (black, white or blue denim). Worldware Plus Size Clothing [catalog][Internet][supersize][unisex][sportswear] 3181 Packard Ann Arbor MI. 48108 Email: Rkarle@aol.com Web site: http://ic.net/~karle/ww/page2.htm Mail order sportswear sizes 2X to 10X. X-chrom [internet][women][maternity][supersize][lingerie] Lisa Sorrentino Phone: (773) 385-9557 Email: active@X-Chrom.com Web: http://www.X-Chrom.com Sports bras, 34 styles in more than 50 sizes. Interactive guide. Maternity, mastectomy and plus-size options. Affiliated with Chicago retailer Vertel's. 24-hour shipping policy. XL Collection Plus [catalog][women] Box 20511 Rochester, NY 14602 $12.95 Fashion resource guide. XTC Leather of NY Limited [catalog][women][lingerie] 120 Nancy St., Unit E West Babylon, NY 11704 Phone: (516) 643-3030 Fax: (516) 643-3510 Leather lingerie in sizes up to 3X. They are a wholesale operation and will not sell to individuals. You might be able to call them to see if anyone near you carries their stuff. "Quality is mediocre- to pretty decent, BUT their large-size body template wears a B cup and so *all* of their plus stuff comes in 1X, 2X, 3X B. This (obviously) doesn't work well for those of us in 40Ds." Yoko Honda [catalog][women][supersize][casual] PO Box 35 New York, NY 10018 Phone: (212) 868-2050 Washable A-line dress/caftans in four colors. Zala Design [catalog][women][supersize][sportswear] Box 80018 Minneapolis, MN 55408 Phone: (612) 871-4809 Catalog $2 Leotards up to size 7X. ============================================================ A2) What manufacturers make clothes/shoes/spectacles for large folks? CLOTHING FOR WOMEN You can find these clothing lines in various retail stores and catalogs. Capistrano Complaint of cheap manufacture. Carole Little II Carol Little's large-size collection. Beautiful fabric, flowing cuts, nice colors. A little pricey. Well-made, and the dresses are quite long. Citiculture Fancy "garden party" dresses up to 4X (sizes run large). Danskin Phone: (800) 87-DANSKIN Exercise clothing in sizes 1X-4X. Their clothes are well made and pretty and they use large-size models. Elisabeth Liz Claiborne's plus sizes line. Expensive, but good quality. Sizes 14-22. Also has some petites. Entree Jeans that fit wonderfully and consistently across many styles up to size 44. Fruit of the Loom 100% cotton panties up to size 12. Also bras with large band and cup sizes. Gilda Marx Phone: (800) 825-BODY Exercise clothing in sizes 1X-3X. Goddess Bras Phone: (213) 629-2905 or (617) 569-3000 Well-made, large-size bras. They have cotton bras without underwires up to about size 52DD. Good push-up bras, comfortable merrywidows. They've been actively soliciting NAAFA to find out what large women want in bras. They also make nursing bras (particularly recommended is Model 510). Hanes Her Way Large size sweatpants and sweatshirts. Jerzees Good quality, heavy T-shirts up to size 6X. Jockey for Her All-cotton underwear in three styles up to at least size 11. Jones New York Woman Career wear. Just My Size Underwear, socks, and pantyhose. Affiliated with L'Eggs. They also have their own catalog (see above). Kathy Lee Plus Carried at WalMart. Lee Jeans Tend to work well on figures with smaller waistlines, large hips. Sizes up to 28 or 30. Marina Bridal Wedding dresses, priced reasonably ($350-$900 or so). Their headquarters is in NYC. You should be able to get a copy of their catalog (about 20 styles) by calling local bridal shops. No Nonsense Women like their plus-size pantyhose, which goes up to 4X, feels soft against the skin, and doesn't bag because of lycra in the fabric blend. They are getting harder to find. Onyx Night Evening wear. Carried at boutiques. http://www.jumponyx.com/onyx.html Princess Knitwear 14 Bruckner Blvd. Bronx, NY 10454 Phone: 718-402-1000 Fax: 718-402-0131 Email: info@princessknitwear.com Web site: http://www.princessknitwear.com One-size knitwear. Fits to size 26. Found in specialty shops and boutiques. Richard Simmons Carried at WalMart. Sharon Anthony Two Potato CLOTHING FOR MEN You can find these clothing lines in various retail stores and catalogs. Dolphin Swimwear Levi's Jeans and Action Slacks Large-size button-fly 501s. The Action Slacks apparently wear like iron, wash well, and never need to be ironed. 545 Jeans up to 60" waist. Karl Kani Classic jeans up to 60" waist Discus Athletic T-shirts and sweatshirts up to 6XL Speedo Swimming trunks up to 4XL Nike Shoes up to 18 Fruit of the Loom Briefs and boxers up to 6XL SPECTACLES Luxottica makes large-size frames for men. They make metal frames in XXL sizes, and have 170mm custom temples. Also look for Zyloware frames. Most companies do carry large-size frames; have the optical tech look in the Frames book for listings of large frames. COMFORTABLE AND/OR WIDE WOMEN'S SHOES Bally Clark's Easy Spirit (reported very long lasting even for supersize people) Ecco (made in Denmark) Hush Puppies "Bounce" Nordstrom's store brand Rangoni Selby Soft Spots COMFORTABLE AND/OR WIDE UNISEX SHOES Avia Birkenstock Cuddler's (available at K-Mart) New Balance Puma Red Wings Rieker Rockports Romika SAS (hiking boots) Simple Sorel's (winter boots -- proper mountaineering boots) Wolverine (hiking boots) Worishofer ============================================================ A3) Where can I find a wedding dress? Big, Beautiful Bride Online Plus-Size Gown Resource is a comprehensive listing of wedding gown designers who make plus sizes, includes their size range, average prices, size charts (when available), and contact information. The URL is: http://www.hepcatdesigns.com/bbb/Gownindex.html One reader recommended the following book: *Bridal Gown Guide: Discover the Dress of Your Dreams at a Price You Can Afford*, by Denise and Alan Fields (Windsor Peak Press; ISBN: 1889392030) Many regular bridal stores carry large sizes, and almost all stores can order them. They may have only a limited selection of sizes in stock for you to try on, so you may have to use your imagination to figure out how the dress would look on you in particular. Sometimes just putting your arms through the dress and holding it in front of you will give you an idea of what it would be like. Note that wedding dress designers do not size their dresses consistently. It's very common to have dresses tailored once they arrive. (This is common even for women who wear smaller sizes.) If the dress turns out to be too small, they can split the side seam of the bodice and sew in a few inches of extra fabric. This is hardly noticeable, even when you are looking for it. They may be able to get lace trim that matches the rest of the dress and use that to make it even less obvious. Nearly all bridesmaid's dresses go to at least size 24, and some go larger. Many of these dresses are fairly formal and can be ordered in white or off-white, so may work as a wedding dress. Many advertisers in bridal magazines list what sizes they make. Also look through bridal books. *Bridal Bargains* and *The Bridal Gown Guide* by Denise and Alan Fields print the size charts of major designers along with style numbers and suggested retail prices. Another way to buy a wedding dress is through Discount Bridal Service (Phone 800-874-8794; web site http://www.discountbridalservice.com). They can save you 20-40% on the cost of your gown. You must know the gown you want and your measurements. You call their 800 number, and they give you the number of their local rep. The rep takes your info and you order the gown thru her, and it is sent to your home. It is important that you measure correctly because you are stuck with the gown you order. No returns. DBS can order from any bridal manufacturer, and they are good at tracking down dresses even if you don't know the manufacturer or style number: a dress description or advertisement page number (like Brides Magazine for example) may be all you need to get a price quote. The local rep can offer seamstress referrals. They've got manufacturer sizing charts to help you. Bridal manufacturers *do* size differently from regular dress sizes, so don't be surprised if you need a size larger than you thought to fit it you correctly. Order via your measurements...not dress size! Search for "[wedding]" in section A1, the big list of clothing stores, to find stores and catalogs that carry wedding dresses. Here are some manufacturers who make large-size wedding dresses: Alfred Angelo Phone: (800) 528-3589 or (215) 659-8700 Makes 18-20 and 38-44. Both cost extra but their gowns are relatively cheap. Ange D' Amour Phone: (800) 288-3888. 230 Grand St, 2nd floor New York, NY 10013 Bridal gowns from size 4 Misses to size 64 Womens' (Like a 96" chest at least). Gowns range $400-$1200. all sorts of styles and shapes too. Traditional beaded lace, trained ballgown-type dress was $640 (polyester satin -- silks start in the $800s). You cannot order the gown thru them but you can ask questions and get a catalog. Bianchi Phone: (800) 669-2346. Through size 20. Bonny Phone: (714) 961-8884 Email: bbwfromca@aol.com Makes a line called "Essence by Esther," gowns to size 44 (costs extra). Bridal Originals Phone: (800) 876-GOWN or (312) 467-6140 To size 30 (encourages stores to carry large size samples!) Carmi Couture Phone: (212) 921-7658 Through size 20 (extra charge). Citiculture Large-size "garden-party" dresses that can double as wedding dresses. Diamond Collection Phone: (212) 302-0210 Through size 20 ($100 extra). Designer at Heart, Inc. Megan Moser Rosenhart Phone: (800) 462-4889 Custom-designs bridal gowns -- "traditional and non-traditional styles, from lace to leather, all sizes." Eden Phone: (818) 441-8715 Petites through 20-32 (extra charge). Bridal Bargains gave these guys 4 stars! Eve of Milady Phone: (212) 302-0050 Through size 20. $100 extra for 18-20. Fink Phone: (212) 921-5683 Through size 20. Extra 10% for 18-20. Galina Phone: (212) 564-1020 Through 20, extra charge for 18-20. Ginza Collection/Private Label by G Phone: (800) 654-7375 Through 42 (extra charge of $100). Will custom make larger size dress to bridal shop's measurements for $50 fee. Ilissa Phone: (212) 967-5222 Through 20, 18-20 are $60 extra. Impression Phone: (800) BRIDAL-1 Through size 30. 16-20 cost $30 extra. 22-30 are $70 extra. Jasmine Phone: (708) 519-7778 To size 44 (extra charge). Jessica McClintock Phone: (800) 333-5301 or (415) 495-3030 A few gowns through size 24. Jim Hjelm Phone: (212) 764-6960 Through size 20. 18-20 are $150 extra. Lili Phone: (800) 258-7944 or (818) 282-4326 Through 26. $70 extra for 22-26. Marisa Through 20. $160 extra for 18-20. Mary's Phone: (713) 933-9678 Through size 30. Mon Cherie Phone: (609) 530-1900 Has sizes 18-20 and 38-44, $20 or $40 extra. Moonlight Phone: (708) 884-7199 Sizes through 44 (extra charge). Mori Lee Phone: (212) 947-3490 Some designs available through size 42 for extra charge. San Martin Phone: (213) 257-5333 Some styles available through 44. St. Pucchi Phone: (214) 631-4039 Through 20, 18-20 extra 20%. Sweetheart Phone: (212) 868-7536 Through 44 (and keeps all sizes in stock). Wallentin Collection Phone: (800) 925-5954 Email: SmithsonC@aol.com Silk wedding gowns. Can custom make any gown to fit any size woman. Ask for Catherine. ============================================================ A4) Where can I find sewing/knitting patterns? Ana's Accoutremonts Custom fitted patterns of period costumes. See the listing in the US Clothing FAQ part 1. Beautiful Babes Laura Woodruff 6705 N. Seneca Portland, OR 97203 Phone: (503) 286-1119 Email: lauraboothewoodruff@worldnet.att.net Web: http://www.geocities.com/Eureka/Plaza/1754/index.html Catalog $2. Easy-to-sew collection of patterns for casual dresses, blouses, blazers, pants, ponchos, jackets, swimwear, lingerie, and more. Sizes 38-72. "Laura, the owner, is real nice and we discussed fitting problems etc etc and the dress I made from her pattern is wonderful." *Big Knits*, *Great Big Knits* Big Knits ISBN: 0-7126-5097-0. Vermont: Trafalgar Square Publishing Two books by Dawn French and Sylvie Soudan containing knitting patterns for large-size women. Patterns go from very simple, classic designs, to very complex intarsias. Proper large-size models. Bras The rec.crafts.textiles.sewing newsgroup has a fantastic FAQ about underwire and regular bras. If you're interested in making your own bras and lingerie, check it out: http://www.funhouse.com/babs/FAQ.html The Busy Woman's Fitting Book Nancy Zieman and Robbie Fanning Nancy's Notions/Open Chain Publishing ISBN: 0-932086-10-1, $9.95 Provides instructions on how to alter patterns to fit you. Burda GLP International PO Box 9868 Englewood, NJ 07631-1123 Phone: (212) 736-7455 or (201) 871-1010 Large size patterns. Their magazine, *Burda Fashions for the Fuller Figure* (or Burda Plus?), has patterns up to size 34W. One person reports: "Burda is very true to their sizing, and they make patterns for up to size Euro60. The have all sorts of interesting patterns, with unusual (nifty cool) detailing. I find that I have to do mucho fewer adjustments to make these patterns fit my narrow chest, big boobs, sloping shoulders, bottom-heavy apple-pear shape." Another writes: "I had stayed away from them because of the added seam and hem allowances, but now they are adding them in for you. They have some really nice, classic styles." Butterick Some patterns in sizes up to 32. Now carrying new Delta Burke line -- some pretty styles in larger than 22's. Computer packages for sizing patterns A number of companies make programs that print out customized patterns. You pick the basic pattern and enter the measurements of the person the garment is intended for, and it spits out a pattern. Some of these are: LivingSoft (also known as Dress Shop) PO Box 970 Janesville, CA 96114 Phone: (800) 626-1262 Available for IBM, in the works for Macintosh. Fittingly Sew Available for IBM D'ates D'signs 3430 Robin Lane, Suite B Cameron Park, CA 95682 Great wearable art patterns for coats, dusters, and shirts. Dressmaker's dummies Dressmaker's dummies are available in plus sizes. Your local fabric shop may carry them or should be able to order them. Fairchild Books and Videos 7 West 34th St New York, NY 10001 Fashion designs for the plus size. Fashion Patterns by Coni 2370 west hwy 89-A suite 11 box 128 Sedona, Az 86336 Fax 520-204-9241 E-mail: fpatternconi@sedona.net Catalog is $4. Her patterns go to a 66" bust and 70" hip. Will custom make patterns outside this range for a minimal cost. She drafted them on a size 28 model. This means they were designed for real fat bodies. Coni Crawford has 30 years experience in patternmaking and has recently retired from teaching in this field in college. She has just started the business and is very willing to help with special fitting problems. Fitting Finesse Nancy Zieman Book that explains how to alter patterns so that you can make clothes that fit you right from patterns made for small people. Great Fit Patterns Reported out of business Jan 98. Hattie Chanon Design Center of Charlotte 1235-E East Blvd, #222 Charlotte, NC 28203 Large-size patterns Email: mary.wilson@exchange.exchange.com List of commercially available sewing patterns for big men (chest size 48" to 52", 56" or 68"). McCalls Some of their patterns go up to size 50. My Own Pattern PO Box 30084 Clarksville, TN 37040-0002. Phone: (931 ) 645-1652 Web site: http://members.aol.com/myownpatrn/prof/index.htm" Email: MyOwnPatrn@aol.com Resizes any pattern to any specification, even underwear. Email to request measurement sheet. Send your measurements and the pattern. Also tailor-made clothing. PAW Prints Pattern Company Purrfection Artistic Wearables 19618 Canyon Drive Granite Falls Washington 98252 Phone: 800 691 4293 Web site: http://www.purrfection.com 11 patterns that go up to a 3XL (bust 54 hip 56) and there are 2 new patterns that go up to a 5XL (bust 62 hip 64). Reports: "I've made a kimono type jacket from one of their patterns in a 4X (I generally wear a size 30-32) and the only alteration I did was to lengthen it." "These patterns are more 'fun' than conventional but there are some fairly unique things that I've never found elsewhere." "Their pattern 'Layers' fits well and is really easy to sew." Pijin-Hole Patterns 804 Forest Park Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76102-5805 Phone: (817) 338-0025 Sewgrand 1160 Yew Ave. Bin 21 Blaine WA 98231-8019 Phone: (604) 274-3276 Email: sewing@sewgrand.com Web page: http://www.sewgrand.com/ Easy to sew patterns to size 26. They are reported to be "working on" supersizes. Good for beginning sewers. Fit reported good. Simplicity Web page: http://www.simplicitypatt.com/index.html Their patterns go up to size 32W in two lines -- BBW and HOAX. HOAX is meant to be for different body types. Their sizing guide may run too large. They also have a multi-sized (1X-6X) pattern for men for a shirt and a pair of pants. Clothes made from their patterns are attractive and come out beautifully. New Look is also part of Simplicity. Stretch and Sew Web page: http://www.stretch-and-sew.com One person reports "Stretch and Sew is good for those who are not one size all over." They are featuring a new line of plus size patterns, one of which is called Rita's Wardrobe (see Rita Farrow's *Life Is Not a Dress Size* in the Publications FAQ). The patterns include sizes 1X-3X (46-56 bust, 48-58 hip) in each design. Besides the wardrobe, there are eight separate designs in the collection, including pants, dresses, and a jacket. Style Some large-size patterns Unique Patterns Phone: (800) 543-4739 Web site: http://www.uniquepatterns.com Over 150 personalized patterns from easy to advanced. Patterns cost $9-$22. Membership costs $39.95, comes with pattern catalog, measuring instructions, support line, newsletter. Will put you in touch with seamstresses. Vogue Woman Dowdy, boring, waistless patterns. ============================================================ A5) How do I convert between sizes? Here are some conversions between European, U.K., and U.S. sizes: Women's dresses and suits For U.S. size, subtract 2 from U.K. size. For U.S. size, subtract 30 from European size. (UK 28 = US 26 = Euro 56) Women's shoes For U.S. size, add 1.5 to U.K. size. (UK 8 = US 9.5) Men's suits and coats U.K. and U.S. sizes are the same. For U.S. size, subtract 10 from European size. (UK 56 = US 56 = Euro 66) Men's shirts U.K. and U.S sizes are the same. Men's socks U.K. and U.S. sizes are the same. Men's shoes For U.S. size, add 1 to U.K. size. (UK 10.5 = US 11.5) ============================================================ A6) How can I find clothing for big kids? Radiance Magazine sponsors a Kids Project. The Radiance Magazine web site at http://www.radiancemagazine.com has articles, essays, and resources for children, teens, and young adults, as well as for parents, teachers, counselors, health professionals, and those who love and work with kids. Click on "Kids Project." Petite stores such as 5-7-9 and Petite Sophisticate sometimes have items that will fit BBgirls. Search on "[petite]" in the Clothing FAQs. There are some companies that will make clothing to custom sizes for a reasonable fee. Search on "[custom]" in the Clothing FAQs. Some wedding gown manufacturers make bridesmaid's and flower girl's dresses in girl's size 12 1/2 to size 20 1/2, with prices in the $75-$150 range. Search on "[wedding]" in the Clothing FAQs and see the section "Where can I find a wedding dress?". Extra Hip is a small 'zine for fat preteen and teen girls. Their web site (http://www.extrahip.com) has a page of links to stores that offer teen fashion in plus sizes. Here are some specific manufacturers that offer clothing for BBkids: Blessings in Dresses Sandra/owner Phone: 805.272.1568 Southern California I hear they have a good selection for girls and teens. Big Dogs Web site: http://www.bigdogs.com (They also have retail stores and a print catalog -- see their web site for more info.) Many items in their line of sportswear come in kids' and adults' sizes. Boxers, t-shirts, jackets, sleepwear, shorts, pants & other. High quality & relatively good prices. Custom Design Gwen/owner Minnesota Phone: 218.233.9583 Any size. Any age. Teens & Kids Clothes. Bridal, Prom, and Wedding, too. JC Penney's PO Box 2021 Milwaukee, WI 53201-2021 Phone: (800) 222-6161 Web site: http://www.jcpenney.com They offer a Big Kids Catalog twice a year (spring and fall), with girl's Plus and Extra Plus sizes and boy's husky and shorter husky sizes. Carries Levi's Dockers, Union Bay, Bugle Boy, snow pants, wind suits, denim and flannel shirts, the works. Fairly thin models. Some folks have had problems ordering from this catalogs (many items reported sold out before the catalog even arrives). Lebow's Brothers 178 Linden Street, Diehl's Plaza, Wellesley, MA 02181 Phone: (781) 431-7194 or 800-814-2229 Web site: http://www.tiac.net/users/lebow/ Specializes in clothing for "hard to fit" men and boys. Free tailoring, special orders welcome. Primarily a retail store, but will ship internationally. Mismo Elizabeth/owner Park Ridge, NJ Phone: 201.307.9202 Some casual clothes for teenage girls including jeans, bibs (overalls), denim shirts. Sears Phone: 800-948-8800 (catalog ordering) Web site: http://www.sears.com/ I hear that Sears opened a Mainframe for You junior plus department in fall 99. Check it out. Let me know if they are indeed a good resource. Sears also has some clothing for younger BBkids. They have a specialty leather catalog with many items in all sizes. Unlimited Options 131 N. Beaumont Avenue Burlington, NC 27217 Phone: (800) 922-0480 Retail & Mail Order - Custom made clothing for men, women & children of all sizes - anything you want from casual to career to bridal. Send $5 (refundable with first order) for their video catalog. Wal-Mart Sometimes they have half size jeans and a few other things. ============================================================ SECTION B: Information about this FAQ B1) Are there other related FAQs? There is some overlap in the topics covered by the FAQs. If you don't find what you're looking for here, try the other FAQs. The latest version of the following FAQs can be found at: http://www.bayarea.net/~stef/Fatfaqs/ alt.support.big-folks newsgroup FAQ soc.support.fat-acceptance newsgroup FAQ soc.support.fat-acceptance.moderated newsgroup FAQ Clothing for Big Folks in Canada Clothing for Big Folks in the U.S. (parts 1 and 2) Organizations for Big Folks Online Resources for Big Folks Other Resources for Big Folks Publications for Big Folks Resources for Dealing With the Physical Aspects of Being Fat Size-acceptance The following FAQs can be found at: http://www.sover.net/~astarte/fa/faqs.html Big Folks and Fitness Big Folks and Health Big Folks and Sports Research on Big Folks The latest versions of following FAQs can be found at the following locations: Clothing for Big Folks in the U.K. at http://www.thegrapevine.co.uk/Avalanche/FAQ-UK.htm Clothing for Big Folks in Europe at http://www.thegrapevine.co.uk/Avalanche/FAQ-Europe.htm Plus-Size Pregnancy Website at http://www.teleport.com/~rvireday/plus/ You can also find (sometimes slightly older versions of) the above FAQs (except the plus-size pregnancy FAQs) at the following locations: ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/fat-acceptance-faq/ (Note: The big-folks FAQ is listed separately at these locations.) You can also get FAQs from rtfm.mit.edu via anonymous FTP or via the mail archive server. For information about the mail server, send email to mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu with the word "help" (without the quotes) in the body of the message. ============================================================ B2) Posting information This document is posted bi-weekly to alt.support.big-folks, soc.support.fat-acceptance, and soc.support.fat-acceptance.moderated. Stef Maruch (stef@bayarea.net) maintains this FAQ. ============================================================ B3) Contributors These are the people who contributed significant chunks to the FAQ: Sasha Wood (Sasha.Wood@cs.cmu.edu) Eleanor Brown (ebrown@mac.cc.macalstr.edu) Also, lots and lots of other people (too many to credit) contributed information that appears herein, some via email and some on s.s.f-a and a.s.b-f. Thanks to them all. Suggestions for additions/improvements are always welcome. Send suggestions to Stef Maruch (stef@bayarea.net) ============================================================ Copyright 1995-1999 by Stef Maruch (stef@bayarea.net) Permission is granted to copy and redistribute this article in its entirety for non-commercial, educational use only, provided that this copyright notice is not removed or altered. No portion of this work may be sold, either by itself or as part of a larger work, without the express written permission of the author. This restriction covers all publication media, including electronic media. .