I get these questions a lot:

What is the difference between Junior Plus and Plus Size clothing?

Why is sizing so inconsistent in plus size clothing?

With the rise of numerous online boutiques, retailers, and brands offering fast fashion at appealing prices and styles, there are many questions, frustrations, and confusions about sizing. With brands like Forever 21, Wet Seal, H&M, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and various online fast fashion boutiques, it is crucial to know what to expect regarding fit before you shop and understand the differences.

What is Junior Plus Size?

Yes. Initially created to bridge the gap for younger plus size teens who lacked fashionable options, junior plus size fashion also caters to the everyday plus size woman.

What does this mean?

Well, junior plus size is traditionally cut smaller through the hips and bust; however, due to the fast fashion element and body-conscious fits, many shoppers are drawn to these stores only to be confused by the fit and sizing.

“WHYYY am I a size 3x in this store?”

“OMG their sizes are so inconsistent”

“They need to fix their sizing”

A lot of times (NOT ALL), many of the fast fashion and junior plus size departments fit with a different size chart compared to traditional plus size fashion. This does NOT mean that all fashion-forward items are cut in junior plus; just that a newer fit is emerging that is causing confusion and frustration.

Let Me Break it Down Further…

For starters, junior plus sizing is labeled like traditional plus sizes, such as 1X, 2X, 3X. In numbered charts, you may see odd numbered sizes starting at 15 or 17. Due to changes in fit and sizing, junior plus sizes tend to run one to two sizes smaller—sometimes even more! For example, a size 3X dress in women’s plus equals a size 24; however, a 3X dress in junior plus may equal a size 20 or 22. See the confusion?

eBay notes, “A good rule of thumb used to be that the trendier the style, the more likely it was sized in junior plus. However, as the plus-size market has become more contemporary and trend-conscious, this guideline no longer works consistently.”

Now that more women in their 20s and 30s are buying junior plus clothing, it is important to note the differences between the two. As brands recognize this buying pattern, more retailers like ASOS CURVE offer body-conscious fits with the look and feel of a junior plus cut while maintaining traditional plus size sizing.

Comparing Size Charts

I took the size charts from Nordstrom for their plus size and junior plus size so you can see the differences in sizing details.

So what should you do?

Pay attention to the size charts, the fits on models, and the type of store you are shopping at. Reference size charts, measure yourself accurately, and know your measurements. This will help you navigate through it all… I promise!

Which Brands Offer Junior Plus Sizes?

Think fast fashion. Trendy places that always have the latest styles at competitive prices… Here are a few brands; although I cannot name them all, consider this a guideline for what you can expect from fit… If you have suggestions, please leave them in the comments!

• Wet Seal
• Fashion to Figure
• Forever 21
• H&M Plus
• Macy’s Junior Plus
• Nordstrom Junior Plus

It is key to note that many of these online plus-size boutiques purchase from wholesalers that produce junior plus sizes… please refer to their size chart for a better idea of fit.

I hope this helps clarify things? Let me know!

What else have you noticed about junior plus sizes? Have you been surprised by fit? Where else have you seen a junior plus size cut? Leave a comment so we can discuss!