For some reason, a lot of plus-size shoppers seem to forget about http://www.fashionbug.com>Fashion Bug in their hunts for plus clothing. I have guesses as to why: somewhat sparse locations nationwide, a tendency to inhabit strip malls often overlooked by the serious clothing shopper, and a somewhat unfair association with some of the atrocious plus size stores that appeared in the late 80s that also added “plus” sections filled with polyester elastic waist pants and puffy-paint sweatshirts. Now with Fashion Bug’s availability online and their tendency towards thorough stock and frequent, generous sales on and offline, I hope they get more recognition for offering affordable, attractive plus clothing with a genuine consideration for the people that wear their clothes.

While I’m not wild about all of Fashion Bug’s designs, their variety makes the clothing I find distasteful forgivable: I may hate one item hanging on the rack, but if I keep digging, I’ll find something I love. Not only will I love it, it’s something I can love for years. Every item I’ve purchased from Fashion Bug in the last five years has lasted me to this day, except for one pair of undies and a pair of Zana Di jeans a neighbor stole from the laundry room. That’s good quality – I’m not exactly easy on my clothing!

Digging through today’s website, there’s yet another sale on, and I’ve come to recognize that clearance will always have something. However, Murphy lurks in Fashion Bug plus: the more appealing I find a piece, the more likely it’s completely out of my size, if produced in my size at all. Since there’s nothing in their dress section that really rings my bell (it looks like they have yet to do a season changeover with the dresses, putting them behind their plus competitors), I have dug up the following items that I think work great on a plus body. I am also applying the 3:1 rule; three tops for one bottom, for the most wardrobe-building mileage.

The http://fashionbug.charmingshoppes.com/pagebuilder/fashion_bug_product_page?nav=Plus&item=8732067&pagesize=3>crinkled yoke-waist skirt has a broad band around the waistline and then has soft pleating for lots of twirl. While there’s no way to disguise a stomach so it’s out of sight on a plus size woman, this gives the lower torso a flattering line, rather than resting on any awkward bumps.

To go with this, I’ve found the following three options:

http://fashionbug.charmingshoppes.com/pagebuilder/fashion_bug_product_page?nav=Plus&item=8775231&pagesize=3>the organza evening blouse, because its kimono-style folds allows cleavage without making the cleavage resemble a bookshelf. Also, the diagonal line draws the eye out to the edge of the body rather than down the center; it’s a good visual journey of the right curves.

The http://fashionbug.charmingshoppes.com/pagebuilder/fashion_bug_product_page?nav=Plus&item=8573537&pagesize=3>Medallion Emma Top isn’t for everyone. It’s a great choice for people with a longer torso/waist, and absolutely must be worn with a strong, supportive bra to look good. Still, as a base design to build accessories on, such as a jacket, this top has some versatile potential. If you have the longer-waisted body type, this top could sneak into your wardrobe and go far.

This http://fashionbug.charmingshoppes.com/pagebuilder/fashion_bug_product_page?nav=Plus&item=8896995&pagesize=3>corset top establishes a balance between sexy and modest in a way some plus designers can take note of. It’s body-hugging without body-squeezing, and the breasts are not revealed or displayed; it’s playfully modest, and makes a good, flattering top for jeans, as shown, or with a skirt.

Fashion Bug can be very love/hate, but its variety gives me relief, and there’s always something I can wear from them. I also know from experience that they have excellent customer service, both online and at the stores, and they offer their customers convenience any way they can; on one occasion, when I ordered a duplicate, I had no trouble taking it to my nearest Fashion Bug and making an exchange. Sure, they needed a packing slip for a receipt, but once that was presented I was turned loose to find something else to bring home to my wardrobe. Sometimes the best service is the service that leaves you free to make your own choice.