Trouble finding smaller sizes in stores?

fitmom · 07-10-2011, 11:59 AM

Do any of you find that as you lose weight and move into the smaller sizes that you have trouble finding them in stores?

I'm going away soon on vacation and I really needed shorts badly. So, my husband took me shopping at Kohls (had some Kohls cash, lol) and I was so discouraged when I went into the women's department. They had tons of stuff for size 10 and up but the single-digit sizes were very, very limited.

The sales lady suggested that I shop petite which didn't make sense b/c I'm 5'6" and the length would be too short. Also, she directed me to the junior department which I almost LOL b/c I'm 39. Those clothes are not meant for a mom of two.

I finally found four pairs in a larger size (one size up) and took them to the drycleaners to get the waist taken in. It was not a pleasant shopping trip, to say the least.

Am I the only facing this problem?

QuilterInVA · 07-10-2011, 12:14 PM

Shorts are now out of season and they aren't replacing sizes just wanting to get rid of what they have on hand. The winter wear will be starting by the end of the month.

fitmom · 07-10-2011, 12:20 PM

Yeah but I've had that problem finding clothes year-round. I was told by the sales lady that most stores don't seem to focus on the smaller single-digit sizes b/c not many women wear them (her words, not mine). I feel like the forgotten demographic, lol.

JenMusic · 07-10-2011, 12:54 PM

This came up for me a couple of months ago, as well. I started a thread and there were lots of good suggestions. Here's the link:

A frustrating shopping trip

I'm a 33 year old college teacher who looks about 18 (sounds nice, doesn't it? It can be, but not when I'm trying to get my students and colleagues to view me professionally). I second the idea that the Juniors department is NOT for me. I've had a lot of luck this summer with Eddie Bauer and Eddie Bauer Outlet - longer shorts (but still not bermudas), more "mature" clothing in general. I like the quality, too.

ann71 · 07-10-2011, 01:53 PM

It's funny, I do most of my shopping at thrift stores. And I'm always longingly eyeing the 6 and 8s, which seem so much cuter than the 12 and 14s.

josey · 07-11-2011, 09:29 AM

You are not alone. I am wearing a medium or size 8/10 now and it is sure hard to find! First one gone I guess.

fitmom · 07-11-2011, 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JenMusic

This came up for me a couple of months ago, as well. I started a thread and there were lots of good suggestions. Here's the link:

A frustrating shopping trip

I'm a 33 year old college teacher who looks about 18 (sounds nice, doesn't it? It can be, but not when I'm trying to get my students and colleagues to view me professionally). I second the idea that the Juniors department is NOT for me. I've had a lot of luck this summer with Eddie Bauer and Eddie Bauer Outlet - longer shorts (but still not bermudas), more "mature" clothing in general. I like the quality, too.

Ooo, I never thought of Eddie Bauer. I get their e-coupons all the time. Thanks for the tip. I do like their clothing. I plan to check out your link too.

I know the more expensive stores carry smaller sizes like Brooks Brothers. I do shop there but for something like shorts, it seems ridiculous to spend like 50 dollars on one pair.

I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who's run into this problem, lol. It helps to know I'm not alone.

I almost felt stupid posting this but it's nice to know that I'm not the only size 2 on the board. I don't feel that "small" which is weird. I think I had more options when I was a size 8. Who knew?!?

JenMusic · 07-11-2011, 12:48 PM

My shorts from Eddie Bauer are size 2, although who knows if they will work for you? I'm a size 4 at Banana Republic.

Good luck!

jens10 · 07-11-2011, 05:51 PM

I have been a size 00-2 for most of my adult life (not right now...), and I have had the most success finding cute, small clothes at Target. Also, "mall stores" like The Limited, Express, Ann Taylor, etc. aren't terribly expensive if you look at the sale items. Last year I bought 2 pencil skirts and 2 pairs of pants at an Ann Taylor sale for about 20 bucks each.

fitmom · 07-11-2011, 07:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jens10

I have been a size 00-2 for most of my adult life (not right now...), and I have had the most success finding cute, small clothes at Target. Also, "mall stores" like The Limited, Express, Ann Taylor, etc. aren't terribly expensive if you look at the sale items. Last year I bought 2 pencil skirts and 2 pairs of pants at an Ann Taylor sale for about 20 bucks each.

So you obviously feel my pain, lol? Target is where I bought my running apparel. They were the only ones who had XS running shorts. The smalls were falling off my hips and my hubby was like, 'can't you wear a belt'? And I'm like, they have elastic waistbands. He tries to be helpful but he's still a GUY.

My sister used to manage a few Ann Taylors in the area but she's a full-time mom so there went the 40% employee discount I used to get. Oh well.

The Limited and Express I find to be more for the younger crowd, early 20s to mid-30s. I'm almost 40 so I feel funny going in there.

I've bought like nightgowns and jeans at Target before. I should've started with them first. I love that store. LOL. Thanks for the advice.