Looking for extended sizes that make you feel comfortable, pretty and put together? Here’s what I love from Target’s Ava and Viv this season. This post has been updated for 2021.
Why I Shop Extended Sizes at Target
For several years now, I’ve watched my bathroom scale reach a weight more than I ever was at nine-months pregnant. In fact, I recently pulled out some old photos and couldn’t believe how thin my face and arms were with a giant baby in my belly.
This fact isn’t something I’m particularly thrilled about. If I were to finally quit drinking soda, cut a few carbs and get back to the gym, I probably could live comfortably and happy in a size 12.
However, this isn’t my reality. My reality is nothing in my closet fits anymore and instead of beating myself up I decided to stop being miserable and buy a few new things for myself in a size that is comfortable to wear.
The truth is, I am a reluctant plus size shopper. I held out browsing the plus size section for a long time insisting I could still fit in the traditional sizes available at my favorite stores. Yet, I was grabbing XL shirts and size 14 pants and these were not fitting.
Ava & Viv Jeans
I recently browsed the Ava & Viv collection at Target. I grabbed everything I thought was cute in a range of sizes to see what actually fit. Jeans, tees, blouses, pants and outerwear. I decided I was going to go for it and whatever I liked and felt good in I was going to buy. I am done feeling miserable about clothes.
The Ava & Viv skinny jeans were the first thing I tried. I knew how well these fit (or didn’t) would set the tone for the remainder of my time in the fitting room. These fit and were adorable. I purchased two pairs in different washes. They have great stretch but don’t get baggy, a slightly roomier calf and a high enough waist I don’t have to worry about anything showing from behind.
Edited to add: Since publishing this post, most Target stores underwent full remodels and created “boutique” type displays in their clothing departments. I was thrilled to see them include the Ava & Viv section as well.
They moved it away from maternity and it wasn’t hiding in the back corner anymore. They had real size mannequins and gorgeous displays. Sadly, this didn’t last long at my local Target. They ended up moving Ava & Viv away from the traditional sizes, reducing the amount of retail space and again tucking it back into a corner. Super disappointed.
Click and shop from any of the images below. Affiliate links.
My Ava and Viv Picks for Fall
As we transition into fall, I’ve been wanting add a few new affordable pieces to my closet. Here are some of my favorites. I absolutely love the red dress – look at the detail across the shoulders!
Related: Favorite Fall Sweater Looks from Target
Ava & Viv t-shirts and tops have become a staple in my wardrobe. I wouldn’t consider them any bigger than traditional sizes but the cut is so much more forgiving. I’m a big fan of their outerwear and the selections of dresses has grown so much from just the maxi dress you see above.
The t-shirts tend to be criticized for being too short. I don’t personally feel they are too short. I can still get a little front tuck in when wearing pants or shorts.
To decide I was done feeling miserable gave me some much needed confidence on how I felt about myself. Do I envision I will forever be a plus size shopper? No. It’s not where I want to be personally but it’s what works right now and I deserve to feel pretty and put together and comfortable in what I am wearing – whatever size.
More Fashion Resources!
Check out some of our favorite posts about what to wear and how to wear it!
- How to style fall florals
- Are Rothy’s Worth the Price
- High Neck Tank Tops for Women
- Crossbody Bags for Nervous Travelers
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Super cute pics. You look great!
I appreciate your honesty and for introducing me to this great line at Target. I’ll have to check it out soon for some new fall purchases. Did the sizes seem pretty consistent?
Thanks for the comment, Kim. I’m going to say yes for now on the sizing. I have found that size X shirts are a little more snug through the bust than a 1X but other than that, everything seems consistent.
Wendy! You look fabulous! Love what you chose…
Love Target’s clothing lines and the Xplus size clothes are really cute. I use to shop Avenue for years but unless you buying off season stuff or clearance it can get pretty expensive. Target has the best deals on good quality clothes. I have almost all the plus size maxi dresses they have offer in two seasons.