How one plus-size expat stayed stylish while living in SE Asia.
Unlike most women, I am not a shopper. I was not always this way; my desire for shopping waned over time. In my 20s & 30s, I enjoyed going to the mall, browsing the stores for the latest fashion trends in my size. I would bounce from store to store, trying item after item looking for my next outfit for work or play.
These days, I have become an online shopper, but not for the reason you think. I am a plus-size woman who lived in Singapore, SE Asia. My clothes size rarely exists and when I find something it is either costly or not stylish.
Like most expats, I moved to Singapore with a limited number of belongings in two suitcases. During the settling process, I realized I needed a couple of pieces of casual, work or formal attire for my new location. So, I embarked on a shopping trip to the local mall and walked into stores that might have some familiarity. However, I quickly learned this experience was not friendly in many ways. I would walk into the women’s section to almost immediate attention of stares and giggles from the staff. I would look for sizes to no avail. When I ask for assistance, the staff would say “no size ma’am” without even blinking an eye, much less walk to the backroom to check for any random stock.
Shoes were even worse as my feet are larger and wide. Wide-width is a rarity. The only shoes I could purchase with confidence are flip flops and maybe an occasional heeled/wedge sandals with no angle straps. I finally gave up on shoes and resorted to ordering only or stocking-up during an annual trip home.
Being a plus-size woman, the stares, giggles, and snickering became commonplace in many of the women’s clothing stores. Whether it was clothes or shoes, the standard comment was “Sorry Ma’am, No Size.”
I would get lucky every so often with either of the two British department store chains. They both carry larger sizes in a few items such as some styles of dresses or blouses, nothing else. I was also fortunate as work colleagues overheard my plight. So, I learned about a plus-size boutique. It was created by a local who could not find clothes to fit her or her friends. The second story store, located across from a famous Singapore hotel, was my lifesaver for casual, work and definitely my last-minute outfits. Thanks to Kaylene Plus Size Designer Boutique, Singapore.
Being a plus-size woman, the stares, giggles, and snickering became commonplace in many of the women’s clothing stores. Whether it was clothes or shoes, the standard comment was “Sorry Ma’am, No Size.” So, to my fellow curvaceous or tall women who are living abroad, here are some options for you.
Shop Locally
If you are tall or plus-size, my recommendation is to consider the international chains in your location. If you cannot find a US chain store, try British or Australian. They tend to have a few items on their racks for both taller and more full-figured persons. The next best option is seeking out specialty stores or boutiques that serve plus-size or tall women. There is a segment of the population that is just like you and some of them own shops that are tailored to your needs. Just know with the specialty shops, you will get a limited number of items. They will be at slightly higher prices, but they will fit.
Shop in Neighboring Countries