Shopping for stylish, affordable clothing as a plus-size woman can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many brands either don’t cater to curvier bodies or have a limited selection that feels like an afterthought. However, the recent rise of new, size-inclusive brands has brought some hope to plus-size fashionistas. One brand that has garnered significant attention is Cider Clothing, a relatively new player in the online fashion world. Known for its trendy designs and affordability, Cider Clothing has piqued the interest of many, but how does it truly measure up for plus-size shoppers?
In this detailed review, I’ll dive deep into my personal experience shopping with Cider Clothing as a plus-size woman, exploring its size range, fit, style variety, quality, and overall experience. Hopefully, this article will help fellow curvy women decide if Cider Clothing is the right fit for them.
What is Cider Clothing?
Cider Clothing is an online fashion retailer that describes itself as “a social-first, global fashion brand” catering to young, trendy women who love quirky, on-trend, and expressive clothing. Founded in 2020, Cider Clothing has quickly risen in popularity thanks to its vibrant, vintage-inspired designs, influencer endorsements, and affordable price points. The brand offers a wide variety of clothing items, including dresses, tops, pants, outerwear, and accessories, all designed with a bold, youthful aesthetic in mind.
The brand boasts an inclusive size range, typically offering sizes from XS to 4XL, which is a significant step forward compared to many other fast fashion brands. However, as we’ll explore, offering extended sizes doesn’t always guarantee a perfect fit for plus-size bodies.
The Size Range and Fit: Does Cider Clothing Cater to Plus-Size Women?
One of the first things I looked into when shopping at Cider Clothing was their size range. I was pleasantly surprised to find that many of their items go up to a 4XL, which translates to about a US size 22. For context, many fast fashion brands stop at size 14 or 16, so seeing a 4XL option felt like a win.
However, sizing is only half the battle. The real question is: how does the clothing actually fit on plus-size bodies?
After ordering a few pieces from the plus-size section, I quickly realized that the fit can be hit or miss. For reference, I am a US size 18/20, and I ordered a combination of 2XL and 3XL pieces to test the waters. Some items, particularly those made from stretchier fabrics like knitwear or ribbed tops, fit comfortably and even had a bit of extra room. However, other items, especially those made from non-stretch fabrics like denim or woven blouses, felt tight in areas like the bust, arms, and hips.
It’s clear that while Cider Clothing has made an effort to cater to plus-size women, their sizing and cuts may not be perfectly adapted for all body shapes. Plus-size women often have diverse proportions, and some may find that Cider’s clothing doesn’t accommodate their specific curves. I recommend carefully checking the size guide and reading reviews before purchasing, as fit can vary significantly between items.
Style and Variety: Are the Designs Curvy-Friendly?
One of the biggest selling points of Cider Clothing is its unique and fashion-forward designs. From playful floral dresses to vintage-inspired blouses, the brand has a lot to offer in terms of style variety. As a plus-size woman, I was excited to explore pieces that were trendy, colorful, and a bit more daring than what many other retailers offer in plus sizes.
Cider’s aesthetic is very fun, quirky, and youthful, with lots of bright colors, bold prints, and retro-inspired cuts. This is a breath of fresh air compared to some plus-size lines that tend to be limited to basic, neutral-toned clothing. I especially appreciated that the brand didn’t shy away from body-hugging designs like fitted dresses and crop tops for curvier bodies.
However, some of the styles may not be as forgiving or flattering for plus-size figures. Certain cuts, like puff sleeves or oversized fits, didn’t suit my shape as well as I’d hoped. It’s important to remember that not every trend will work for every body type, and that’s okay. But overall, I appreciated that Cider offered a fun and bold range of styles that went beyond the typical “safe” options many plus-size women are used to.
Quality and Fabric: Does the Price Reflect the Quality?
Another factor to consider when shopping at Cider Clothing is the quality of the materials and construction. At first glance, Cider’s prices are incredibly affordable, with most items ranging from $20 to $50. But how does the quality hold up for plus-size clothing?
In my experience, the quality of Cider Clothing is comparable to other fast-fashion retailers. The fabrics are generally lightweight and synthetic, with lots of polyester blends. While some pieces felt soft and comfortable, others felt a bit flimsy or prone to wrinkling. This is something to keep in mind if you’re looking for durable, long-lasting clothing. Cider is definitely more suited for those who enjoy affordable, trendy pieces rather than investment-quality items.
Additionally, I noticed that some of the items lacked structure or tailoring, which can be especially important for plus-size women. A well-tailored garment can make all the difference in how something fits and flatters your curves. Unfortunately, a few of the items I received felt shapeless or had uneven seams, which made them less flattering on my body.
Shipping and Returns: Is the Process Plus-Size Friendly?
When it comes to online shopping, shipping and returns are always a major consideration, especially for plus-size women who may need to try on multiple sizes or styles to find the right fit. Cider Clothing ships worldwide, with varying shipping fees based on your location. I found that the shipping times were relatively reasonable, with my order arriving within two weeks of purchase.
However, returns can be a bit tricky. Cider Clothing’s return policy allows for returns within 14 days of receiving your order, but you must cover the return shipping cost, which can add up, especially if you’re ordering from outside the U.S. Given that sizing can be inconsistent, this return policy may be a bit inconvenient for plus-size women who need to order multiple sizes to find the right fit. I recommend being cautious with your first order and checking the size guide and customer reviews closely to avoid potential return headaches.
The Verdict: Is Cider Clothing Worth It for Plus-Size Women?
In conclusion, Cider Clothing is an exciting brand with a lot to offer in terms of style, variety, and inclusivity. For plus-size women, it’s refreshing to see a brand that offers trendy, playful designs in extended sizes at an affordable price point. However, there are some downsides to keep in mind. The fit can be inconsistent, and the quality isn’t always the best, so it’s important to manage your expectations when shopping with Cider.
If you’re looking for bold, statement pieces to add to your wardrobe and don’t mind taking a few risks with fit, Cider Clothing could be a fun brand to explore. However, if you prefer structured, tailored clothing or need highly durable materials, you may want to look elsewhere.
Overall, Cider Clothing is a great option for plus-size women who are looking for affordable, fashion-forward pieces and are willing to take the time to find the right fit.
FAQs About Cider Clothing
1. Does Cider Clothing offer plus sizes?
Yes, Cider Clothing offers sizes up to 4XL, which translates to around a US size 22. However, the fit can vary between items, so it’s important to check the size guide.
2. Is Cider Clothing affordable?
Yes, Cider Clothing is known for its affordability, with most items ranging from $20 to $50. However, the low prices can sometimes reflect in the quality of the materials.
3. How long does Cider Clothing take to ship?
Shipping times vary based on location, but generally, orders arrive within 1-2 weeks. International shipping may take longer.
4. Can I return items to Cider Clothing?
Yes, Cider Clothing accepts returns within 14 days of receiving your order. However, customers are responsible for covering return shipping costs.
5. Are Cider Clothing styles trendy?
Yes, Cider Clothing offers a wide range of trendy, youthful styles, with many vintage-inspired, quirky designs. It’s a great option for those who love bold and playful fashion choices.
