Plus Size Brand Review: New York & Company

Recently I learned that New York & Company has plus size clothing. Years ago, I shopped with them when I was straight/standard size. Remember Lerner's? The good ole' days.

It's a decent size line with about 200 pieces and reasonably priced. NY & CO always had markdowns and this line is no different. I didn't see anything over $40 (markdown price).

There is lots of color. I don't have much color in my wardrobe. I didn't buy anything on my initial preview of the site. The thing that I do like about the line is the assortment. There are suits, jeans, sweats and party dresses. That's promising because newer plus size brands tend to fall on one side of the spectrum or the other - work wear and non-work wear. I also like that it's not too trendy. There are classic pieces and shapes.

Thus far, I've shopped with them twice and purchased three items:

• Wide-leg Printed Pants - I initially bought these in a 2X because I often need to size down in wide-leg pants. The 2X fit, but was too tight in the thigh and I would not be comfortable wearing them, especially sitting. I returned them and purchased a 3X, which is my normal pant size and they fit perfect and need no alterations. I searched all of spring '23 for printed pants and came up empty-handed. While I prefer a jersey pant, the polyester will do. I like the trouser shape with the zipper and hook and eye. Often printed pants are pull-on. These with a white tank are going to be on repeat spring '24.

• Plaid Skirt - I bought this skirt for two reasons 1) the shape and 2) to take Christmas photos. I think I could have sized down in the skirt. It feels a tiny bit too big in the waist. I don't like the gathers at the back of the skirt. They make my butt look bigger which I don't need. The material is very nice. It's a mid-weight and is unlined. There is a bit of sheen to the skirt which is nice.

• Fleece Leggings - The leggings were on sale for $7 so why not? Also I wanted to try out fitted clothing. The size guide clearly shows they fit up to 240 lbs. I'm over than weight and the leggings did not fit my thighs, but the fleece felt great on the inside.

The skirt and the leggings are likely going to be returned. As far as fit, two out of three is not bad. I doubt that I will shop frequently with New York and Company, but I think this is a good spot for what I call filler - pieces beyond your foundational wardrobe like a bright colored blazer, semi-sheer lace top for a date night, or cute event dress.

Beware that exchanges cannot be done online at this time. Be sure to use the size chart and measurements to get the right size. When returning an item, a handling fee of $9.95 will be deducted from the refund. This is becoming common with a lot of brands.

As I try other items from this brand, I'll update the review.