(shot pre-Covid)
I am so excited for this classic and curvy guide, because it’s a brand I get asked about quite often: LOFT! I love Loft, and when you find the right pieces, you can get some of the best size-inclusive preppy items in the game. Their fit is fantastic for curves and they have a dedicated true plus size line. When my body began to change, it was a saving grace for me. I could find items that were navy, eyelet and *in my size*! Loft is known for being classic and fun, and their identity is less “preppy,” but if you shop it right, there are ENDLESS preppy options. So, I wanted to give my tips on how to shop the brand to get a classic look for curves.
WHEN TO SHOP REGULAR VS. PLUS
One of the things I am so thankful for with this brand is that they created separate proportion templates for the plus size line. The fits are fantastic and the necklines and lengths are slightly different to fit curves. The plus items can sometimes have extra length (I am 5’6 ½” for reference). I have found that if you are cusp sized, an xxl reg has a similar fit to a ~16w/18w, with little less length. Aside from their tops and some loose dresses, if you are in the plus size range, I would recommend just shopping plus for the other items. They have really nailed down the silhouettes and proportions for curvy figures!
WHAT ITEMS TO SHOP FOR
- Tops from Loft are the best, the materials wear really well on all figures, but particularly curves. I chatted a bit in number one about sizing when it comes to tops, but another tip if you have shorter arms, you can actually filter by sleeve length. Hallelujah! I personally gravitate towards their midi sleeve and short sleeve options, they hang so nicely if you have a larger chest or broad shoulders. Most of their tops run true to size, but if you are inbetween sizes I recommend sizing down.
- Denim is one of my favorite options for plus, I only wear 3 denim brands and Loft is one of them! I shop their high waist options, which hit me more in the mid-high area, I find the fit very flattering and most of all, comfortable. I get my normal size with the exception of their modern skinny fit where I size up one.
- Shorts/pants: The only shorts I have worn in the last two years are Loft plus! They have somehow figured out how to make shorts that cover enough of the right areas, while remaining youthful and current in style. Their pants also fit really well in the hips and thighs, allowing things to be easily tucked in and styled various ways.
- Dresses! The proportions on their plus dresses (and dresses in size xxl) are out of this world. I find the dresses to run true to size, and hit at the right length. They all have flattering waistlines and provide enough space in the chest and shoulder area. In general, when I shop any store for dresses, if it’s a more structured shape or shift I order my size and the size up to see what works.
HOW TO GET THE PREPPY LOOK
My favorite part! Search and filter will be your best friend here. Loft releases a lot of preppy pieces in the Spring and Summer months. To narrow it down, use search terms like stripes, eyelet, and gingham. Also utilize search terms like collar, ruffle, bow, and flutter. Color will also be important, in the Summer if you search “navy” fun coastal style pieces will pop up! Their blues, pinks, yellows and whites make for a nice preppy palette. Their swimwear/beach collection also has a ton of hidden jems like dresses and tops that have a beachy/coastal vibe you can most definitely wear out and about. I used these tips above and here are the items I found! I am obsessed, all size-inclusive or in XXL, too.
