Hi ladies -

I haven't been able to shop in a non-plus-size section or store since I was a freshman in college - 22 years ago. (The freshman 15 came to visit and brought about 80 more of its friends to stay.)

I'm finally in a size 16 - pushing a size 14 - and am suddenly discovering this whole new world of shopping! The stores! The selection! The colors! The prints! I no longer have to buy the same shirt in three different colors, because there are more out there - and they'll finally fit!

My town has truly lousy shopping. I've been doing what I can online, and then hitting the stores when I travel for my daughter's dance competitions.

I still use Lane Bryant (love their bras, even though I've deflated into a B cup), but want to find new fun places.

What are your favorite places to shop?

I totally feel ya! I'm just now moving into an 18 (maybe 16 depending) and am overwhelmed by the new shopping experience! My skinny friend took me to Marshall's and I love it! The prices are great!

You might try there!

Try New york and Co., Ann Taylor Loft, and Steinmart. They are some of my favorites and carry XL sizes and up to size 18. Enjoy the shopping! I can't wait to feel that excitement! I'm a size 18 now and it really is amazing how a mere 10lb weight loss really makes a difference in your clothes. I think once I lose 10-15lbs, to get around 200 or 205 - I'll make it into a size 16. To be a 14 or a 12 is simply a dream right now! I'd have to be in the 180's to make a size 14 and 170s or 160s to make a size 12 But a dream I need to work toward!!

Ross is a great store. It's so much fun to find good deals.

I have also enjoyed Old Navy. I never used to be able to fit into their clothes.

I know what you mean about shopping - it's my new obsession. I like Target, Kohls and JCP along with some of the others already mentioned. Some good websites are Newport News, Chadwick's and Metrostyle ... have fun!

My go to places are NY&Co, T.J. Maxx and Filene's basement. All reasonably priced and really cute stuff.