Plus-size fabrics: what to look for before you buy

Two dresses in the same size can feel completely different depending on what they're made of. A good fit on paper doesn't help much if the fabric is itchy, too hot or see-through. The good news is that you can check most of this before you pay.

Read the material details

The product page usually lists the fabric as percentages, for example polyester, cotton or elastane. Don't rely on the photos alone, because the details are what tell you how the item will feel and behave.

A little stretch goes a long way

Elastane, also called spandex, adds stretch and makes clothes more comfortable to move in. Even a small amount in the mix can make an item more forgiving. Fabrics with no stretch need an accurate size, so be more careful with those.

Cotton and cotton blends

Cotton breathes well, which is great for our hot summers. It can crease easily and may shrink in the wash, so follow the care label.

Polyester

Polyester is very common in affordable clothing. It's usually hardwearing, but it can feel warm and doesn't always breathe well. Very thin polyester can also cling.

Check for lining and see-through fabric

Light colours like white, cream and pastel are the most likely to be see-through. Look for words like "sheer" or "unlined" in the description, and check whether reviewers mention it.

Look at the weight

Some pages tell you if the fabric is thin, medium or thick. If they don't, the reviews usually do. A thick knit might be lovely for winter and too much for summer.

If you haven't yet, start with our guide to finding your size on SHEIN Curve.