A black market for plus-size clothing? No thanks

When an ex-pop star turned Loose Women host (obviously we’re talking about Jamelia) started mouthing off about certain clothes sizes being banned from the high street, we – like many of you – got a wee bit annoyed.

How many of us have body hang-ups already – whether we’re a size 10 or a size 20? That’s because much of how we feel about ourselves comes from the inner whirrings of our grey matter.

A lot of us criticize ourselves on a daily basis, so when presented with the notion that certain clothes sizes shouldn’t be available on the high street, it’s no surprise we got angry. We don’t want to be forced to buy our clothes size on a ‘black market’. We want to buy our clothes wherever we like, and feel good about ourselves in the process.

Yes, we’re all for living a happy and healthy lifestyle but that only comes when we’re in a good place, in the first place. Being shamed into something never got anyone anywhere.

So, rant over, and with the desire to prove you can look gorgeous whatever your size, here are a few of our favourite finds… never to be found on the black market!

ASOS – Lovedrobe Cage Back Maxi Dress With Embellished Bust

Available in sizes 18-26, this embellished maxi dress by Lovedrobe goes all out to impress. To be honest, it reminds us of a Greek Island – crisp white buildings against cobalt blue sea – and it’s a combination that always wins us over.

Think it’s done enough to captivate? Think again – round at the back there’s a caged strap detail to tempt you even further. £89 from ASOS.

New Look – Red Tile Print Kimono

What woman doesn’t want a top they can just sling on that instantly peps up an outfit?

For that reason, and the fact this Plus Size Red Tile Print Kimono from New Look is bang on trend with its exotic Moroccan-style detail, we swear by this little beauty. It’s £19.99 and you can wear it loose as a cover-up, or wrap it round and add a belt for a more structured look.

Evans – Live Unlimited Black Print Trousers

These Live Unlimited Black Print Trousers take the pyjama trouser trend up to fierce. There’s no shying away from that bold abstract print, so team with a more sedate top half to work this look to the maximum. £50 from Evans.

Simply Be – Denim Phoebe Kick Flare Super Soft Jeans

Every woman deserves a pair of jeans they feel good in, and we’re sold on these. Yep, it’s time to ditch those skinnies and switch to a flared jean – they’re what this summer is all about.

High-waisted and super-soft means these jeans are comfy and designed to keep you tucked in place. At just £28 from Simply Be it’d be rather rude not to.

All prices and availability checked on 24 April 2015. What do you think about Jamelia’s comments on plus-size clothing, and the issues raised? Share your views below!