Plus-size Fashion for Teenage Girls: Guide to Cool Stores and Sites

With the evolving acceptance of plus -size fashion in mainstream media and retail, plus -size teens are no longer relegated to shopping in the Women's World of their local department store. More and more retailers are incorporating sizes 14+ into their regular lines. Plus -size teens have many options to choose from to find fun, fashionable clothes to express their personalities.

Gap, known for khakis, tees and other closet basics, offers a limited selection of sizes up to 20. You'll have to do your shopping online for those extended sizes, but because their clothing is so incredibly basic a quick walk through of the store before ordering online will help you see exactly what you're getting.

The second of three stores to offer online-only extended sizes, American Eagle is the quintessential teen stop for preppy-chic clothes. You'll pay $60 for pants that look like they've been through the wringer, but hey - that's the style these days. And what do most teens want in fashion? Exactly what their friends have. American Eagle delivers in sizes up to 18 online.

Another online-only retailer to offer plus sizes, Old Navy has really committed to the plus- size market. They offer current, cute and well-priced cotton pieces: cozy sweaters, polos, henleys, bohemian tunics, dresses, denim and much more. The fashion and the selection are definitely on target here.

A small-town and small-mall staple, Maurices connects with the girly-girl. The looks are a little softer, a little more subtle (although certainly not boring!) and very cute. Think jumper dresses over tights or soft wrap sweaters over a button-down shirt. Maurices' styles come in sizes up to 24 - this is a relatively new genre for the retailer, so support them now to further their commitment to plus sizes.

For the teen with attitude (or who just wants to look different from everyone else), Torrid supplies girls with a wide variety of trendy clothes up to size 26. The styles are edgy, sexy and a little spendier than the previous stores. But if you're trying to put your own, unique look together, does price really matter? They do run frequent sales, so check back regularly.