This past Tuesday, I was invited to the plus-size retailer Chatherines spring 2013 preview. After the past few weeks of damp, dreary weather in New York City, what a welcome sight this preview was. Color was everywhere! The second I walked in, my developing Seasonal Affective Disorder lessened with the sights of fruity citrus colors and color-blocking, all done in tasteful combinations and outrageously attractive silhouettes.
A photo with my old friend, Kate McKee, Vice President of Design for Catherines
Upon entering, I was immediately warmed with a big hug from my old friend (and former boss from my fashion design days) Vice President of design for Catherines, Kate McKee, who gave me a tour of all the new and exciting things that we’ll be seeing in their stores this coming spring.
Catherines, which is a classic career and casual clothing retailer for plus-size women at moderate prices, has over 400 retail stores nationwide. Their business fills a much-needed niche for women who wear sizes 16W to 34W, a range not readily offered elsewhere. Sizes 16WP to 26WP and 16WT to 34WT are also available, to the petite and tall customers. Catherines prides itself on being a company for women managed by women. They are known for our warm and friendly sales associates, specially trained to anticipate the needs of their customer and always put her first.
Gorgeous dress silhouettes in fun color blocked combinations
Catherines continues to lead the industry in customer service and satisfaction. Much of that success is due to their Right Fit program, in which they took highly detailed measurements of almost three thousand women and used them to design a totally new fit. They then began to offer clothing that more closely approximates the plus-size figure.
Ombre delight in both knits and breezy tunics
While some Catherines die-hards may notice that the line will appeal to a more youthful look, with items like colored denim, printed bottoms and modern dress styles, Kate assured me that, while they want to capture the younger and more contemporary plus size women, there will always be something for everyone. After previewing the collection, I can definitely agree. The looks, while on trend, are timeless enough to appeal to all age groups and style preferences.
Some of the standout prints from the Catherines preview
62% of American Women are over a size 14, yet there are few resources available to women who wear larger sizes. I addressed this topic several months ago on my radio show, which Kate McKee for Catherines was a guest. You can listen to the broadcast in its entirety here. As a retailer whose focus is the plus-size woman, Catherines continues to be a leader in not only giving this often neglected consumer beautiful, wearable and fashionable clothing, but by constantly raising their own bar in better trying to service her. After previewing the collection for spring, I highly recommend you check out Catherines and see what’s in store.
