Torrid is THE shopping destination for plus size (12-24) young women. There are very few options, as a big girl, for looking hot, and Torrid is really the only store that has truly nailed its demographic. They have fashions for all walks of chubby life, from urban brands like Apple Bottoms and Baby Phat, to goth-y Hot Topic brand Tripp. I myself am an Ed Hardy/LA Ink girl - I will buy anything tattooed and/or nautical themed without blinking an eye.
But the point I'm making is that this store is one of a kind in that they play to a specific audience: fat girls who still like to look cute and be in style. Forget department stores, unless you're a 22 year old who enjoys wearing moo moos or solid polos and too-big khakis to the club. Lane Bryant, while good for career wear and underwear, is really overpriced and carries mainly conservative, plain outfits. I go there more for work pants and bras. Avenue sucks and is boring, and Ashley Stewart is another overpriced, expensive, conservative store with way too specific of a demographic. Old Navy once had plus sizes in store, but like the patriarchal, looksist pigs they are, they made the decision to take all plus sizes off the shelves a few years ago, and offer them online only. Wouldn't want fattys running around your store making all the normal people uncomfortable, would you, Old Navy?
So, Torrid gets an A+ for carrying fun, sexy, young, outrageous, fashionable, affordable clothing for people who give a crap about what they look like. They've got a great online store as well, plus a store credit card and discount program called "divastyle." Fun!
Furthermore, I wanted to talk about the Deptford store in particular. I have been shopping here, faithfully, since 2005. There are other Torrid locations that exist in the area (Cherry Hill Mall, most notably), but this particular Torrid location owns my heart. I've gotten to know certain members of the staff there over the years, and they're always so helpful and amazing. I walk in there and they jump to show me the new stuff that's come in, saying stuff like "Hey, this one is your style," and "This one reminds me of something you'd wear." They're just mall employees, probably making less than $10 an hour, and they pay enough attention and care about their jobs enough to recognize me when I show up and recommend items based on my personal style. That's REALLY saying something. read more