Whether you’re dreaming of an online storefront or envisioning racks of flowy dresses in a cozy brick-and-mortar shop, sourcing the right inventory is key.
1. Start with Online Wholesale Plus Size Specialists
When you’re just getting off the ground, online wholesalers are your best friend. They let you browse hundreds of styles at your fingertips, lock in lower per-unit costs, and often place smaller minimum orders than big-box distributors. Here are a few routes to consider:
1.1 66Disco — Plus Size Cute Styles
At 66Disco (66disco.com), you’ll find a thoughtfully curated collection of sizes 1X–4X across tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear. What makes 66Disco stand out?
Inclusive Trend Focus: Each season, the team hand-picks pieces that balance runway inspiration with everyday wearability.
Low MOQ, Flexible Orders: You don’t need to buy in bulk to test new silhouettes—order as few as five pieces per style.
Reliable Shipping: Domestic and international shipping options get your orders to you in 2 weeks, not months.
1.2 General Wholesale Marketplaces
Beyond 66Disco, platforms like FashionGo and LA Showroom list plus size clothes vendors alongside mainstream lines. These marketplaces give you:
Variety Under One Roof: Discover emerging labels alongside established houses.
Trend Insights: Many sites offer real-time analytics on what’s selling fast.
Consolidated Shipping: One vendor handles multiple brands on one invoice.
Tip: When you join a marketplace, sift for sellers who specialize—or at least offer—a dedicated plus size range to ensure fit and quality.
2. Explore Trade Shows and Virtual Events
Nothing replaces the thrill of seeing—and touching—fabric in person. Trade shows are where you’ll forge relationships and uncover brands before they hit mass production.
2.1 Top In-Person Shows
Coterie (New York & Online): While known for contemporary women’s fashion, Coterie’s vendor lineup increasingly features plus size labels.
MAGIC (Las Vegas): This multi-hall expo covers every corner of apparel; you’ll find plus size stands interspersed throughout women’s wear and accessories.
2.2 Virtual Trade Events
Online Wholesale Weeks: Many shows now host digital showrooms where you can book one-on-one video calls with reps, view lookbooks, and place orders from your desk.
Pro Tip: Before you attend, map out your must-visit booths. Reach out in advance to schedule private fittings or video demos—vendors love a prepared buyer.
3. Partner Directly with Manufacturers
Cutting out the middleman can boost your margins and even let you customize. Here’s how to navigate:
Identify plus size Factories: Search directories like Maker’s Row for facilities experienced in grading patterns up to 5X or above.
Sample First: Always order swatches or a single “proto” garment before committing to a full run.
Negotiate Terms: Ask about lead times, payment schedules, and overrun policies—some factories will let you buy overruns at a discount for faster delivery.
Heads-up: Minimums tend to be higher (often 100+ pieces), but the upside is that every stitch, seam, and size grading is crafted just for your brand.
4. Consider Consignment and Dropship Models
When cash flow is tight, consignment and dropship keep inventory risks low:
Consignment: Partner with designers who’ll place their plus size pieces in your boutique; you pay only after the sale.
Dropship: You list styles on your site, and 66Disco (and other vendors) ship orders directly to your customers—no warehouse required.
These methods aren’t just budget savers; they let you test new trends without tying up capital.
5. Hit Up Local and Regional Wholesale Markets
If you’re in a major metro—or willing to travel—regionally famous markets can be gold mines:
AmericasMart Atlanta: World’s largest permanent showrooms, with plus size showrooms sprinkled throughout.
Dallas Market Center: Cash-&-Carry options let you take home your picks same day.
Quick Tip: Bring a tape measure, flat tote, and a comfy tote for samples—you’ll thank yourself after a day of showrooms.
6. Nail Your Inventory Management
Sourcing is half the battle; tracking is the rest. To keep your boutique humming:
SKU Everything: Assign a unique code for each color-size combination—66Disco even offers pre-formatted SKU guides when you sign up.
Use a POS with Inventory Alerts: Set reorder thresholds so your best-selling plus size styles never go out of stock.
Rotate Seasonally: Pair year-round staples (leggings, basic tops) with seasonal buys (festive wrap dresses, lightweight cardigans).
Conclusion
Building your plus size boutique inventory doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Start strong with a partner like 66Disco (66disco.com), layer in broader marketplaces, and explore trade shows and direct-to-factory options as you grow. Mix in consignment or dropship to keep risk low, and ground everything with tight inventory management. With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to offering the fresh, flattering styles your customers crave—and creating a brand they keep coming back to.
