We’ve done a big Primark autumn pick – cute £20 90s jeans pass the size 10 vs 18 test
Since I’m a mom with a belly I don’t like to show off, I tend to stick to my favorites when shopping for clothes.
And one place I often avoid is Primark. Not because I don’t like the clothes, but I have the prejudice that it will be inconsistent in terms of sizing.
But my work bestie Katy and I are on a mission to test the high street for size – and see who comes out on top.
And stepping out of my fashion comfort zone for the sake of our readers – who we know LOVE the bargains they get at Primark – we had to go to the store.
I’m a 44 year old, size 10, while Katy is a self-confessed size 18 with large breasts and we scour the supermarkets, high streets and online stores to find gems that flatter both our ages and our body shapes and to see if there really is something for everyone.
So far we’ve put Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing autumn collection to the test and have come away with some fantastic wardrobe staples, including an £18 leopard print dress that to take every occasion.
Meanwhile, River Island impressed with their fall fashion – and we discovered the jacket of the season.
When it came to Primark, the first thing we thought of was THAT viral jumper. You know the one: super soft, fits everyone and is sold out everywhere. Also in our Scottish stores.
So it wasn’t intentional, but we think we just discovered it next big thing in knitting with this haul.
For a casual look we tried a pair of flared, dark ones blue jeans, price €20. Now I struggle when it comes to jeans.
Generally they fit me perfectly in one spot, like the thighs, but then they no longer fit the butt, otherwise I’m left with that annoying gap at the back of the waist.
But we were both genuinely happy with the fit of them – they are super comfortable and hugged the body without leaving annoying bulges. The only thing we will say is that they are not made for small children, unless you like to drag them around or pick them up a bit.
We paired this with a red knitted bomber, which cost £21 – and this is the item we predict will be a seasonal hit.
First of all, the color really stands out. There is a beautiful covered button detail that gives a touch of gold if you to leave a few undone.
And it fit us both so well and flattered our shapes.
For a workwear look we chose a nice one animal printed skirt for £14, deviating from our basic leopard and earning our zebra print fashion stripes.
This is ideal for anyone who is tummy conscious as it has a super stretchy waist. Katy chose the larger size because size 18 was sold out, but she was actually very satisfied with the fit.
For cocktails or a smart at dinner we opted for a pair of silky satin trousers, priced at £14. Now I have to admit these were outside my comfort zone.
But I decided to be brave and embrace sleepwear as outerwear.
And I was very pleasantly surprised. These feel very luxurious and also have a wonderfully stretched waist – ideal when you go out to eat.
Again, they are a bit on the long side, but beautiful nonetheless. And Katy thinks this is one of the few things that will pull her away from her silky skirts.
Our latest attempt was the Barrel Jeans – a new shape for both of us. And it’s safe to say this isn’t the style for Katy or me.
Our hit rate for Primark was remarkable, but these just weren’t for us. They made me feel like a low-rate panto character, while Katy felt they were unflattering around the stomach.
You can’t win them all!
We paired our outfits with some accessories from the store, including the black version of the season’s it bag, a slouchy black handbag, a small leopard print bag that also gives a 90s vibe and some beautiful jewellery. We loved the Bottega dupe earrings.
Overall we were impressed with how true to size Primark is these days and how flattering the pieces we chose are – another big draw for the high street.