top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Big sizes are not stylish

I roared with laughter when I read your latest [online] article about weight discrimination in France. 

I’ve lived here for over 15 years and I’m a curvy size 18 in the UK. However, here it is a different matter as most shops selling the (almost) equivalent size – somewhere between 46/48/50 – have unstylish clothes that I don’t think I will ever be old enough to wear!

It is indeed galling to see a gorgeous frock in the window, then go inside to find that the largest size is about a UK 10, with the vendeuse looking you up and down. In Paris, it is possible to find smart classic clothes in shops such as Weil – at a price.

I suppose it isn’t overt weight discrimination but the looks between shop staff and the shake of the head can cause you to creep out of a French shop.

It is generally easier to buy online from UK stores with modern, flattering designs.

On the plus (sic) side though, I always receive kind comments on my fair skin and unlined face. Not bad for a pensioner?

Beryl DENNETT, Charente-Maritime

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France