Shopping at Cato Fashions-Plus: What to Know About Sizing, Styles, and Locations

Cato Fashions-Plus carries extended sizes for women who shop in the plus range

Cato Fashions-Plus is a brick-and-mortar retailer focused on women's clothing in sizes 14W and up. The chain operates stores across the Southeast, including multiple locations throughout South Carolina. Unlike some retailers that add plus sizes as an afterthought, Cato Fashions-Plus designs its inventory, store layouts, and fitting rooms specifically for this customer base.

The brand is part of Cato Enterprises, which also operates regular Cato stores (which carry sizes up to 16). Cato Fashions-Plus locations are separate shops where the entire selection starts at plus sizing. This means you're not hunting through racks designed for smaller frames—the proportions, sleeve lengths, and construction reflect how plus-size clothing actually fits.

Key Takeaways

• Cato Fashions-Plus stores in South Carolina stock everyday wear, workwear, and occasion clothing in sizes 14W through 32W, depending on the item.
• The retailer offers regular sales and clearance sections, and you can check current promotions through their website or by visiting a store directly.
• Most Cato Fashions-Plus locations are in shopping centers across South Carolina's major cities and towns, with parking and fitting rooms on-site.
• You can shop in-store to try items on, or call ahead to ask whether a specific size or style is in stock before making a trip.

What you'll find in Cato Fashions-Plus stores

Inventory includes casual basics (jeans, t-shirts, sweaters), workwear (blazers, dress pants, professional tops), dresses for various occasions, and seasonal items. Prices typically fall in the mid-range—not discount-bin pricing, but not luxury either. A pair of jeans usually runs between $30 and $60, and dresses between $40 and $80, though sales and clearance can bring prices down.

The stores also carry accessories like belts, scarves, and jewelry, plus shoes in extended sizes. Fitting rooms are a standard feature, which matters because sizing can vary between brands and styles even within the same store. You can try things on before buying, which helps avoid the frustration of ordering online and having items not fit as expected.

Finding a Cato Fashions-Plus location near you

South Carolina has Cato Fashions-Plus stores in cities including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach, as well as smaller towns. Stores are typically located in shopping centers with parking. The easiest way to find the nearest location and current hours is to visit the Cato Enterprises website, which has a store locator tool where you can enter your zip code.

If you're not sure whether a particular location is a Cato Fashions-Plus (as opposed to a regular Cato store), the website will tell you. You can also call ahead to confirm hours, especially if you're traveling from out of town or planning a shopping trip around a sale.

How sizing works at Cato Fashions-Plus

Sizes run from 14W to 32W in most categories, though not every item comes in every size. The "W" designation indicates women's sizing, which uses different proportions than straight sizes. A 14W is not the same as a size 14 in regular clothing—it's cut fuller through the bust, waist, and hips, and sleeves and inseams are adjusted accordingly.

Because sizing varies by brand and style, trying things on in the store is your best bet for finding what actually fits your body. Staff can help you locate items in your size or suggest similar styles if something is out of stock in what you're looking for.

Shopping strategies and what to expect

Cato Fashions-Plus runs regular sales, particularly at the end of seasons and during major retail holidays. Clearance racks are permanent fixtures in most stores and can have significant markdowns. If you find something you like but it's not on sale, ask a staff member when the next sale is scheduled—they often know upcoming promotions.

The stores are designed for browsing, with organized sections by clothing type and color. Dressing rooms typically have mirrors and good lighting. If you're shopping for a specific occasion or need help putting outfits together, staff can offer suggestions based on what's currently in stock.

Alternatives if Cato Fashions-Plus doesn't work for you

Other retailers carrying extended sizes in South Carolina include department stores like Belk and Macy's, which have plus-size sections in many locations. Target and Walmart also stock plus-size clothing, though with smaller selections than Cato Fashions-Plus. For online shopping, retailers like Old Navy, Torrid, and Amazon carry extended sizes with home delivery options.

If you prefer vintage or secondhand clothing, consignment shops in larger South Carolina cities sometimes carry plus-size items at lower prices. Local boutiques in Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia occasionally stock extended sizes as well, though availability varies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items I bought at Cato Fashions-Plus?

Yes. Cato Fashions-Plus has a return policy that typically allows returns within a certain timeframe with a receipt. Policies can vary, so check your receipt or ask a staff member about the specific terms when you purchase. Items must be unworn and in original condition.

Do Cato Fashions-Plus stores offer alterations?

Some locations offer basic alterations or can refer you to local tailors. Call the store nearest you to ask what services they provide. Many independent tailors in South Carolina towns also specialize in alterations for plus-size clothing.

What's the difference between Cato and Cato Fashions-Plus?

Regular Cato stores carry sizes up to 16, while Cato Fashions-Plus starts at 14W and goes up to 32W. Cato Fashions-Plus stores are dedicated entirely to plus sizing, so the fit and proportions are designed specifically for that range. They're separate locations, not departments within the same store.

Can I order online from Cato Fashions-Plus?

Cato Enterprises operates an online store. You can browse and order from home, though shipping times and return policies for online orders may differ from in-store purchases. Check the website for current shipping costs and delivery timeframes to your area.

Do they carry petite or tall plus sizes?

Standard Cato Fashions-Plus sizing is designed for average-height plus-size women. If you need petite or tall proportions, ask staff whether specific items come in those variations, or check the website. Some styles may work better than others depending on your height.