Remember the scene in Pretty Woman when Julia Roberts' character enters a luxury clothing store, only to be turned away by snooty sales associates despite having money to spend? My shopping experience in Rome feels eerily similar, but not because of attitude – it’s the sizing situation. Let’s get personal. As I’ve entered my thirties, my body has changed.
No longer a size six, I’m now more of a size ten in US standards, sometimes a twelve due to my larger bust. Shopping has become an adventure in finding clothes that fit comfortably yet fashionably. However, Rome seems to have different ideas.
Why is clothes shopping here so difficult? To illustrate, let's embark on a shopping excursion. You can walk to most areas if you’re aiming for your daily 20,000 steps or opt for the bus – though be prepared for a crowded ride. Walking, however, offers a chance to enjoy Rome’s beauty.
First Stop: Mercatino If you’re into resale or vintage fashion, Mercatino is a must-visit. This store buys fashion items from customers, so its inventory is handpicked. However, nothing is categorized by size – it’s organized by color and style, making the hunt for your perfect piece a bit of a challenge.
Despite the effort, most items I liked were too small. Thrifting in Trastevere Trastevere’s Via di S. Francesco a Ripa has several thrift shops in close proximity.
Unfortunately, these shops often stock predominantly smaller sizes with few options for larger sizes. Accessories are .
