Popular Plus-Size Retailer With 21 New York Locations Plans Major Closures

If you’re someone who’s ever walked into a Torrid store and felt that rush of joy at finally finding jeans that actually fit and feel good, this news might sting a bit.

Torrid, the popular plus-size clothing chain known for its trendy, curve-friendly styles, has announced plans to close up to 180 stores across the country this year. That’s nearly 30% of its brick-and-mortar locations, and with 21 stores in New York State alone, fans of the store are left wondering if their go-to spot will be among them.

Why the Closures?

The decision came during Torrid’s latest earnings report on June 5. According to the company, the closures are part of a broader shift to focus more on their digital shopping experience, since about 70% of their customers already shop online.

CEO Lisa Harper noted a nearly 5% drop in sales compared to the same time last year, so this move is meant to help streamline operations and invest more into where their shoppers already are, on the web.

Is My Torrid Store Closing?

That’s the big question, and for now, we don’t have a clear answer. Torrid hasn’t released a list of which locations are on the chopping block. So if you’re a regular shopper at your local store, your best bet is to keep an eye out for updates and maybe make that shopping trip you’ve been putting off.

You can check out the full list of current stores at torrid.com/stores.

A Trend in Plus-Size Retail?

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time the plus-size retail world has taken a hit. Back in 2020, Lane Bryant closed 157 locations, and Avenue shut down all of its brick-and-mortar stores in 2019, both tied to bankruptcy filings. Like Torrid, though, both brands continue to live on through their online storefronts.

What This Means for Shoppers

If you’ve loved the experience of trying things on in person, chatting with friendly sales associates, or just seeing how clothes look in real life before buying, this might feel like another loss for size-inclusive shopping. But the upside? Torrid is likely to lean into making its online store even better. Think faster shipping, easier returns, and maybe even expanded styles.

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Still, if you’re someone who prefers that in-person shopping feeling, it’s okay to feel a little bummed. These are the kinds of changes that reshape how we shop, and for the plus-size community, which has fought for more representation and retail space, it feels especially personal.

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So, what’s next? Support your local Torrid while you can, and cross your fingers your store isn’t on the list when its finally revealed.