What Catherine's Is and How to Shop There
Catherine's is a retail chain that sells clothing, shoes, and accessories in plus sizes, typically starting at size 0X and going up to 5X or larger depending on the item. The company operates both physical stores and an online shopping site. You can browse and purchase in person at a Catherine's location, order from their website for home delivery, or use their mobile app to shop on your phone.
Catherine's carries everyday clothing like jeans, tops, dresses, and activewear, as well as seasonal items and special occasion wear. They also stock bras, underwear, swimwear, and shoes. The store focuses on fit and style options designed specifically for plus-size bodies rather than scaling down smaller sizes.
If you are new to Catherine's, you can start by visiting their website or finding a store near you using their location finder. Most stores allow you to browse without a membership, though the company does offer a rewards program for repeat shoppers.
Key Takeaways
- Catherine's sells plus-size clothing in stores and online, with sizes typically ranging from 0X to 5X depending on the item type.
- You can shop in person, order online for delivery, or use their mobile app without needing a membership account.
- The company offers a rewards program that lets you earn points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future orders.
- Return and exchange policies vary slightly between in-store and online purchases, so check the specific rules before you buy.
- Catherine's regularly runs sales and promotions, and signing up for their email list can notify you when items go on sale.
How to Shop Online and Arrange Delivery
To order from Catherine's website, create an account or shop as a guest. Add items to your cart, then proceed to checkout. You will enter a shipping address and choose a delivery method — standard shipping typically takes five to seven business days, while expedited options are available for an extra fee.
Catherine's ships to most U.S. addresses. During checkout, the website shows you the shipping cost before you complete your order, so you know the total price including delivery. Some promotions offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, which the site displays clearly during the sale period.
Once your order ships, you receive a tracking number by email. You can use this number to monitor your package's progress. If you need to change your address after placing an order, contact customer service as soon as possible — they may be able to update it before the package leaves the warehouse.
Understanding Sizing and Fit
Catherine's sizes are labeled with X notation (0X, 1X, 2X, and so on) rather than traditional dress sizes. The fit can vary between different types of clothing — a 2X top may fit differently than a 2X pair of pants. The website includes size charts for most items, showing measurements in inches so you can compare against your own body.
Product pages often include customer reviews that mention fit. Readers frequently note whether an item runs large, small, or true to size, which can help you decide whether to order your usual size or adjust. If you are uncertain, ordering two sizes and returning one is a common approach, though you will pay return shipping unless the item is defective.
Catherine's physical stores have fitting rooms where you can try items on before buying. Staff members can also help you find your size and suggest styles that work for your body type and preferences.
Returns, Exchanges, and Refunds
In-store purchases can be returned or exchanged within 60 days with your receipt. Without a receipt, the store can still process a return but may offer store credit instead of a refund. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and in original condition with tags attached.
Online orders have a similar 60-day window. To start a return, log into your account on the Catherine's website and request a return label, or contact customer service for instructions. You will need to pay for return shipping unless the item arrived damaged or was the wrong size due to an error on Catherine's part. Once the company receives your return, refunds typically process within one to two weeks.
Clearance items and final-sale merchandise cannot be returned or exchanged. The product page clearly marks these items, so check before you complete your purchase. If you are unsure whether an item is final sale, customer service can tell you.
The Catherine's Rewards Program
Catherine's offers a free rewards program called the Catherine's Rewards program. When you sign up, you earn points on every purchase — both in stores and online. Points accumulate and can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases once you reach certain thresholds.
To join, you can sign up in a store, on the website, or through the mobile app. You provide your name, email address, and phone number. Once enrolled, you automatically earn points on purchases made with your rewards account. The program also sends members early notice of sales and exclusive offers via email.
Points do not expire as long as your account remains active, though the company may close inactive accounts after a set period of time. Check your account online or ask in store to see your current points balance and available rewards.
Using the Catherine's Mobile App
The Catherine's mobile app lets you browse the full catalog, check store inventory, and make purchases from your phone. You can read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app works best if you create an account, which syncs your rewards points and saved items across devices.
One useful feature is the ability to check whether a specific size and color is in stock at your nearest store before you drive there. You can also use the app to view your order history, track shipments, and manage returns. Push notifications alert you to flash sales and new arrivals if you turn them on in your settings.
The app functions the same way as the website for checkout and payment. You can use any major credit card, debit card, or digital payment method that the website accepts.
Sales, Promotions, and How to Save
Catherine's runs regular sales throughout the year, including seasonal clearance events and holiday promotions. The company often discounts items by 20 to 50 percent during these periods. Sale prices are displayed on product pages and in stores, and the sale end date is usually shown so you know how long the discount lasts.
Signing up for the email list is one of the fastest ways to learn about upcoming sales. Catherine's emails subscribers about new promotions, exclusive member discounts, and clearance events. You can manage your email preferences on the website to choose how often you want to hear from them.
Rewards members sometimes receive additional discounts or bonus points during sales. Check your account or ask in store whether a current promotion offers extra benefits for rewards members. Combining a sale price with a rewards discount can result in significant savings on your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return something I bought in a store to the website, or vice versa?
Most Catherine's locations allow you to return online purchases in store and return in-store purchases by mail. However, policies can vary by location. Call your local store or check the return instructions on your order confirmation to confirm whether your specific purchase can be returned the way you prefer.
What payment methods does Catherine's take?
Catherine's accepts major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), debit cards, and digital payment options like PayPal. In stores, you can also pay with cash. The website shows all accepted payment methods during checkout.
How do I know if an item will fit before I order it online?
Check the size chart on the product page and compare the measurements to a piece of clothing that fits you well. Read customer reviews, which often mention fit. If you are still unsure, order two sizes and return the one that does not fit — you will pay return shipping, but it removes the guesswork.
Does Catherine's ship internationally?
Catherine's primarily ships within the United States. If you need to ship to a U.S. territory or have questions about international shipping, contact customer service directly for current options and any associated fees.
What should I do if my order arrives damaged?
Contact Catherine's customer service right away with photos of the damage. The company will typically send a replacement or issue a refund without requiring you to pay return shipping for the damaged item. Keep the packaging and damaged item until customer service instructs you what to do with it.