Big 7. Don’t call for back-up

I can’t zip up the jeans, you can’t zip up the jeans – and my dignity is hanging by a thread.

So let’s just leave it at that, shall we?

Calling for a second sales assistant to come and help manhandle me into some denim and then instructing her, “You squash and I’ll pull,” will not be an enjoyable experience for me.

8. Never ask: ‘Have you tried a plus-size store?’

Do you honestly think I’ve never heard of these stores?

I know for the fuller-figured they are veritable adventure playgrounds – jam-packed full of diaphanous kaftans, baggy shirts, elasticated waists and colourful leggings.

I just don’t want to go there.

Going to them is like throwing in the towel and acknowledging that you are officially too fat for “normal” shops.

Next stop: slip-on shoes and reading glasses worn on a chain.

9. Don’t try to direct my accessories

isn’t going to make me feel any better.

What you’re really saying is: “OK, you can’t fit into our dresses but your earlobes can’t be that much bigger than anyone else’s, can they?” Shop assistants should not treat accessories as some consolation prize for anybody who is not a size eight to 14.

10. Don’t shout my size across the store

As a woman in her 40s and a size 16, when I shop in high street fashion stores I already feel about as welcome as a mistress at a wedding.

Please do not make things any worse. When I ask if you have my size, I expect you to go and have a look discreetly.

Do not shout my request to your colleague 10 metres away then have a loud, five-minute discussion about whether you go up “that big” or if you will have to “order it in specially”. – Daily Mail