Spring and summer collections fill the stores and the start of bathing suit season has begun. Many mothers will be flocking to area retailers to add to their warm-weather wardrobes. But will they find the sizes they need?

The average-sized North American woman wears between a 12 and a 14 dress size and weighs about 163 pounds. However, the scores of fashion brands and trendy stores fail to cater to this growing demographic. Most fashion-forward boutiques and mainstream designers only offer clothing up to a size 10. If they do offer larger sizes, there are minimal styles and possibilities available, and the stock could be "hidden" in the back storeroom.

According to Trendex, sales of plus-size clothing account for 20 to 25 percent of the overall women's market. While some stores, such as Lane Bryant, Avenue and Fashion Bug, cater to the plus-sized market, most women who wear larger sizes are relegated to purchasing items from big-box retailers like Wal-Mart or Target.

Fashion forecasters say that designers simply do not have the time or inclination to let plus-size lines evolve. Also, producing larger sizes isn't simply a matter of making smaller sizes bigger. In sizes 16 or above, the silhouette of clothing changes, with more girth in the middle. Designers have to accommodate for this and work with completely different patterns.

According to statistics, Baby Boomers (those between ages 35 and 54) are America's leading consumers. What's more, these established individuals tend to have higher incomes and more spending money than others, making them an ideal target for retailers.

Until the fashion industry catches up with the average-sized woman, there are certain ways for women to dress their bodies if they are searching for fitting clothes.

• Fit the largest size of your body. This may require shopping for bottoms in plus-size departments and tops in the regular ladies department.

• Develop a relationship with the tailor. Tailoring clothing can enable you to get the fit you desire.

• Consider shopping online. Many plus-sized boutiques cater to women through the Internet. The downside is that you cannot feel the clothing before purchasing. However, check to see if they have a free return policy. Once you learn what styles fit you, it'll be easier to repurchase.

• Avoid styles that are built around stick-thin or boy-framed women. You need styles that work with curves. Avoid tapered or low-rise pants.

• Skirts and dresses may give you more wiggle room and are easier to fit than slacks.