When i first started shopping for women’s clothing i would say i was looking for a fashionable gift for my wife, girlfriend, or other important woman in my life. I would always indicate she was about my size and they usually seemed fine with that and were helpful, even though at times i broke a sweat.
among those that caught on, reactions ranged between “That would be a nice gift, but this would fit your frame much better” to outright refusing to help or asking me to leave the store. Most people are friendly and just trying to earn their keep. If you are refused or treated badly at a store, don’t go to that store unless its your only option. Fearful people provoke violence. I would even tell my friends(all kinds) about my treatment there so they don’t have to deal with those people either.