I am traveling to Belize from Europe via Miami/Cancun: had hoped to overnight in Miami and stock up with casual clothes: but there's such a good connection direct to Cancun I'm wondering if buying the clothes (female) in Playa del Carmen is an option. I don't want to go into Cancun.

There are a number of dress shops and a couple of surf shops along 5th Ave in Playa del Carmen. It's mostly beach wear, sundresses and swimsuits. In a pinch, there's even a Sam's in PDC.

Shopping for clothes at Sam's or similar store can be pretty frustrating. Keep in mind the typical Mexican woman and particularly the Mayan woman are very small compared to most Americans. Many expats have a LOT of trouble finding clothes that fit and they're not that big so unless you're under @ a normal size 6, you may have problems w/fit.

I think it could possibly turn into a bit of a hassle. I would definitely pack from home any absolute necessities (bathing suits, and some basic shorts, tanks, tshirts, sandals, sneakers, etc.) then maybe filling if you can find a few things in PdC.

You should stock up on clothes in Miami...there is really not much to choose from in Playa Del Carmen unless you are looking for tourist t-shirts and generic cheap beach dresses. There are only a handfull of clothing stores in Playa that are worth mentioning; Shalom (on 5th), Bershka and Pull and Bear....plus a few surf shops with brand names like Roxy and Pawa.

There are some US chain stores in PDC. I remember seeing an American APparel, and possibly a Gap, and a few others. There are a bunch of other small shops all up and down 5th avenue.