The fashion industry primarily focuses on sizes 0 to 4, excluding larger bodies from design and marketing, which reinforces the notion that thinness equates to beauty and success. While brands often cite costs for limited size inclusivity, the preference for thin models suggests that larger bodies are unwelcome, negatively impacting the well-being of those individuals.
Fashion often overlooks diverse body sizes, favoring thin models and claiming size grading is too costly. This suggests that larger bodies are usually perceived as unattractive, with plus-size options typically being of lower quality and unflattering. As a result, companies focus on public relations rather than making meaningful changes in an exclusive industry.
The plus-size community often faces a lack of adequate representation in the fashion industry, which can hinder their efforts toward achieving holistic wellness. It is essential to recognize and address these gaps to foster inclusivity and support the well-being of all individuals.
The Plus-Size Fashion Faced Major Setbacks, as Key Retailers Closed Their Doors
- Torrid, a leading plus-size retailer, announced the closure of 180 U.S. stores.
- Arula shut down all locations after seven years in business.
- Yours Clothing closed several stores in the UK, including those located in city centers.
- Forever 21 and Rue 21, after a bankruptcy filing, shut down all U.S. locations by May 2025.
These closures extend beyond retail. They affect mental health, self-worth, and economic access for millions of people, notably impacting plus-size wellness:
- Reduced access: With fewer physical stores available, plus-size shoppers miss the chance to try on clothing. This increases stress and inconvenience.
- Emotional toll: For many people, these stores provided a rare sense of validation. Their absence can feel deeply personal and isolating.
- Economic impact: Job losses and reduced foot traffic in local communities contribute to broader negative impacts.
- Inconsistent sizing: Poorly standardized sizing across brands leads to costly returns and customer frustration.
- Lack of tactile experience: Online shopping limits the ability to touch fabrics or assess fit. It is significant for individuals with unique body proportions.
Wellness Month should serve as a reminder: true well-being includes everyone, encompassing plus-size wellness. Health is not defined by body size, and fashion has a significant impact on self-perception and interactions with the world.
Influencers Are Leading the Charge in Redefining Health, Joy, and Self-Worth
Samyra shares empowering content about fashion, confidence, and self-expression.
TheKatherineRae speaks openly about body acceptance and community healing.
Jessamyn Stanley is a yoga teacher and author who champions mindfulness and movement for all body types. She promotes initiatives related to plus-size wellness.
Stephanie Yeboah, author of Fattily Ever After, unpacks the impact of stigma on mental health and encourages therapy and healing.
Meg Boggs is a powerlifter and author of Fitness for Every Body. She promotes strength and resilience through initiatives in plus-size wellness.
KelssJourney documents her wellness transformation, embracing joy, body neutrality, and accessible fitness. She does this with honesty and humor, offering pathways related to plus-size wellness.
Change is possible, yet the industry continues to face setbacks. In contrast, individuals can encourage wellness for the plus-size community by:
- Support inclusive brands: Shop from companies that offer diverse sizing and consistently cater to the plus-size market. This is crucial for promoting plus-size wellness.
- Use your voice: Social media is a powerful tool for holding brands accountable. It helps in demanding representation in the plus-size wellness space.
- Explore alternatives: Online boutiques, thrift stores, and custom fitting can offer more personalized and inclusive fashion experiences.
Wellness Month should extend beyond green smoothies and gym memberships. It should foster an inclusive environment for everyone. For the plus-size community, advocating for fashion representation is crucial to achieving wellness and a sense of identity. It highlights the importance of inclusivity in plus-size fashion.
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