Why Fashion Needs to Be More Size Inclusive
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Going into a store or shopping online and trying to find the size that fits you best can seem almost impossible. Often, brands only offer limited sizing, which means many people are limited in where they can shop and purchase clothes. Many offer only up to size 14 or 16, but 67% of women wear sizes above 16–so how does that make any sense? Women who wear sizes above a 16 typically don’t have the same options as those who are between size 00-16. The “plus-size” section is often separate and with much fewer options. This separation of sizing promotes negative body image which can lead to other mental health issues.
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While the fashion industry is changing and gradually becoming more inclusive, there is still a long way to go. For too long the standard in fashion has been tall and thin, and anything above a size 6 for a model was unacceptable. Body image issues and body dysmorphia are seriously problems that are fueled by often unattainable beauty standards put forth by the fashion industry. Size inclusivity needs to be more widespread. Fashion should be about empowering people of all sizes to feel confident and love the way they look.
COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL STANDARD
Some brands simply add a plus size section with a limited selection of merchandise and claim that they are making strides towards being size inclusive and spreading body positivity. However, having “plus size” doesn’t make a brand size inclusive. Size inclusivity means offering all merchandise in a wide range of sizes. Everyone should be able to find what they are looking for in a size that fits them best.
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There are some incredible brands that are changing the industry with their inclusive sizing. Universal Standard was started by two women on a mission to make fashion more inclusive. The brand carries sizes 00-40 and allows women of all sizes to have access to the same classic styles. Universal Standard realizes that they can be the catalyst for change in the fashion industry, so they aim to inspire others to widen their range of sizes and become more inclusive for all. The Girlfriend Collective is not only a sustainable activewear brand, but also a size inclusive brand–they carry sizes XXS-6XL. If you’re looking for cute and casual clothing, Altar is a small business based in Portland that carries XS-6XL. Hey Mavens is a size inclusive lingerie brand that encourages everyone to look and feel their best. They carry sizes XXS- 10XL, one of the widest size ranges out there. You can check out more size inclusive brands here.
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There is no one size fits all in the fashion industry. People come in all different shapes and sizes, which means there should be clothing that come in all different shapes and sizes. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin and in clothes that make them feel good about themselves. Fashion is about confidence and empowerment. The fashion community needs to focus on building people up and inspiring people to live their best, most beautiful life, and size inclusivity is a huge part of helping people with that. Fashion is for all, and sizing needs to reflect that. No one should be forced to fit into a size that isn’t right for them, and the fashion industry is gradually realizing that offering a wide range of sizes should be the new standard.