Absolutely, JCPenney — you heard it correctly!
In an exciting development that has us eagerly refreshing our fall wardrobes already, the renowned supermodel and advocate for body positivity, Ashley Graham, has officially joined forces with JCPenney to launch an exclusive plus size collection set to revolutionize their approach to fashion.
Announced today, this intriguing collaboration between JCPenney and the multi-talented Ashley Graham signifies a transformative moment not just for the brand, but for the entire realm of plus size fashion. Slated for release in Fall 2025, the Ashley Graham x JCPenney collection is set to offer bold, confident, and stylishly chic pieces meticulously designed for plus size women, infused with that signature Graham style we love.
Discovering the Significance of the Ashley Graham x JCPenney Collaboration
For Ashley, this collaboration transcends a mere job; it’s deeply personal.
“This is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time,” Ashley expressed. “JCPenney has been a true support for me from the very start, providing me with one of my initial opportunities as a model. Witnessing JCPenney courageously embracing its role as a fashion leader for individuals of all body types is incredibly empowering and inspiring.”
What a remarkable full-circle moment! The Ashley Graham x JCPenney partnership seems destined to happen — merging a legacy retailer that is recommitting to its foundational principles of accessible fashion with a plus size model who has challenged and redefined beauty standards on a global scale.
Moreover, it’s not just Ashley who is thrilled about this collaboration. The leadership team at JCPenney is equally enthusiastic.
“Collaborating with Ashley represents a pivotal moment for JCPenney,” stated JCPenney Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Wlazlo. “This partnership is more than just launching a product – it’s a strategic initiative to redefine the Plus category with fashion-forward, runway-inspired designs that truly reflect Ashley’s unique style and spirit. Her authentic connection to JCPenney and her commitment to enhancing fashion accessibility for the plus size community positions her as the ideal partner to amplify our ‘Yes, JCPenney’ message.”
When brands and talent come together with such genuine alignment, you know that something magical is about to unfold.
JCPenney: Emerging as a Leader in Plus Size Fashion
If you’ve overlooked JCPenney lately, it’s time for a reintroduction.
Under their bold new campaign titled “Yes, JCPenney!”, the retailer has been making significant strides — investing in every body type, every size, and every style imaginable. Unlike many brands that consider plus size as an afterthought, JCPenney proudly offers extended sizing across all of its private label brands. This commitment means more choices, enhanced style, and an abundance of reasons to say “Yes!” as you explore every section of the store.
In fact, stepping into a JCPenney today might feel refreshingly different: inclusive mannequins, expanded size ranges right on the main floor (not hidden away!), and contemporary, fashion-forward styles that genuinely resonate with current trends — rather than feeling like an unfortunate afterthought.
A Strong History of Commitment to Plus Size Fashion
This isn’t JCPenney’s first time shining a spotlight on plus size fashion. Longtime fans of curvy fashion may recall the retailer’s partnership with designer Ashley Nell Tipton, who made history as the first designer to win Project Runway with a plus size collection. In 2016, JCPenney collaborated with Tipton to launch an exciting, colorful, and groundbreaking plus size line — marking one of the first instances a major department store granted a plus size designer full creative autonomy.
That moment was monumental for visibility — and this new Ashley Graham x JCPenney collaboration reinforces that JCPenney is committed to investing in, evolving, and championing plus size fashion on an even grander scale.
Amidst Industry Retreats, JCPenney Expands Its Plus Size Offerings
At a time when numerous retailers are quietly relegating plus size fashion to online only — leaving plus size shoppers feeling overlooked in physical stores — JCPenney is proudly doing the opposite. They are enhancing their plus size offerings on the sales floor, ensuring that full-figured customers can shop, feel, try on, and engage with fashion in the way it is genuinely meant to be.
Let’s be honest: we deserve to see our reflections in-store. We deserve beautiful, accessible clothing without the uncertainty that comes with online shopping. JCPenney is courageously standing firm in this truth — providing plus size shoppers with an in-real-life shopping experience that feels inclusive, stylish, and acknowledges their presence.
This strategic decision not only signifies growth for their plus size fashion commitment but also conveys a powerful message: every body is welcome here.
Understanding the Importance of This Movement
We’ve stated it before, and we’ll say it louder for those in the back: Plus size fashion IS fashion.
Despite the fact that 68% of American women wear a size 14 or larger, industry research, including findings from Plunkett Research and Coresight Research, reveals that less than 20% of apparel is actually produced in plus sizes. With the Ashley Graham x JCPenney collaboration taking the lead, they are transforming that frustrating narrative — making authentic, runway-inspired fashion accessible to the majority, not the minority.
This isn’t merely a collaboration. It’s a movement. A resounding, proud, and vibrant reminder that style knows no size limits — and when it comes to celebrating curves, JCPenney (along with Ashley) is not settling for anything less.
What to Expect in the Future
We’ll be eagerly counting down the days until Fall 2025 — and rest assured, when the Ashley Graham x JCPenney collection is unveiled, The Curvy Fashionista will be at the forefront, providing you with comprehensive reviews, sizing guidance, and styling inspiration you know you can rely on.
Until then, let’s say it together: YES, JCPenney!
