I have been observing a remarkable transformation within the fashion landscape. This shift is not only interesting but also significant in the realm of plus-size fashion.

Understanding the Transformation in the Plus Size Fashion Industry

Since the inception of TCF, I’ve witnessed an exhilarating evolution in the plus size fashion industry that ignites enthusiasm and curiosity. This journey has revealed exciting changes that reflect a growing acceptance and celebration of diverse body types.

Before diving deeper into this topic, it’s essential to share my background: I spent over a decade in retail, gaining experience in various capacities, including management, before founding TCF. My academic credentials include an MBA with a focus on the plus size market, providing me with a well-rounded perspective on the industry.

This context is crucial because it shapes my insights into the challenges our community faces, as I approach these issues with both a personal touch and a business-oriented mindset.

To illustrate my point…

Notable figures and events such as Plus Model Magazine, Mark Fast, Crystal Renn, CNN, V Mag, Velvet D’Amour, FFFWeek, Beth Ditto, Melissa McCarthy, Evans, Plus North, Good Morning America, British Plus Size Fashion Weekend, Qristyl Frazier, Big Love, Curvy Girls, Elle Quebec, and Vogue Italia

are just a few highlights that have significantly influenced the industry over recent years.

What Signs Indicate a Positive Evolution in Plus Size Fashion?

From my perspective, the direction of this movement is quite promising.

What drives my observation of this shift in the plus size industry? There are several key indicators that not only pique my interest but also fill me with optimism:

• Full Figured Fashion Week: The success of the fifth annual Full Figured Fashion Week has empowered designers and brands to align their collections with the timelines of mainstream fashion, including the presentation of pre-fall collections. This was a significant departure from the situation when FFFWeek was first launched.
• The Plus Size Fashion Market: Mainstream media’s conversations have shifted focus from merely discussing “obesity” to highlighting other significant statistics: plus size shoppers contribute a staggering billion to retail revenues and make up 67% of the apparel-purchasing demographic.
• Advocates for Plus Size Fashion: Influential figures in fashion, such as Christie Brinkley from Wall Street On Style, are now calling out retailers and designers for overlooking this lucrative market. Thank you for your voice, Christie!
• Media Planet: Their contributions to publications like USA Today focusing on plus size fashion cannot go unnoticed.
• Even reputable platforms like Huffington Post, Jezebel, and XOJane have begun to scrutinize and discuss the current state of plus size fashion!
• Students in fashion programs are actively addressing the need for better fit models and developing solutions to tackle fit challenges!
• Additionally, Business Insider has effectively examined and recognized the transformative changes occurring within the plus size industry. A special thanks to Margaret Bogenreif for inspiring this discussion.

We must also acknowledge the media outlets that are paying attention to consumer needs. Magazines like Marie Claire, In Style, and Reebok are making strides in their print publications, while Lucky Magazine has established a strong online presence (Heyyy Margie!).

What Implications Does This Transformation Hold for the Future?

Reflecting on previous discussions,

Ultimately, it all revolves around economic impact.

In the realm of plus size fashion, we are discussing a staggering SIXTEEN BILLION DOLLARS.

Does this imply that the challenges in plus size fashion will simply disappear overnight? Absolutely not. Meaningful change takes time and must be implemented carefully and thoughtfully to ensure sustainability.

I have previously expressed my concerns in an Open Letter to the Fashion Community, along with fellow plus size creators, influencers, and social media advocates, regarding our frustrations and challenges in the plus size fashion landscape.

As mainstream media and straight-sized designers remain attentive to these issues, I have several recommendations to facilitate substantial progress…

Key Recommendations for the Mainstream Fashion Industry

• Integrate plus size fashion design education into your design schools. It is essential to learn the unique characteristics of the plus size form and its aesthetics to create fashion that truly resonates.
• Designers, cease the practice of merely scaling up patterns. Instead, collaborate with plus size fit models to ensure accurate fit and enhance sales and profitability. A well-fitting garment is vital, regardless of size.
• Invest in research about your plus size customer base. We are diverse, with varying tastes, preferences, and budget considerations. Our shopping habits mirror those of straight-sized consumers; we are drawn to the same styles and trends.
• Avoid diluting designs as they reach the plus size market. If a design features a thigh-high slit in straight sizes, it should be available in plus sizes as well. Maintain structural integrity in garments rather than substituting them for less flattering materials.

Empowering the Plus Size Fashion Community

• We must foster accountability among ourselves. To gain respect, we need to deliver quality work. Everyone involved—designers, boutique owners, bloggers, models, online retailers, and magazines—must recognize that:
  • There is space for everyone in the industry.
  • People engage in this field for various reasons—passion, profession, or personal interest—and all motivations are valid.
• With the growing array of opportunities, individuals can contribute to the community beyond just modeling. We need more representation from women AND MEN in business roles, working to effect change from both inside and outside the industry.
• Community collaboration is essential. What we’ve accomplished thus far is commendable. As Margaret highlighted, “Instead of simply accepting the fashion industry’s refusal to acknowledge this marketplace, these key players have created a community that rewards those retailers eager to cater to the plus size shopper while penalizing those shops that fail to meet consumer standards.”

The progress we’ve made is something to celebrate, and there is much to look forward to. Though challenges remain, the indicators and insights I’ve observed motivate me and fill me with hope.

For everyone in the plus size fashion community, continue your incredible work! Keep breaking down barriers, opening doors, and using your voices to drive change…

The dialogue is evolving, and our voices are finally being acknowledged.

With this momentum, I will persist in sharing my insights and experiences.