J.Crew’s strides towards plus size inclusivity have finally emerged after years of demand. The brand, traditionally recognized for its exclusive preppy style, has made significant changes to its size offerings, now including plus size fashion options. However, the pivotal question remains: Is this a genuine commitment to catering to plus size shoppers, or simply a fleeting trend?
With an expanded size range now available up to 3X, J.Crew is signaling to plus size shoppers that it acknowledges their presence. This move can be seen as a recognition of a wider audience, yet it raises concerns about the brand’s long-term dedication to this demographic.
It’s crucial to note that visibility does not equate to value. History suggests that a broader size range does not necessarily ensure a brand is truly focused on serving plus size consumers effectively.
Exploring J.Crew’s Enhanced Plus Size Inclusivity: Key Changes
Historically, J.Crew has felt like an exclusive fashion club, leaving plus size shoppers on the outside looking in. Established in 1983, the brand has, until recently, largely overlooked this significant segment of the population. While the fashion landscape has evolved, J.Crew has upheld a commitment to quality, eschewing the fast-fashion model that dominates today’s market. When envisioning their style, one might think of effortlessly cool pieces like striped boatneck tees and crisp button-downs, tailored for a very specific body type.
Unfortunately, that body type has not included plus sizes until now. Statistics show that a substantial 67% of American women wear a size 14 or larger, yet for years, J.Crew did not cater to them. Unlike fast-fashion giants like Forever 21 or established retailers such as Target, which expanded their size offerings long ago, J.Crew lagged behind, even as luxury brands began to embrace inclusivity more rapidly.
J.Crew’s initial foray into acknowledging plus size customers came in 2018 through a collaboration with Universal Standard, a brand celebrated for its diverse sizing. This collection featured 37 pieces that extended to 5X, and for a brief moment, it appeared that J.Crew was moving in the right direction. However, this was followed by a disappointing silence, devoid of any follow-up or further expansion, leaving many to question their commitment to inclusivity.
Now, as they re-enter the conversation, it raises an important question: Have they truly learned from past mistakes?
Discovering What J.Crew Offers in Plus Size Fashion
J.Crew’s official size chart now indicates availability for clothing up to 3X (approximately a size 24), which marks an improvement from their previous offerings. This expanded sizing now encompasses various categories, including denim, dresses, blazers, and knitwear, catering to a wider audience of fashion-forward individuals. However, it’s important to note that while the range is broader, it’s not without limitations.
As many plus size shoppers have come to realize, not every item on the J.Crew website is available in extended sizes. For instance, the denim collection remains somewhat restricted, with fewer styles designed specifically for curvier body types. The pressing issue that needs to be addressed is that J.Crew has done little to effectively market this plus size expansion, leaving potential customers unaware of what is available.
The Question of Representation: Where Are the Plus Size Models?
Courtesy of J. Crew
A glaring concern regarding J.Crew’s approach to plus size fashion is the noticeable absence of representation within their advertising campaigns. If a brand claims to cater to plus size consumers yet fails to showcase them meaningfully, can they genuinely claim to serve this demographic?
Katrina Tijerina from The Mom Edit voiced her disappointment about the lack of plus size models on J.Crew’s website, highlighting a crucial issue: “They have zero plus size models on their website, so how are we supposed to see how the clothes fit on our bodies? It’s exhausting when brands don’t take that extra step.”
On social media, J.Crew’s efforts to promote their new sizing have been minimal. There are no dedicated campaigns, major influencer collaborations, or significant outreach efforts aimed at reassuring plus size shoppers of their place within the brand.
This lack of visibility has not gone unnoticed by consumers. A Reddit user encapsulated the sentiment perfectly: “Their sizing can be a little problematic… Cut matters almost as much as actual measurements. Just because something technically ‘fits’ doesn’t mean it’s flattering or wearable.”
A recent review of their “Curvy Kate Straight Leg Pant” revealed a two-star rating, primarily due to the fit in the waist being less accurate than expected. See below:
For J.Crew’s expansion to resonate authentically with the plus size community, it is essential for the brand to demonstrate a genuine, sustained commitment to inclusivity. Without meaningful efforts, their extended sizing may come across as nothing more than a superficial change.
Assessing J.Crew’s Commitment to Plus Size Fashion: Is It Worth the Hype?
Is it fair to conclude that J.Crew has finally achieved true inclusivity? While their expansion into plus sizes is a significant and necessary step forward, it does not automatically guarantee success. The plus size consumer base is discerning and loyal, having witnessed numerous brands proclaim inclusivity only to retract their efforts when faced with challenges.
Many brands have successfully navigated this terrain. They don’t merely provide larger sizes; they actively promote them, utilizing plus size models, showcasing authentic body types, and creating an environment where inclusivity feels natural rather than forced.
If J.Crew aspires to be a trailblazer in the fashion industry for all sizes, they must substantiate their commitment by ensuring that their designs fit appropriately, maintaining their collection availability in stores, and genuinely marketing to plus size consumers. Representation is not just a trend; it is an essential component of modern fashion.
J.Crew’s initiatives toward plus size inclusivity are a promising start, and the plus size community is keenly observing their progress. For the time being, all eyes are on J.Crew as they navigate this critical journey.
Are you considering trying out J.Crew’s plus size collection? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Sarah Parker is a research analyst and content contributor with a strong interest in business strategy, organizational behavior, and social development. With a background in sociology and public policy, she focuses on exploring the intersection between research and real-world application. Sarah regularly contributes articles that bridge academic insights and practical relevance, aiming to foster critical thinking and innovation across sectors.
