Re/Dress NYC is a foundational name in the plus size fashion industry, representing a significant milestone in its evolution.

For those who experienced the early days of plus size fashion online, Re/Dress was a transformative space. The Brooklyn storefront on Boerum Place became a pilgrimage site, where unique items like a $70 vintage Pucci-print dress coexisted with Torrid staples, allowing shoppers to feel embraced by the fashion world.

It fostered a sense of community long before the term became a marketing buzzword.

Now, Deb Malkin, the visionary behind it all, is documenting this journey in her book titled More Rump, Less Frump: Celebrating Re/Dress NYC, Brooklyn’s Fat Fashion Paradise 2008-2011, which is currently being funded through Kickstarter.

We invite you to support this project. Here’s why.

Our History Deserves Documentation

Plus size fashion media often highlights “firsts,” and Re/Dress NYC is one of the true pioneers.

Launched during a time when plus size shoppers were often grateful for poorly fitting options, Re/Dress NYC challenged that narrative. It established a physical store and an online presence before passing the torch to Rachel Kacenjar to continue its mission. Each phase of this journey offers valuable lessons on creating spaces for communities overlooked by mainstream fashion.

The Curvy Fashionista has been part of this narrative since its inception. We covered Re/Dress during FFFWeek, celebrated new arrivals like teggings, and reported on the transition to online shopping. When Deb contacted us for an interview about her book, it felt like reconnecting with an old friend to discuss the progress and future of plus size fashion.

We asked Deb what memories linger from her days at Re/Dress NYC. Her response underscores why this book is essential.

“I still get choked up remembering some of the customers who became regulars. Every time Sarah Biz would walk in the door we’d shout her name like we were in Cheers. One time I didn’t see a regular for a few weeks and called her to check in and see if she was okay, and she was so moved by it. I loved dressing girls for prom and watching my staff, who were some of the most creative and loving people, give really affirming style advice and celebrate whenever someone stepped out of their comfort zone.”

Many forget that the early plus size fashion scene was about people supporting one another—whether in dressing rooms or through phone calls. It was about celebrating each other’s presence.

Books like this don’t materialize without effort or support. Independent plus size history often gets overlooked by major publishing houses. If we want our stories told with the depth they deserve, we must be the ones to fund them.

The Industry Has Yet to Learn This Lesson

We asked Deb what she believes the industry still fails to understand about Re/Dress‘s impact. Her answer resonates with current realities as much as it did in 2008.

“I think I’d like the industry to know how difficult it was to find interesting plus size clothing to sell and how eager our customers were for it. That’s why we held indie and designer trunk shows. That’s why when Beth Ditto’s line came out in the UK, I ordered a bunch of pieces at retail because everyone wanted to see it. I wish brands would have taken seriously the truth that there is an audience for plus size fashion and in-person shopping experiences. They could have curated interesting experiences and invested in this customer, but they didn’t, and now it’s getting worse again.”

Reflect on that last statement.

In 2026, options for plus sizes are dwindling while brands express surprise at customer dissatisfaction. Deb’s insights serve as both nostalgia and a warning that remains unheeded by the industry. This book stands as evidence that demand has always existed.

What Supporting This Kickstarter Makes Possible

This call for support is not vague; backing this campaign directly contributes to printing costs and ensures that this book reaches those who lived through this history or wish they had. It signals to publishers that our narratives are marketable and demonstrates to future advocates like Deb Malkin that community support is strong.

When we asked Deb what backers are helping her preserve through this project, her response highlighted why this initiative matters more than any specific reward tier.

“I got sick of going to bookstores and never seeing us reflected. Re/Dress NYC was a fashion phenomenon. Yes, it was a moment in time but it holds equal cultural significance as countless books about bands you may not know. We prioritized personal style and self-expression within the plus size experience and fostered an environment where fashion was enjoyable and empowering. Visibility is crucial; this book will mark our history in fat liberation and plus size fashion. If we forget our pasts, others will claim they never existed. Through my publishing partner Blurring Books, we hope to place this book in institutions like the Brooklyn Museum.”

Take a moment to consider that.

This project aims not only to serve as a keepsake for those who shopped at Re/Dress NYC, but also fights for recognition of plus size fashion history within cultural institutions that have long ignored its impact on culture. It aims for visibility at places like the Brooklyn Museum and acknowledgment in future discussions about fat liberation and fashion history—achievements made possible by supporters like you.

Important Dates to Remember

This is not just a one-time request; there are numerous opportunities to engage before the campaign concludes—both locally for those nearby and online for others.

• Friday, August 28: Kickstarter launches
• Friday, August 28, 6–8pm: Kick-off event at Plus BKLYN
• Sunday, August 30: Early bird rewards end; act quickly!
• Saturday, September 6, 10am–5pm: Thick Thrift x BQ Flea Event
• Saturday, September 19, 1–5pm: Re/Dress NYC Revisited Closet Sale at Plus BKLYN
• Monday, September 28: Final two days of the campaign
• Wednesday, September 30: Kickstarter campaign concludes

If you’re near Brooklyn, attending the kick-off event or closet sale will evoke memories of Re/Dress NYC. If you’re not local, take advantage of early bird rewards!

Visit the More Rump Less Frump Kickstarter page and support it today! Every contribution matters; every share helps spread awareness about this important history.

Re/Dress NYC offered many individuals their first genuine experience of being seen within fashion. We must ensure that story is accurately told and remembered.