Breaking down the barriers of plus size

What is plus size and how does that define a woman?

Was it too much for designers to think of including more sizes? -- Because there are definitely more sizes than small, medium, and large. Why does it even have to be called plus size? These are questions I think about when it comes to plus size models, plus size shopping and women who are the consumers in the plus size market.

Stores like Forever21 include a plus size category and have a section in some of their stores. Torrid is one of the first trendy clothing stores that hit shopping malls. Other stores offer plus size options online, but what if you want to try it on? You can always chance it, but who wants to order a size too big or too small and have to chance sending it back? Not me, that’s who.

And while we’re at it, why don’t men have a plus size section? You have the men’s section and that’s it. There’s no such thing as a plus size man, only plus size women. Hmmm...

What makes a woman plus size?

“In the fashion industry, "plus size" is a term for models who are size 8 and up. But in the real world, most people would never think of a size 8 as plus size — most plus-size clothing doesn't even start until a size16.” –Cosmopolitan magazine.

Not only are plus size women singled out in fashion, there are less options for women of this size so it’s more difficult to easily shop for a quick outfit.

What’s funny is, people look at being plus size as a bad thing. It’s not. Some women are built bigger and taller, broader shoulders, thicker waists, more junk in the trunk, more belly, thicker thighs, watermelons for breast, whatever the combination of the sort, it is not a death sentence.

What does the fashion industry need for said “Plus size” models?

More options. Inclusion. Trendy, in-style clothing that don’t cost an arm and a leg when a woman wants to dress up. Women should feel comfortable when they’re shopping, not singled out by a label. So let’s not call it “plus size.” Call it curvy, lovely, and stylish at any size.

Here’s a list of some cute plus size places to shop online and/or in-store:

Forever21
H&M
Torrid
Charlotte Russe
Target
Lord & Taylor
Eloquii
Venus
Ashley Stewart
UrbanOG
Curvy Sense
BooHoo
MissGuided
Simply Be
Asos
Express
Macy’s
Nordstrom

JOIN IN: Comment below and tell us what you do or don’t like about plus size shopping. If you have shopped at any of the stores above, give us your personal feedback. Did you like it? Yes? No? Maybe?

I’ve also picked out a few looks that I absolutely love going into the winter holiday season. Enjoy!