If you’ve been on social media platforms for the past few years, straight-sized people tend to save plus-sized items to subdivide them into DIY projects, usually for one-time use. You’ve probably seen the . . By the time the DIY enthusiast completes the project, the size of the item may no longer be the same and the end result may be a perfect purchase for a comparable price.
Straight-sized people also tend to buy the largest size item they can find in order to own an oversized t-shirt or sweatshirt. In many cases, the person is objectively thin and could have bought an XL to get an oversized look without having to dabble in plus-size products.
Why do these trends matter?
First, I would like to point out that there are many companies that make oversized garments specifically for straight sizes. Amazon, Abercrombie & Fitch, H&M, American Eagle, Free People, Zara, and the list goes on to list companies that already market oversized options for straight-sized people.
Especially when these trends go viral on social media, you can see the impact in real time. In one example, when a poster purchased a size 9XL sweatshirt and spread this information to millions of viewers, the sweatshirt sizes 5-9XL were sold out and restocked. prices have risen. More notably, this retailer was the only brand selling size 9XL through his Amazon.
This meant that people who needed that size couldn’t afford it, and the price nearly doubled when it became available again.
only approximately 20% Even though 70% of U.S. women are at least a size 16, the majority of the apparel market is aimed at plus size women.. That means the remaining 80% of the apparel market is for straight sizes, giving you a much larger selection. Why do some people in good conscience acquire items that are already extremely rare?
As for thrift, plus size ones are incredibly hard to find, especially if you’re looking for a size 3X or larger. why is that? Not only are there fewer choices in the apparel market to begin with, the availability of quality items that can be worn for a long period of time is even less.
Because plus-size people experience this scarcity and inaccessibility, they tend to wear clothing until it literally falls apart, not being donated and ultimately being thrifted by others. increase.
Especially when it comes to thrift, keep in mind that plus-sized people tend to be paid less. According to an NIH study, “Overweight and obese” women earned 9% less monthly wages and were half as likely to get a job with a bonus compared to thin women.. Because of this wage gap, having affordable plus-size clothing available is an absolute necessity.
Advice for straight-sized friends
If you’re not plus size, do your best to avoid shopping in the plus size section. Essentially, you end up receiving the item from someone who could really use it and is likely to continue wearing it through and through.
Spread the word about how rare plus size clothing is. There are people out there who are totally uneducated about how big a problem this really is.
We can help you with your brand! If you see an ad for a brand that doesn’t carry plus sizes, comment and ask when it’s time to go up a size.
In the meantime, be sure to support the various plus-size thrift stores and plus-size vintage stores that are opening up across the United States. plus bus, used curvesand second-hand stare Great place to start!
We cannot fight this battle alone. You need decent-sized allies to help make a difference. Please share this post with one or two of her friends to raise awareness.