It might not always be easy to be a plus size fashionista, but looking back over the last five years, a lot has changed. Five years ago, plus size models on the catwalk were controversial, and now even mainstream fashion labels are embracing body diversity. On the high street, there are a lot more choices for bigger girls, and online there’s even more. Body positivity might still have a long way to go in terms of mainstream fat acceptance, but it’s never been better in the fashion world. Here’s what’s changed.
More diversity
There’s more diversity in modelling in 2024, across the board. We’ve moved (a little bit) away from size-zero, towards a curvier ideal of womanhood – and a more diverse one. There’s more acceptance overall that beauty comes in different shapes and sizes, which can only be a good thing.
More Shoes
There are also waaaaay more options for those amongst us with wide feet. Part of this is to do with the rise (and rise) of curve collections, but part of it is also to do with a realisation that yes, people have different sized feet! It’s great to have more womens wide fit shoes to wear, plus good shoes make everyone look badass. Win-win.
Influencers have become more important
In the last five years, Instagram has really taken off as an influencer platform. This has brought more diverse voices to the table, and has changed the way we consume fashion. Instead of following brands, we can follow real people, who share their honest opinions on what they wear and demonstrate that plus-size fashion can be just as joyous as fashion for slimmer people. Gone are the days when “plus size fashion” meant hiding in a shapeless, black sack.
More lingerie!
As well as being cooler, plus size fashion has got sexier. There are way more lingerie options out there for when you want to feel femme and fab, and – gasp – they look pretty and support you where you need it. Feeling flawless starts with your underwear (hands up if you’ve ever worn a gorgeous dress with underwear that makes you all lumps and bumps), so it’s great that more brands are out there flying the plus size flag.
If you’re ever looking for more places to buy your lingerie, there are plenty of stores you can shop from online, and plenty of places shown here on this blog. Plus size lingerie stores are only becoming more popular, so you should get out there and find out what fits you the best.
It’s more widely available
Over the last five years, plus size fashion has become easier and easier to find. High street brands are increasingly stocking larger sizes, and online retailers have been getting in on the action too. There’s less frump to be seen, and way more fashion – good news for curvy girls everywhere.
