Plus size fashion can still improve—like, a lot. Sure, we’ve seen some exciting changes in recent years, but let’s not get too comfy. The momentum that once felt groundbreaking is starting to fizzle, and honestly, it shows. Some brands that were once loud and proud about size inclusivity are now ghosting us—scaling back ranges, disappearing altogether, or just straight-up ignoring the plus size consumer. And don’t get me started on the “we’ll restock soon” lies.
As a publication focused on fashion, we can’t pretend this isn’t frustrating. What felt like the beginning of a real revolution is starting to look more like a trend that’s fallen out of season. Inclusivity isn’t a capsule collection—it should be the standard. So yes, we’re clapping for the wins, but we’re also side-eyeing the setbacks. Because plus size fashion deserves more than crumbs. We want the full damn buffet.
This growing gap between what plus size consumers want and what the fashion industry delivers prompted me to dig deeper. Tired of limited options, inconsistent sizing, and brands treating us like an afterthought. From those conversations, we compiled a list of the ten most common and urgent complaints from plus size fashion consumers. It’s time to listen—really listen—and push for meaningful, lasting change.
Are you ready?
1. Pockets. Where Are the Pockets?
This winter I was surprised myself when I purchased an outwear jacket, that had no pockets! I don’t know about you but I am a woman who needs pockets in her life, especially in my jackets and coats! This might have been forgivable had there been pockets hidden on the inner lining, but there weren’t. Over the last ten years there has been movement to put more pockets in more garments.
I have even seen pockets in wedding dresses! How cool is that? As a woman who loves to use pockets instead of a bag, I think more garments need more pockets!
Fake or Shallow Pockets? We Want Function!
Another area of dissatisfaction for fashion lovers regarding garment design involves the presence of non-functional pockets. The outside mimics a pocket but lacks practical utility due to the absence of a pocket bag or a sealed opening without an underlying pouch. In some instances, pockets may be sewn shut during manufacturing to maintain the garment’s shape, with the actual pocket bag still present and the stitching readily removable.
However, the practice of creating the visual impression of a pocket without providing its intended function raises questions about design priorities. This approach appears to invest resources in aesthetic detail while neglecting practical usability.
And news flash- not all women carry bags, or purses!
Functional pockets are a must! If a man’s pair of jeans has enough room to basically store a tablet, then women’s jeans should have enough room to fit as least our cell phones. Fashion and function can co-exist!
Itchy Tags — Why?
Hanes stands out as one of the companies that have embraced tagless technology for a significant portion of its undergarment line, including t-shirts, boxers, briefs, and underwear. This shift towards tagless design presents advantages. Operationally, it can streamline manufacturing processes and potentially reduce costs associated with producing, attaching, and inspecting traditional tags.
Beyond production efficiencies, the tagless approach offers tangible benefits for consumers and aligns with broader environmental considerations. The elimination of sewn-in tags addresses a common source of discomfort, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin who often experience irritation or itching. The necessity to remove these labels frequently results in damage to the garment. By directly screen-printing essential information onto the fabric, the issue of scratchy tags is resolved, and the environmental impact is lessened by reducing the demand for polyester labels and the energy required for their production and attachment
Petite, Tall, and Plus Sections —Where Are You?
Have you been in a department store lately? Do you often find yourself walking around in circles looking for the plus size section? It seems plus size and petites have disappeared almost all together. More and more companies say that they are jumping on the wagon of offering a larger product assortment in various sizes, but it doesn’t translate to the store floor, thus leaving consumers frustrated.
When you do stumble upon a garment in my size, it’s often a mix of sadness and lack of style. Just because we’re plus size doesn’t mean we don’t want shape or color in my garments!
Sizing Consistency!
We find it strange that sizes vary depending on what brand I’m purchasing. In one store, you could be an L, in another, you are a 3XL. Pants? That is a whole other battle! Many women find it frustrating that they still can’t find pants that fit their bodies. It’s frustrating to know that you’re a certain size in one store and a different size in another.
The lack of consistency often leaves the consumer frustrated and disappointed. Frequent bottom issues tend to be the inseam is too long (or too short), the waistband gaps, the thighs fit, but the waist doesn’t, or vice versa. It seems in fashion, there are more sizing problems that need to be addressed.
Now, tailors do exist for a reason, and no company can be everything to everyone, but clearly, there is a consumer need out there that is not being met. It also seems that the larger the size, the larger the discrepancy, especially when it comes to fit.
It’s Not Always About the Money
Most women have revealed that it’s not always about the money. In my experience, you get what you pay for. The $5 t-shirt will fall apart after two washes, and the $250 jacket will last more than just one season. More people are willing to pay if they know they are spending their money on quality goods. It’s not always easy in this budget-conscious landscape, but it is possible.
Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of where each of their hard-earned dollars goes and are therefore more careful about where and how they spend them. I don’t know about you, but I would much rather pay a little more and invest in my purchases, knowing that my clothing won’t fall apart or shrink an entire size after being washed! Right?
Buying Local!
Consumer buying habits are changing; more and more people are looking for special, one-of-a-kind items they can’t get anywhere else. More local and small businesses are emerging and thriving because of this customer demand. Buying local has many different rewards. Buying local helps to support your community and your neighbors.
More and more manufacturing is coming back to the United States. This is great because not only does it support smaller independent brands, but it also helps to support the local economy. Buying smaller allows not only for more ethical and sustainable production practices by smaller brands, but it allows for more niche, one-of-a-kind items.
Fashion for All Ages!
Now it seems to me that all the newest and greatest fashions we see are all for the ages and wallets of those who were 25 and under.
There is something to be said for the modern woman consumer who has some money to spend and sophisticated style. This seems to be an even larger- no pun intended– problem in the plus size community. There is plenty of opportunity here for new independent fashion brands to provide to the middle-age consumer.
Larger Accessories!
The limited availability of bracelets designed to accommodate larger wrists presents a challenge for many consumers. Similar to the need for size inclusivity in apparel, the accessories market should also adequately cater to a broader range of dimensions. The experience of attempting to fit standard-sized bangle bracelets often results in frustration for individuals with larger wrists.
Furthermore, the design and durability of certain types of jewelry, such as rings, can be a point of concern. While fashionable rings are desirable, using stretchy backings can compromise both comfort and longevity. These designs are prone to breaking and may cause discomfort due to pinching.
Sustainability
The environment is a big deal. The fashion industry is a culprit of having a negative impact on our environment; from the fabric waste to the leather tanning, something needs to change. Although sustainability is on the rise in fashion, more and more fashion brands and houses need to make it their mission to help improve these environmentally damaging processes.
Small brands are making more progress, but until larger brands make it a priority and consumers demand it, the change will continue to be slow. Consumer demand is on the rise, with consumers even willing to pay more for sustainable products.
What are some other ways plus size fashion can still improve? Let us know in the comments!
This article, We’re Not Asking for Much (Okay, Maybe 10 Things): How Plus Size Fashion Can Finally Get It Right! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Marie Denee.
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