5 min read
805 words
Imagine this: you’re part of the majority. Over half the population, in fact. You walk into a store, or browse online, expecting to find plus-size clothing that fits, that are on-trend, and that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Sounds reasonable, right? Well, if you’re a plus-size woman in Canada, you know this is often a fantasy, not a reality. It’s a truly baffling situation when you consider that the average Canadian woman is estimated to wear between a size 14 and 16, and over 51% of us fall into the “plus-size” category, according to News By Wire. We are the majority, yet the fashion industry often treats us like a niche market, an afterthought, or worse, a problem to ignore. And let me tell you, it’s exhausting.
The Frustrating Reality of Plus-Size Shopping
For me, and countless others, every shopping trip, whether virtual or physical, often feels like embarking on a treasure hunt where the map is smudged and most of the treasure chests are empty. We’re looking for something basic – everyday clothing that fits well, looks good, and doesn’t break the bank. Is that really too much to ask?
The struggle is real. Finding anything that’s on-trend is a task. While the fashion world churns out exciting new styles for smaller sizes every season, it often feels like plus-size sections are stuck in a time warp, offering outdated cuts and unflattering patterns.
If you happen to find something decent at Maurices, the price can really catch you off guard. We’re not looking to break the bank, but it feels like the limited choices just make the prices soar for what little is out there. Almost fifty bucks for a basic t-shirt? Combine that with some regular jean shorts, and before you know it, you’re spending over a hundred dollars for a laid-back outfit. It’s absolutely wild.
What’s even more disheartening is watching the physical retail space for plus-size clothing shrink. I’ve walked into Walmarts lately and seen the section for plus-size women getting smaller and smaller. It’s hard when you leave a space that’s theoretically meant for you, and you’re still left feeling disappointed and excluded.
And it’s not just the variety or the price; it’s the fit. Oh, the fit! Take Giant Tiger, for instance. They stop at a 3X, but frankly, it doesn’t feel like a true 3X when I try things on. Why are so many of the shirts so short and wide? It’s a common issue – a garment might be wide enough but then barely skims the waist, leaving you constantly tugging it down. And finding a tank top without giant, gaping armholes feels like a miracle.
Old Navy, another popular chain, stops at XXL, which they market as a size 2X (18-20). While they offer plus sizes online, the in-store experience is often limited, forcing you to guess and hope when ordering.
My local mall, which is a fairly decent size, houses only two dedicated plus-size clothing stores. Two! For over half the female population. It’s a stark reminder of how under-served we are.
The Widening Gap: Beyond Size 18
The challenges I’ve described are tough enough for those of us who fall into the smaller end of the plus-size range. But let me tell you, the situation becomes exponentially harder the further up the size chart you go. Finding plus-size clothing over a size 18 is difficult. Finding clothes over a size 24 is even harder. Need plus-size clothing over a size 28? Good luck. It’s a frustrating reality that people who fall into the smaller end of the plus-size range are much more likely to find clothing options than those who are 3X or larger. It feels like the industry gives up on you past a certain point, as if larger bodies don’t deserve to be clothed comfortably and stylishly.
And it’s not just women who face this struggle. The section for plus-size men is even smaller than for women, practically non-existent in many stores. While this article focuses on my personal experience as a woman, I deeply empathize with the frustration men must feel when they, too, are left with next to no options.
This isn’t just about fashion; it’s about dignity and inclusion. When you consistently can’t find clothes that fit, that reflect your style, or that are affordable, it sends a message: you don’t matter as much. It’s a subtle, yet constant, form of exclusion that can impact self-esteem and how a person feels about participating in everyday life.
We, the plus-size majority, deserve to walk into any clothing store and find a diverse array of options that are well-made, well-fitting, trendy, and reasonably priced. It’s time for the fashion industry to stop viewing us as an afterthought and start recognizing the massive, under served market that we truly are.
Carl
I have found temu pretty much true to size in the curvy range – but read the reviews on each item.
We exist in a rather narrow-minded society that views some individuals as unworthy.
I struggle to find shirts that fit my broad shoulders.
I bought a shirt from H & M. I ordered it online, and even though I went a size up, it still didn’t fit me at all.
Check Penningtons sale section.
All I find is lame outdated crap and bad quality.
Warehouse One has clothes that go up to a 4x. I found a very nice, top there. It may be worth taking a look.
I’m really tired of floral prints. Everything is floral. Why? I feel like I am wearing grandma’s curtains!
It’s becoming difficult to find any clothes that fit my plus-sized body, let alone ones I am actually excited to wear. Hate it.
The selection is really poor, and there’s a big price gap between the ‘standard’ and plus sizes. The fabrics are terrible, sticking to you and highlighting your rolls. A few months back, I visited my local Walmart and got so frustrated with the plus size section that I almost lost it in the store. Even my friend, who is smaller than me, was really annoyed.
I think plus size clothing is designed for women with larger breasts. Unfortunately, I don’t have big breasts, so plus size shirts and dresses end up gaping at my chest.