Plus-Size Vs Regular Size: Who’s Winning the Fashion Game?
Plus-Size Vs Regular Size: Who’s Winning the Fashion Game?
Blog Article
What’s the Real Difference Between Plus Size and Regular Size?
Before we dig into style, it’s important to understand what we mean by plus size and regular size. These terms refer to how fashion brands categorize fashion sizes, usually based on a standard measurement chart.
- Regular sizes typically range from 0 to 12 (sometimes up to 14), depending on the brand.
- Plus sizes usually start at size 14 or 16 and go up to 30 or more. These are also referred to as extended sizes.
But here’s the twist: clothing sizes aren't universally consistent. A size 10 at one brand might fit like a size 8—or even a size 12—at another. This inconsistency leads many people, regardless of their body type, to struggle with fit and style.
The key difference lies in the fit model. Regular size clothes are designed based on straight-size fit models, while plus-size clothes are ideally created using curvier fit models who reflect fuller proportions. When done right, plus-size fashion celebrates curves with intention—not just by scaling up smaller designs.
The Evolution of Plus-Size Fashion
Let’s be honest. Not too long ago, shopping for plus-size clothes meant settling for oversized, shapeless garments in dark colors. Fashion was limited, and style was almost non-existent. It was as if designers assumed that anyone over a size 12 wanted to hide their figure instead of express themselves through fashion.
Fast forward to today, and the game has changed.
Thanks to body-positive advocates, influencers, and consumer demand, plus-size fashion has undergone a complete transformation. Bold prints, form-fitting silhouettes, statement pieces, and trendy styles are now widely available in extended fashion sizes. Brands like Eloquii, Universal Standard, and Good American are leading the way with inclusive designs that honor all body types.
Where Regular Sizes Still Have the Edge
While plus-size fashion has come a long way, regular size offerings still dominate the market. Most retailers and designers create their collections with regular sizes in mind first. As a result, there are often more style options, color variations, and immediate availability in straight-size ranges.
Another area where regular sizes still have an advantage is in high fashion. Runway shows, sample sizes, and luxury fashion houses typically cater to a very narrow size range. Despite progress, the modeling industry and designer collections remain largely exclusive, which affects what makes it into magazines, ads, and even store shelves.
Fit Matters: A Tale of Two Experiences
Let’s talk about the shopping experience. Ask anyone who wears plus-size clothing, and you’ll probably hear the same thing: finding a good fit is a challenge. Even when brands offer extended sizes, the designs aren’t always adjusted proportionately. That’s because many companies still grade their regular size patterns up without accounting for the natural shape and contour of a fuller body type.
On the flip side, regular size shoppers often have an easier time finding well-fitted clothes across brands. That said, they’re not immune to frustration—especially with inconsistent clothing sizes and vanity sizing trends. Regardless of size, finding that perfect pair of jeans or that blazer that actually fits the shoulders and the waist remains a universal struggle.
Style Options: Who’s Serving the Best Looks?
Let’s get to the fun part: fashion!
Plus-size style has become increasingly bold, diverse, and editorial. We’re seeing gorgeous wrap dresses, tailored suits, crop tops, wide-leg pants, and curve-hugging silhouettes that were once off-limits. Brands are embracing loud colors, playful patterns, and flattering cuts that aren’t just "good for plus-size"—they’re good, period.
Meanwhile, regular size collections still offer a broader range of styles overall, especially when it comes to niche or seasonal trends. Because fashion designers tend to release their lines in regular sizes first, those shoppers are more likely to access the latest designs faster.
However, the gap is closing. Many brands are finally realizing that style doesn’t stop at a size 12.