Plus-Size vs Full-Figured: What's the Difference?
Plus-Size vs Full-Figured: What's the Difference?
Blog Article
What Does "Plus-Size" Mean?
Plus-size is a clothing industry term that refers to garments made for people above a certain size range—typically U.S. size 14 and up. It’s primarily used in fashion retail to denote sizing categories and guide production.
Key characteristics of plus-size:
- Refers directly to clothing size, not body shape.
- Typically starts at size 14 (sometimes 16 depending on brand).
- Used universally in retail and modeling industries.
- Associated with plus-size clothing lines and sections in stores.
Plus-size models, for instance, are those who wear size 14 or above and are featured in campaigns specifically targeted toward consumers who wear these sizes.
What Does "Full-Figured" Mean?
Full-figured is more descriptive of body shape rather than clothing size. A full-figured individual typically has a well-rounded, curvier frame, often with larger bust, hips, and thighs—even if they fall within a smaller clothing size range.
Key characteristics of full-figured:
- Refers to body proportions and shape.
- Not necessarily tied to clothing size—someone can be full-figured but not plus-size.
- Often used in personal descriptors or modeling contexts focused on curves and body aesthetics.
The term full-figured is frequently used in modeling agencies and beauty industries to describe someone who has a curvy silhouette, regardless of whether they wear a size 10 or a size 20.
Plus-Size vs Full-Figured: Side-by-Side Comparison
FeaturePlus-SizeFull-FiguredRefers toClothing sizeBody shapeTypical starting sizeUS 14+Can range from smaller sizesIndustry use Fashion/retailModeling/beauty, lifestyle Focus Fit and size of clothingPhysical curves and proportions Interchangeable?Sometimes, but not alwaysNot synonymous with plus-size
Why the Distinction Matters
Knowing the difference helps ensure better representation and personal comfort. For consumers, it can mean finding clothes that fit both their size and their shape. For brands and marketers, it supports respectful and accurate language that fosters inclusivity.
The Importance of Body Positivity
Whether someone identifies as plus-size, full-figured, curvy, or none of the above, the ultimate goal is self-love and societal acceptance. The growing visibility of diverse body types in media is helping reshape outdated beauty standards and celebrate all forms of femininity and masculinity.
Final Thoughts
While plus-size and full-figured can sometimes overlap, they are not identical. One relates more to numerical sizing, and the other to curvaceous body shapes. Recognizing the difference empowers consumers, fosters body positivity, and helps brands design with more intentionality. Report this page