While we have made advances within the plus-sized community regarding fashion, it’s safe to say that we still have a ways to go. However, there are some changes that I’ve happily welcomed, and you plus-sized ladies should too. As a whole, we’ve entered a space of interesting change and conversation, challenging the status quo. And as we’ve challenged the status quo, we’ve also changed the plus-sized woman’s rules to fashion. 

Rule #1: We No Longer Have to Obey Anyone’s “Rules”

I remember when I first started blogging, there were tons of articles that tried to tell plus-size women how to dress. Now, not so much. I don’t even see that many posts and articles talking about “slimming” features anymore! Now, we are at a place where we have to break free from those rules and explore our personal style.

Rule #2: We Have Options

While we still have a ways to go, there are quite a few plus-size designers giving it to us in the fashion arena. Whether you are classic and chic, or rock and roll and edgy, there are designers who are giving fashion to you! With a little research and experimentation, you can find a few gems that speak to your aesthetic.

Rule #3: The Industry Is Listening, So Keep Speaking Up

They are watching. They are observing, and while a few are scared, don’t care about the plus-size woman, or just ignorant to this industry, they are paying attention. Certain brands are fashioning partnerships with department stores, other designers (hello, Tadashi Shoji) are calling out other designers, and retailers (like ModCloth) are making a statement to deliver fashion at every size.

Rule #4: We Are No Longer a Monolith “Department” in Style

For the longest time, there were only two options in plus-size clothing: muumuus or black. While those two still exist, the plus-size shopper has evolved, and so have the options. The plus-size woman is no longer one woman. We are edgy, sophisticated, boho luxe, rock and roll, and conservative. Designers are paying attention and are starting to give us range. (Thank you.)

Rule #5: It’s All About That Dollar

Whether we like it or not, in order to produce more of what we want and need in our lives, the dollar speaks, and quite a few are paying attention! You see, the plus-size industry is a multi-billion dollar one, and brands are trying to figure out how to take a piece of it. But in order to get their feet wet, they test it out, watch trends, and listen to what we are saying online. What does this mean for you? If you like something, buy it. If you love a designer, support them. If you do not like something, speak up. You matter and your voice does advocate for change! I promise.

What truths have you realized with the change in plus-size fashion? Sound off!