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Most often, it is nudged in the back corner. Usually, it is disregarded and ignored. And sometimes, it doesn't even exist at all. It's one of the most reviled, contentious, vexed areas in any store. Say the section's name and images of shapeless purple caftans, black elastic sacks and cheetah-print muumuus would understandably dance around in your head.
Of course, we're talking about the plus-size section, where women who are a size 14 or larger are forced to shop.
Some have blamed floor space in department stores for the lack of options for women. But regardless of reason, until just recently, plus-size clothes and the plus-size department have largely been forgotten and effectively been treated like exiles in places like Macy's.
But has it always been this way?
Currently, it is an area that is still in deep need of reinvention, and plenty of designers and stores are trying their best to help out. In Michigan, for instance, a superstore called Meijer Inc. did away with the section entirely, letting the clothes that happen to be 2XL or larger find themselves among the size smalls. And H&M gave up on its plus-size sections entirely in some stores, moving the clothes to online only.
'While we offer extended sizes in our plus department, the current shopping experience forces customers to shop in different areas of the store based on what size they wear — and we think it's time to change that,' Michelle Krick, a manager at Meijer Inc., told Refinery29.
So, although the plus-size section still exists, there is great uncertainty surrounding its future. What should a plus-size section look like? Where should it be? Should it exist at all? To answer these questions, Mic decided to trace the history of the section, and the term itself, to try to unravel where it all went wrong.
In order to do this, we must first talk about the evolution of plus-size clothing, and how that term actually came to be. As it so happens, the term 'plus size' was born in the early 20th century and largely popularized by Lane Bryant, a store that wasn't always focused on larger sizes, that, in 1922, began advertising 'Misses Plus Sizes,' which offered larger versions of clothing in the 'misses category,' meaning exclusively for women.
Five years after that, according to the Wall Street Journal, newspaper ads for the chain started to drop the 'misses,' and showcased their clothing in 'plus sizes.' The term also grew beyond just Lane Bryant, and into other department stores around the United States.
'Ads from 1927 reveal that at least two Midwestern department stores, Thompson-Belden in Omaha, Nebraska, and R.F. Herndon in Springfield, Illinois, were selling 'plus-size' coats and dresses,' WSJ reported.
Though there is no real documentation on this, it's safe to say that the first plus-size sections appeared in the 1920s, in either Lane Bryant, which had a storefront in New York City that first specialized in clothes for pregnant women, and/or in these department stores that started to advertise these sizes.
Throughout these years, the term was solely focused on clothing, and not women themselves. That didn't last for long though, because in 1953, an ad for the brand Korell was printed in a local paper in North Carolina with the line: 'wonderful action-plus dress for the plus-sized woman.'
That is one of the first documented times that the modifier switched from just being about clothing and departments to the women themselves.
As the 20th century ticked on, the term itself, the clothes themselves and therefore the sections began to spread. And as popularity grew, the plus-size section became more powerful, with entire lines and stores now devoted to the woman who wears plus-size clothing. In the United States, Lane Bryant continued to experience success with a highly profitable catalog and stores aimed at plus-size women.
Perhaps because of Bryant's obvious success, in the '80s and '90s plus-size boutiques started popping up in droves. In 1980, Marina Rinaldi, one of the first high-end clothing brands for plus-size women, launched. Currently, there's more than 300 Rinaldi stores nationwide. There was also the Forgotten Woman (what a name!), a plus-size chain that opened around this time as well, first in New York City and then branching out to about 30 stores across the U.S. In 1999, though, the chain filed for bankruptcy and closed.
So even then, there was an uncertainty about where plus-size clothes should live, and even how they should look. Look above at the ad from Lane Bryant and it's very obviously not the most fashionable kind of clothes the '50s had to offer. The coats are boxy and unflattering and mostly oversized as well, swallowing the women up.
Although it's difficult to trace the history of the plus-size section itself, it's safe to say that by the '90s, a stereotype had definitely already been born.
In a 1991 article in the Sun Sentinel, the author points out that although the plus-size market is one of the fastest-growing markets in the fashion industry, women were still scrambling to find clothes for themselves that were of quality. Clearly, what they were being offered in boutiques or department stores were lackluster.
Perhaps it was because these plus-size boutiques were completely removed from straight size, trendy stores and clothes, or maybe it was because these plus-size clothes were not getting nearly the attention of garments that happen to be smaller than a size 14, but a stereotype was born that still lives on today.
As the New York Times reported in 2010: 'There have been several efforts to make plus-size clothes more available, but, as the name of the 1980s-era plus-size chain the Forgotten Woman suggested, larger women have usually been relegated to stand-alone boutiques stocked with shapeless purple caftans.'
Despite constantly being a growing market through 2010 and beyond, the plus-size section has continuously been ignored. That is, until very recently. Now, perhaps because of the body-positive movement and the popularity of many plus-size models like Ashley Graham who are working for stores with these kinds of sections, people are paying attention and trying to change what the plus-size section actually means today.
The problem is that no one has a right answer. JCPenney, for instance, gave its plus-size section a makeover, giving it more of a boutique feel than a forgotten landscape. It even brought in one of the only plus-size designers, Ashley Nell Tipton, out there to design a line of her own.
On the other hand, many stores are shunning the word 'plus size' and its section entirely. Meijer Inc. joins online retailer ModCloth as two examples of brands that have erased the plus-size category altogether. 'We thought ... why does our online experience call out 'plus' as a separate shopping experience?' ModCloth co-founder Susan Koger previously told Mic.
In ModCloth's first brick-and-mortar store, there is no plus-size section either, simply racks of clothing stocked with styles from XXS to 4X.
And although many women who are plus size find it convenient to shop online through outlets like ASOS, which has found great success with its curve department, many women would rather go in-store.
'Plus size women should have the option to shop IRL if they so choose,' journalist Marie Southard Ospina wrote for Bustle. 'When you hit up a mall, chances are they have one (maybe two) stores with plus collections ... Maybe it's time they use some of their space for the advancement of size acceptance and equality.'
Obviously, there is no one solution. No one kind of plus-size section or even store is going to work for every woman. Our solution? Listen to the women who are shopping, and give them options. Maybe that's why plus-size sections are so continually reviled. Not many companies are listening to women.
A revolutionary idea that's always worth reminding companies: Women who happen to be a size 14 or 16 or larger shouldn't have to settle, just like women who are a size 2 or 4 shouldn't have to settle either.
Plus Size African Models? Of course, there are. A few decades back, it might have been unimaginable for Black African women to be top models. But, today, the plus-size African Models are changing the face of the fashion industry.
These most beautiful curvy African divas are an inspiration for all the plus size girls out there as they have defied all odds and are at the top of the modeling industry now. They have embraced their curves instead of worrying about losing their weight. Their confidence and self-esteem are worth applause. So here are our favorite and the most fashionable black, plus-size models.
Fashionable Curvy African Models
Racism and discrimination exist. It has always existed and still exists in all walks of life. Be it because of race, culture, ethnicity, color, or shape. African women have always fought against these standards of beauty. They are the reason people believe in black beauty. They have made the world realize what real beauty is, it is not the color of the skin of plumpiness of lips, but it is the heart and values. Well, before explaining these standards of beauty to the outside world, these women have fought a lot for it within their country as well. They have generalized that even curvy and full-figured people are beautiful and capable of carrying all the fancy and dazzling dresses as beautifully as any skinny lady.
The plus-size African models have mentioned in various television shows that their journey towards becoming the top model was never comfortable. They have faced racism and discrimination in multiple parts of their lives. They say that they have been hurt when skinny models were prioritized over them, which made them feel bad about their bodies. They also stated that at some point, they started hating their bodies and went for crash diets, pills, and excessive workouts, which affected their physical and mental health. After all these struggles, they believed in themselves; they embraced their bodies and turned the fashion world over with their charisma, style, and talent. It is never about the color of skin, the shape of the body, or the price and brand of the outfit. It is always about embracing your body, having a strong personality and way of carrying yourself. Also, it is not about having the perfect body but a healthy body.
↓ 25 – Meg De Jong
Meg, from Africa, embraces her curvy figure and always spreads joy, positivity, and warmth. She carries herself so well that from her body language, one can guess how confident she is in her body.
↓ 24 – Cynthia Gwebu
Cynthia, from South Africa, is a curvy model who loves makeup. Her life revolves around it, not because it makes her feel pretty, but because she enjoys doing it. Her body, her curves, her hair, and personality all equally worth drilling over. True beauty with a pure heart!
↓ 23 – Nomali
Nomali is another curvy African model who is a source of inspiration for so many. She is a source of motivation for people who lack self-confidence because of their plus size figure. Apparently, as from Instagram, she lives a very luxurious life. She is a lifestyle influencer, writer, and blogger as well. One must follow her to get more insights and helpful tips from her. She is beautiful just in the way she is.
↓ 21 – Itumeleng Bokaba
Itumeleng is another famous public figure in Africa. She has outshined everyone and proved the world that curvy women are beautiful and talented at the same time. Her work speaks on her behalf. She is a huge inspiration for all full-figured women out there.
↓ 20 – Resego Tshabadira
Resego Tshabadira is a curvy model of South Africa. She is one of the most beautiful women a person can ever meet. She is a gem inside out. She is a video vixen, a model, an influencer, and an Instagram figure as well that supports physical fitness. She is the believer of “having a healthy body instead of the perfect body.”
↓ 19 – Lesego Legobane
Lesego Legobane has apparently been body shamed a lot. But it has never stopped her from being who she is and embracing her self. She is a big hit on Instagram as well. Also, she never fails to stun her fans and followers with captivating pictures and some great style inspirations. She and her work is the reason why curvy women are more appreciated in this industry. She is truly a gem.
↓ 18 – Lala Tsabalala
Lala says that being a curvy model has never been easy for her. She had to take a very long road to reach where she is today. But now she is a tough competition for many in her fields. She has her own statement style, which makes her even more unique. She is the living example of “live your life and let others live.” Her hairstyle is worth drolling over. Such a powerful lady!
↓ 17 – Marciel Hopkins
If you want to look up to someone who can make you believe that the modeling career is worth a shot, then look up to none other than the south African diva Marciel Hopkins. She is gorgeous, whether you talk about her curves, her skin tone, her facial features, her hair, or her personality in general. She is one of the most impactful full-figured models of Africa.
↓ 16 – Yoliswa Mqoco
Yoliswa Mqco is a super hit plus curvy African model. She isn’t only seen on the ramp but is a very active Instagrammer as well. She slays in every outfit and every picture. She is a Jo’burg based fashionista and a head-turner for sure. Also, she is an inspiration for all the upcoming models.
↓ 15 – Teiko Dornor
She is also the organizer of “Miss Plus Africa” and has her blog where she gives great tips and inspirational words for all the plus size and curvy women out there. Also, take a look at some Elegant Plus Size Work Wear Outfit Combination Ideas. Her motto is to give confidence to every girl and to make them look past body size because a person’s nature and personality are what truly matters rather than body size and image.
↓ 14 – Toccara Jones
This girl was the very first plus-size model who went on to compete in “America’s Next Top Model.” Her curves have made her a favorite of many people, including celebrities like Lil’ Wayne. She is struggling very hard to help women oppose to body shaming and bullying.
↓ 13 – Chenese Lewis
The first-ever Miss Pluss America. She surely is a beautiful lady who proves that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. So no matter what your size, stay beautiful and stay confident. She is also a fashion pioneer and has been recently featured by Bustle amongst the “7 Plus Size Fashion Pioneers who are way ahead of their time.”
Plus Size Model Sketch
↓ 12 – Anansa Sims
Plus Size Fashion Template
One of the hottest plus-size models ever seen. She’s the daughter of the famous supermodel Beverly Johnson, so modeling and beauty surely run in her genes. Her beauty, her career, and even her love life with the former footballer David Patterson is inspiring. Also, take a look at some chic plus size winter outfits for curvy women.
↓ 11 – Alex LaRosa
Alex LaRosa is a plus-size model. She became a model about nine years ago. She was inspired by the plus-size model that she saw on the online store, so one day she decided to become one herself and ended up sending her pictures to Torrid. She has been on the runway for purple dive designs, curves, Ashley Stewart, etc.
↓ 10 – Summer Wayans
Summer Wayans is from a well – reputed Wayans family. She has done a bachelor’s in psychology along with a master’s in clinical psychology. She is a model who is known for her plus size and confidence. Along with modeling, she is also a philanthropist.
↓ 9 – Shalon Dozier
Shalon Dozier is another huge name in the plus-size model industry. She was discovered in 2007 by Torrid while they were on their model search. Along with modeling, she has just started her career as an actor and will be a cast member on a new upcoming show on BET. She is changing the definition of the fashion industry by her remarkable work as a plus-size model.
↓ 8 – Ariel Brownridge
Ariel Brownridge 21, is a fantastic plus-size model from Virginia. She submitted her portfolio to a magazine model search but could not win it although she made it successfully to the finals. She has now signed up with Dorothy Combs Models. According to her, she loves her curves, and every girl in this world should be proud of their curves too. Her simple trick to make her curves look sexier is to wear black clothing to make curves look more flattering.
↓ 7 – Sommer Green
You can see how beautiful these plus size women look, no matter what outfit style or what color they wear. They can carry it all so well and look beautiful. They are proof that beauty is not restricted by color or size.
↓ 6 – Samantha Lebbie
Definitely, one of the most beautiful plus-size models ever seen. She became a model to fulfill her dream of empowering other women and giving them the confidence to embrace their color as well as their curves. According to her, for being a successful black plus-size model, confidence is everything!
↓ 5 – Brittnie Scurry
Another beautiful face, whose acceptance, confidence, and self-esteem have made her rise to the top. Also, take a look at the 12 hot plus-size street style fashion ideas for this season
She started her modeling career when she was only 13 but had to leave modeling because of her studies. After she was done with her college, she was a size four and thought she could never continue doing modeling again, but later on, she proved herself and everyone wrong.
↓ 4 – Schnaya Pamplin
Schnaya Pamplin is another inspiring African model. She recently came in the fashion industry but has immediately made die-hard fans and has become the voice of plus size women who are battling against body shaming.
↓ 3 – Victoria Lee
Victoria Lee is an internationally known plus size, beautiful supermodel. Victoria Lee is the first model to showcase the new plus-size line at new york fashion week. She has worked with a lot of brands, for example, Saks, Old Navy, etc. Other than that, she has also been a part of a lot of renowned magazines from around the world like Glamour magazine, Essence magazine, etc.
↓ 2 – Essie Golden
Essie Golden is an inspiring plus-size model and an advocate. She is the voice of the plus-size community. She is a blogger and has launched her very own fashion brand. Previously she has done collaborations with different significant brands like Macy’s, Lane Bryant, etc. According to her, modeling has helped her to overcome the body issues that she was facing herself.
↓ 1 – Jamil Kali
An inspiring plus-size model who is often seen or heard fighting for justice for all the plus size women.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What size are curvy models?
A. Women between sizes of 6-12 are usually considered curvy or full-figured.
Q.How do I style a curvy figure?
A. One pro tip for styling a curvy figure is that wear whatever you are confident and comfortable in. If you are not proud of what you are wearing and how you are looking, you will never look good. Embrace your selves, put on your favorite outfit, and let the world see the big smile of yours. For more ideas, have a look at our earlier post on Best Plus Size Pants For Curvy Women To Buy This Year.
Q.How is it like to be an African full-figured model?
A. The full-figured African models, while sharing their journeys, have often stated that it wasn’t easy for them to establish themselves in the industry. It was a cycle of bittersweet memories. They have faced discrimination, they have been looked down at, but they are glad where they are now. They say they are proud of themselves and how far they have come.
Q.What change have curvy African women made in the modeling industry?
A. One thing that these strong, beautiful full-figured African models have changed in the industry for sure is that they have paved roads for the next plus size girls who want to become models. They have proved themselves with their talent, confidence, and phenomenal skills that they are as great and as capable of being in the industry just like all zero sized models. They, with the exceptional performances, have minimized the discrimination in the industry, and designers, aren’t afraid of giving them opportunities. In fact, people who cast and hire plus-sized models are praised and appreciated more.