The Lack Of Size Consistency In The Clothing Industry Is So Frustrating
Start writing a post

If The Fashion Industry REALLY Cares About Body Positivity, They'll Make Clothing Sizes Consistent

I don't want to feel bad about myself because my "normal size" doesn't always fit me.

252
If The Fashion Industry REALLY Cares About Body Positivity, They'll Make Clothing Sizes Consistent

I know that no one should weigh their self-worth on their clothing size. That being said, the fact that they are there is no standard clothing sizes across brands is messing with my state of mind.

I am hands down a shopaholic, but hopping from one store to another can take a toll on a person, especially when you're standing in the dressing room and can't fit into a size that only five minutes ago, in another store, fit around your hips with ease. My inner everything starts to boil and I unfairly tell myself that something is wrong with my body, but it's not me and it's not you, it's the clothing industry and vanity sizing – what's new?

I'm not imagining this. Do you remember the viral tweet by Chloe Martin who revealed the insane disparities between UK size 12 jeans? It's messed up. Also, who knew, but women's sizes unlike men's are not based on any standard measurements. Hence, why online shopping usually leads to a ton of returns and tears. Going back and forth from looking at what the model is wearing to clothing guides just isn't cutting it. This leads to unnecessary judgments and we end up just thinking poorly about ourselves.

This isn't anything new and I know everyone knows about it, but it's hard to swallow.

When I can't fit into my "usual" size, my self-esteem plummets.

This isn't okay and it's on me to realize my self-confidence, self-love, and self-respect have nothing to do with clothing sizes, but society needs to step in and help, too.

Every brand has different sizes and size labels can even vary within brands. Companies choose to do this so they stand apart and are unique against competitors. There's no safe space here! Some people will roll their eyes, but just because we know that clothing sizes are messed up doesn't mean that when we are in a dressing room trying to fit into a pair of jeans it doesn't hurt.

My mom's a fashion designer and I know that it's impossible to really have standard clothing sizes because all fabrics will fit, stretch, and feel differently. But, to me, that's not an excuse. There has to be something – even a disclaimer: This fabric generally requires a downsize or one size up. There is always a way to change. Society is continuously transforming for the better and as we become more conscious of how the little things can have a detrimental effect on one's self-esteem, it's time to adapt. All changes are hard to get used to, but let's face it, it's time for a change.

Thankfully, there are a few startups tackling the issue. Among these is an online athletic gear company called Grrrl and they are changing the game as they, "call bullshit on the clothing industry." They got rid of sizes all together and use athlete's names to identify certain measurements. It's different, but I love it.

Who knows, sizes may become obsolete in the coming future.

I have to learn how to step away from clothing sizes and remain confident no matter what. Labels are meaningless. Clothing sizes mean nothing, so they shouldn't have any impact on our self-worth.

I don't need a number to tell me who I am and how I look.

We deserve to treat ourselves better. And, at the same time, we should expect the clothing industry to step up their game and make positive strides toward body acceptance, self-confidence, and appreciation for all.

From Your Site Articles
Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

38946
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

114335
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments