“Plus size,” “XL,” or “curvy,” however you want to call it—to many it sends a negative message. Why do we as a society have to “shame” others by making plus sized sections or having extended sizes online? I used to love shopping, but now I hate it. I hate going into a store and having to be “shunned” to the plus sized section. I hate how in that part of the store the selection of practical clothing is slim to none. I’ll pass on the graphic t-shirt that says “Squad goals,” a cheap tutu, or a crop top that will show my insecurities. In most stores their plus size section maybe takes 1/5 of the store, and it’s usually way in the back. The rest of the store is full of the standard sizes. Maybe I’m bias, but that’s just not fair. Why can’t we make plus size equal to all of the other sizes?
Treating plus size like a punishment gives it a negative demeanor. With that not only do plus size people feel the need to constantly be self-conscious, they often shame their own body as well. Then there is this tension between the two different body sizes, both being beautiful just the way they are but the plus size woman forever wishing she was smaller. It’s not fair because there is literally no happy medium. I don’t understand why there has to be a specific section for bigger sizes. I’m not afraid to say yes, I am a little bit bigger than the usual female, but I hate being called plus size. I’ve worked retail so I understand that you can only order so many sizes, and put so many sizes out because your racks can only hold a certain amount. What I don’t get is why stores have plentiful amounts of smaller sizes, but less of the bigger sizes. That has always perplexed me growing up, because it seemed like sometimes the bigger sizes were the first to go.
I do believe that certain body types fit some pieces of clothing better than others. For instance, once in a blue moon, I can feel comfortable and confident in a romper. It took me a long time to admit that to myself and realize that I don’t look too good in rompers. One positive about having a specific section for bigger sizes is they design clothes to make you look and feel good. The Forever 21 plus size section is my favorite because they have a wide variety of options and they are super cute. They also make some plus size pieces identical to the standard size clothing. I think if stores just carried bigger sizes, and had more of them in their backroom things would be peachy. Why do we have to put a label on bigger sizes?
In conclusion, things probably are never going to change. Trying to see the positives does help to a point. I just want other “plus size” women out there to know you’re truly not alone. I keep telling myself I’m not going to let a number, name, or letter define me. If I feel confident and comfortable in a size that makes me feel bad about myself I would never shop again. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff! So try on the bigger sizes, and keep your head held high! Because no matter what size you are, you are individually beautiful just the way you are!
