Why the Fashion Industry is Still Failing Plus-Size Women

Recently, a plus-size woman’s entry video for the GTCO Fashion Runway made waves, and I couldn’t help but feel inspired. Her confidence and determination were undeniable, but, like clockwork, critics jumped in—targeting her body size, questioning her “audacity” to want to model. That hit close to home. As a plus-size woman myself, I’ve spent years believing I should feel grateful for any beautiful and comfortable clothing that came my way, even if it didn’t fit quite right or make me feel good. The unspoken message was always the same: be thankful for the scraps the fashion industry offers, because “you don’t belong here.” This experience isn’t just mine—it’s shared by many plus-size women. We’re all too familiar with the feeling of being marginalised, made to feel unseen, and unworthy of taking up space in fashion. The idea that beauty can only come in certain sizes runs deep, but it’s time to rewrite that narrative.

Is Fashion Really Ready for Plus-Size Women?

Despite the resistance, we’re seeing real change. Slowly but surely, plus-size women are gaining more visibility on the runways. We’re not just standing on the sidelines anymore; we’re stepping into the spotlight. Major fashion weeks in New York and Paris are finally showcasing a broader range of body types, and top designers are starting to embrace this evolution. We’ve got trailblazers like Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, Precious Lee, and Jill Kortleve, who have become household names and symbols of body inclusivity. British Vogue even dubbed these women “the new supers,”  solidifying their place as leaders in the fashion world. Yumi Nu, making history on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue, further proves that change is happening. But it’s not just the big names. Tess Holliday, Candice Huffine, and Denise Mercedes are combining their modelling careers with powerful messages of self-love and mental health advocacy. Their voices are loud and clear, reminding the world that beauty comes in every shape and size.

And let’s not forget brands like Savage X Fenty, Chromat, and Christian Siriano. These designers are proving that inclusivity is not just a trend but a new standard. They’re designing for all body types, creating collections that celebrate diversity. It feels so refreshing to see real, relatable bodies wearing clothes that actually fit and flatter.

We can’t talk about this revolution without mentioning the power of social media. It’s through platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube that plus-size women and body-positive advocates have amplified their voices. The fashion industry can no longer ignore us. We’re demanding change, and the movement is too powerful to be silenced. Fashion should be for everyone—not just a select few.

Plus-Size Women Don’t Belong in Fashion?

One of the most profound shifts happening right now is the realisation that bodies are not trends. They’re not something that goes in and out of style, depending on the season. Our bodies are fundamental to who we are. For far too long, fashion dictated what was acceptable, pushing unattainable ideals that left so many of us feeling excluded, like we didn’t belong. But now, when events like Fashion Week feature a range of body types, it sends a clear message: beauty isn’t limited to a single size. Seeing all kinds of bodies on the catwalk normalises inclusivity. It reinforces that fashion is, and should always be, about self-expression for everyone, regardless of shape or size.

Where Are the Plus-Size Women?

If young people grew up seeing a true variety of body types on the runway and in the media, imagine the impact. They wouldn’t have to fight against the same unrealistic standards many of us did. Instead, they’d grow up with healthier, more diverse body images. They’d feel empowered to embrace who they are without shame or comparison. The benefits go far beyond physical appearance. The positive impact on mental health, self-esteem, and confidence would be enormous. When people of all shapes and sizes are given the space to shine, the ripple effect is undeniable. Never miss a beat in fashion, arts, beauty, and lifestyle, follow FAB L’Style Magazine.

This push for inclusivity isn’t a passing trend—it’s a movement. It’s about more than fashion; it’s about changing how we define beauty. It’s about making sure that fashion reflects the world we live in, a world where beauty comes in all sizes, shapes, and forms. As this movement gains momentum, we’ll see more acceptance, more progress, and more diversity—not just on the runway but in every aspect of our lives.

It’s time to stop making people feel like they don’t belong. We all do. And we’re here to stay.