Body Positivity in Plus Size Fashion: A Movement Towards Inclusivity

Walking through a bustling shopping hub like West Edmonton Mall, with its more than 40 women’s clothing stores, it’s easy to assume there’s something for everyone. Yet, until recently, only one store catered specifically to plus-size fashion. In 2016, Torrid, a retailer dedicated to plus-size clothing, opened locations at Kingsway and West Edmonton Mall, marking a turning point for local shoppers.

“It really blows my mind that we live in a world where most women would technically be considered plus-size,” says Dolly Monroe, photographer, model, and body positivity blogger. “But the options for us are so limited compared to what’s available to those who are considered straight-sized.”

Photo by RDNE Stock project on

Monroe’s words highlight a long-standing disparity in the fashion industry—a stark lack of options for plus-size women despite their significant representation in the population. With February celebrated as Body Positivity Month, it’s the perfect time to discuss how far plus-size fashion has come, the challenges that remain, and the importance of inclusive representation.

The Evolution of Plus-Size Fashion

“For years, the options were outdated or uninspiring,” says Torrid employee Glenda Cartwright. “When you think of Penningtons, you think of your grandma shopping. Torrid, on the other hand, caters to a younger audience.”

Cartwright, who is 24, notes the frustration of shopping for clothes that align with her personal tastes. “It’s so hard to find something that fits my style—until now. Torrid offers modern, chic, and even edgy designs that feel inclusive and fresh.”

Photo by MART PRODUCTION on

Torrid serves as a sibling company to Hot Topic, which influences its unique aesthetic. “You can definitely see the Hot Topic flavor,” Cartwright adds, “but it’s more about contemporary fashion with a touch of edge rather than a focus on pop culture.”

Representation in Fashion: Real People, Real Impact

One of the most striking features of Torrid’s advertising is its commitment to authenticity. “Here’s our product on real people,” Cartwright says. “These models look like people you see on the street. It’s refreshing and empowering.”

This approach aligns with a growing movement in the fashion world to represent women as they are—diverse, vibrant, and unapologetically themselves. Monroe highlights the significance of this shift by pointing to figures like Tess Holliday, the designer of MLBM at Penningtons. Holliday has made waves in mainstream media by celebrating plus-size beauty and challenging societal norms.

“She’s normalizing plus-size bodies and making it acceptable to be sexy and fat,” Monroe explains. “Her work paves the way for others to feel confident in their own skin.”

Cartwright echoes this sentiment. “We’re finally acknowledging that plus-size women are not a monolith. Some are edgy, others prefer classic styles, and they all deserve clothes that make them feel good. We’re moving away from hiding behind baggy clothes and embracing individuality.”

Diversity as a Cornerstone of Fashion

Fashion, at its best, reflects the diversity of its audience. As Monroe aptly puts it, “We come in all shapes, sizes, colors, with different fashion styles.” Stores like Torrid, Penningtons, Old Navy, and Bloom Chic are stepping up to meet the demand for greater inclusivity.

These brands are breaking down outdated stereotypes and challenging the notion that plus-size clothing must be limited to muumuus and sweatpants. “It’s not just grandma’s clothes anymore,” Cartwright says. “It’s empowering and stylish, and it reflects the real world—a diverse culture where people are not carbon copies of one another.”

Embracing the Future of Inclusive Fashion

The strides made in plus-size fashion are inspiring, but there is still more to do. Representation matters not only in the clothes available but also in the models who wear them, the advertisements that promote them, and the voices behind the designs. Brands that truly listen to their audiences and embrace diversity are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

“Wanna Love My Body”, A Parody of  the Spice Girl’s “Wanna Be my Lover” by The Honest Body Project

“It’s not about your waist” originally by Natty Valencia cover by Angela Medilo

“All About That Bass” A Parody of Meghan Trainer’s “All About That Bass” by Julianne M

Body positivity is for everyone that has a body. You matter regardless of height, weight, age, size, or anything like that.

So, as we celebrate Body Positivity Month, consider the brands that resonate with you. Which fashion empires help you feel seen, confident, and celebrated? Share your favorites and join the conversation—because everyone deserves to feel beautiful, no matter their size.