The average height and size of an American woman is 5 foot 4, size 16. The average size of a model is under 6 in missy, 10 in plus and both are expected to exceed 5’8 in height. This leaves a staggering disparity in how the average woman compares to her print and digital counterparts. Essentially shorter curvier women are the norm and yet vastly underrepresented. Though they make up the majority, this group is relatively unseen. Visual representation by brands, networks, and organizations opt for taller women to showcase their products or represent brands. In their efforts to celebrate their actual consumers, some brands have steered away from the size 10 and employed larger models like Tess Holliday and Simone Mariposa.
Plus Size
Levi’s Introduces New Sizes and Supreme Curve for Spring 2011
Levi’s
NYFW | OneStopPlus.com Spring 2011
I outright refused to let anything get in the way of me and this show. A major event in fashion week history this show marked the first plus size fashion show to present at Mercedes Benz Fashion week. I love fashion week and its extremely rare for me to have the opportunity to cover a show where every single item is available in MY size. The show entitled “Belle Epoque” was held in a smaller intimate setting, walls were draped with bright white fabric and guests included Academy Award nominee Gabourey
I could absolutely see myself in this lilac jacket with pale lavender skirt set, accented with purple obi style belt.
I loved the “Ethereal Denim” maxi dress. The lace cami under is a nice touch. I love that is flows so beautifully when in motion and has the appearance of denim but not the weight or stiffness.Tocarra looked amazing in this asymmetrical draped dress. The muted mauve tone of the fabric against her bronze skin is magical. I also love the addition of a waist cinching belt.While I was super excited to see this surprisingly fast runway presentation I couldn’t help but notice an absence of cool, or boundary pushing style. As a plus size woman I have always been able to find something to wear to work, or to a dressy function but its rare to find something sexy cool to wear on a date or out with friends. As far as coverage is concerned I was disheartened to find that the show though a part of Fashion Week wasn’t listed on the site or as part of the overall schedule. OneStopPlus made a valiant step in the right direction, one that should be celebrated and heralded as the dawn of a new era of inclusion, fashion for everyone! I sincerely hope that when they come back next year they’ll bring some friends ( Fats chance of that happening, but a girl can dream can’t she?).
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