I love plus-size women.
I identify with them because I’m not naturally slim, I have a sizeable arse and I don’t fit into the catwalk ideal of what a woman’s body is supposed to look like.
But I’m not actually considered plus-size.
I’m inbetween a UK size 16 and 18, meaning that a lot of high-street main collections don’t go up to my size and a lot of plus-size ranges don’t run small enough.
I’m not here to complain – I’ll check my regular-size privilege momentarily – but there are a few notable points to be made.
1. Sometimes you wish you could be as big as others
For inspiration I follow a lot of plus-size models, but when I click through to ASOS to purchase the outfits they’re wearing I’m always gutted to find out that the smallest size available is already too big for me.
I’m quite happy to know that when I gain a little weight naturally I’ll have a good selection of clothes which I’m dying to try.
2. Stretchy waistbands are a godsend
Being in between two sizes means that you’ve got to choose fabrics wisely.
Jeans are always too tight or too baggy, and well-fitting jumpsuits are impossible to source.
So when you find a stretchy waistband on a pair of smart work trousers what do you do?
Buy. Three. Pairs.
3. You still have to check your regular-size privilege
I don’t want to devalue the real issues that every plus-size person faces on a daily basis.
I’m well aware that it’s a proper privilege to walk into New Look or Primark and find something roughly in my size without having to visit a separate department or entirely new store, so I try not to moan about being a size 17 too much.
4. H&M is Hell on Earth
If you want to feel terrible about yourself then try on anything in your size in H&M, which definitely dances to its own beat when it comes to standardised clothes sizes.
I’m definitely more comfortable in Marks & Spencer where lump and bumps are kindly catered for.
5. You lust after the plus-size attention to detail
As a chubby girl, I’m always looking for clothes that are designed with my frame in mind.
I feel more confident when my outfit is designed for my shape and the garments in plus-size ranges always seem to offer longer sleeves, stretchy waistbands and a generous butt area, which isn’t always available in the regular range.
6. You’re sick of hearing phrases like ‘You don’t look that big’
As an inbetweener, a lot of my friends are surprised when I reveal that I wear a UK size 16 or 18.
Often, the backhanded compliments are thrown about like confetti with phrases like “you wear it well’.
Thanks for that.
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