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I know it might be hard to believe, but the average size of women is not a size two, four, or six. That took a while for me to believe, especially since all I see on social media and on TV is celebrities that look pretty lean and thin.
The average American woman used to be a size 14
Data from over 10 years ago has said that the average American woman is a size 14. Which is crazy that that’s still a pretty hard size to find in most clothing stores!
A new study shows different findings
However, a new study conducted using the measurements of over 5,500 American women had different findings. The new data found the average size of an American woman is now between a size 16 and 18!
But of course we know sizing is so ridiculous and a size 18 at one store can be a size 12 at another. Numbers? Sizing? Ridiculous!
But here’s some insightful knowledge
However, this is some insightful knowledge for woman who feel pressured by western media and beauty standards. Despite what we see on our Instagram feeds, women come in all shapes and sizes!
Diet culture would want us to believe otherwise, of course. The diet and exercise industry is a multi-BILLION dollar market.
Diet culture can be toxic
Celebrities like Jameela Jamil are fighting back against toxic diet products like skinny teas and laxative smoothies. Because health comes first, and there’s nothing healthy about these weight-loss drinks.
Still, the fashion industry seems blatantly unaware of this. Hopefully, more clothing companies will decide to expand their sizes. A lot of stores only carry up to size 12.
Inclusivity in the fashion industry is so important
Because shopping for clothes is hard enough as it is — not finding your size can be incredibly frustrating. Many women have turn to online shopping to find clothes that fit properly.
Online shopping doesn’t necessarily fix the issue
And while online shopping is great and convenient, it shouldn’t be some women’s only option. Nothing beats trying before buying!
Some brands don’t even have a size variety
Some brands completely turned down the idea of expanding their clothing sizes — because that’s a good marketing move, right? Lululemon, Victoria’s Secret, and Abercrombie and Fitch all spoke out in the past against expanding their size range.
All three brands have since given into the pressure and expanded their size range.
Other brands have taken initiative for inclusivity
However, many brands have made amazing steps forward in the name of size inclusivity and body positivity. Aerie is a great example of a brand that promotes self love with inclusive models and a no photo-retouching rule for all their ad campaigns.
Pretty Little Thing is also a great online store with an awesome plus-size range and super trendy pieces. Because you don’t have to be a size 2 to be fashionable, baby!
Don’t let the trend ruin your fashion
Regardless of what body shape is trendy today, it’s important to remember you are beautiful and worthy no matter what!
Don’t let anyone ever tell you differently!