The obesity problem is real, and trying to look your best when your body proportions are off the chart is challenging as well as depressing. I have several favorite clothing brands, and even they are not always consistent with sizes and availability. My research shows why.
The major grey area in clothing sizes starts after the typical Small, Medium, and Large. Some clothing manufacturers size only up to what is known as Extra-Large, or XL. Others offer Plus sizes starting with 1X. So, what is the difference between XL and 1X?
Men’s clothing may come in XL, while womens may be labeled 1X, but generally 1X accommodates a 38-40″ waist for women. Men’s size XL may indicate a smaller 35-36″ waist. The magic number is 36 for men.
This may explain why clothing sales exhaust supplies of 1X before XL. I have frequently scoured clearance racks for Plus sizes and found only XL or 2X and 3X available more readily than 1X. One is snug, the other roomier.
Clothing from Torrid, a great choice in larger sizes, start at about size 12 and then include unique labels of 0, 1, 2 and 3 for Plus sizes. They offer jeans which cover a three-size range: they sell out quickly.
In a world where low numbers can be part of social status (remember there is a size zero out there for those skinny enough to be considered no size at all–just kidding), saying you’re a size zero when you’re Plus-sized is exciting. Frankly, I can’t imagine anybody asking a person to reveal their clothing size, or even the brand label on their clothing. We are not, after all, a number or a business entity emblazoned on a piece of merchandise; we are human beings, each with a unique history and a unique body. We want to feel good when we dress in the morning, and whatever works should be of good quality and fit well. Checking the differences in each is the best answer, whether it’s in a sizing guide or the fitting room.
If the size fits, wear it. Proudly.
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