Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Size, Share, and Trends 2024 to 2033

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2033

The global plus size womens clothing market size was valued at USD 290.04 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach around USD 506.34 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.73% from 2024 to 2033. The plus size womens clothing market is driven by the ever-growing movement of body positivity. 

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Key Takeaways

• North America dominated the plus size womens clothing market in 2023.
• By type, the casual wear segment dominated the market in 2023.
• By product, the tees and t-shirts segment is projected to witness the fastest rate of growth during the forecast period.
• By age, the 16-59 segment dominated the market in 2023. The segment is observed to sustain the dominance throughout the forecast period.
• By distribution channel, the online segment dominated the plus size womens clothing market.

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Overview

The plus size womens clothing market revolves around the offering of fashion solutions dedicated to serving women who wear larger sizes, usually up to a US size 12. Society's inclination towards body positivity and acceptance is causing a surge in the need for stylish oversized clothing, which is observed to be one of the major factors for the market’s expansion. Retailers are expanding their products in response to consumer demand for more options in the plus-size apparel arena, which is becoming increasingly outspoken. Plus-size women can benefit from having access to fashionable, well-fitting apparel in terms of their confidence and sense of self. The fashion industry encourages body positivity and self-acceptance among women of all sizes by providing stylish options in larger sizes.

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Growth Factors

• Due to the expanding body positivity movement, there is now more acceptance of all body shapes, including plus sizes. Women are calling for more options in larger sizes for stylish, flattering attire.
• Plus-sized people are gradually finding more acceptance in the fashion business. The expanding impact of plus-size models and influencers who support acceptance and self-love at any size and consumer demand is partially to blame.
• The aging population is a factor due to its tendency to grow larger. Furthermore, thanks to increased disposable incomes, more people in developing nations can now purchase a greater range of clothes, including plus-size options, this factor is observed to act as a driver for the plus size womens clothing market.

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Scope

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Dynamics

Drivers

Growing acceptance of diverse body types

An important cultural movement that has pushed for inclusivity and body positivity has emerged in recent years. Due to social media platforms, people now have a great platform to celebrate all body types and question conventional standards of beauty. Celebrities and influencers have been crucial in creating a more accepting atmosphere where people of all body types are valued and encouraged to accept their bodies.

• In September 2023, Prior to being rolled out to more foreign markets, Pinterest introduced a new industry-first body type technology to boost body representation on its social media platform for users in the UK, Ireland, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Rise of online shopping

In contrast to physical stores with constrained space, online merchants may provide plus-size women with a greater selection of clothing. This wider variety specifically addresses the requirements and tastes of plus-size customers with its trendy looks, vibrant hues, and varied designs. Shoppers may explore a wide range of selections with a few clicks, ensuring they find something that fits their size and style.

Restraint

Limited availability of fashionable and trendy options compared to standard sizes

The difference in possibilities accessible to plus-size customers is further exacerbated by the fact that plus-size clothing is frequently more expensive than standard sizes. Several variables might be blamed for this pricing gap, such as specialized production procedures, more significant material costs, and maybe lesser economies of scale due to reduced demand. Certain brands can turn to obsolete, formless designs or unattractive styles that don't accommodate plus-size customers' varied interests and preferences. This fosters negative body image judgments and the idea that plus-size people are not worthy of stylish attire.

Opportunities

Demand for stylish and functional activewear tailored to plus-size womens needs

The fashion industry has an increasing demand for diversity and representation. Plus-size women are pushing for increased visibility and acknowledgment regarding being represented in advertising campaigns and accessing clothing alternatives that fit their body types. Companies that aggressively cater to plus-size consumers and embrace diversity stand to build devoted followers of people who believe that their brand understands and values them. Such demand for stylish and functional activewear is observed to create a potential opportunity for the plus size womens clothing market.

Innovative fabrics and technology

Antimicrobial treatments added to plus-size clothing can help limit the growth of germs that cause odors, keeping clothes fresher for extended periods in between washings. This feature benefits athletics and undergarments, where odor control is crucial for preserving daily hygiene and confidence. Adaptive clothing with creative features like magnetic fastenings, adjustable closures, and easy-access designs can significantly increase comfort and ease of dressing for plus-size women with special physical needs or mobility issues. These adaptable solutions provide inclusivity and dignity in fashion by accommodating a range of body types and abilities.

Type Insights

The casual wear segment dominated the plus size womens clothing market in 2023. In recent decades, there has been a notable change in society's views toward inclusivity and body positivity. Consequently, there has been an increase in the market for stylish clothing options designed to fit plus-size women. Regarding fashion, casual wear is frequently more accessible and reasonably priced than luxury labels. Plus-size shoppers value fashionable yet affordable apparel selections just like any other group. For plus-size ladies, creating a stylish, adaptable wardrobe without going over budget has never been simpler due to the availability of reasonably priced casual clothing in larger sizes.

The formal wear segment shows a significant growth in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Plus-size women are becoming more and more interested in formal attire because of cultural changes that promote inclusivity and body positivity. Plus-size people are more likely to wear clothes that give them a sense of empowerment and confidence, such as formal wear for work, social gatherings, and important events like celebrations and weddings. By diversifying their formal wear ranges, fashion designers and merchants strive to accommodate a broader range of tastes, preferences, and body types within the plus-size audience. This guarantees plus-size women access to fashionable options by offering a wider variety of cuts, styles, colors, and fabrics specifically designed to enhance and flatter curves.

The sportswear segment shows a notable share in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Sportswear companies are embracing diversity and body positivity through their inclusive branding and marketing tactics. These firms appeal to a wider audience, including plus-size women looking for comfortable and fashionable activewear solutions. They include plus-size models in their ads and provide a wide range of sizes.

Product Insights

The tees and t-shirts segment is projected to witness the fastest growing in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Customers highly appreciate the comfort and ease of wear, which T-shirts and tees provide. This is especially true for the plus-size market, where it can be difficult to locate comfortable, flattering clothes. These clothes are frequently composed of supple, elastic materials that promote comfort and range of motion. Social media influencers and bloggers greatly influence fashion trends and customer preferences. Plus-sized influencers have encouraged their followers to accept their curves and feel good about themselves by helping to normalize and promote body positivity.

The innerwear segment shows a notable growth in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Since plus-size women come in various forms and sizes, the industry is beginning to realize that one-size-fits-all strategies are insufficient. To accommodate a variety of body shapes, brands are expanding their selection of styles and cuts, allowing women to choose undergarments that complement their distinct outlines and curves.

Age Insights

The 16-59 segment dominated the plus size womens clothing market in 2023. The 16–59 age group comprises a significant proportion of the population and includes women of various ages, body types, and fashion preferences. Fashionable plus-size apparel is becoming increasingly in demand as body positivity initiatives gain traction and attitudes toward different body shapes change in society. The fashion industry has significantly benefited from the increased visibility and representation of the 16–59 age group, mainly because of plus-size models and influencers.  These people have changed the perception of body diversity and questioned conventional beauty standards through social media platforms, ad campaigns, and runway displays.

Distribution Channel Insights

The online segment holds the majority share in the plus size womens clothing market in 2023. Unlike regular stores, plus-size online merchants usually provide a far wider selection of styles, sizes, and brands. Plus-size women can choose from a wide range of options that accommodate their varied tastes and body shapes and select apparel that perfectly complements their style. Online stores frequently offer something for everyone, whether casual essentials, formal clothing, athletic wear, or trendy design items.

• In the United States, e-commerce generated $1.7 trillion in sales between 2020 and 2022, a 55% increase in online sales. Canada is the market's second-largest contributor, with the United States accounting for most of the region's growing number of online shoppers. The biggest online clothing retailers, such as Amazon, Walmart, Nike, Macy's, and Target, are headquartered in the US. These big firms actively contribute to the market's development.

The offline segment shows a notable growth in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Even though internet shopping is becoming popular, many customers still prefer the tactile experience of trying on clothes in-store before making a purchase, especially when it comes to apparel and other products where fit is essential. Plus-size apparel retailers have noticed this trend and increased their physical presence to meet the demands of this market. There is a noticeable increase in plus-size clothing retailers in the offline market, giving women a physical area to try various looks and sizes.

Regional Insights

North America held the largest share of the market in 2023 in the plus size womens clothing market and the region is observed to sustain the position throughout the predicted timeframe. In recent years, North America has witnessed a dramatic societal movement in favor of inclusivity and body acceptance. Because of this movement, plus-size people now have the confidence to accept their bodies and demand stylish attire that fits and gives them a confident appearance. This region's fashion business is constantly changing to accommodate its customers' shifting requirements and tastes. To provide stylish and cozy clothes for plus-size people, designers and merchants frequently develop new styles, materials, and technological advancements, which increase demand and profitability.

• In April 2023, Eloquii Inc., a plus-size apparel label, will be acquired by Full Beauty from Walmart. With clothing ranging from 12W to 44W, cups from A to O, bras in bands from 30 to 58, medium, wide, and wide-wide footwear. Through this acquisition, Full Beauty Brands will be able to increase its market share in the US plus-sized womens market, which is worth 81 billion dollars and is expanding three times faster than the overall womens apparel industry.

Asia-Pacific is observed to be the fastest growing region in the plus size womens clothing market during the forecast period. Retailers in Asia-Pacific, both foreign and domestic, are starting to realize the potential of the plus-size market. To appeal to Asian consumers, many international firms are investing in localized marketing techniques and extending their size ranges. Furthermore, local companies are starting to appear, providing fashionable and reasonably priced plus-size solutions to precisely address the tastes and cultural quirks of the region's varied markets.

Europe is expected to hold a notable share in the plus size womens clothing market throughout the forecast period. In this sector, Europe does undoubtedly play a significant role. The plus-size apparel market has grown due to various factors, including a shift in fashion toward inclusivity, a growing awareness of body positivity, and a modification of societal norms. The need for stylish clothing options for women of all sizes has expanded due to the greater acceptance and celebration of varied body types.

Furthermore, in response to this desire, the European fashion industry has started providing plus-size customers with fashionable designs and more inclusive sizing ranges. Moreover, media and advertising campaigns that support diversity and body positivity have further stimulated the desire for plus-size clothes. Therefore, to serve this market, European merchants and fashion labels are increasing the range of products they offer.

• In August 2023, Leading fashion and lifestyle e-commerce site in Europe, Zalando, revealed an 87 percent increase in adjusted earnings before interest and tax for the second quarter. The company's focus on strategic efforts to drive growth, like capturing and holding customers' attention and expanding its logistical offering, is reflected in its strong business performance.

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Recent Developments

• In April 2023, Shoppers Stop, the fashion-forward multi-brand retail giant, has announced the debut of its plus-sized private label, which will be sold under the 'U R You' name.
• In June 2022, Jisora debuted a brand-new collection of reasonably priced plus-size fashion clothing for curvy females. Jisora sought to meet the wardrobe requirements of women, who are frequently disregarded by apparel companies and have few opportunities to dress however they like. The most recent collection shows clothes in sizes XL to 6 XL. Jisora's loungewear department features ensembles set in vivid colors and lovely designs.

Plus Size Womens Clothing Market Companies

• Forever21 Inc.
• Ralph Lauren
• MANGO
• H&M
• Evans
• FTF IP Company
• Lucky Brand LLC
• Old Navy LLC.
• Hanesbrands Inc.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Type

• Casual Wear
• Formal Wear
• Sportswear
• Others

By Product

• Tops
• Jeans and Trousers
• Tees and T-shirts
• Innerwear
• Dresses and Jumpsuits
• Jackets and Outerwear
• Swimwear
• Activewear
• Loungewear

By Age

• Below 15
• 16-59
• 60- Above

By Distribution Channel

• Online
• Offline 

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa