Since 1975, global obesity has tripled, with 39% of adults being overweight and 13% obese in 2016. Overweight is defined as a BMI over 25, while obesity is a BMI over 30. The impact of overweight on public health now surpasses that of underweight in most regions worldwide, except for certain parts of sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.
To meet the growing demand for larger clothing sizes, clothing manufacturers have introduced plus-size ranges that are now widely available. A study published in the Sage Clothing and Textile Research Journal titled 'Body Mass Index and Body Satisfaction: Does Availability of Well-Fitting Clothes Matter?' (Grogan, Gill, Brownbridge et al, 2020) discovered that body satisfaction tends to decrease with higher BMI across a broad age range of women (18-81 years), but this decrease is somewhat mitigated by the availability of well-fitting clothes. The research also revealed that the absence of larger-sized clothing options, especially in stores, can lead to feelings of shame and stigma.
Findings from 'The UK Plus-Size Clothing Market Review' (2017) indicate that the plus-size clothing market constitutes approximately 36% of the UK fashion market for women. In the UK, obesity is linked to age (with the highest levels observed in the 55-64 age group) and income (with the highest levels among those with low to moderate income). Purchasing decisions for plus-size clothing are primarily influenced by factors such as value for money and online availability.
The United States currently leads the global market for plus-size clothing, with strong demand growth expected in the United Kingdom, China, Italy, Germany, France, Russia, Brazil, Turkey, and other nations.
Research indicates that higher body confidence among plus-size individuals contributes to increased sales, particularly when influenced by popular plus-size influencers. Nonetheless, the topic of body confidence remains a subject of debate.
The 'Body Positivity' movement emerged from the 'Fat Acceptance' movement of the 1960s, shifting its focus to 'Fitness for All' in the 1990s. It gained momentum as a response to the impact of social media culture in the 2010s, particularly due to the prevalence of extreme and unrealistic beauty standards on platforms like Instagram. Body Positivity challenges existing beauty standards as a socially constructed norm, rejecting the idea of a hierarchical structure based on power and desirability. Various fashion and beauty brands now feature models of diverse body sizes to promote Body Positivity ideals.
The primary goal of Body Positivity is to enhance body satisfaction and address mental health issues such as depression, body dysmorphic disorder, anorexia, and bulimia. However, criticism has been directed at the movement for potentially glorifying obesity and overlooking the health risks associated with it, including diabetes, hypertension, and infertility. Some feminists have also questioned the movement and social media culture for placing excessive emphasis on appearance and its link to self-worth.
'Toxic Body Positivity' refers to an extreme focus on Body Positivity that may suppress negative self-perceptions or hinder the achievement of positive body image, potentially distorting an individual's self-perception.
In summary, obesity has become a global health issue affecting body satisfaction and mental well-being. The availability of a wide range of stylish and well-fitting clothing for individuals of all sizes helps mitigate negative body image concerns. The fashion industry has adapted to changing body sizes by offering plus-size clothing options, especially affordable garments through online platforms. While the Body Positivity movement aims to destigmatize being overweight and alleviate associated mental health challenges, it may inadvertently promote artificially positive body image perceptions.
The My Style ID system caters to individuals of all body shapes and sizes, promoting body confidence and self-worth among clients. It is advisable to seek guidance from a medical professional if you require assistance with any of the aforementioned issues.