The fashion industry has been debating plus-size apparel for a very long time. The cost of clothing is one of the main issues that plus-size consumers have in comparison to conventional sizes. Why plus-size clothing is more expensive and whether it is appropriate to charge more for larger sizes are two issues that have been brought up by this topic.
The materials needed to produce plus-size clothing are one of the key causes of their higher price. Plus-size apparel needs extra fabric, which raises the cost of the fabric. Plus-size apparel production is also more complicated, which necessitates more personnel and time and raises production costs. The cost of plus-size apparel is generally higher due to these variables.
Thankfully, more brands and designers are beginning to offer larger sizes. Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenberg, and Christian Siriano are a few of the fashion houses that cater to bigger sizes. Eloquii, Lane Bryant, and Torrid are a few other well-known retailers that offer plus sizes.
But not all upscale retailers carry plus sizes. For instance, plus sizes are not currently available from Louis Vuitton. This is as a result of the company’s emphasis on its distinctive size, which is constrained to a particular range. While some could claim that this exclusion is unfair, it’s crucial to remember that luxury clothing is frequently exclusive and targets a particular clientele. In terms of plus-size apparel retailers, Torrid and Lane Bryant are two of the most well-known in the US. Despite having a reputation for stocking sizes 10 to 30, Lane Bryant targets a more mature market whereas Torrid appeals to younger customers. It’s interesting to note that Hot Topic, a firm that specialized in alternative fashion, owns Torrid, while Ascena Retail Group, which also owns Ann Taylor and Dressbarn, owns Lane Bryant.
The Avenue, which sells sizes 14-32, is another well-known retailer of plus-size clothing. United Retail Group had previously owned The Avenue, which Versa Capital Management later purchased in 2012. The Avenue regrettably declared bankruptcy in 2019 and eventually shut all of its outlets.
As a result of the complexity of production and higher material costs, plus-size apparel is more expensive. However, by providing additional sizes and inclusive options, the fashion industry is gradually adjusting to the needs of plus-size customers. There are numerous other designers and brands that do provide plus sizes, even though luxury companies like Louis Vuitton might not. Even though The Avenue may no longer be in operation, there will likely be more options in the future as the market for plus-size clothes continues to expand.