The history of plus-size lingerie is intertwined with the broader history of lingerie and the evolution of societal attitudes towards body size and shape. Lingerie has served various purposes throughout history, from providing chest support for physical activity to shaping and enhancing various body types.
The concept of plus-size fashion emerged in the early 19th century, with clothes tailored to fit larger bodies. The term "plus size" was first used by American designer Lane Bryant in the late 1920s. Bryant's husband, Albert Malsin, conducted research with plus-size women to understand their body measurements, which influenced the design of plus-size clothing.
For a long time, plus-size lingerie was considered taboo, and society tried to dictate how women should look and what they should wear. However, over the years, women have gained more control over their bodies and their self-expression, leading to a positive body movement and the rise of brands that focus on offering lingerie for women of all sizes.
In the 1980s, "plus size" became the descriptor of choice for sizes 14 and up. Even high-end fashion designers started getting in on the game, including Valentino and Givenchy.
In recent years, there has been a push for more inclusivity in the lingerie industry. Victoria's Secret, a top lingerie retailer in the United States, faced criticism for its lack of diversity and unwillingness to change its ways. In response, the brand introduced its first plus-size model, Ali-Tate Cutler, signaling a shift towards more body positivity.
Despite these advancements, there is still a long way to go in terms of representation and availability of plus-size lingerie. Many women sizes 14 and up are still underrepresented in media and don't have equal access to the same number of clothing options. However, the trend is moving towards more inclusivity and body positivity, with more brands introducing exclusive clothing lines for all sizes.
