fashion
Where did all the XXL clothes go? Fashion brands are scrapping plus sizes in the GLP-1 era
As weight-loss drugs gain popularity in the US, brands are scaling back their ranges – and frustrating customers
TL;DR
- Fashion brands like H&M, Mango, and Anthropology have reduced their plus-size clothing inventory, with H&M discontinuing sizes 3XL and 4XL.
- The rise in popularity of weight-loss drugs (GLP-1s) is a significant factor cited for the shift in apparel sizing, as the average American body size has started to decrease.
- Despite the trend of shrinking sizes, a majority of Americans remain plus-sized, yet they are increasingly underserved by mainstream fashion retailers.
- The secondhand clothing market, including platforms like ThredUp, is seeing a significant increase in both donations and demand for larger-sized garments.
- Experts suggest that brands should focus on size flexibility and adjustability rather than eliminating sizes to cater to evolving customer needs.
- The trend of reducing plus-size options appears to be more pronounced in affluent and trend-led segments of the market, while budget-conscious retailers like Walmart are expanding their inclusive offerings.