I don’t need to repeat the unique challenges we face in fashion (and the world) as plus-size people. But one very common challenge (and joy at the same time) that I face is when I find an item of clothing I love, especially when it is available in multiple colourways.
Why, might you ask?
Well, I’m so overjoyed at the prospect of a perfect fit, my brain kicks into overdrive and starts telling me: I need a black one for every day, a black one for special occasions, and a couple of extra colours too, thanks.
Therein lies the dilemma.
Do I go down the road of building a startup CEO-style daily wardrobe and buy multiples of a clothing item that fits perfectly? Or resist the urge, knowing I should explore a more varied wardrobe (but this may take a long time, or could never happen)?
This decision is not just about personal preference but also reflects broader issues within the fashion industry and our own relationships with style and body confidence. Let’s look into both sides of this debate.
The Case for Buying Multiples: Navigating a Limited Market
For many plus-size people, finding a piece of clothing that fits well, looks good, and feels comfortable can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. The frustration of trying on countless garments, only to be disappointed by poor fits, unflattering cuts, or limited options in stores, often leads to a sense of urgency when a great item is finally found. Thus, there are some sound reasons for snapping up multiples.
- Limited Availability: The plus-size market is notoriously under-served. When an item that fits perfectly is discovered, the instinct to buy it in multiple colours or even duplicate pieces is a practical response to an unpredictable market. Ensuring that your wardrobe has reliable staples can save time and effort in the future.
- Consistency and Comfort: There’s a level of comfort in knowing you have several pieces that fit well and make you feel confident. This is especially important for those who have a busy lifestyle or face frequent body fluctuations. Having reliable go-to pieces can simplify daily dressing routines and reduce the stress associated with wardrobe choices.
- Quality over Quantity: Investing in multiples of high-quality items that fit well can be seen as a strategic move. It emphasises a capsule wardrobe approach, where fewer, better-made pieces are prioritised over a larger quantity of mediocre items. This approach can also be more sustainable, reducing the frequency of purchases and the environmental impact of fast fashion.
The Case for Experimentation: Embracing Style Diversity
While buying multiples has its advantages, it’s also essential to consider the impact this habit may have on personal style and self-expression. Embracing diversity in your wardrobe can foster creativity and enhance your fashion sense.
- Limiting Your Options: By repeatedly buying the same item, you may inadvertently limit your wardrobe’s versatility. Experimentation with different styles, patterns, and cuts can lead to surprising discoveries about what suits you best. Plus, it can prevent your wardrobe from becoming monotonous and predictable.
- Personal Growth and Confidence: Stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new styles can be a powerful way to build self-confidence. It can challenge the notion that plus-size individuals should stick to certain “safe” styles and instead encourage embracing fashion as a form of self-expression.
- Broadening the Market: By diversifying your purchases and supporting brands that offer a wider range of styles, you contribute to the demand for more inclusive fashion. This can drive the industry to expand its offerings and improve the overall shopping experience for plus-size consumers.
Finding a Balance
Ultimately, the decision to buy multiples of a well-fitting piece or to diversify your wardrobe is a personal one. It’s about finding a balance that works for you. A practical approach could involve securing those staple pieces in multiple colours for their reliability and comfort while also setting aside a portion of your wardrobe budget to experiment with new trends and styles.
By combining both strategies, you can ensure that you have a dependable selection of clothing that fits well and makes you feel confident, while also allowing space for growth and exploration in your personal style journey. Remember, fashion is a tool for self-expression and empowerment, and the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel your best.
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