From the Managing Editor’s Desk
Finding clothes that fit well is a universal quest, but for those of us who navigate the world as both plus size and petite, the journey often feels less like a quest and more like an epic, unwinnable battle, especially when it comes to pants. I’ve heard your concerns and frustration with this issue. Most importantly, I’ve experienced firsthand the unique petite plus size struggles that make shopping for pants a truly exasperating endeavor.
For years, my wardrobe was a graveyard of ill-fitting trousers and jeans. I’d find a pair that flattered my curves, only to discover they added an extra foot of fabric rouching around my ankles. Or, if the length was right, the proportions everywhere else were just…off. The waistband might gape, the thighs might be too tight, or there might be tons of extra fabric in my crotch.
It’s a constant reminder that the fashion industry, despite its strides, often designs for a very specific, idealized body type that simply doesn’t account for the reality of many petite plus size individuals.
Understanding the Unique Petite Plus Size Struggles in Fashion
The core of the issue lies in the limited understanding of what “plus size” and “petite” truly mean when combined. When people think of “plus size,” they may assume the person is on the taller end of the spectrum. Many may assume that if you need larger sizes, you also need longer inseams.
“Petite,” often miscontrued as “skinny” or “slim,” typically caters to those who are on the shorter end of the spectrum—typically 5’4 and below. However, petite sections often don’t include plus size proportions. So when a person is both short and curvy, the result is a massive disconnect in sizing and design. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, only the peg is gorgeous and curvy, and the hole is just awkwardly sized.
I’ve spent countless hours scrolling through online shops, optimistically clicking on “petite plus” sections, only to be met with a paltry selection that rarely goes beyond basic black pants or stretched-out jeans. When a brand does offer a “petite plus” option, it often means they’ve simply chopped a few inches off the hem of a regular plus size pant, without adjusting the rise, the knee placement, or the overall silhouette. This leads to pants that bunch awkwardly, create strange bulges, or don’t sit right on the body. My inseam is a specific measurement, and it’s frustrating to feel like an afterthought constantly.
The emotional toll of this struggle is real. It’s not just about finding a pair of pants; it’s about feeling seen, valued, and catered to by an industry that profits from our desire to look and feel good. Every failed shopping trip chips away at confidence, making the simple act of getting dressed feel like a personal challenge. While tailoring could be a solution, it is an added cost and shouldn’t be necessary. Plus, one shouldn’t have have to tailor every pair of pants they own.
What’s the answer to these petite plus size struggles? For brands, it’s about truly understanding and investing in body diversity. It means creating specific patterns and designs for petite plus size bodies, not just scaling down or cutting off fabric from existing lines. It means listening to the voices of your customers and recognizing that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and heights. For us, the consumers, it means continuing to advocate, support brands that do get it right, and share our experiences to keep the conversation going.
I believe that one day, walking into a store or browsing online for pants won’t be a source of dread, but a joyful experience for everybody. Until then, The Curvy Fashionista will keep highlighting the brands that are making progress and sharing tips to navigate this tricky terrain. We’re in this together, and our collective voices can, and will, make a difference.
Check out these brands for petite plus size options:
Lane Bryant: A well-known name in plus size fashion, Lane Bryant consistently offers a range of pieces, including jeans, pants, and dresses, in petite lengths. They understand that a great fit isn’t just about waist size, but also about proportion. It’s always worth checking their dedicated petite sections online.
Talbots: Known for classic and sophisticated styles, Talbots has a strong “Plus Petite” line. They focus on quality pieces that are tailored to fit shorter, curvier frames correctly, offering everything from workwear to casual essentials. If you’re looking for polished pieces that won’t require extensive alterations, Talbots is a solid choice.
Old Navy/Gap: These sister brands are often good starting points for finding pants and jeans in particular. While they might not have a separate “petite plus size” category, many of their plus size bottoms come in “short” inseams, which can be a game-changer for a proper fit. It often requires checking individual product pages for inseam options, but the effort can pay off.
