Omari Gates
Plus-size clothing is generally considered to be size 16 and upward in Australia, though there is variation between brands. The average Australian woman wears a size 16, with more than one in three women wearing a size 18 or above, which is considered `plus-size' by the fashion industry. The Australia Plus Size Clothing Market is projected to grow, with an increasing demand for fashionable plus-size clothing and a rising acceptance of diverse body types.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average Australian woman's clothing size | 16-18 |
| Starting point for plus-size clothing in Australia | 16 |
| Percentage of Australian clothing retailers selling plus-size clothing | 6.3% |
| Percentage of adult Australians considered overweight | 67% |
| Percentage of Australian women wearing size 18 or above | 37% |
| Percentage of Australian women on the cusp of plus-size clothing | 15% |
| Projected value of the Australian plus-size clothing market in 2032 | USD 4,061.85 million |
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What You'll Learn
Plus-size clothing market growth
In Australia, plus-size clothing is considered to start at size 16 and above for women, which is equivalent to a US size 12. The average Australian woman wears a size 16, and over a third of women wear a size 18 or above, which is considered plus-size by the industry. This has resulted in a notable growth in the plus-size clothing market, with major department stores such as David Jones, Myer, and Target producing their own plus-size ranges. There has also been an increase in independent boutiques and national chain store outlets offering plus-size fashion across the country.
The Australian plus-size women's clothing market has witnessed significant growth, with a notable compound annual growth rate of 7.96% from 2023 to 2032. This growth is driven by several factors, including a changing societal landscape that embraces body positivity and celebrates diverse body types. This shift in social attitudes has led to a heightened demand for clothing that caters to the unique shapes and sizes of plus-size women.
Additionally, improving economic conditions in Australia have resulted in rising disposable incomes among plus-size consumers, allowing them to allocate more of their spending towards clothing purchases. The expansion of online shopping platforms has also played a significant role in the growth of the plus-size market. E-commerce provides broader access to a wider range of plus-size clothing options that may not be available in physical stores. The convenience of online shopping, coupled with features like virtual fitting rooms and detailed size guides, has enhanced the overall shopping experience for plus-size consumers.
However, despite the positive growth trajectory, the Australian plus-size clothing market still faces challenges, particularly regarding size availability in brick-and-mortar stores. Many physical retail stores offer a limited range of plus-size clothing, which can be a barrier for consumers who prefer to try on clothes before purchasing or who live in areas with fewer specialty stores.
The plus-size clothing market in Australia is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by increasing demand for inclusive and diverse fashion options. With a growing awareness of body positivity and inclusivity, coupled with shifting societal attitudes towards beauty standards, the demand for fashionable and well-fitting clothing options for plus-size consumers is expected to remain strong.
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Plus-size fashion trends
In Australia, plus-size clothing is considered to be size 16 and upward, which is the equivalent of a US size 12. However, the average Australian woman wears a size 16, and more than one in three women wear a size 18 or above, which is considered "plus-size" by the fashion industry. This means that a significant proportion of Australian women have limited options when it comes to finding clothing that fits and flatters their bodies.
The Australian plus-size clothing market has been growing, with major department stores such as David Jones, Myer, and Target producing their own brand ranges, and an increase in the number of individual boutiques and national chain store outlets across the country. There is also a boom in Australian designer independent plus-size labels such as Camilla Jayne, Curvy Chic Sports, Hope & Harvest, and 17 Sundays. However, there is still a lack of representation of plus-size bodies in fashion campaigns and on the runway, and many brands put in minimal effort when it comes to creating plus-size collections.
One challenge of plus-size fashion is that sizing can vary significantly between brands, and even within the same brand, making it difficult to find clothing that fits well. Additionally, many Australian stores only stock up to a size 16, which means that a large proportion of women are unable to find clothing that fits them in-store and may have to resort to online shopping.
There is a growing demand for stylish and on-trend plus-size clothing that is proportioned specifically for larger bodies. Plus-size women want the same fashionable clothes that are available in straight sizes but in larger sizes that fit them well. This includes everything from everyday wear to special occasion outfits and plus-size sportswear, fitness wear, and bras.
Overall, the plus-size fashion landscape in Australia is evolving, with more options becoming available, but there is still room for improvement in terms of representation, availability, and fit.
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Plus-size clothing retailers
In Australia, plus-size clothing is typically considered to be size 16 and above for women. However, there is some variation, with one source stating that the average Australian woman wears a size 16, while another reports that the average is a size 16-18. This discrepancy may be due to the fact that sizing can vary between different brands and clothing manufacturers.
Regardless of the exact size cutoff, it is clear that a significant proportion of Australian women require plus-size clothing. Unfortunately, finding stylish and well-fitting plus-size clothing can be challenging, as only a small percentage of Australian retailers offer sizes above 16. This has led to a growing demand for plus-size fashion in the country, with several notable retailers and brands emerging to meet the needs of this market.
One popular option for plus-size clothing in Australia is City Chic, which offers a range of stylish options for women sized 12-24. Taking Shape is another well-known Australian brand that specializes in plus-size fashion, offering sizes 10-30. Curvaceous is another Australian brand that caters to a wide range of sizes, from 18 to 32.
In addition to these dedicated plus-size brands, several major department stores in Australia have also expanded their offerings to include plus-size ranges, including David Jones, Myer, and Target. There has also been a boom in Australian designer independent plus-size labels, such as Camilla Jayne, Curvy Chic Sports, Hope & Harvest, and many others, offering unique and fashionable options for plus-size consumers.
While the representation of plus-size bodies in fashion campaigns and on the runway is still lacking, the growth of the plus-size clothing market in Australia is a positive step towards better serving the needs of this significant portion of the population.
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Plus-size clothing demand
The Australian plus-size clothing market has been growing since at least 1994, with a projected growth from USD 2,596.86 million in 2023 to USD 4,061.85 million by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate of 5.09%. This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for fashionable plus-size clothing, rising acceptance of diverse body types, and the influence of social media and body positivity movements.
The demand for fashionable plus-size clothing has been a key driver of market growth. Consumers are no longer willing to compromise style for comfort, seeking apparel that combines both. This has pushed clothing manufacturers and retailers to innovate, offering on-trend designs in extended size ranges. From casual wear to formal attire, plus-size options now include a broader spectrum of styles, such as athleisure, streetwear, and professional outfits. Australian brands have expanded their offerings to cater to these demands, ensuring that fashion-conscious plus-size individuals have more options.
The rising acceptance of diverse body types and the body positivity movement have also played a significant role in increasing the demand for plus-size clothing. There has been a noticeable shift in societal attitudes, with a growing emphasis on embracing diverse and natural body shapes and sizes. This empowerment has translated into a heightened demand for clothing that caters to the unique shapes and sizes of plus-size individuals. Social media campaigns promoting self-love and inclusivity have further contributed to the normalization of plus-size fashion, allowing individuals to confidently express their personal style.
The influence of social media and celebrity endorsements has also boosted the popularity of plus-size fashion. Online platforms and social media campaigns have increased the visibility of plus-size models and influencers, normalising plus-size bodies and fashion. Additionally, the growing preference for online shopping has expanded the market, offering consumers greater access to a wide range of plus-size options. The convenience, variety, and accessibility of online stores have contributed to their popularity, especially in urban areas of Australia.
However, despite the positive growth trajectory, the Australian plus-size clothing market faces challenges, including limited size availability in brick-and-mortar stores, particularly in rural areas. There is also a lack of representation of plus-size bodies in fashion campaigns and runways, indicating that brands could do more to genuinely engage with and understand the needs and preferences of their plus-size customers.
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Plus-size representation in fashion
However, there are signs that the fashion industry is slowly becoming more inclusive. The Australian plus-size clothing market has been growing since 1994, with major department stores producing their own plus-size ranges and an increase in independent boutiques and chain stores. This growth is driven by a number of factors, including a growing awareness of body positivity and inclusivity, rising disposable incomes among plus-size consumers, and an increasing demand for fashionable and well-fitting clothing options.
There has also been a boom in Australian designer independent plus-size labels such as Camilla Jayne, Curvy Chic Sports, Hope & Harvest, and 17 Sundays. These labels are challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting self-love and confidence regardless of size.
Despite this progress, many people still struggle to find clothing that fits. The sizing between brands can fluctuate, and many Australian stores still only stock up to a size 16. This means that over one-third of women can rarely shop in stores, and another 15% may struggle.
The lack of representation in fashion can send a message that plus-size bodies are an afterthought or not considered at all. It is hoped that the growing demand for inclusive and diverse fashion options will lead to more brands prioritizing inclusivity and offering trendy designs that cater to a wider range of body types.
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Frequently asked questions
Plus-size clothing is defined as clothing proportioned specifically for people above the average clothing size. In Australia, this is considered to be a size 16 and upward.
The average Australian woman wears a size 14-18, with the majority wearing a size 16.
The plus-size clothing market in Australia has been growing since 1994, with major department stores producing their own brands and an increase in independent boutiques and chain stores. The market is projected to grow from USD 2,596.86 million in 2023 to USD 4,061.85 million by 2032, driven by increasing demand for fashionable plus-size clothing, rising acceptance of diverse body types, and a shift towards online shopping.
