“This is an exciting time to be curvy,” says fashion model and Simply Be’s spokesperson Sarina Nowak. “Many brands are paying attention to the demand for size inclusiveness and creating collections for curvy women that are more fashionable.”
While many retailers adopt a one-size-fits-none approach, Sarina urges marketers to think twice before using the term “plus size” — a label whose definition varies by retailer but often refers to sizes 16 and up. She explains, “I don’t like the word plus size… I prefer curvy. Plus size implies that it’s not normal or that it’s negative to be a different body type.”
New rules
Sarina hopes this industry shift will provide hope for the millions of young women and girls who struggle with poor body image and low self-esteem. “All women should be included in fashion and feel great about what they are wearing. No body type should be made to feel less than another,” she says.
From wearing all-black to avoiding horizontal stripes, Sarina encourages curvy women to throw out their style playbooks.
“Women should feel free to wear whatever they would like,” she says. “Personally, I like to wear high-waisted swimsuits and jeans because it’s more flattering for me. But there really are no rules for curvy women.”
Unlocking confidence
After competing on the fourth season of Heidi Klum’s “Germany’s Next Top Model,” Sarina started using social media to connect with fans and promote body positivity. Her advice on boosting body confidence?
“The secret to feeling sexy is to really love yourself and to truly embrace your body. When you learn to embrace your body, the confidence follows,” she says. “If there’s a day you don’t feel good, write five positive things that you love about your body and yourself and look at it every day.”
She also recommends avoiding social media accounts that portray unattainable beauty standards.
“Only follow your role models, your mentors or people who inspire you and make you feel good about yourself.”