Designing for Different Body Types & Sizes
For decades, the fashion industry has been criticised for its lack of inclusivity. However, thankfully, this narrative is now changing slowly but steadily. Runways are no longer dominated by size zero models. Today, we’re seeing an all-new definition of beauty. The runway has people of all shapes and sizes ruling it. If you’re someone who is studying a fashion and apparel design course, you need to be able to design for different body types and sizes. You also need to stay abreast of industry buzzwords such as inclusivity and sustainability. Only the best fashion design colleges in Bangalore will teach you these concepts theoretically and practically.
What is Fashion Inclusivity?
Fashion inclusivity is not a trend. It is a movement that is here to stay. It is all about recognising and celebrating various body types and sizes. It’s also about embracing diversity in genders and identities, and making way for a modern, equitable fashion industry. Here’s why fashion inclusivity matters:
- Increasing Consumer Demand: A large portion of consumers don’t come under the traditional sizing norms. For example, XS to XL.
- Cultural Shift: Gone are the days when people with different body types would be thin or fat shamed. Thanks to social media, society now increasingly values body positivity, authenticity and an individual identity.
- Fashion Representation: Today’s consumers want to feel empowered. When large fashion houses and designers make collections that are diverse and fashion inclusive, consumers feel seen and valued.
Design Principles for Fashion Inclusivity
In this blog, we are going to be discussing a few important principles you should keep in mind when you’re designing garments that are inclusive:
Body Proportions are Different
Before proceeding to designing garments, it’s important to understand the wide range of body types. Bodies might be of the same size and weight but can have different proportions. As a designer, it’s your job to create different fit options. For instance, curvy, tall, petite, etc. While these are fit options, the different body types include pear-shaped, apple-shaped, hour-glass, rectangle and plus size. Every body type is different and thus, it’s the job of a designer to create fits that inspire comfort and confidence. The Indian plus-size market alone is witnessing substantial growth. This is due to the increasing awareness of fashion inclusion and rise in body positivity. The market in India is estimated to be $288 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $501.35 billion by 2033.
Adaptive Clothing
There is a common misconception that fashion inclusivity is only about designing for plus-size body types. However, your brand is truly considered fashion inclusive when you have a range of adaptive clothing as well. We’ve already spoken about adaptive clothing earlier. It’s all about designing clothes for individuals who are disabled and senior. The clothes suit the needs and demands of individuals with varying needs and degrees of disabilities. When you’re designing for people with disabilities, you need to incorporate particular closures (magnets, Velcro), have slip-on shoes, sensory-friendly fabrics, tagless clothing, and have amputation and prosthetic garments.
Inclusive Sizes
Not all brands are size inclusive. However, there are a few notable ones including Samshek, ALL, Mustard, Divena, BlissClub, The Pink Moon, House of Her, and so on. These brands go beyond the standard size chart. They offer extended sizing – from XXS to 6XL and beyond. These brands not just cater to diverse body types but also focus on fabric grading so that the garment fits proportionally. The aim of fashion inclusivity isn’t just about creating garments in extra small or extra-large sizes. It’s also about ensuring that the fit is flattering and gives the wearer a certain sense of confidence.
Consider Fabric & Function
Besides scaling up sizes, it’s also important to use stretchable, breathable and supportive materials. This enhances the comfort and fit across all sizes. As a designer, you should be considering garment structure. In case you’re giving darts, seams and linings, make sure it’s adjusted by size.
Marketing
Once you’ve designed garments that are size inclusive, you need to use marketing to let people know about the same. Use models in various sizes, age, race, gender identity and ability. Only then your brand will come across as inclusive.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier, fashion inclusivity is no longer a trend. It has become a commitment which brands are taking very seriously. When your brand creates clothing that is flattering and fits a wide range of body types, it is considered ethical. Moreover, it is considered size inclusive. With brands continuously integrating diversity into their ethos, the demand for individuals who understand fashion inclusivity is on the rise. If you’re passionate about designing for different body types and sizes, you should pursue a fashion design course that focuses on representation and diversity.
