If you’ve struggled to find activewear that actually fits your curves (a likely scenario if you wear size 16 or up), this may be the plus-size fashion news you’ve been waiting for.
While many workout clothing lines still cap their offerings at around size 14, more and more major brands are expanding their collections to include sizing options that go up to 3X (and beyond). From Nike to K. Deer, Fabletics to Beyond Yoga, finding cute leggings that fit is no longer a workout in and of itself.
The shift in plus-size perspective has a lot to do with new research indicating that the average American woman’s more like a size 16–18. But according to Michelle Wahler, co-founder and CEO of Beyond Yoga, sites like Instagram and Facebook have also played a big part in raising awareness on body diversity. “The rise of social media gave consumers a real platform where they could speak out. They’ve demanded that their needs be met, and brands are finally listening,” she explains. (In Beyond Yoga’s case, which always offered all of its designs in up to size XXL, you’ll soon be able to get your hands on their ridiculously soft leggings and bras in up to size 3X.)
“That’s the most important part: not alienating a customer just because she happens to have a bigger body.”
“It’s exciting to see brands extend to plus with the same styles as their main range,” says Tanesha Awasthi, founder and editor of GirlWithCurves.com.”That’s the most important part: not alienating a customer just because she happens to have a bigger body.”
So is this a harbinger of even more plus-size offerings to come? Wahler predicts the category will evolve swiftly among millennials. According to Grace Chang, a spokesperson for Nike (which launched its first extended-size department online in March), “This is just the beginning.”
If the pieces below are any indication of where this trend is heading, let’s certainly hope so.
Here are the 11 coolest activewear items from extended-size collections.
The best plus-size activewear to shop now
Macy's Ideology Dip-Dyed Top $40
Fabletics Ashlyn Tank $55
Exotica Athletica Tropical Night High Waisted Pocket Leggings $124
Nike Breathe High/Low Top $60
Nordstrom Zella Curve with It Midi Leggings $65
Lane Bryant Cooling No-Wire Sport Bra $55-$70
K-Deer Legging in Jody Stripe $98
Blitz Active Onyx Daze Tank $75
Beyond Yoga Ommmbre Mesh High Waisted Midi Legging $110
Target C9 Champion Drapey Cardigan $32
Active Truth Ballet Crop Leggings $52
Need to clear out room in your closet before you pick up new items? Here are the five activewear pieces to get rid of ASAP. Or try this genius trick for organizing your leggings.
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