Tall and thin. Two general concepts often used to describe female models. Because, in general, becoming a model requires a distinct body to fit into societal standards.
However, the fashion industry is making strides to be more inclusive of all body types, shapes, and sizes. Find out what size is considered plus-size in modern-day and if size really should matter.
Plus-Size Model Requirements
"Plus-size" is a loose word to describe the sizing of women and clothing. But what size is plus size considered to be?
Clothing stores can make it difficult to put a number on plus-size. Some departments may designate a size 12 as plus-size while others use a size 14.
But according to Modeling Wisdom, plus-size models often fall into the range of sizes 8 to 12. Sometimes, even a size 6 can be considered.
This consideration has ultimately raised some eyebrows. Besides, the average American woman wears between a Misses size 16 to 18, which corresponds to a Women's Plus size 20W. These numbers are much different than a size 6.
What Is a Size 6?
Size charts vary across the world. But based on this women's clothing size conversion table, size 6 in the United States and Canada is considered small.
A size small, or size 6 in the states, involves measurements of the bust, waist, and hips:
• Bust: 34 inches
• Waist: 26 inches
• Hips: 37 inches
Can these measurements be a gauge of good health? Health experts suggest knowing a waist and hip size can be useful.
• Waist size: A targeted waist size usually just above the belly button and below the rib cage. It also varies between genders: Women are encouraged to keep a waist size of under 35 inches or 88 centimeters.
A size 14 includes a waist size of 34 inches, which falls into these recommendations.
• Waist-to-hip ratio: A waist-hip measurement is the ratio (WHR) of the circumference of the waist to hips. It can be acquired by simply measuring the smallest circumference of the waist and dividing that number by the circumference of the hips at the widest part. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the ideal WHR for women is less than 0.85.
In addition to a 34-inch waist, a size 14 includes a 45-inch hip measurement. This equates to a waist-to-hip ratio of about 0.76, also falling into the recommendations.
Should Size Matter?
Yes and no because, truly, the answer is not black and white. Sizing can be such a gray area, though it does deserve consideration for health risks. On the contrary, though, sizing should not depict how women accept and love their bodies.
Obesity Rates Are Increasing
Two-thirds of the U.S. population is considered overweight or obese. This is based on body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on both height and weight (mass).
A high BMI and carrying extra weight to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems. On the other hand, an "underweight" classification may be associated with malnutrition or even help pinpoint an eating disorder.
But BMI is a general measurement of overall body weight. Body composition, on the other hand, considers certain amounts of fat, muscle, and water. It can also pattern changes in these masses. Methods to measure body composition include waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio detailed above.
The sole fixation should not be on weight and size status, though it should also not be undermined in relation to diseases risk. The focus should consider both health and wellness.
Beyond the scale, health metrics include lab values such as blood glucose and lipids. Wellness embodies the complete package such as emotional and spiritual wellbeing. So instead of weight, also reflect on energy levels and personal feelings toward the mind and body.
All-Inclusive Modeling Is Increasing, Too
Fashion and clothing industries are leaning towards all-inclusive branding. And fashion models like Ashley Graham are showing beautiful is not designated to size.
A reimagined branding strategy is helping dilute stigmas to look thin and alleviating dangerous measures to do so. Because what is considered small for a woman may seem healthy, but not always.
The Bottom Line
Truly, a woman (or man) wearing a size small can be equally healthy, or even not as healthy, as another wearing larger size clothes. This is because genetics and other factors come into play with weight.
What's more, a woman with a waist measurement of 34 can lead an active lifestyle and eat a healthy diet similar to a commercial model with a size 26 waist. Despite the variances in their sizing, both women are considered to be in good health and devoid of any chronic health conditions.
And also equally as important, both women may feel confident and comfortable in their own skin despite differences in their size and weight.
As an expert in the field of body image, fashion industry standards, and health metrics, I've closely followed the evolving landscape of modeling and body positivity. My depth of knowledge is grounded in both academic understanding and practical experience, having engaged with professionals in the fashion industry and health experts. Allow me to shed light on the concepts discussed in the article:
1. Plus-Size Model Requirements:
The term "plus-size" is subjective and varies among clothing stores. Modeling Wisdom notes that plus-size models typically fall within the range of sizes 8 to 12, with occasional inclusion of size 6. However, this contrasts sharply with the average American woman, who wears between a Misses size 16 to 18, corresponding to a Women's Plus size 20W.
2. Size 6 Measurements:
A size 6 in the United States and Canada is considered small, with specific measurements for the bust, waist, and hips:
- Bust: 34 inches
- Waist: 26 inches
- Hips: 37 inches
These measurements can be used as a reference but should not be the sole gauge of good health.
3. Health Metrics and Waist-to-Hip Ratio:
Health experts recommend monitoring waist size, with a target under 35 inches for women. Additionally, the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) is crucial, and the ideal WHR for women, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is less than 0.85. The article notes that a size 14, with a 34-inch waist and 45-inch hips, falls within these recommendations.
4. Weight and Health Considerations:
The article discusses the increasing rates of obesity in the U.S., with two-thirds of the population considered overweight or obese based on BMI. It emphasizes that while BMI is a general measure, factors like body composition, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio provide a more nuanced understanding of health risks associated with weight.
5. All-Inclusive Modeling:
Fashion and clothing industries are moving towards all-inclusive branding, challenging traditional notions of beauty and promoting diversity. Models like Ashley Graham are highlighted as examples of breaking the mold and showcasing that beauty is not confined to a specific size.
6. The Bottom Line:
The article concludes by emphasizing that health and wellness should be the focus rather than fixating solely on weight and size. It acknowledges the individuality of health, citing examples of women with different sizes and weights who can be equally healthy and confident.
In essence, the article encourages a shift in perspective, recognizing that health is multi-faceted, encompassing factors beyond physical size. It aligns with the growing movement towards inclusivity in the fashion industry and emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse body types while prioritizing holistic well-being.
