When I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro at over 300 pounds, the biggest challenge was not altitude or terrain. The jacket zipper won’t shake up. The hiking pants stopped at size 14. The message was loud and clear. This world and the plus size industry weren’t built for the body like me.
But I did climb anyway. To regain my worth, not to prove it.
In reality, this isn’t just my story. Millions of plus-size people move through a world where they are subtly or blatantly said they don’t belong. In the dressing room. At the gym. By plane. With an outdoor outfitter. The expansion of conference rooms and magazines. Despite making up Over 68% of US womenwe are treated as an afterthought – if we think about it.
And in 2025, that’s not acceptable.
Costs to be ignored
From fashion and fitness to travel and wellness, most industries are still very late when it comes to serving plus-size consumers. The size range is limited, inconsistent and hidden in separate “extended” sections. The style present sacrifices form for function, as if comfort and confidence cannot coexist.
The expression is not that good. Many brands have single token plus size models in their campaigns, and often style them in a screaming way. “This is different.” Meanwhile, the entire product line is built around ambitious health, performance and freedom. I don’t intend to include a big body in these visions.
And this is not just a social issue. It’s a massive economic blind spot. Global Plus Size Market is rated Over $288 billion It’s growing. However, the brands are still hesitant to commit, fearing to “dilute” their image. In fact, they dilute their influence by leaving money and loyalty at the table.
What we really want
Let’s be clear: the plus size industry doesn’t need to offer special treatments. We want equal access to style, adventure, visibility and dignity.
When you ignore or minimize this audience, you’re not just missing out on revenue. You are erasing stories, identity, and dreams.
We deserve more than a PR-friendly “physical positivity” post during the month of growing basics, patronage language, or recognition. We deserve integrated, continuous, intentional inclusion.
How is it changing the story?
Our gorgeous agency works with brands ready to move beyond buzzwords. We partner with companies like Peloton, Keen and Puerto Rico to help you not only talk to plus-size audiences, but also listen, understand and truly serve them.
We rethinked the outdoor experience, redesigned product adaptation strategies, and helped center storytelling around authentic people. We have shown the brand that when they embrace authenticity, their community responds with loyalty and love.
And I’m not just talking – I’m living it. As an author, speaker and adventurer, I have made it my mission to lead from my life experiences. Not as a trend, but as a truth.
The future belongs to bold
The brand remains in an outdated playbook. The world has changed. Consumers demand expressions that reflect the richness of real life and the richness of seedlings. The question isn’t whether you can afford to be more inclusive. The question is whether you can afford it do not have Something.
And do you want change for us? I’m not waiting for permission. It’s appearing. We tell our stories. They build their own tables when seats are not available.
We are waiting. We’re here, we’re strong and we’re changing the game.
Kara Richardson Whitely is £300 CEO of Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro Gorgeous agenthelps your brand connect with a plus-size audience.
Source: The Curvy Fashionista – thecurvyfashionista.com
