Shopping as a plus-size woman is frustrating enough. But when you're over a size 22, it can be impossible.
Most brands, including those that specifically cater to plus-size women, tend to stop at a size 22. And the only size 22 model currently signed to a major modeling agency is Tess Holliday.
Sick of the lack of clothing options and representation, a group of women who all wear a size 22 and above got together and made their own fashion lookbook.
Size 26 fashion writer Marcy Cruz and 11 of her friends are here to show that amazing style has no size.
"Too often, women above a size 24 are not shown in the media or in campaigns. To answer that call, we banded together to create this lookbook and push the message that style doesn't stop at a size 22. All women are worthy and deserving of fashion, no matter what their size."
"All of the women featured in this lookbook are fat and happy, while dressing impeccably," said Cruz.
"At a time when flat belly teas and waist trainers are being promoted heavily across social media channels, this lookbook challenges the belief that happiness comes in a dress size."
Fashion blogger and designer Amanda Koker is on the frontlines of solving the problem for women over a size 22.
"I started my blog as a way to share my journey as a plus-size fashion designer who also designs for plus-size women … I thought it could help other women to be bold and step outside their fashion comfort zone — let them know that a designer is hearing their concerns, wants, and needs."
Ashley Wall is a size 24 fashion blogger who wants designers to pay attention to apple shapes!
"Every plus body isn't a size 18/20 and pear-shaped. Although I love my other curvy sisters, I want to see how clothes actually fit on my body."
Amanda Allison wishes there were more role models for girls her size on social media.
"It is important to follow people on social media that look like you or have a style you admire. Seeing those connections will have a great influence on your sense of style and self-worth."
Corissa Enneking would like to see less 'flattering' fashion in 2017.
"There is no 'good' or 'bad' body shape. We all deserve the right to wear whatever makes us happy. Wear what you want not what others want to see on you. 'Flattering' is a term that we've become beholden to and it has no real meaning."
There isn't just one way to be fashionable and plus, and size 24 blogger Amanda Williams has learned that.
"I went through a period when I was trying to be a trendsetter and bought clothing that I would never really wear. This left me with a closet full of things I hated. So I stopped caring what people thought and embraced my love for classic, simple looks. I own a lot of black because I like it. I just dress in a way that is comfortable for me."
Style and fitness blogger Emily Ho is on a mission to end our fixation with what size we wear.
"Many women spend years consumed with body hate (myself included) and I admire those who can push past the societal pressures and unapologetically claim their space — physically, emotionally, and/or in their careers."
Meagan Kerr wears anything from a size 22 to 28 — making her living proof that sizes mean absolutely nothing.
"Wear the things that make you feel amazing. You don't need to worry about trends, just find what works for you. Nothing is more stylish than the confidence to rock an outfit."
Becoming a fashion blogger opened Rebecca Ago's eyes to her own confidence and power, now she's paying it forward.
"I started a blog because I really wanted to join in on the conversation that so many amazing people had started online about plus-size fashion and fat activism."
If shopping for clothes sometimes feels like a nightmare, Lisa Schoenberger is here to let you know you're not alone.
"As a size 26/28, I know the challenges of finding clothes in this size range and I hope to share what I have learned over the years with my readers."
ShaKera F. says the secret to finding your style is to go outside your comfort zone.
"Learn and know your body. Know what works for your body type. Get comfortable in your skin and then take risks. Try some styles or trends that you would not normally try. You may just be surprised."
Meshel Lewinski is just a rule-breaker and that's exactly what the size 22+ revolution is all about.
"Wear what makes you happy, not what the rules say a fat chick should wear. Go shopping and only try on the pieces that make you smile. Go through your closet and keep only the things that make you feel beautiful. Fashion is fun when it reflects different facets of who you are."
Check the full lookbook below.
