Fashion Fat (Definition: Anything Over a Size 4 in the World of Fashion)

Submitted by Stacie Gillian on Mon, 06/08/2009 - 09:41

Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to my favorite term/category: "Fashion Fat"

In case you have not noticed, not everyone can be sample size - nor were we ALL meant to sport liquid leggings. The era of American Apparel was not meant for me, i.e. lame short shorts, everything made with MORE than 50 percent spandex, leathery dresses with multiple side slit openings. These outfits were not appropriate for me even when I was a little girl (check out the chubby, frizzy haired image of me at 10 years old, inappropriately sporting "biker shorts"). Some people look outstanding in these styles, but I fit more into the curvy girl body type. Its been a LONG LONG time since I was sample size, in fashion years approximately 8 runway seasons. I am not sure that I miss it except for the fact that I can no longer wear some of my favorite designer pieces that I have accumulated over the years. Sad, I know! But even if I lost 40lbs so that I could fit these beautiful items again (which I will, have no fear) I would still not be of model proportion--I suffer from an excessively short torso, very long legs for a person standing only 5'4" in height (my legs are a complete 32" long - frightening), and definitely a large derriere and hips. I am almost an alien in the world of fashion, LOL. Ah yes, but I guess that's what makes me interesting and my father (the quintessential California plastic surgeon) always assured me of this.

Though I adore the images of gauntly thin models gliding up and down runways in couture (and I really do), I can't help but get excited to see some curvy ladies out there - no matter what size. From Kim Kardashian (who is really quite petite), to Christina Hendricks (a real size 8/10), Selma Hayek, Liv Tyler (always flawless), Jennifer Garner (don't be afraid of that baby weight sister - you look good), Sanaa Lathan, Beyonce...these ladies make curves look outstanding, and give me hope!