Port Washington, N.Y., May 17, 2022 – Since 2019, there has been consistent revenue growth in plus-size apparel in the U.S. across all generations, demographics, and household incomes. Sales revenue for women’s plus-size apparel grew by 18% in 2021, compared to 2019, which is over three-times faster than consumer spending on the remaining women’s market, according to The NPD Group.

After casual apparel, basics — including bras, underwear, and shapewear — make up the largest share of apparel sold in plus-size, at 27%, compared to 19% for the rest of the market, based on the new Inclusive Apparel Market Trends report from NPD. Basics is also an area where inclusivity has been a particular focus for brands and retailers — most recently with Lizzo’s announcement of her new shapewear line, Yitty. On the other hand, jeans, tops, and swimwear are the top categories where consumers want more options in their size. 

“Plus-size is a booming yet underserved area of the apparel industry,” said Kristen Classi-Zummo, apparel industry analyst at NPD. “The intimate apparel market has been a pioneer in inclusive sizing, proving that the consumer will spend on categories where she feels well-represented. Successful apparel brands understand and connect with their customers’ unique values and lifestyles.”

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