Is the Body Positivity Movement Losing Momentum?
(Image credit: Unsplash)
The body positivity movement has always been about more than fashion trends—it’s about humanity, dignity, and making sure every body has a seat at the table. But lately, it feels like the cultural conversation has taken a detour.
In 2024, we saw a troubling backslide. While plus-size retail is thriving in sales, the Spring/Summer 2025 runways told another story: a noticeable retreat from the diverse, joyful body representation we’ve been celebrating over the past few years. Thinness is once again being glorified, fueled in no small part by the rise of Ozempic and the dramatic shrinking of celebrities and influencers.
As a plus-size woman and advocate, I can’t help but feel a sting here. The pendulum swings back and forth, but our bodies aren’t trends. We’re not here to disappear when thinness is “in” again.
The Disconnect Between Commerce and Culture
Here’s the irony: brands catering to plus-size consumers are reporting growth. Shoppers are demanding stylish, size-inclusive options, and companies that listen are reaping the benefits.
But culturally? We’re still fighting for representation, respect, and visibility. Runway shows—the tastemakers of fashion—still aren’t reflecting the reality of who is buying clothes. That disconnect is exhausting.
What This Means for Us
For our community, this moment is a reminder that our value is not tied to trends, celebrity bodies, or pharma-fueled aesthetics.
We will keep celebrating the joy of getting dressed in bodies like ours.
We will keep demanding representation—not as a “special edition” but as a standard.
We will keep calling out the nonsense when industries profit from us while pretending we don’t exist.
My Takeaway
Representation in fashion may ebb and flow, but our confidence, joy, and insistence on being visible do not. We are here. We’ve always been here. And no matter what’s happening on the runways, our bodies are not going anywhere.
Source: Data and insights adapted from The Curvy Fashionista
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