#MidsizeFashion :: Not Your Mother’s Missy

#MidsizeFashion :: Not Your Mother’s Missy

Midsize is a new (to me) term being popularized by fashion bloggers and influencers all over social media. While I consider myself to be pretty fashion forward, I had to catch up to this trending term that popped up mid-pandemic and is fast becoming a mainstay in the lexicon of fashion. I’d heard of midsize SUV’s but never midsize clothing. If you’ve been living under a TikTok rock like me, let me bring you up to speed.

What is Midsize Fashion?

Midsize refers to body types that are not straight sizes, or those between 0 and 8 – but are not plus size either, which typically starts at size 16. They fall somewhere in the middle, ranging from size 10 to 16. Once I realized what midsize is I knew that I’ve finally found my people!

After pregnancy and putting on some mommy weight, I no longer fit into my skinny jeans and frankly I’m okay with that. It also doesn’t hurt that I actually love the cut and comfort of “mom jeans”. Now that I’m over 40 I’m less concerned with the size of my body and more focused on having a healthy body. So, if my happy weight puts me at a size 10 or a 12, as long as I’m healthy, I’m happy.

Learning to accept your mom body that carried your children and relearning how to dress it in the most flattering way takes some trial and error. Sometimes it can be a challenge to dress your midsize figure because most traditional clothing retailers still only cater to straight sizes. And although the average American woman falls somewhere between a size 14 and 16, representation of midsized women in mainstream media are few and far between.

The Midsize Movement

The midsize fashion movement has gone viral and it’s helping to normalize average sized bodies via social media. Just search #midsizefashion on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok and you will find loads of style inspo and fit advice. Some of my favorite midsize influencers to follow are @ColorMeCourtney on Instagram, @Meka_Monroe on Pinterest and @OliviaFredaCurves on TikTok.

If you’re just finding your long-lost fashion style tribe like me, Hey Girl Hey! Here are 5 tips I’ve found that will make your midsize fashion makeover a breeze:

1. Shop midsize friendly.

Being a new-ish size category there still aren’t many retailers that cater specifically to midsize fashion. However, some are expanding their sizes to be more inclusive. My favorite midsize friendly stores include Anthropologie, H&M, Ann Taylor Loft, small town favorite, Cato and locally owned, London’s Fashion Boutique. I also can’t leave out Target’s in house brands – A New Day and Universal Thread.

2. Know your measurements.

If you prefer shopping online, it’s a good idea to know your standard measurements because sizes can vary depending on the brand. Once you have your bust, waist, hips and inseam measurements, you can reference the brands fit guide to determine your best fit.

3. Alter it.

Dust off your sewing machine or put your seamstress on speed dial! If you are midsize, you’ll find that you often fall between two sizes. Having your garments altered will help you get the perfect fit. Always choose the larger size and alter it to get a tailored look.

4. Invest in undergarments.

Having the right foundation garments will make you feel and look better in your clothes no matter your size. Invest in your undergarments as much as you invest in your wardrobe. Soma at the Mall of Louisiana and LSU alumni owned Bra Genie at Towne Center offer midsize friendly bras, undies, lingerie and shapewear; they also have expert stylists to ensure everything fits just right.

5. Think outside of your style box. 

Midsize doesn’t mean your style has to be boring. Play with different colors, patterns, textures and silhouettes and don’t be afraid to wear the latest styles. Remember, midsize fashion is not your mother’s missy. Midsize fashion is modern, trendy and confident! 

If you’ve been on the outside of the store window looking in, the midsize movement is your open invitation to have fun with fashion again!