The standard of beauty is shifting as social media allows women to showcase their natural beauty without relying on traditional advertising. Women now celebrate beauty in all shapes and sizes, gaining widespread support through social media likes and engagement.

A recent study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education highlights this shift. Analyzing over 5,500 women in the U.S., the study shows that the average woman has grown in size over the last two decades. In 2000, the average waist size was 34.9 inches; now it has increased by 2.6 inches to 37.5 inches. The study also found that racial and ethnic distinctions influence these changes.

Susan Dunn, one of the study’s lead experts, hopes this data will help both industries and consumers better understand the average woman’s body. She emphasizes that the apparel industry needs to adapt to these changes, offering well-fitting clothing in sizes that reflect reality, not just focusing on slim models.

The average American woman now wears between a size 16 and 18, which is considered the lower end of plus-sizes. Dunn and co-author Deborah Christel suggest that the fashion industry should rethink what constitutes “regular” and “plus-size” clothing. As the average woman has grown in size, the industry must update its designs to accommodate this shift or risk being left behind.

What do you think about this change in fashion?