For many years, the typical runway show and apparel collection have featured slim models sashaying down the runway or gracing glossy magazine covers. But in recent years, the fashion industry is warming up to the idea of the plus size woman. Even the popular reality show ‘Project Runway’ featured its first ever plus-size collection in 2015.

The size of the U.S. apparel market is estimated at approximately $225 billion, with plus-size fashion raking in $17 billion in 2014, growth of five percent from 2013, according to data from the NPD Group. Historically, plus-sized women were forced to shop at only a few specialty retailers like Ashley Stewart and Lane Bryant. But retailers are now increasingly looking to take a slice of the growing market share.

While most retailers don’t prominently advertise their plus size collections, ... Read more »