It’s been a long time coming, but we are seeing more of ourselves in campaigns, on runways, and in stores than ever before. While of course, marketing will always be aspirational to a degree, it’s nice to finally see bodies and faces we can relate to. Fashion shows like Savage X Fenty by Rihanna and Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS have gained praise for their commitment to diversity. Models of various sizes, ethnicities, and abilities grace the runway, showcasing lingerie and undergarments that celebrate every body. More brands are offering extended sizing ranges, ensuring that women of all sizes have access to fashionable clothing. While companies like Dove have launched empowering ad campaigns that feature real people, unretouched and unfiltered, challenging conventional beauty standards. 

There's a powerful movement helping to reshape the fashion industry's standards: body positivity. Not only is this refreshing but it’s empowering. 

Unrealistic Expectations

Despite this progress, the fashion industry still faces criticism for its lack of diversity, particularly on high-fashion runways where unrealistic expectations of the ideal body are still being celebrated. Many mainstream brands still offer limited sizing options, leaving out plus-size individuals and perpetuating feelings of exclusion. And photoshopped images and airbrushed models in advertisements still promote unattainable beauty ideals, contributing to body image issues among consumers, particularly youth. Add in social media and it’s truly a recipe for low self-esteem, not only for our kids but for us grown ups too. 

When it comes to the intersection of body positivity and fashion, there are both positive and negative examples from the industry. This article will offer some modern styling tips for different body types to inspire you to be YOURSELF- no matter what the media puts in front of you or tells you to be- as well as showcase some of today's most empowering fashion brands who are leading the way in the body positivity fashion movement.

Modern Styling Tips for the Real Woman

Rather than focusing on what we see in ads, runways or social, let’s focus more on what we see in the mirror. You’ve got a body that works, works out, gave birth, nursed, suffered injury, cares for family, cares for friends… You’ve got a body that is simply heroic! Here are a few tips on how to celebrate this body in your everyday style. 

Styling for Every Body

If you have an hourglass figure, accentuate your curves with fitted silhouettes like wrap dresses or high-waisted skirts. Belting at the waist can also highlight your narrowest point. 

For more of an apple shape, opt for tops with V-necks or scoop necklines to elongate the torso. A-line dresses and empire waistlines can create a balanced silhouette. 

Pear shape ladies should draw attention upward with statement tops or bold accessories. Fit-and-flare dresses and wide-leg pants can balance out wider hips. 

More rectangle shape ladies can create the illusion of curves with peplum tops or ruffled details. Experiment with belts to define the waistline and add dimension.

Building Your Wardrobe

When it comes to building out your perfect wardrobe, start with versatile staples that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Invest in timeless pieces and quality basics like a well-fitting pair of jeans, a tailored blazer, classic button-down shirts, and versatile dresses that can be dressed up or down. 

Quality basics and tailored pieces are key to a flawless, foundational wardrobe. These pieces can be dressed up or down and serve as the building blocks for countless outfits. 

Tailoring can make a world of difference in how your clothes fit and flatter your body. Invest in tailoring key pieces like blazers, trousers, and dresses to ensure they fit perfectly and accentuate your curves in all the right places.

Layering is a great way to add dimension and interest to your outfits while also providing flexibility for changing weather conditions. Experiment with layering lightweight cardigans, denim or leather jackets, scarves, and statement jewelry to elevate your look.

Accessorizing is key to adding personality and flair to your outfits. Experiment with statement accessories like oversized sunglasses, bold statement necklaces, colorful scarves, and statement handbags to elevate even the simplest of looks.

Even when it comes to getting back into those bathing suits, embracing your body at the beach or pool is a lot easier with body-positive swimwear options. Swimsuits with supportive features like underwire cups, adjustable straps, and tummy control panels can enhance and flatter. Experiment with bold prints, vibrant colors, and flattering cuts that make you feel confident and beautiful.

Most importantly: use fashion as a form of self-expression and embrace your unique style. Whether you love bold prints, eclectic patterns, or minimalist designs, wear what makes you feel confident and true to yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and trends until you find what works best for you. Remember, fashion is a reflection of your personality, so have fun with it and wear what makes you feel beautiful inside and out!

Body Positive Fashion Brands and Campaigns

Here’s a list of brands and campaigns that you may want to pay more attention to, based on their commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Not only are they gaining attention for body positivity campaigns but also for diversity and sustainability.

Aerie A lingerie and loungewear brand owned by American Eagle, has gained recognition for its body-positive marketing campaigns. They feature unretouched photos of models in their advertising and promote self-love and acceptance. Aerie's ongoing campaign #AerieREAL features untouched photos of models and encourages women to embrace their natural beauty. 

ModCloth's #SeeThe67 campaign showcases a diverse range of models, representing the 67% of women in the U.S. who wear a size 14 or above. ModCloth is known for its vintage-inspired clothing and inclusive sizing options. They feature models of various sizes on their website and in marketing campaigns, promoting body positivity and self-expression. While Universal Standard is committed to providing high-quality, inclusive clothing for women of all sizes. They offer sizes ranging from 00 to 40, ensuring that everyone can find clothing that fits and flatters their body.

Good American, founded by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede, offers denim and clothing in inclusive sizes. They emphasize body positivity and inclusivity in their marketing, featuring diverse models and celebrating women of all shapes and sizes. Similarly, Gap’s "Be the Future" Campaign features a diverse cast of individuals from various backgrounds, ages, and abilities. The campaign showcased Gap's commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, highlighting real people and their stories. Not to be left out of the denim wars, Levi's "Beauty of Becoming" Campaign celebrated the beauty of self-discovery and transformation. The campaign featured a diverse cast of individuals at different stages of life, highlighting their unique journeys and experiences.

Nike's "Dream Crazier" campaign celebrated female athletes and their achievements, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers. The campaign featured athletes of different races, body types, and abilities, inspiring women around the world to pursue their dreams fearlessly. And Swarovski's "Brilliance for All" campaign celebrated diversity and self-expression by featuring models of different ages, genders, and styles. The campaign highlighted Swarovski's versatile jewelry designs and their ability to complement any individual's unique sense of style.

Finally, #WeWearWhatWeWant is a social media movement that challenges fashion norms and encourages individuals of all sizes to wear whatever makes them feel confident.

These campaigns showcase the fashion industry's growing commitment to diversity and inclusivity, celebrating individuals from all walks of life and promoting a more representative and inclusive vision of beauty. These brands seem to be leading the way in promoting body positivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry, offering stylish and trendy clothing options for women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds.

Body positivity in fashion is not just a trend; it's a powerful movement that's reshaping the industry from within. By celebrating diversity and inclusivity, fashion has the potential to empower individuals to embrace their bodies and express themselves authentically. As consumers demand more inclusive and body-positive representation, the industry must continue to evolve, paving the way for a future where everyone feels seen, heard, and beautiful.