The standard of beauty is evolving as social media empowers women to celebrate natural beauty in all shapes and sizes. A study in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education confirms this shift, showing that the average American woman now wears sizes 16-18, a change from size 14 two decades ago. The study analyzed over 5,500 women, revealing an average waist size increase from 34.9 to 37.5 inches, influenced by racial and ethnic distinctions.

Lead researcher Susan Dunn emphasized that these findings should reshape fashion industry practices, urging designers to create stylish, well-fitting clothing for larger sizes. Dunn highlighted that these women “aren’t going away” and deserve inclusive options beyond limited online or back-corner selections.

This data challenges the industry to abandon outdated standards and embrace the reality of the modern American woman. By aligning fashion with real-world sizes, brands can cater to a broader audience and reflect the ongoing celebration of diverse beauty.