Yes

by Marsha Welch

Created on: October 24, 2008

When a clothing line is being sold, the models should be selected to attract a target audience. In the case of plus sized women's clothing, the target audience is plus sized women. Plus sized clothing is designed to accentuate a plus sized figure, so could be marketed best on models in that size range.

Plus sized models can help the intended customer see exactly what the article of clothing will look like on a body shape and size similar to their own. What comparison can be made if the model is pencil thin? An old flour sack would probably look good on a pencil thin model, but the plus sized customer is seeking some special features in the garments they choose to wear.These features cannot be adequately addressed when worn by and presented to them on a slender model.

Slender models have no problem with "dunlap", for example, where the mid-section laps over the waistband in certain garments. When modeled by a slim model, the plus sized customer cannot determine if this will be an issue with that particular garment. If, on the other hand, a plus sized woman models the piece, the customer can readily see if the garment adequately camouflages this pesky lap, and many other perplexing issues.

Plus sized customers also require adequate sleeve size, neck size and length. Some fabrics are not as flattering on a plus size body which would look perfectly acceptable on a smaller frame. Have you ever seen a person of substantial girth in satin or spandex? The sheen of the fabric attracts light and gives the illusion of being larger, while drawing unwanted attention to any lumps, bumps and "rolls" the person may have. If a plus sized person wishes to wear satin, it should be a perfect fit to avoid these problems.

Plus sized teens have an even worse time than plus sized adults in finding the trendy clothing in their size. So many times, teen fashions are made for doll-sized teens, and the plus size teen is left to wear ladies clothing which is not age appropriate in styling, or fit. Plus size teen models are a necessity in showing these customers what is available to them. It also could not hurt to show plus sized teens that there is another teen in the world who is not tiny, but still lovely and enjoying a modeling career.

Looking at a thin model wearing clothing meant for a plus sized customer will only cause disappointment to the customer who purchases the garment only to find that it doesn't look the same on them as it did on the model. This may be great for that first sale, but chances are, there won't be a second. Repeat business is contingent upon customer satisfaction.

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