Size Shift

This chapter is about body sizes and body types that are currently underrepresented. Things are slowly changing due to an increase in casting people of size in productions, fashion shows, and all types of media. As a culture, bodies of size have never before been seen as often on the stage, on the screen, and in advertising. Why have bodies of size been virtually ignored in the fashion industry when the actual average size of an America female presenting person is considered a plus size? Embracing and celebrating a multitude of body types is important as we, as a society, strive for a more inclusive world. For people that work in costume and clothing design being able to design and dress any body shape is crucial. Having performers of all shapes and sizes looking and feeling great in their stage costume is crucial for any designer. This trend of casting diverse body types on the stage is not going away. Rather it will continue to grow and hopefully become the norm and not the exception. As designers, we honor these beautiful bodies and make all feel welcome and comfortable in their own bodies, just as they are.