The director of Fashion Week Plus Size (FWPS), the biggest plus size fashion event in Latin America, Renata Poskus explains that plus size woman is determined by measurements and not by weight.
"The plus size model does not need to have a specific weight. What we observe is the mannequin. Above 90 bust and 108 hip, which fits on mannequin 44 (42 EU size/ 10 US size). Although we have models that use mannequin 44 to 54 (Brazilian size) on the catwalk, most of our models use mannequin 46, 48 and 50, size of pilot pieces developed by stylists", she said.
Acceptance and transformation
Aline believes the idea of plus size is "distorted"because of the non-acceptance of an overweight woman. It is as if the mannequin prevents them from being worthy, from becoming inspiration, from arousing desire.
"When I started in the world of plus size fashion, it was as if a door was opened to new possibilities. I was able to leave behind, in a not so distant past (but now far from my reality), the prejudice for being out of pattern, which is being fat. My life has completely changed", she recalled.
For the model, the brands make mistakes when determining a pattern, since the ideal is that the clothes do well and enhance the beauty in its various sizes and styles. "As this pattern begins to generate discomfort, conflict or some form of depreciation, values must be rethought", she said. "The plus size world goes beyond clothes. It involves self-esteem , self-love and ego. This is all decisive when it comes to saving a life in depression, as it happened to me!", pointed out Aline.
For Aline, the market is growing and changing, but the brands need to invest more in products for those who use a mannequin above 44 (42 EU/10 US).
"Ideally, the fashion market should invest in modeling to enhance our curves.
"Plus size is above mannequin 44, and from then on it starts to become more difficult to find cloths in stores. We want fashion, not just another outfit to wear. The marketing is growing and we already have good options to buy lingerie, bikinis, fitness cloths and tailoring. Even fast fashion chains have opened her eyes to those who are plus size."
"I was able to realize that what matters is not the standard, it is when we value and love each other, when we realize how beautiful we are without having to follow what they say out there. My change in thinking also affected the people around me. Being well with yourself is taking hope and saving lives. Yes, saving lives is the correct term. And with each life you save, you want to continue to set an example for people who are inspired by you", reflected Aline.
Finally, Aline sends an important message to all women: "Regardless of the form, value yourself, empower yourself that yuor life will turn over a new leaf."
This text is an adapted English version of the original published in Brazilian Portuguese at the website virgula.com.br. The author is Ronaldo Testa, and you can find the original version here: https://www.virgula.com.br/modaebeleza/afinal-quando-uma-mulher-e-considerada-plus-size/).
