New York University's Visual Culture: Costume Studies Program recently debuted an exhibit called 'Beyond Measure,' which explores the history of plus-size women in fashion. While plus-size fashion has gained greater recognition in recent years, plus-size women have played a significant role in the industry for quite some time. This exhibit sheds light on the changing discourse by showcasing the role of plus-size women in relation to the fashion industry and body politics.
The Beyond Measure exhibit runs from January 13th to February 3rd and it "explores the shifting discourse surrounding the plus-size woman in relation to fashion and the body." To convey this history, the exhibit showcases a collection of eight items that detail the role of plus-size women in the fashion industry. The overall goal of the project is to educate consumers about how plus-size bodies have influenced fashion design, manufacturing and mainstream perceptions.
Plus-Size Fashion Exhibits
The 'Beyond Measure' Exhibit Explores the History of Plus-Size Women
Trend Themes
1. Plus-size Fashion - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative and inclusive designs and marketing strategies to cater to the growing demand for plus-size fashion.
2. Body Positive Movement - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create platforms and technologies that promote body positivity and inclusivity within the fashion industry.
3. Historical Relevance - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore and revive forgotten or marginalized fashion trends and styles from different time periods.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Retail - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Leverage technology, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, to enhance the shopping experience for plus-size customers.
2. Fashion Education - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate courses and programs that specifically focus on the history and representation of plus-size women in fashion.
3. Fashion Media - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop inclusive media platforms and content that showcase diverse body sizes and challenge conventional beauty standards.