Fashion Start-Up Faces ‘Fatphobic’ Backlash After Telling Customers to Lose Weight Rather Than Stock Plus Sizes

Fashion Brand Sparks Controversy for Choosing Not to Carry Plus Sizes

A fashion start-up brand is facing backlash after suggesting that it is unnecessary to offer plus-size clothing options. Marie Efstratiou, the owner of the Australian streetwear label Chimaera, made a controversial statement on TikTok, stating that she does not believe brands should stock plus sizes. In a video posted on October 15, Efstratiou can be seen applying makeup while asserting, “Brands don’t need to stock sizes XXXXL. You need to choose health and drop to a safe size.” The caption of her post read, “ppl gon to be mad but it be true,” accompanied by hashtags such as #health, #weight, #obese, and #brandowner.

The response to Efstratiou’s video on TikTok was swift, with many users expressing their disapproval of her stance. While some agreed with her, the majority criticised her for her views on plus-size consumers. One commenter pointed out, “People deserve access to clothes no matter their size,” emphasising that body size should not determine one’s right to fashion choices. Another sarcastic remark highlighted the insensitivity of Efstratiou’s message, stating, “I’ll let my PCOS insulin resistance know, hopefully these words of wisdom help.”

In the midst of the controversy, a larger-sized man joined the conversation, questioning the lack of options for men in larger sizes. Despite the backlash, Efstratiou stood by her comments when approached by Australian media outlets, asserting that not all brands are obligated to be size-inclusive. She maintained that her statement was not meant to be fat-phobic but rather a reflection of her brand’s target audience and values.

Chimaera, Efstratiou’s brand, specialises in unisex hoodies and sweatpants, with sizes ranging from small to large. The hoodies are priced at $190 (approximately $123 USD), while the sweatpants cost $150 (around $97 USD). In light of the controversy generated by Efstratiou’s video, other clothing brand owners have shared their perspectives on stocking plus-sized items. Brittney Saunders, the founder of Fayt, an inclusive brand offering sizes 6-26, responded diplomatically, emphasising that everyone deserves to have clothing options regardless of their size.

The discussion surrounding size inclusivity and body positivity in the fashion industry continues to be a prevalent topic. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in clothing offerings. Despite differing opinions on the matter, it is crucial for brands to consider the diverse needs and preferences of consumers of all sizes. The dialogue sparked by this controversy sheds light on the ongoing efforts towards inclusivity and acceptance within the fashion community.

As the conversation unfolds, it is evident that there is a growing demand for brands to cater to a wider range of body sizes and shapes. The push for greater inclusivity in fashion extends beyond mere representation to encompass a genuine commitment to addressing the diverse needs of consumers. While controversies like this may arise, they provide an opportunity for reflection and progress within the industry.

In conclusion, the discussion surrounding Chimaera and its stance on plus sizes underscores the evolving landscape of the fashion industry. The incident prompts important conversations about size inclusivity, body positivity, and the responsibilities of brands in meeting the diverse needs of consumers. Moving forward, it is essential for brands to embrace inclusivity as a core value and to actively engage with feedback and insights from their customer base.