A new survey conducted by hosiery brand Snag has examined size inclusivity in fashion to reveal only 1 in 10 women enjoy high street shopping. The research polled 1,150 UK women size 16+ and the survey revealed that over two thirds (67%) of women are being deterred from shopping on the high street and instead prefer to shop online exclusively (90% of those polled agree it affords them more choice), admitting that shopping in stores leaves them feeling excluded when their size is often unavailable. In addition to this, worryingly, 75% of those surveyed admitted they have been driven to tears when shopping.
The results expose an ever-present frustration among women surrounding size inclusivity in fashion retail. The issue is something that size inclusive and body positive tights brand, Snag, has been working to address since its launch in March 2018. The brand inspires body positivity with an ambition to cater for as many different body types and sizes as possible, with tights available in several different widths, heights and sizes, ranging from 6 to 36.
The notion is one that resonates with a community of women who wear size 16 and above. The statistic that 96% of women would like to see core ranges extended rises to 98% when those polled were asked if clothing ranges that adjusted to body shape, in addition to standard size guides, would be preferable. 99% said that easily finding fashionable clothes that fit would make them genuinely happy.
Despite moderate developments from high street fashion giants in this space, it is clear those taking steps to develop size-inclusive retail models are flourishing, with Snag now ranking as the third biggest tights retailer in the UK, following ASOS and Marks and Spencer. The poll also asked respondents to rate UK fashion retailers on their size inclusivity, with ASOS, Asda, Very and Sainsbury’s coming out on top. By comparison, the ‘Size Inclusivity Index’ showed popular high street retailers like Primark, Gap, French Connection, Topshop and Zara were the least comprehensive with their sizing.
