The Reality of Plus-Size Fashion, Thrifting & Sewing in 2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mcn9cc4R3SI

Plus-size bodies didn’t disappear — fashion just stopped making room for us. And I’m done pretending that’s okay.

Over the last few years, I’ve watched a massive gap open up in the fashion industry. Mainstream fashion brands still exist, but they’ve quietly squeezed bodies like mine out. In some ways, that’s not a bad thing — but the reality is this: fewer choices, less creativity, and an expectation that we should somehow do more with far less.

When I was a kid, my mom owned a sewing business. I learned by watching her, by making mistakes on her machine, and by being trusted to try. By the time I was in university, I was volunteering with the head of the theatre department, helping with period costuming. I didn’t know it then, but I was learning skills I’d eventually need to come back to.

Today, instead of turning to a GLP-1 hormone drug — something I know isn’t right for me — dressing my current body has become a full-on treasure hunt. Secondhand stores barely carry my size, and when they do, there’s usually a reason those pieces were left behind. Shopping stopped being fun. It became frustrating, limiting, and honestly exhausting.

So I did something I never expected: I stopped looking for clothes… and started making them again.

Recently, I ran into another content creator at an event who reignited the concept of figuring it ou in me — pun fully intended. It made me realize that if the fashion industry is forcing plus-size people to become their own ateliers, often without training or support, then maybe it’s time we do it intentionally. Thoughtfully. Powerfully.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating clothing that fits real bodies, lasts longer than a season, and feels good to wear. Pieces we make, alter, or commission with purpose. Less trend-chasing. More agency.

On this channel, I’m documenting that process — the wins, the mistakes, the learning curves, and the reality of rebuilding a wardrobe in a system that wasn’t designed for us.

If you’re navigating plus-size fashion, sustainability, sewing, or simply trying to dress the body you have right now — this space is for you. Welcome and nice to meet you.

So will you join me for this journey on figuring out plus-size fashion, thrifting and sewing in 2026 and beyond? Let's figure it out together.