The standard of beauty is evolving, largely influenced by social media, where women proudly showcase their natural beauty in all shapes and sizes. A recent study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education highlights this shift, revealing that the average American woman now wears a size 16 or 18, up from the size 14 of previous years.

Analyzing data from over 5,500 U.S. women, the study found that the average waist size has increased from 34.9 inches to 37.5 inches over the past two decades. Susan Dunn, a lead expert on the study, emphasizes the significance of this data: “Understanding the average size can greatly impact women’s self-image.”

Dunn and co-author Deborah Christel urge the fashion industry to adapt to these changes. “These women are here to stay, and they deserve clothing that fits them,” Dunn asserts.

The message is clear: clothing designers need to update their sizing standards to accurately reflect the modern American woman’s true shape and size.