As children grow, their bodies develop differently. For many girls, finding clothing that fits properly during the tween and early teen years can be challenging—especially when most girls outgrow the standard girls' section by age 11.
Many brands assume that girls fit neatly within a narrow size range, this is wrong. So many girls grow out of these industry standard sizing's before they are ready. This forces parents to make tough choices: either purchase women’s swimwear that isn’t age-appropriate or try to stretch and squeeze into the largest available sizes in the girls’ section. Neither of these options are acceptable. It's time that we adjust sizing to meet the needs of all girls.
Inclusive sizing isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. Here’s why having more plus size girls' swimwear options are so important:
1. Body Positivity Starts Early
Children begin developing self-image at a young age, and how they feel about their bodies can shape their confidence for years to come. Struggling to find clothing that fits can decrease their confidence and instill thoughts of they aren’t “normal” or deserving of fun fashion.
Offering plus size girls swimwear ensures that girls of all sizes can feel beautiful and comfortable, which helps to develop a healthy self-esteem and body positivity.
2. Age-Appropriate Swimwear Matters
When plus-size girls can’t find well-fitting swimsuits in the girl's section, parents often turn to women’s swimwear as an alternative. Unfortunately, many of these designs are not age-appropriate, with styles that don’t reflect the fun, playful spirit of the tween years.
Providing trendy, modest, and comfortable plus size girls swimwear ensures that kids can express themselves while wearing something that fits both their bodies and their age.
3. Comfort and Fit are Key for Fun
Every child deserves to move freely, swim confidently, and enjoy summer without worrying about their swimwear.
Inclusive sizing ensures that all kids—no matter their size—have swimwear that fits comfortably, so they can focus on having fun.
Why the Girl's Fashion Industry is Falling Behind
Unfortunately, the girl's fashion industry has been slow to respond to the need for extended sizes in girls' clothing, particularly swimwear.
While adult plus-size fashion has made strides in recent years, retailers have not extended the same focus to children's clothing. Many stores offer only a small size range for kids, with larger sizes often selling out quickly or not available at all.
There is a persistent belief that girls should fit within a certain body type. This mindset influences designers and retailers, who assume most kids will fit into a narrow range of sizes. Girls whose bodies don’t align with these expectations are left behind.
Representation matters, but many brands don’t showcase plus-size kids in their campaigns, leading to fewer designs being created for diverse body types. When plus-size children don’t see themselves represented, it reinforces feelings of exclusion and invisibility.
Every Girl Deserves the Perfect Fit
It’s time for the girl's fashion industry to catch up with the needs of girls everywhere. Plus size girls' swimwear is more than just clothing—it creates confidence, body positivity, and inclusion. Every child, regardless of size, deserves to feel comfortable and stylish when in their swimwear.
Parents shouldn’t have to struggle to find swimwear that fits their girl properly. By expanding size ranges, creating fun designs, and representing all body types, the girls fashion industry can take large steps toward a more inclusive future.
No girl should feel left out just because of her size. Let's start adjusting sizes to meet her needs. It's time for more inclusive, extended sizing in girls' clothing-because every girl deserves a perfect fit....and that's what SwimHer is known for!
