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The Halloween season can be particularly challenging for those of us in larger bodies, and it shouldn’t have to be that way. Growing up, Halloween was a holiday I eagerly anticipated. While I wasn’t particularly fond of the spooky elements, I adored the costumes and the candy. My parents supported my love for the season by allowing me to experiment with makeup and providing me with some of the cutest costumes. I transformed into a beautiful butterfly, a charming bumblebee, and even a French clown, which may sound odd but was actually delightful.
However, I also participated in some cringe-worthy trends of the 90s, such as dressing up as a “gypsy.” I cringe just recalling that now. It’s a stark reminder of how we must learn and grow from our past mistakes.
Unfortunately, my teen years brought a different experience. As a plus-size girl, I found that accessing costumes became increasingly difficult. Twenty-five years ago, there were limited options for larger sizes, and online shopping was virtually non-existent. I couldn’t simply stroll into a store like Party City and find something suitable. As a result, I resigned myself to the idea that I had “outgrown” Halloween, becoming the family’s designated candy distributor, donning a cat-ear headband over my regular clothes from eighth to twelfth grade.
Today, as a plus-size woman and a mom, I’ve worked to reclaim some of that Halloween magic for my children. We have fun celebrating, but the season still presents unique challenges and emotions when you’re navigating it as a person with a larger body. Let’s delve into some of these issues.
Challenges in Finding Plus-Size Costumes
Finding plus-size Halloween costumes is often a daunting task. While they do exist, they’re rarely found in stores, and the sizing can be completely inconsistent. One brand may label a 3x as fitting a 22/24, while another might mark it as a 16/18. And if you’re looking for anything larger than a 3x, prepare to pay a hefty price. The materials used in many of these costumes can be uncomfortable, often feeling like a cross between a dryer sheet and a plastic tablecloth, which does little to boost one’s confidence, especially when trying to avoid wardrobe malfunctions.
Additionally, many women’s costumes are marketed as “sexy,” which often means skimpy designs. This is frustrating for plus-size individuals, as costume companies frequently forget that larger bodies aren’t just bigger versions of thinner ones. What might be considered sexy for a straight-size woman can be quite different for someone who is plus-size, often leaving us with limited options that actually provide adequate coverage.
Group Costumes and Cultural Sensitivity
Group costumes can also be a source of embarrassment. It’s disheartening when you want to match with family or friends but can’t find a commercially available option that fits.
Moreover, it’s disconcerting that fat bodies are often turned into costumes themselves. While we all understand the importance of cultural sensitivity and avoiding offensive portrayals, there seems to be a double standard when it comes to dressing in a fat suit. It’s still considered humorous in some circles to don a fat suit and portray larger characters, but this can be hurtful and perpetuates negative stereotypes about our bodies.
Solutions for an Inclusive Halloween
So, what can we do to make Halloween enjoyable for everyone, regardless of body size?
Firstly, advocate for retailers to offer more inclusive costume options. If companies understand that there’s a demand for them, we may start to see a greater variety of sizes available. While you’re at it, consider pushing for more accessible costumes for those with mobility issues and options that aren’t solely focused on being sexy.
When it comes to group costumes, get creative! Ensure that everyone in your circle can participate without feeling singled out. You don’t need to rely on the same tired tropes; there are countless fun and imaginative themes to explore.
Lastly, let’s eliminate the use of padding in costumes meant to mock or highlight body shapes in an unkind way. If you wouldn’t make jokes about a fat person you care about, reconsider using those same stereotypes for laughs. It’s possible to have a fantastic Halloween while being mindful and respectful.
And on a lighter note, please don’t hand out the black and orange wrapped candies that taste like dusty peanut-flavored despair. Avoiding those will surely make Halloween more enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their size.
Additional Resources
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Summary
Navigating Halloween as a plus-size individual involves overcoming significant challenges, from limited costume options and inconsistent sizing to societal attitudes towards larger bodies. Advocating for greater inclusivity in Halloween costumes and promoting understanding within social circles can help create a more enjoyable experience for everyone.