Halloween can be a challenging time for those of us in larger bodies, and honestly, it shouldn’t be this way. As a child, I eagerly anticipated Halloween. While I wasn’t particularly drawn to the spooky elements, I adored the costumes and candy. My parents always indulged my love for extravagant makeup and bought me the most charming outfits. I transformed into a stunning butterfly, a cute bumblebee, and even a whimsical French clown, which sounds odd but was actually lovely.
Reflecting on my past, I cringe at some of my choices, like the year I dressed as a “gypsy.” Just typing that makes me uncomfortable. Using a stereotype of a Romani woman for a costume was deeply inappropriate. We must learn from our past mistakes.
However, being plus-size during my teenage years made Halloween feel less magical. Back then, the costume options available to me were limited, and online shopping was virtually nonexistent. I couldn’t just stroll into a store and grab something that fit. Eventually, I decided to “outgrow” Halloween and became the family’s designated candy distributor. My costume morphed into a simple cat-ear headband paired with everyday clothes from 8th to 12th grade.
Today, as a plus-size woman and a mother, I’ve rediscovered some of that Halloween magic for the sake of my children. While we have fun together, the spooky season still presents its own set of challenges and feelings when you’re navigating it as a larger person. So let’s dive into some of these issues, shall we?
Challenges in Finding Plus-Size Costumes
Finding a plus-size Halloween costume can feel like a daunting task. They do exist, but they’re often scarce in stores and the sizing is utterly inconsistent. One brand may label a size 3X as a 22/24, while another may classify it as a 16/18. And good luck if you’re looking for anything above a 3X; it often comes with a hefty price tag. The materials used are frequently uncomfortable, leaving much to be desired when trying to avoid wardrobe malfunctions.
Moreover, many adult costumes marketed to women lean heavily into the “sexy” category, often leading to skimpy options. I recently browsed a popular costume site, and the only section for plus-size women was labeled “sexy costumes.” While I fully support fat individuals expressing themselves in whatever attire they choose, costume designers frequently overlook that plus-size bodies aren’t just inflated versions of straight-size bodies. What may be deemed sexy for a smaller figure could land a plus-size individual in a precarious situation. We deserve options that provide adequate coverage.
Group Costumes and Cultural Sensitivity
Group costumes can be another source of embarrassment. It’s difficult to coordinate with friends or family when suitable options for your size are virtually nonexistent.
Furthermore, it’s perplexing that while cultural sensitivity is increasingly recognized, fat bodies are often still turned into punchlines during Halloween. Dressing up in a fat suit is considered acceptable in some circles. This sends a clear message: if your costume is laughable or caricatured, it’s fair game, despite the fact that it can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Making Halloween Enjoyable for Everyone
So what can you do to make Halloween enjoyable for everyone?
- Advocate for retailers to offer costumes that cater to larger bodies. If they recognize the demand, perhaps they will expand their inventory. Additionally, push for more accessible options for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, and request more gender-neutral costumes that fit larger frames.
- Be creative with group costumes to ensure everyone can participate without feeling singled out. A group dressed as puns, food, or landmarks can be just as entertaining as the traditional characters.
- Avoid using fatness as a costume attribute. If you wouldn’t mock a loved one’s body, don’t use padding to make a joke at their expense.
Some may argue that I’m being overly sensitive, but there are countless costume options out there, and kindness costs nothing.
And on a side note, please skip giving out those hard, black-and-orange wrapped candies that taste like disappointment. Steering clear of those will enhance Halloween for everyone, regardless of their size.
Further Reading
For further insights on related topics, check out this post on IVF risks and visit Intracervical Insemination for expert information. If you’re exploring fertility options, Hopkins Medicine is an excellent resource.
To sum up, Halloween should be a time of joy for everyone, regardless of body size. By being mindful of our choices and advocating for inclusivity, we can make this holiday a celebration for all.