Women’s clothing has gotten bigger, with labeled sizes now having larger measurements. For example, in 2012, size 14 women’s trousers in the United Kingdom measured about 4 inches (10.16 cm) larger at the waist than the same size did during the 1970s. This practice, referred to as “vanity sizing” or “size inflation,” also has occurred in the US. Dresses labeled a size 0 in 2006 were found to be roughly equivalent to a size 8 from the 1950s. Brands that make the physical measurements of women’s clothing bigger but keep the label size the same have been more likely to increase self-esteem in customers, making them more likely to purchase from that brand.
More about women’s clothing:
One out of every eight American women report having more than 50 pairs of shoes.
Research has shown that that women who feel negatively about their bodies after trying on clothing are more likely to buy accessories, such as jewelry or makeup.
The average American household spent about 3.5% of their income on clothing in 2010.