I’ve written numerous times on this site about the importance of supporting plus size designers. They have truly been the backbone of pushing the industry forward. When we think about plus size designers, Monif C. is always the first to come to mind. She was at the forefront of bringing plus size fashion to the mainstream. Celebrities like Jill Scott and Queen Latifah often wore her pieces on magazine shoots and to red carpet events.
Monif C. announces taking a break from her clothing line
It’s been awhile since we’ve heard from designer Monif Clarke or even seen a new collection. Her last major launch was her lingerie line. Well, this past weekend, the iconic designer announced that she would be taking a break from her Monif C. line to focus on other ventures. In an Instagram post, Monif explains that there were a number of reasons as to why she is taking the break. One of the main reasons she cited was the lack of support for plus size designers.
How The Plus Size Fashion Industry Changed
It’s no secret that the plus size fashion industry has changed. Many would agree that the change is for the better. Plus size women have more options today than ever before. However, throughout the positive shift we’ve experienced with plus size clothing options, there is one area that we have failed in. That is supporting plus size designers.
Monif grew her line from doing local trunk shows to having her pieces sold in Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Forever 21. That is no easy accomplishment for any designer. Whether they create clothing for misses or plus sizes. Black and plus size designers have the most challenges when it comes to growing their brands. The number one reason is the lack of support from consumers and the ability to find financial backing.
Monif touches on this on her Instagram post.
At the end of her Instagram post Monif says, “Lastly, I encourage you to shop and support other indie plus size brands run by women of color. For better or worse, our industry has changed and many independent brands have been studied by larger, well capitalized retailers looking to cash in our successes. They decided they wanted a piece of the pie and many of us have been left to figure out how to keep our doors open.”
That statement alone speaks volumes. Some of your favorite retail brands have literally stolen designs from indie plus size designers. They have the financial backing and consumer support to continue to grow.
Why Plus Size Women Aren’t Supporting Plus Size Designers?
There are a number of factors they have caused the growth of plus size designers to be stagnant. Often on social media, I hear plus size women complain about the price of designer clothing. I like to think its because we are so use to the fast fashion brands. Many are afraid to buy clothing that has better quality and is specifically designed for plus size women because they think its a waste of money.
While Monif takes her time to figure out her next move, I encourage the plus size community to still be here for her. I’ve bought and worn Monif C. numerous times and hope she returns with a bang. She is an innovator in this industry and has helped women change their negative body views to positive ones.
I agree with Monif C. However, I have been supporting new indie designers with their high prices and have had to have my daughter fix or try to recreate some of the items for poor construction. I’m really NOT into gambling any longer bcz of this. I’m not rich and it taxes us poor folks when we pay for bad structural products and indie designer say no refunds. Box store here I come with return policy!
I support her taking a break. I’ve been around since she became available for us to purchase online. I remember her being the only brand that offered us QUALITY and a great fit. I’ll be here when she returns and continue to shop small and black owned because as a small brand myself, I understand first hand the struggle and frustrations. She is loved and supported. Recharge and regroup sis…. you are loved and needed!
This is so sad to hear! I am recently about to launch my first swimsuit line! She was such an icon for me! I hope I get the support from my fellow curvy ladies! Follow us on Instagram @swimfan_swimwear to learn of updates and for sneak peeks popping up soon! Sincerely, @pretty_perfect_polly
Please keep in mind, every one has a different budget on what is affordable to them. I will pay more to get a unique item. However, I don’t think the average person can afford some of the high price clothing today. It is very difficult to find trendy plus size clothing in cocktail dresses. If you are taller, its almost impossible. There is a plus size store that i will not name. Cute items, very cheaply made. Can we get in the middle. I want to look fashionable and be up to date. Obesity is a big problem. More women and teens are full figured. Please continue your craft Monique.
I enjoyed her well made clothing and still have pieces I purchased years ago. While there are several other sites many have clothing that is poorly made from cheap materials. Ashley Stewart has nice styles but the clothing is poorly made and the material is cheap. Gonna miss you Sis!!! Be blessed in your new endeavors.
I’m in great distress because my bathing suit game is no longer on point. Monif after your break is over I’m expecting you to get back on your game because you had me strutting my stuff and feeling like a queen. No other designer has come Close to you in terms of giving the full figure woman the confidence required to strut a 2 piece bathing suit with the power mesh and necessary support required for the voluptuous women. Please come back I will support and promote you wholeheartedly.
Signed
A Queen
So sad to hear. I have several pieces from her line. They are unique and fits well. Thank you for adding to my wardrobe.
All she needs to do is come down on the price and give fashion on a budget like fashion nova. Because to be honest sometimes I couldn’t afford her clothing so I would shop where I can get it for less. She can come back stronger just look at where women are shopping and why it’s that simple.
I have been wondering where Monif C was. Any time I had an affair to attend I knew I would look great when I wore Monif C. I am sad to hear she is taking a break. The clothes fit well and were great quality. I hope she will come back into the plus size fashion industry. I would definitely support. However, best wishes on her future endeavors.
I find it hard to believe that she didn’t have support. Most of the items I wanted were always sold out. Prices were high but sold out! When she started partnership with ASOS and Forever 21 you couldn’t even get your orders because of production delay. If people weren’t supporting HOW did these type of supply chain challenges arise?
The big issue with Monif C was not the clothes or prices… It was the customer service. It was awful! I was buying from her since the beginning and watched the customer service deteriorate over time. I stopped buying from the company because I wasn’t sure if and when I would get my clothing. I would love to see her come back but I think she would do best to license her clothes to other companies to sell for her.