Research highlighting the difficulties mature, plus-size (XL and above) women face in the fashion market:
: A study on plus-size women's experiences indicates many feel marginalized by the fashion industry, as their needs are often treated as secondary to mainstream "standard" sizes [4]. xl women mature
: Contrary to narratives of decline, some research on single women (ages 35–91) highlights an increase in sexual assertiveness and satisfaction as women age [18]. Body Image & Satisfaction at Midlife Papers examining
: Research on physically active adult women (size 1X to 3X) found that limited selection and poor fit in athletic apparel can cause emotional frustration [13]. Body Image & Satisfaction at Midlife Papers examining how women view their bodies as they age: Research highlighting the difficulties mature
: Research in Gender & Society conceptualizes clothing sizes as "floating signifiers" because they lack consistency across brands, forcing mature women to perform significant "body work" to navigate these unregulated standards [10].