WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., June 25, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plus-size apparel brand JMS/Just My Size released the results of a national survey of women on confidence, style and inspiration during Full Figured Fashion Week® held in New York City. The survey revealed a growing level of self-confidence and style savvy among plus-size women.
A key finding from the survey is a growing level of self-confidence with 61 percent of respondents agreeing with the statement, "I'm more comfortable with myself today than five years ago." Similarly, almost one-third of respondents said they would not change anything about themselves if given the chance.
"We love hearing plus-size women confirm and celebrate their confidence," said Crystal Stowe, JMS/Just My Size marketing. "When you believe in yourself, it shows in every aspect of your life."
The survey, conducted during the spring of 2013, also revealed an increasing style savvy. When asked if they agreed with the statement, "I'm more fashionable today than five years ago," more than 54 percent of respondents said yes. When describing their personal style, respondents reflected a mix of fashion and comfort. "Comfort and style with a splash of sexy," wrote one respondent. "Fashionable pragmatist," wrote another. A full 80 percent of respondents said that their clothes fit who they are as a person.
"The JMS survey underscores the feeling among plus-size women today that they are comfortable and happy with themselves," said Stowe. "It is incredibly affirming to hear plus-size women speak so confidently about their own sense of personal style."
Although the respondents reflected a significant measure of self-confidence, the survey also revealed that the many plus-size women still struggle with celebrating their curves. "Women can have great confidence in themselves and their personal style but still may not know how best to dress to flatter their shapes," said Madeline Figueroa, editor-in-chief of Plus Model Magazine. "Understanding what flatters your silhouette helps guide your style decisions—no matter what your size."
The JMS wardrobe includes a full complement of innerwear and activewear that inspires and maximizes the confidence, fashion and comfort of plus size women. "JMS has the solutions that plus-size women are seeking," Stowe said. " JMS Cotton Stretch Panties, Pure Comfort ™ bras, Seasonless Tights, and jeans, graphic tees and other outerwear deliver the style, comfort and look plus-size women want and need."
Stowe credits a growing online community of plus-size style bloggers with providing excellent insights and information. As part of the JMS Size survey, 51 percent of respondents said that they look for fashion inspiration from dedicated plus-size fashion websites and blogs. This was more than four times the percentage of respondents who looked at general fashion websites and blogs (11%) and three times the percentage of respondents who looked to fashion magazines (16%).
Inspiration from online sources also translates to where women shop. Sixty-seven percent of respondents said they shop more online than in stores when it comes to clothing. Respondents cited ease of purchase, more options to choose and the luxury of trying on clothes at home as some of the reasons why they prefer online shopping.
"Plus-size women struggle like so many average-size women with finding the pieces that help them celebrate their fabulous curves," said Stowe. " As a plus-size woman, I understand the challenges of embracing your curves. Wearing clothes that reflect who you are is important—regardless of your size."
The JMS survey respondents reflected the brand's passionate plus-size community. More than 92 percent of survey respondents were size 16 or larger; the average size of respondents was 22. The JMS brand has more than 700,000 fans on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/JustMySize), and many of the brand's most active posts surround style and fit tips for specific body types.
The JMS brand has been designing clothes for the plus-size woman and leading the plus-size conversation for nearly 30 years. "Our 'Passion for Plus' survey reflects the brand's dedication to plus-size women and their communities across the country," said Stowe. "The survey was a terrific way to fuel conversation around passionate, plus-size beauty and the role that confidence plays in our lives."
JMS/Just My Size, a leading women's plus-size apparel brand, offers bras, panties, hosiery, casual essentials, jeans and activewear. JMS intimate apparel and hosiery are available at leading retailers nationwide; JMS apparel is available at Walmart stores nationwide. JMS/Just My Size styles also are available online at www.justmysize.com.
About JMS/Just My Size
The JMS brand, owned by HanesBrands Inc. (NYSE:HBI), is a leading marketer of innerwear, activewear and hosiery apparel under strong consumer brands. According to The NPD Group, HanesBrands Inc.is America's leading manufacturer of plus-size apparel (Consumer Tracking Service, units, year ending March 2013)
A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=19552
