Average American women’s clothing size: comparing National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys (1988–2010) to ASTM International Misses & Women’s Plus Size clothing

ABSTRACT

The purpose of the study is to determine the current average clothing size of adult American women. Secondary data of average body measurements from the most recently published National Health and Nutritional Examination Surveys were compared to ASTM International industry clothing size standards. Findings suggest that, contrary to popular assumptions, the average American woman’s (AAW’s) clothing size is larger than anticipated. The AAW wears between a Misses size 16–18, which corresponds to a Women’s Plus size 20W, with greater distinctions found when considering race and ethnicity. It is suggested that updating Misses and Plus-size clothing standards should be a major priority.

KEYWORDS:

• Average American woman (AAW)
• clothing size
• voluntary sizing standards
• plus-size apparel

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCiD

Deborah A. Christel http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7090-4572

Susan C. Dunn http://orcid.org/0000-0001-5636-2535