“EMBRACE INNER ESSENCE”– DESIGNING PLUS-SIZED BEACHWEAR CLOTHING LINE FOR THE SRI LANKAN MARKET

Abstract

The worldwide fashion sector has historically sidelined plus-sized women by focusing mainly on styles that fit slimmer figures. In Sri Lanka, this challenge is even more significant, with very few fashionable beachwear options available in larger sizes. Plus- size is generally defined as US size 14 and above, along with further categories like super-size (1X–6X) and extended size (7X and beyond). Although there is an increasing demand for stylish and confidence-boosting beachwear among plus-sized women, the market still presents limited variety in styles, colours, and fits. To fill this void, a plus-size beachwear line has been created under the Sri Lankan brand Lagoon Lab, inspired by bioluminescent jellyfish (Aequorea Victoria), aimed at young adults aged 25–30 in the Western Province for the Spring/Summer 2025 season. This collection aspires to empower plus-sized women by offering fashionable, trendy, and revealing pieces that honour body diversity and enhance self-esteem. Essential design strategies include the utilisation of comfortable, stretchy fabrics such as ITY four-way knit and power net, selected for their capacity to deliver both support and flexibility. Techniques such as optical illusion, sublimation printing, and well- placed frill detailing are used to flatter fuller body types and boost the overall aesthetic. By combining aesthetics with practicality, this collection not only caters to an overlooked market segment but also confronts traditional beauty standards in Sri Lankan fashion. Lagoon Lab's initiative represents a significant move towards inclusivity, allowing plus-sized women to fully enjoy leisure and beach activities without sacrificing style or comfort. This endeavour underscores the vital importance of inclusive design in modern fashion and serves as a rallying cry for both local and international brands to widen their size ranges and embrace diversity in their offerings.