Good article, but I strongly disagree on the cropped pants front. Which petite blogger is it who talks about adding presence to an outfit by rolling/cuffing pants and sleeves? Alterations Needed? Anyway, I've been instinctively wearing most of my casual pants cuffed or hacked above the ankle for years and years, whether boyfriend, straight, or skinny, because I really benefit from that little bit of oomph and structure it gives.
Also, I am not at all surprised by manufacturers' unwillingness to design and market for plus-sized women. I don't think they're right, but I'd wager it has to do with maintaining brand image. People have for so long associated plus-size clothing with boring and unstylish that brands are afraid to risk their established image to go after that demographic. Especially now that America has a whole set of socio-economic associations tied in with body image. I mean, there's a brand called Rich and Skinny, for crying out loud!
From what I've seen, I think the tide is turning, but very slowly. And I would not expect a watershed of body-positive marketing from the fashion industry anytime soon -- that's never been their forté. Plus, as mentioned above, people can be so ugly. I think brands will add sizes very quietly and discretely, as they crunch the numbers and realize it's the best way to save their bottom line. But I would not expect much fanfare -- that part will be up to bloggers!
