The term “curvy” is everywhere these days, from fashion ads to social media hashtags. But what does it actually mean? What size is considered curvy, and is it a label tied to a specific number, or is it something more personal and nuanced? As a designer and founder of Undersummers, where we create garments for women of all shapes and sizes, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what “curvy” means—and more importantly, how it makes women feel.
So, let’s dive into the question: What size is considered curvy? Along the way, I’ll share insights from my own design journey and explore why this term is so much more than just a measurement.
Defining “Curvy” in Fashion
In the fashion industry, “curvy” generally refers to women with a defined waistline and proportionately larger hips, thighs, or bust. It’s often used to describe hourglass or pear-shaped body types, where the body naturally has a more noticeable difference between the bust, waist, and hip measurements. But here’s where it gets tricky: curvy isn’t tied to a specific size.
A size 6 woman with an hourglass figure can be considered curvy, just as a size 18 woman with the same proportions can be. It’s all about the shape, not the size.
The lack of a strict definition is part of what makes “curvy” so confusing—and so empowering. It’s a term that celebrates the natural diversity of women’s bodies without putting everyone into the same box. That said, how the term is used (and who gets to use it) can still spark debate.
Curvy vs. Plus-Size: What’s the Difference?
“Curvy” and “plus-size” are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. Plus-size generally refers to clothing sizes 14 and up, while curvy is more about body shape. A woman can be plus-size without being curvy (if her body has a straighter silhouette), and she can be curvy without being plus-size.
At Undersummers, we recognize that these terms can overlap, but we focus on creating garments that address the unique needs of different body shapes. For example, our anti-chafe shorts are designed with soft, stretchy fabric that fits comfortably on curvier hips and thighs while also accommodating women with straighter figures. Whether you identify as curvy, plus-size, or something else entirely, our goal is to make you feel confident and supported.
Who Decides What Curvy Means?
Here’s the truth: “curvy” means different things to different people. For some, it’s a term of empowerment, celebrating a body type that has historically been underrepresented in fashion. For others, it’s a label that feels exclusionary, as though only certain women “qualify” as curvy.
I’ve heard women say, “I don’t feel curvy enough to call myself that,” or “I don’t think I’m curvy because I’m not hourglass-shaped.” These feelings stem from the way society and media have shaped our understanding of beauty.
But here’s the thing: you decide what curvy means for you. If you identify with the term and it makes you feel confident, embrace it. If it doesn’t resonate, that’s okay too. Labels like “curvy” are tools for self-expression, not rigid categories.
Why Does Being “Curvy” Feel So Complicated?
Part of the complexity comes from how beauty standards have evolved. For years, the ideal body type was thin, with minimal curves. More recently, there’s been a shift toward celebrating curvier bodies, thanks in part to influential women like Ashley Graham, Beyoncé, and Lizzo.
While this is a positive change, it’s also created new challenges. Now, women may feel pressure to fit into a different ideal—one that emphasizes an hourglass shape with a small waist, full hips, and a round bust. This isn’t fair, either. Curvy bodies, like all bodies, come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You don’t have to look like an Instagram influencer to be curvy—or beautiful.
How Designers Approach Curvy Bodies
As a designer, I think of curvy bodies not as a single type but as a spectrum. Some women have fuller hips, while others have a more pronounced bust. Some are curvy in every area, while others have subtle curves. The key is to create clothing that flatters and fits all these variations.
At Undersummers, we design with curves in mind. Here’s how we approach it:
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Fabrics That Stretch and Move
Curvy bodies are dynamic—they bend, stretch, and move in ways that aren’t always predictable. That’s why we use soft, stretchy fabrics that conform to your body without feeling restrictive. -
Thoughtful Waistbands
A good waistband can make or break an outfit. For curvy women, it’s important to have waistbands that stay in place without digging in or rolling down. That’s why our anti-chafe shorts feature wide, comfortable waistbands that provide gentle support. -
Room for Hips and Thighs
Many curvy women struggle with shorts or pants that feel too tight in the hips and thighs. We design our garments with extra room in these areas to ensure a comfortable, flattering fit. -
Size Inclusivity
Curvy isn’t just for certain sizes. That’s why we offer sizes XS-5X, ensuring that women of all shapes and sizes can find clothing that makes them feel confident.
Why “Curvy” Matters
The term “curvy” has gained traction because it’s a more positive, inclusive way to describe bodies that don’t fit the thin, straight ideal. It acknowledges that beauty comes in many forms and celebrates the diversity of women’s shapes.
For me, “curvy” is more than a descriptor—it’s a movement. It’s about shifting the conversation from what women “should” look like to celebrating what we already are. It’s about recognizing that our bodies are powerful, beautiful, and deserving of clothing that fits and flatters.
What Size Is Considered Curvy?
If you’re still wondering what size is considered curvy, the answer is: there isn’t one. Curvy is about shape, not size. You can be curvy at size 6, size 16, or size 26. It’s not the number on the tag that matters—it’s how your body naturally carries its curves.
And remember, you don’t have to label yourself as curvy to celebrate your body. Whether you identify with the term or not, the most important thing is to wear clothes that make you feel confident, comfortable, and true to yourself.
Final Thoughts
So, what size is considered curvy? It’s a question without a definitive answer—and that’s a good thing. Curvy isn’t about fitting into a box; it’s about embracing the unique ways our bodies are shaped. It’s about celebrating diversity and rejecting one-size-fits-all beauty standards.
At Undersummers, we’re here to support women of all shapes and sizes, whether you call yourself curvy, plus-size, or simply you. Because at the end of the day, the best label you can wear is confidence.
With love,
CarrieRae
Designer and Founder, Undersummers
