Fashion has been a staple in our lives for thousands of years, continuously evolving and adapting. Yet, despite the abundance of information available, some nuances still manage to baffle even the savviest of us. For instance, a TikTok revelation has left many scratching their heads—XXL and 2XL aren’t the same size! Yes, you heard it right.
Modeling the Difference
Women often find themselves perplexed by clothing sizes, especially when each brand seems to have its sizing quirks. Enter the mystery of XXL and 2XL. TikToker @itsmakaylasmith decided to dive into this confusing territory and has left her followers astounded by unveiling the subtle differences between the two.
Explaining the Difference
“Should I make a video explaining the difference between XXL and 2XL?” she asked while modeling the same shirt in both sizes. The fit, however, was quite different. XXL sizes follow the same cut as standard sizes, from x-small to XL. In contrast, 2XL clothing is broader, longer, and sports extended sleeves.
Aesthetics of XXL and 2XL
Now let’s talk aesthetics. The patterns of XXL and 2XL sizes may appear identical at first glance, but a deeper look reveals alterations in the 2XL design to accommodate those extended dimensions.
Followers Respond
The TikTok audience couldn’t hold back their reactions. One surprised follower commented, “Wow, I’ve always wondered what the difference was; I assumed they were the same. Thank you for the heads-up.”
Another exclaimed, “WHAT.” And this is coming from someone who is plus-sized.”
Some followers were left with even more questions. “I didn’t realize this. What are the main differences you observe between the sizes?” one curious follower asked.
Encouraging XXL and 2XL Clarity
Dr. Simeon Gill, a Lecturer in Fashion Technology at the University of Manchester, weighed in on the matter, highlighting the dire need for improved clothing sizes. He noted how men’s apparel often comes with clear measurements like waist, height, and sleeve length, and suggested women’s clothing should follow suit. According to Dr. Gill, “Sizing should be improved, but to do so would need to recognize population variability and requires more sizes or a fundamental change in how we provide products.”
He also mentioned, “There is no reason why women’s jeans should not be sized similarly to men’s jeans in terms of waist and leg length. Most of this is about existing practices, fear of change, and lost sales.”
Other Strange Differences
The curiosity doesn’t stop with XXL and 2XL. Did you know that buttons on men’s and women’s clothing are sewn on opposite sides? This design dates back to a time when affluent women needed assistance dressing. In contrast, men—regardless of status—typically dressed themselves.
Additionally, it’s fascinating to note that makeup, wigs, and high heels were once all the rage for men. However, women were not allowed to wear pants in public until the mid-20th century, a change largely influenced by their entry into the workforce.
Fashionable Frustrations
Fashion’s evolutionary journey has been nothing short of fascinating. Yet, the most infuriating twists are often related to sizing, especially apparent in the differing standards for men and women’s clothing. With buzzwords like XXL and 2XL adding to the confusion, perhaps it’s time for the fashion industry to step up and clear the mist.
So, the next time you’re out shopping, staring blankly at an XXL or 2XL tag, remember you’re not alone in your bewilderment. And maybe, just maybe, it’s time for a little shake-up in the world of fashion sizing.
