Body-positive influencers break down how to shop plus-size Halloween costumes
Halloween is here. Well, almost.
And everyone who's feeling festive should have access to costumes they love.
While we would certainly like to think that's the case, many would beg to differ.
"As with fashion as a whole, there are so many fewer options available in plus-size costumes overall, and even less still when it comes to shopping in stores," fashion blogger and plus-size brand consultant Sarah Chiwaya told "GMA."
Makeup artist, actress, and plus model Nzinga Imani also agrees that it can be difficult finding items from retailers, and resorts to creating her own costumes or getting creative with her makeup since so much of what's available does not come in her size.
"Fortunately, this year was a totally different story," Imani told "GMA." "I started seeing costumes on some of my favorite plus sites as early as September. I was overjoyed! I immediately stocked up on quite a few different looks."
While the average American woman wears between a size 16 and 18, only about 2,000 stores cater to women above size 12, according to Torrid's CEO Liz Muñoz -- and the selection of Halloween costumes tends to get hit with this lack of size inclusivity as well.
Tips for shopping plus size Halloween costumes
Experts agree that it is best to look through your own closet first. "Last year, I built a pretty great Matrix costume around a patent trench coat I already owned," said Chiwaya.
She added: "If you need any additional accessories, like wigs or cat ears, mainstream costume shops should have them, and at least you don't have to worry about strange costume sizing, or having to choose between a sad limited selection of plus options."
Imani also advised starting your search early as many retailers only offer plus sizes online. "Do your research and order as soon as possible to avoid any shipping mishaps or the look you had in mind being completely sold out," she sid.
Best retailers for plus-size Halloween costumes
"If you are looking for sexy options that don't look cheap, Hips & Curves has some great options, including bustiers that are actually going to work for a fuller bust," said Chiwaya.
She also suggested go-to retailers such as Torrid. "They a good selection of licensed merchandise, ranging from more costumey Nightmare Before Christmas skater dresses to an-trend Outlander cape that I would happily wear in my everyday life," she said.
Imani said she was really impressed by the variety of offerings from Fashion to Figure this year. On Instagram, she posted a striking photo posing alongside two other models, all wearing police costumes from the label.
She also credited brands such as FashionNova and Ashley Stewart for "stepping it up" this year with their Halloween collections.
