Why 2025 Is the Year Plus Size Men Shine in Body Positivity

Why 2025 Is the Year Plus Size Men Shine in Body Positivity

For too long, the narrative around body image has been dominated by a singular, often unrealistic ideal. We've been bombarded with images of chiseled abs, bulging biceps, and a relentless pursuit of the "perfect" physique. But what about the rest of us? What about the plus size men who don't fit that mold? The truth is, the tide is turning, and 2025 is shaping up to be the year plus size men finally take center stage in the body positivity movement.

The Invisibility Crisis: Where Have All the Big Guys Gone?

The rise of the body positivity movement has been a breath of fresh air, showcasing a wider spectrum of female bodies than ever before. However, the male perspective has been shockingly absent. Fashion's body positivity movement has largely focused on women, leaving plus-sized male bodies feeling invisible and trapped in a space that is anything but welcoming.

How many magazine covers feature plus size male models? How many runways showcase inclusive menswear? The answer is, sadly, not nearly enough. This lack of visibility perpetuates the harmful myth that only one type of male body is desirable, leading to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and even despair for countless men.

Shattering the Myth: Men Do Care About Body Image

There's a dangerous assumption that men are immune to body image pressures. That we should be stoic, unfazed by societal expectations. But the reality is far more complex. Break Binge Eating website reports 53% of men are happy with their current weight and 59% like their body overall, meaning about 41–47% are dissatisfied—close to the most widely cited figures in current research. The truth is plenty of men are probably unhappy with their bodies due to comparing themselves with men on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and pornography–They just don’t have the platform or language to express it.

The pressure to conform to a specific body type, often the ultra-muscular physique, can be just as detrimental to men’s mental health and body image. We're bombarded with images of superheroes, athletes, and fitness influencers, all showcasing a physique that's often genetically unattainable for many. This constant exposure can lead to feelings of inadequacy, body dysmorphia, and even depression. This is why we invented a platform to make all men feel included and sexy at any size.

The Untapped Potential: The Rise of the Plus Size Menswear Market

Beyond the emotional toll, this lack of inclusivity is also a massive financial oversight. The plus-size menswear market is a significant yet untapped resource. A study by Grand View Research estimates that the global plus-size menswear market will reach a staggering $29.3 billion by 2025. Brands are missing out on a huge chunk of potential customers by clinging to outdated ideas of masculinity.

Millions of men are actively searching for clothes that fit well, look good, and make them feel confident. By ignoring this market, brands are not only losing out on revenue, but also reinforcing the harmful message that plus-size men don't deserve to be stylish and well-dressed.

Male Body Positivity: Redefining Masculinity in 2025

The time for change is now. It's time to redefine masculinity and embrace a more inclusive vision of what it means to be a man. The plus size men’s body positivity movement in 2025 is about celebrating all body types, acknowledging the struggles men face with body image, and creating a supportive community where every man feels valued and respected. If your a big man, you are beautiful and valued too. Your weight does not define your value—it takes all types of bodies and shapes, and that's what makes this world beautiful. We are not all meant to be a 32 inches in the waist or have six packs. It's all about your health first! If your healthy that's what matters, not being like the men on your social media fyp.

What Does That Look Like in Practice?

Representation Matters: We need to see more plus size male models in media and advertising, showcasing the diversity of male bodies.
Inclusive Fashion: Brands need to embrace inclusive menswear options, offering stylish and well-fitting clothes for men of all sizes.
Open Conversations: We need to create safe spaces for men to talk openly about their body image struggles without fear of judgment.
Challenging Stereotypes: We need to challenge the harmful stereotypes that equate masculinity with a specific physique.

How to Dress Confidently as a Bigger Man in 2025

Confidence starts from within, but what you wear can definitely help you project that confidence to the world. Here are some tips on how to dress confidently as a bigger man:

Focus on Fit: Clothes that fit well will always look better than clothes that are too tight or too baggy.
Embrace Color and Pattern: Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns. They can add personality and flair to your wardrobe.
Invest in Quality: Invest in well-made pieces that will last you for years to come.
Accessorize: Accessories can add a touch of style and individuality to any outfit.
Own Your Style: The most important thing is to wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself.

Inclusive Fashion Trends for Bigger Men in 2025

The fashion industry is finally starting to catch on to the demand for inclusive menswear. Here are some trends to watch for:

Athleisure: Comfortable and stylish athletic-inspired clothing that's perfect for everyday wear.
Statement Pieces: Bold and eye-catching pieces that allow you to express your personality.
Relaxed Silhouettes: Looser, more comfortable silhouettes that are flattering on all body types.
Sustainable Fabrics: Eco-friendly fabrics that are both stylish and responsible.

Body Positive Influencers for Plus Size Men

Looking for inspiration and support? Here are some body-positive influencers for plus-size men to follow:

• Zach Miko: Zach Miko is a trailblazing plus-size male model and content creator who challenges traditional beauty standards. As the first plus-size male model signed by IMG Models, he uses his platform to promote body positivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry.  

• Brett Morse: An Olympian and model, Brett Morse combines athleticism with advocacy for body positivity. He offers online coaching and shares insights into fitness and self-acceptance, aiming to inspire men of all sizes to embrace their bodies.

• Troy Solomon: Known as @abearnamedtroy, Troy Solomon is a vibrant influencer and singer who promotes self-love and body positivity through his colorful fashion and music. He encourages others to express themselves authentically and confidently

• Ben Whit: Ben Whit is the UK's first plus-size male model signed to a major agency. He uses his platform to advocate for greater representation of larger men in fashion and to challenge societal norms around male body image.  

• Kelvin Davis: Founder of the blog "Notoriously Dapper," Kelvin Davis is a model and influencer who encourages men of all sizes to embrace their style and body confidence. His work focuses on promoting self-love and challenging traditional masculinity norms.  

• Steven Martin: Steven Martin is a German plus-size model who shares his experiences and promotes body positivity through his modeling work and social media presence. 

• Alex Frankel: Alex Frankel is a fashion model and CEO of the Hot Fat Guy Club, a community dedicated to empowering big men and promoting body acceptance. He uses his platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for inclusivity in fashion.  

• Bruce Sturgell: Founder of Chubstr, a fashion and lifestyle website for big and tall men, Bruce Sturgell is a leading voice in the body positivity movement. He provides resources and inspiration for men to find and embrace their personal style.  

Top brands to watch for plus size men's fashion in 2025:

• BoohooMAN: BoohooMAN's Big & Tall collection is designed for larger builds, offering trendy streetwear styles like pastel hoodies, distressed jeans, and cargo sweatpants. Sizes range from XXL to 5XL, ensuring a fashionable fit for every body.  
  

• Big Dude Clothing: Big Dude Clothing specializes in affordable, high-quality apparel for big and tall men, with sizes from 2XL to 10XL. Their extensive range includes everything from casual t-shirts to formal dress shirts, catering to a variety of styles and occasions.  

• Stitch Fix: Stitch Fix offers a personalized styling service that caters to men of all sizes, including plus sizes. By taking a style quiz, clients are matched with a stylist who curates clothing selections tailored to their preferences and body type, making fashion accessible and convenient.  

• DXL (Destination XL): DXL is a premier retailer for big and tall men's clothing, offering a wide selection of brands and styles in sizes up to 8XL. Their collection spans from casual wear to formal attire, ensuring that larger men have access to fashionable and well-fitting clothing for any occasion. 

To explore more on the clothing lines that offer nice fits for plus size men read this Forbes article

If you don't know your size check out urban ghoddz Artistry Size guide It's complete with perfect sizing you right on the site

The Role of Media in Shaping Male Beauty Standards

Media plays a pivotal role in shaping our perceptions of beauty and masculinity. For too long, the media has perpetuated a narrow and unrealistic ideal, leaving many men feeling excluded and inadequate. Increased and accurate representation of plus size men in media in 2025 is crucial for challenging these harmful stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive vision of beauty.

What Can We Do to Demand Better Representation?

• Support media outlets that feature diverse body types.
•  Challenge harmful stereotypes online and in real life.
• Speak out about the importance of body positivity for men.

Challenges in Men’s Body Image Perception

A man could work out for years, train multiple muscle groups, and eat the right nutrients, and still never obtain their idea of a “perfect body.” Men’s body positivity compared to women’s is vastly different but has the same focus: promoting inclusive body types, mental and physical health, diversity, and self-love.

Men who struggle with their image often feel alone and have a harder time pulling themselves out of a damaging cycle of fitness obsession, muscle dysmorphia, low self-esteem, and depression. As body positivity for men becomes more widespread, hopefully as a society, the harmful and strict body perceptions for both men and women become outdated and further help each other in body positivity. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about being perfectly you. There is nothing wrong with you, and beauty comes in all sizes and shapes. Your confidence makes you sexy, so build that and take care of yourself and the rest will come–stop comparing yourself to the boy next door, he's already taken.

Suggested Articles To Read: 

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3. 30 Days of Naked Confidence journaling: write my entry
4. Free Men’s Guide to Power, Purpose & Inner Peace