Ashley Graham Launches Inclusive Clothing Collection with JCPenney (Exclusive)

Ashley Graham has recently unveiled her inclusive clothing collection in collaboration with JCPenney, which debuted on October 2. This marks a significant step not only for Graham but also for the representation of curvy women in the fashion industry. Spanning sizes 0X to 5X (14W to 30W) and with prices starting at $40, the collection is designed specifically for women who often feel overlooked in mainstream fashion.

### Background and Vision

Ashley Graham, a well-known model and advocate for body positivity, made it clear from the outset that the collection would not mimic previous designs from JCPenney or other retailers. Graham emphasized that she wanted to ensure the range would truly serve the plus-size community. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, she stated, “We feel the void,” highlighting the ongoing lack of options for plus-size individuals. Recognizing the importance of getting it right, she insisted on a genuine partnership with JCPenney, which involved a completely new design team dedicated to creating pieces tailored for curvy women.

“The collection didn’t start with a size chart,” Graham explained. Instead, the team focused on conceptualizing what women want to wear in various situations. This approach allowed them to prioritize fit, ensuring that no tailoring was needed post-purchase. Graham noted, “There is not one thing in this collection that I’ve tailored. It fits to a T.”

### Design and Functionality

The collection features a variety of pieces designed with a luxe feel yet remains affordable. Graham has included essential items like coats for the colder months, bodycon dresses to celebrate curves, and sought-after styles such as baggy jeans and leather pants that have been difficult to find in larger sizes. With pieces that resonate personally with her struggles to find fashionable clothing, Graham has curated a well-rounded collection.

In addition to its functional clothing, the collection aims to elevate the portrayal of curvy women in the narrative surrounding fashion. The average American woman is approximately size 16, often categorized as plus-size, yet mainstream fashion frequently neglects this demographic. Graham is attempting to rectify this by putting curvy women front and center.

### Advocacy Through Storytelling

Another standout aspect of the launch is the promotional campaign featuring a faux film titled “Omitted,” which Graham teased on her social media. This campaign includes statistics about representation in film, showcasing Graham as the leading character. The trailer aims to call attention to the disproportionate representation of curvy women in media, with messages that resonate deeply within the community.

This initiative aligns with Graham’s mission to challenge the narrative around body size and appearance, particularly in entertainment, where she points out that “only 1% are cast as the main character in films” despite their prevalence in society. By amplifying the voices of full-figured women and demonstrating their multifaceted roles, Graham seeks to redefine beauty standards.

### Building Community and Representation

Graham’s commitment to community is evident in her choice of models for the campaign, as she specifically sought to showcase a diverse range of curvy body types. The launch event in New York City brought together numerous plus-size influencers and models, many of whom Graham had previously only interacted with online. This celebration of community not only provided visibility for curvy women but also served as an empowerment moment, amplifying voices that are often marginalized.

Reflecting on her success over nearly three decades in the industry, Graham emphasizes the significance of kindness and hard work. “Kill people with kindness and work your ass off,” she advises. This philosophy underscores her approach to both her modeling career and her endeavors as a designer.

### Looking Ahead

The Ashley Graham collection for JCPenney is just the beginning of a multiyear partnership. With additional collections expected to follow, Graham is committed to reshaping how plus-size clothing is viewed and offered. “Why are we not making clothes for a majority of women? There’s such a deficit,” she asserted, aiming to dismantle outdated ideas regarding size representation in fashion.

As the collection launches, it highlights a growing awareness within the fashion industry of the need for inclusivity. By prioritizing curvy women’s voices and needs, Graham and JCPenney challenge norms and present a forward-thinking perspective on fashion.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, Ashley Graham’s partnership with JCPenney represents a significant stride towards inclusivity in the fashion world. It speaks to a larger movement aimed at ensuring that all women, regardless of their size, can find stylish and well-fitting clothing that makes them feel confident and celebrated. The launch of the Ashley Graham collection underscores the message that curvy women not only belong in the conversation about fashion but should lead it as well.

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