Out with the old, in with the new! Gather around, everyone. As we welcome 2025, it’s time to highlight the trends and behaviors that plus size women are eager to leave behind in 2024… once and for all. This is a call to action for everyone to pay attention to the changes we desire.

In addition to TikTok trends and overused phrases, this year has ushered in much-needed conversations within the fluffy community that must be addressed as we step into a new year. How often have we opened our favorite social media platform only to scroll past posts that don’t resonate with us? Or perhaps we’ve encountered those backhanded compliments that disguise themselves as kindness, leaving us with forced smiles and the desire to respond with the same energy? The number of times this happens is far too many.

In an era where the internet continues to exploit spaces dedicated to fat positivity, the societal tendency to marginalize larger individuals has become ingrained in our culture. Discussions about body positivity often receive unsolicited “confidence boosters,” like the well-meaning yet misguided phrase, “you’re not fat; you’re beautiful.” Such comments dismiss genuine feelings in favor of fleeting social media validation because making fun of plus size individuals has become a favorite pastime for some online comedians. It’s disheartening to witness self-proclaimed advocates only engaging with our issues when they are trending. Those who claim to admire us often disguise their fetishism under the guise of support. We’ve had enough.

While we could delve deeper into the complexities of fat politics, we’re choosing to end the year on a lighter yet truthful note by presenting a list of big girl “no-nos” as we enter a new era of visibility and inclusivity. Our voices deserve to be louder than the numbers on a scale. We are no longer shy about expressing what bothers us in this age of unapologetic self-love.

Discover the Top 9 Icks Plus Size Women Want to Leave Behind in 2024… For Good

1. Outdated Seasonal Labels like ‘Fat Girl Seasons’

While phrases like ‘fat girl summer’ and ‘fat girl fall’ have long been staples of the plus size community, it’s essential to recognize that we are more than just seasonal labels. We are here all year round! While these terms may not be the most offensive, they have become tiresome and perpetuate the notion that we are not those girls every day of the week. We’re here, we’re fabulous, and we’re not going anywhere! Embrace us fully or step aside.

2. The Misuse of the Term “BBW Lovers”

While appreciation for plus size women is welcome, there is a thin line between support and objectification. The term “BBW” has been overused and often misappropriated, especially by men who turn their admiration into an entire online persona. While we value genuine supporters, we all know that one person whose obsession with plus size women becomes their entire identity, often leading to comments that reduce us to a mere preference rather than recognizing our full humanity. This creates an uncomfortable sense of pedestalization. To our fellow fabulous plus size queens, no one deserves a gold star for simply finding us attractive.

3. The Problem with “Confidence Compliments”

We’ve all experienced the phrase, “I love your confidence!” upon wearing a form-fitting dress that showcases our curves. Although it may be meant as a compliment, it can often come off as patronizing. Why must we be labeled as “confident” simply for daring to wear something that makes us feel good? Complimenting a voluptuous woman’s “bravery” to show skin is rooted in the problematic idea that only larger women need to dress for their body type. Shouldn’t all women, regardless of their size, have the right to wear what they choose with confidence?

4. The Detrimental Rise of “Big Back” Terminology

We recognize that discussions around body types can be sensitive, but the term “big back” should have been retired from our vocabulary long ago. What began as a fleeting trend has morphed into a widespread issue. This phrase not only reduces plus size bodies to jokes but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes suggesting that all heavier individuals are inherently unhealthy due to their size. Health and weight are influenced by a multitude of factors beyond merely food intake, and it’s crucial to acknowledge this complexity.

5. The Incessant Presence of Weight Loss Recruiters

Speaking of health, receiving unsolicited messages promoting weight loss products or diets is more than just annoying; it’s often invasive and problematic. People should not be bombarded with reminders about weight loss when they are simply living their lives and embracing their bodies. Each individual has unique health journeys and should feel empowered to pursue their own path without external pressure. Let’s respect personal choices and allow everyone to make decisions about their own health on their own terms.

6. The Misguided “Perks of Dating Plus Size Women” Essays

Accompanying the “BBW lovers” are countless posts on social media extolling the supposed benefits of dating a plus size woman. Contrary to the viral narratives, many of us are not seeking validation or love at any cost. Just because we are fuller-figured does not mean we will devote ourselves to our partners without reciprocity. We are multifaceted individuals with ambitions and desires beyond our physical appearance. We deserve relationships built on mutual respect, not on stereotypes or assumptions.

7. Brands Claiming to Be “For Fat People” Yet Limiting Size Options

Let’s get real: if you’re a clothing retailer touting your brand as inclusive, it becomes invalid if your size range only goes up to a 2X or, at best, a 3X. Many brands fail to accommodate curvier bodies outside of the typical pear shape. Simply adding a few “X”s to the size tag does not make a brand genuinely inclusive. Quality of materials and a wider range of sizes are essential in catering to all body types, including our beautiful apple-shaped figures.

8. The Inadequacy of Unrealistic Plus Size Clothing Models

Online shopping has become the norm for many, but for plus size women, it can often feel like an uphill battle. It’s frustrating to browse websites only to find that the models displayed do not represent our diverse body types. For those who may have physical limitations, or simply prefer the convenience of online shopping, seeing relatable representation is crucial. Enhancing the online shopping experience for all individuals will help foster inclusivity and prevent feelings of alienation in 2025 and beyond.

9. The Problem of Secret Admirers Who Hide Their Attraction

There’s never a good reason to hide your appreciation for plus size women or to keep your feelings a secret. Men who do this are simply not worth our time or energy. We deserve to be celebrated just as much as any size 8 woman. If you’re sliding into our DMs with compliments while publicly claiming you’d never date someone our size, it reveals more about your insecurities than it does about us. Love us openly or don’t love us at all.

We are eagerly anticipating the changes that the New Year will bring. Our hope is for a collective move away from these annoying icks! If these issues persist, you can expect another round-up of our grievances at the end of 2025.

As we wrap up, we’d love to hear which of these points resonated with you the most! Do you have any additional “icks” to share? Feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments!

Until next time, Curvy Cuties.