It turns out that XXL and 2XL aren’t identical sizes — who knew? Apparently, plus-size shoppers have long navigated this clothing mystery, but a viral TikTok by influencer Makayla Smith has stirred up a revelation.
“Should I make a video explaining the difference between XXL and 2XL??” she teased, leaving followers both intrigued and shocked.
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Makayla’s Explanation
Smith, a fashion and lifestyle influencer with over 45,000 followers, has tackled the puzzling world of size differences in her videos.
“They are usually cut a bit differently,” she explains, with 2XL typically being a tad larger and tailored with plus-size bodies in mind. Her take has sparked widespread interest and debate online.
Why Sizes Differ
In the comments, a retail worker weighed in with insights, explaining, “XXL is still considered ‘straight sizing’ and basically just a larger size. 2X is made from a plus-size pattern.”
This subtle distinction in patterning often impacts the fit, with XXL sizes typically coming from straight-size patterns, while 2XL caters more directly to plus-size bodies, offering a roomier, tailored fit.
Reactions from Followers
One user’s response summed up the collective shock: “WHAT. And this comes from someone who is plus size lmao.” Many others echoed the confusion, admitting they hadn’t realized the sizing difference.
“I’m also XXL/2XL,” added another, explaining how a professor once told them that “XXL is based on ‘straight’ sizing, while 2X is in the ‘plus’ women’s category.”
The ‘Fit Options’ Theory
A surprising revelation, however, came from those viewing from the outside. As one commenter put it, “From the outside looking in, it sounds like XXL/2XL have it lucky here, able to choose what type of fit they want, but I don’t think it’s seen like that by those in the plus-size community.”
The fit options may indeed be convenient but aren’t always appreciated.
Sizing Clarity Frustrations
The sizing differences only added fuel to the fire for some. “Omg JUST GIVE US UNITS PPPLLLLZZZ. INCHES. CMS. ANYTHING,” begged one frustrated commenter, highlighting the desire for clear, universal measurements.
It’s a sentiment shared by many who find the inconsistencies in sizing a source of never-ending frustration.
Length and Sleeve Variations
Another follower sought more specific differences, asking, “What are the biggest differences that you notice between the sizes?” Smith answered, “Length I notice most! Usually some more width and longer sleeves as well.”
This distinction, she explained, reflects XXL being from a straight-size cut versus the plus-size origins of 2XL.
Holiday Shopping Advice
With the holidays approaching, one commenter urged, “Thank you!!! I have to tell people this for Christmas time… please go to plus size sections.” This advice might save others from the hassle of holiday returns, especially when buying clothes for family members who wear these sizes.
An Industry Issue
For many, this sizing confusion goes beyond XXL and 2XL. As the retail worker pointed out, sizing patterns can vary widely from brand to brand, making it hard to find consistent fits. It highlights a bigger industry issue with sizing standards, particularly for plus-size clothing, where a few extra inches can make all the difference.
The debate over XXL versus 2XL has highlighted just how confusing sizing can be for plus-size shoppers.
Makayla Smith’s videos reveal a broader desire for consistency across fashion lines, especially for shoppers who’ve experienced the challenges of varied fits.
Here’s hoping the clothing industry can make sizing a little more straightforward — and a little less puzzling — down the line.
