The plus size fashion market in the UK is growing rapidly, and fancy dress is no exception. Customers wearing size XL and above make up a significant proportion of the population, yet many retailers still only stock standard sizes. Retailers who embrace inclusive sizing in their wholesale fancy dress range unlock a huge and underserved market.
The Growing Plus Size Market
Research consistently shows that the average UK dress size is a 16, meaning a large portion of the population falls into what the industry calls plus size. Despite this, many fancy dress retailers still focus primarily on sizes small to large, leaving customers who need XL, 2XL, 3XL and above with very limited choices. This is a missed opportunity worth millions of pounds each year.
Customer Demand for Inclusive Sizing
Plus size customers are not asking for a separate range hidden away in a corner — they want the same choice and variety available to everyone else. When a retailer stocks a popular costume only in sizes small to large, they lose every potential sale from customers who need bigger sizes. Online reviews and social media mean that brands known for inclusive sizing earn loyalty and positive word-of-mouth, while those that ignore extended sizes face criticism.
Which Categories Sell Best in Plus Size?
Based on wholesale sales data, these are the top-performing plus size fancy dress categories:
- Halloween costumes — Witches, vampires, and horror characters are universally popular across all sizes
- Superhero costumes — Marvel and DC character costumes in extended sizes sell consistently well
- Decades fancy dress — 70s, 80s, and 90s themed costumes appeal to a broad customer base
- Christmas and seasonal costumes — Santa suits, elf costumes, and festive outfits in larger sizes are essential stock
- Hen and stag party outfits — Group events mean every member of the party needs a costume in their size
How to Display and Market Plus Size Costumes
Successful retailers follow these best practices for selling plus size fancy dress:
- Integrate, don't segregate — List plus size options alongside standard sizes rather than in a separate section
- Use inclusive imagery — Show costumes on a range of body types in your product photography
- Highlight size range clearly — State the full size range (e.g. S-5XL) prominently on every listing
- Provide detailed measurements — Chest, waist, and hip measurements help customers choose confidently
- Offer size guides — A clear, easy-to-read size guide reduces returns and builds trust
Working with Wicked Nights
Wicked Nights stocks a growing range of wholesale plus size costumes spanning Halloween, Christmas, decades themes, superhero characters, and much more. We are committed to expanding our extended size offering because we know retailers need inclusive stock to serve all their customers.
Browse our full range of wholesale costumes in extended sizes and apply for a trade account to access competitive trade prices with same-day dispatch.