Although it's not as common to approach a stranger to make a negative comment about their body directly, having people openly make comments about your weight, size, and eating habits is still something you'll have to deal with if you live in Japan. For many expats, this is a sensitive topic and we can often feel surprised or even offended when a Japanese friend says "Oh, it looks like you've gained weight!" after not seeing us for a few weeks. It doesn't matter if you're plus-sized or not, these kinds of comments can negatively impact your mental health. The results of the 2021 Body Image Survey for foreigners living in Japan provided some valuable insight into the shift in confidence and self-perception after moving to Japan. Survey Highlights: Foreign female participants reported a significant decrease in confidence in their appearance since moving to Japan. In female participants, 54% reported confidence about their appearances - this number dropped to 23% after living in Japan for 1 year or more. 66% of foreigners report that they worry more about their appearance in Japan compared to their home country. There was an 11% rise in disordered eating habits after participants moved to Japan. A staggering 97% of foreign participants feel that overweight people are viewed negatively in Japan. 55% worry that they will be judged negatively based on their weight. Although these answers may not be a direct result of comments personally received, it does indicate that living in Japan can have a negative impact on one's body image and mental health. The focus on weight may be a result of the emphasis on health in Japanese culture. From a very young age, people are encouraged to live an active lifestyle and receive food education. Being overweight is considered a serious medical condition, and is spoken about as such. However, there has also been a shift in focus from health to appearances- as in, it doesn't matter if you live a healthy lifestyle, if you're not thin you're perceived as unhealthy. Likewise, if you are thin, you are perceived as being healthy. So, how do we navigate this topic and prepare ourselves for the (often inevitable) comments about our appearances? Here's a little list of some things you can prepare yourself for if you're plus-sized living in Japan. Doctors are direct when they speak about your weight. Japanese doctors will often tell you directly that you're overweight or obese and will not shy away from telling you the implications it could have on your health. The use of BMI is still strongly relied on, and your BMI may impact how your doctor speaks to you. Although it can be difficult to hear, coming from a healthcare professional consider it more of a general report on bodies in the same BMI range as yourself, rather than a direct attack. Avoid self-body-shaming comments in everyday conversation It's not uncommon for friends to body-shame themselves when they're hanging out. Although they may be a healthy weight, they may often complain that they're too fat, talk about their extreme diets, and compare bodies. This can be very uncomfortable especially if you feel that you look physically different from your friends. Don't feel the need to engage - you don't need to put yourself down or pay false compliments. Work on Self-Acceptance before moving to Japan The first step to dealing with comments is to cultivate self-acceptance. If you know this is a particularly sensitive topic for you, try to improve your confidence and body acceptance prior to moving to Japan. It’s easier said than done if it’s something you know you struggle with, but working on this aspect of yourself will help guard your well-being. Prepare yourself for indirect comments and cultural differences Get ready for this one, because it’s unavoidable. If you socialize with locals, use SNS in Japanese or consume Japanese media, you are going to hear body shaming comments often. It can be difficult to hear these things, even if it’s not directed at you. In most cases it’s recommended that we limit exposure to triggering topics as much as possible - but it will not be possible to avoid hearing these comments in Japan. Prepare yourself mentally if discussing weight, appearances and eating habits is triggering for you. Redirect the Conversation When confronted with unwelcome comments, you can redirect the conversation to a different topic. For instance, if someone comments on your diet, you can say, "Speaking of food, have you tried that new restaurant? It's one of my favorites." Educate Without Condemning If you are close with the person who is making the comments, instead of reacting defensively, consider explaining that you're not comfortable with their comments about your body. Be aware, though, that this will likely make the person extremely uncomfortable, as this may be a normal behavior for them. If you can't communicate clearly with the person, or they're not a friend you talk with often, it may overly strain your relationship. If comments become persistent or offensive, it's important to set boundaries respectfully. You can say something like, "I appreciate your concern, but I'm comfortable with my choices and body." This conveys your assertiveness without causing undue offense. Seek Support Sometimes, discussing challenging topics with a friend or support group can help you process your feelings. Expat communities, both online and in-person, can provide a safe space to share experiences and strategies for handling comments. If living in Japan is negatively impacting your confidence, reach out - you’ll be surprised how many people feel the same way. Stay aware of your mental and physical well-being Without realizing it, you may begin to develop disordered eating habits as a response to feeling pressured and physically different to the majority of people around you. It’s not uncommon for expats to adopt extreme eating habits. If you have struggled with an eating disorder, or currently have one, really evaluate if living in Japan is the right step for you. Living in Japan may exacerbate your disorder, and there are very limited resources to help you recover. Being separated from your support network may leave you vulnerable. Dealing with comments about body shape, diet, and eating habits can be emotionally draining. Practice self-care by engaging in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being, such as mindfulness, exercise, or seeking counseling if needed.

The world of high fashion is renowned for its unattainable beauty standards and a narrow definition of the ideal model physique. However, the tides are turning, and the fashion industry is undergoing a revolutionary transformation, embracing diversity and inclusivity like never before. At the prestigious Paris Fashion Week in 2023, a trailblazing figure stood out: Ai Momoka, a Japanese plus size model who is challenging conventions and redefining the runway. The Rise of Ai Momoka Ai Momoka's journey from a small town in Japan to the hallowed runways of Paris is nothing short of inspirational. Her unconventional path to the world of modeling began on social media, where her candid and body-positive posts resonated with thousands. As her popularity grew, Ai Momoka attracted the attention of fashion scouts and agencies who recognized her potential to disrupt the industry's longstanding norms. Paris Fashion Week 2023: A Milestone Paris Fashion Week has long been considered the epicenter of the fashion world, setting trends and defining beauty standards. In 2023, Ai Momoka became a symbol of change and progress as she graced the runways of this iconic event. Her presence represented a significant step toward greater inclusivity in the industry. Walking alongside traditional supermodels, Ai Momoka confidently showcased haute couture and ready-to-wear collections, proving that beauty transcends size. The Impact of Ai Momoka Inspiration and Empowerment: Ai Momoka's journey has inspired countless individuals around the world, especially plus-sized women, to embrace their bodies with confidence and celebrate their unique beauty. Her story serves as a testament to the power of self-acceptance and resilience. Changing Beauty Standards: By participating in Paris Fashion Week, Ai Momoka has challenged the fashion world's long-held beauty standards. Her presence on the runway signals a shift toward a more inclusive and diverse future where all body types are celebrated. Representation Matters: Ai Momoka's participation in Paris Fashion Week underscores the importance of representation in the fashion industry. Seeing models who look like them on the world's most prestigious runways can have a profound impact on individuals' self-esteem and aspirations. Body Positivity Advocacy: Beyond the runway, Ai Momoka continues to be a vocal advocate for body positivity and self-love. She uses her platform to promote messages of acceptance and encourages others to embrace their bodies, imperfections and all. Ai Momoka's journey from a small-town girl in Japan to a trailblazing plus-sized model on the runways of Paris Fashion Week is a testament to the evolving ideals of beauty and inclusivity in the fashion world. Her impact reaches far beyond the runway, as she empowers individuals to embrace their bodies and shatters stereotypes about what a model should look like. As the fashion industry continues its journey toward greater diversity and acceptance, Ai Momoka's presence at Paris Fashion Week 2023 serves as a beacon of hope and change, reminding us that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and the runway is becoming more inclusive with each passing season.

At the higher end of plus size fashion in Japan, a size 10L in Japan is the approximate equivalent to a US size 6XL, or 26. It is also one of the hardest clothing sizes to find, even from Japanese plus-size shops and brands. So what can we find online for 10L's in Japan? Click the shop name to check out all their 10L stock or the photos to be taken directly to the items . Most shops that offer size 10L don't use 10L models to showcase the items. Don't be discouraged if you see the piece being worn by a smaller model- if you follow the link to the item itself you'll usually find the size chart that lists out all measurements, up to 10L! Alinoma We're impressed with the range of size 10L pieces and styles available from Alinoma. As of February 2022, they had over 1000 styles in stock! Alinoma online brings together all of our favorite plus size brands under one site, to make shopping so much more convenient. It's definitely one of the larger collections you'll find for this size online. Here are a few of our favorites. Nissen Smileland Smileland is the most well-known plus-size brands among foreigners Affordable plus size clothing and plenty to choose from, there is something for everyone. Aside from carrying a large 10L stock, Smileland is also one of the only brands to offer 12L (a US 7XL or 28). Shop for tops, office wear, dresses, skirts and more! Gold Japan Gold Japan has a small collection of pants and skirts available in sizes up to 10L (some even going up to 11L, due to stretch waistbands). This gorgeous grey tulle and lace skirt is only 3,600 yen and can be styled in so many ways (check out the item page for reviews and styling ideas). A Happy Marilyn Visiting the Happy Marilyn Rakuten shop, we're given a fairly small selection for 10L. Four different pairs of fancy plus size underwear, and one basic tunic style dress and pant set. For 4,290 yen , the cotton blend monochromatic set comes in purple or black and features elbow-length sleeves and a drawstring waist. Pretty cute! Surprisingly, Alinoma (above) has more 10L pieces from A Happy Marilyn then what the site offers on their own sites.

Social media is where you want to be if you're looking for the latest in Japanese plus-size fashion trends. Don't speak Japanese? No problem. We rounded up the most used Japanese hashtags for plus size fashion in Japan. Note: Much like how hashtags, such as 'curvemodel', will find both fashion and adult-oriented content, some of these Japanese hashtags will do the same. プラスサイズ "Plus Size", used by brands and shops to advertise plus size clothing as well as by Japanese Plus Size models and fashion accounts 大きいサイズ "Big Size", used by brands and shops to advertise plus size clothing, it essentially has the same meaning as Plus Size. Japanese Plus Size models and fashion accounts also use this hashtag. ぽっちゃり "Chubby". This hashtag is one that is used for different purposes; it is used by some plus size models and brands, but it's also used for food and adult content. ​ぽちゃ An abbreviation for "Chubby", used similarly. プラスサイズファッション "Plus Size fashion". This is a great one for the trendiest plus-size fashions now. ぽっちゃりファッション "Chubby fashion". This hashtag is more often used by models that wear slightly smaller sizes than "Plus Size Fashion". It's also commonly used by models who are relatively slim but have larger chest or hips. ぽっちゃりコーデ This one means Chubby Coordinations (outfits). It's used for a variety of sizes and body types. 大きいサイズのお洒落 "Fashionable Plus Size", this is another great one for Japanese plus size style inspiration. ３桁ファッション This hashtag roughly means Fashion for/by people over 100kg. If you're looking for larger styles, there are many stylish accounts that utilize this one. ボディポジティブ "Body Positive". This hashtag is used by a variety of accounts, models, and body types. While it's not always related to fashion, it's nice to see so many people embracing the concept.

Fukuske Co. is celebrating its 140th anniversary with a plus size collab. The company, known for its tights, stockings and innerwear has teamed up with GLAPOCHA representative and plus size model, Ai Momoka, to develop a line of plus size designs. The line is called "momoske" and features vibrantly colored tights that fit up to a size 6L. Shop the collection online The tights range in prices and designs, with the most expensive coming in at under ¥1500 - a great price for quality plus size tights in colors you won't find in any other store. It can be tough finding plus size stockings in Japan, even in basic black and beiges. It's refreshing to find more color options with features like paneling and more durable fabric from a brand that's honed their craft. "3L to 4L/5L to 6L are knitted with a knitting machine with a larger diameter than normal tights, so it is designed to be loose and comfortable around the stomach and thighs." By changing the way the thighs are woven and reinforced, the damage caused by friction is reduced. That's right- they designed plus size stockings that reduce chub rub! All product images from www.Fukuske.com This post is not a paid promotion or partnership

It's so hot! We’re in the midst of summer 2022, so let’s look at what’s trending in Japanese plus size women’s fashion this season. 1. Bright Green Pastel and olive greens are no stranger to the plus size fashion color palette, but this is the season for saturation. Bright hues of emerald and grass greens are the statement color of Japan's summer 2022. Look at these greens from Re-J & Supure (Up tp size 4L). There's a whole range of colors to choose from, all beautiful and bright. 2. Dresses with a defined waist Plus size ladies of Japan, rejoice! Summer 2022 has brought us updated dress styles complete with defined silhouettes. If you haven't dress shopped in Japan before, let me tell you: This is a HUGE deal. The standard fair for plus-size dresses leaves a lot to be desired, namely, not looking like you're wearing an oversized tunic. SO many dresses out there are flowy (which is sometimes pleasant in the Japanese heat), but it's refreshing to see multiple plus size brands carrying more dresses that don't shy away from showing off the curves. (From left to right: Clette, Re-J & Supure, Taberunosky) 3. The Punyus Summer 2022 Collection Punyus puts out hits every season, but their Summer 2022 is hitting with early 90s feels. Bright colors, bucket hats, tie dye and plus size crop tops? Yes, please. 4. Florals Flower print is the pattern that dominates all Japanese women's clothing, so no one should be surprised that florals are the most trending choice this summer. With such a range of design and colors, why not add a few of these pieces in your collection; florals are a mainstay, so you know you'll be on trend for many seasons to come. 5. Wide-Legged Pants The days of skinny jeans are long gone. Flowy, wide-legged pants are great for hot summer days where if you must put clothes on. You want as much air flow as possible, with as little contact with your skin as possible. A great alternative to a dress or skirt (especially on those windy days), wide leg pants give you the same feel without the risk of accidentally flashing the neighborhood when (not if, when) you get hit with a surprise gust of wind.

Pointing out physical "flaws" and "undesirable" traits are mainstays in Japanese marketing tactics. Companies relentlessly attack women's body image and still get a pass from the public. "Your fat body is disgusting." Japan is famous for many reasons, including its creative advertisements. Youtube and social media sites are filled with English speakers reacting with delight and cultural confusion over the fast-paced in-your-face weirdness that the Japanese public has grown used to. However, if an international audience was to look any deeper into Japanese advertisements, the reaction would be less delightful and more disgusted. Japan's body-shaming ads are designed to make its audience feel ugly. Body Shaming ads are particularly prevalent on Youtube and are aimed at all genders (though there are far more aimed at women). Often using animation or manga, they use a story format meant to body shame and prey on insecurities. They aren't subtle about the message or the proposed solution. Is your husband having an affair? It's your fault because you're not attractive enough. You need to win him back by becoming beautiful (and using our product). Can't get a boyfriend? It's because you're ugly. Use our product. Your boyfriend dumped you because of your weight? Being fat is gross, you're gross and ugly, it's your fault. Use our product. Are you being bullied for your appearance? Here's a friend to tell you that the bullies are right, and you need to change yourself (with the advertised product, of course). Life not going well in general? It's because you're ugly. Use our product. Where these ads may have crossed the line is if they are too explicit in shaming, rather than implicitly causing anxiety among those worried about the problem. Says Roy Larke, a senior lecturer in marketing at the University of Waikoto in New Zealand who specializes in Japanese retailing and consumer behavior. Values are being spread that don't allow people to think positively about their body or their appearance. While these kinds of ads may not affect adults, who have certain abilities to make their own judgments, those ideas may take root in children and young people, and they are harmful. Tohko Tanaka, a professor of media culture at Otsuma Women's University and an expert in the depictions used in advertising and other media says, [These advertisements send] an oversimplified message based on the heteronormative concepts of romance in which people are judged solely by their physical appeal to the opposite sex, and a norm that people feel they must follow, joining hands with an extreme marketing strategy that uses fear to make people buy things. Recently there has been a call from the Japanese public to discourage advertisers online from showing unrealistic images/scenarios and these obvert body-shaming tactics. However, many people are choosing to overlook these ads claiming that there's no difference in these ads from what society feels in regards to the importance of your appearance and weight. With more people staying home due to COVID19 measures, there has been a rise in the use of Youtube meaning that more viewers (including children and young people) are being subjected to this body shaming on a regular basis.

Searching for the perfect plus size Japanese apron? If you're a US size large or up, you may have an easier time finding an apron online (opposed to heading to your nearest home goods store). Unlike the aprons that I grew up with (the ones that go over the head and tie at the waist), Japanese Aprons have a slightly different design. The straps criss-cross over the shoulders and are secured on the back of the apron (sometimes adjustable, sometimes not). That means that if there is not enough fabric to wrap entirely around your waist, you won't be able to attach the straps OR if they're not removable straps, you will find yourself in a restrictive mess of fabric. I often see people of all genders donning aprons during housework, cooking or gardening. They're designed to stay in place and guard your clothes, with minimal adjustments needed once you have it on. It's quite useful if you're working with your hands and don't want to dirty your clothes. As always, make sure you know your body measurements in centimeters, and then head over to Rakuten Japan. For aprons, I'm particularly fond of shopping at Nissen Smileland via Rakuten. There are so many cute designs and colors available in plus size, and the prices are always reasonable. I usually buy a 6L or 7L depending on the design, and they offer most items up to size 10L. The above apron costs 1,645 yen and also comes in black and white. I love the little frill and lace details. The body coverage is good, it stays in place and fits comfortably over larger chest sizes. If you're doing more than a little cooking or light cleaning, there are full-coverage designs. These are great when I need to do some garden work or am in spring cleaning mode. These aprons cover the entire body (aside from the arms) and secures at the side. The front and back of the body are totally shielded from dirt. (Also very useful if you work with small children!) This cutie comes in teal or navy and has a large pocket in the front. I like the material of this particular apron; the shell is a water-resistant material and the back is lined with fleece. It's great for keeping clean and warm. My favorite apron so far is this simple apron in Black. I'm a fan of how adjustable the back is. The elastic on the back gives a little more movement than the traditional criss-cross design. I usually choose darker colors when I'm cooking (I'm clumsy), and so far this material has held up well to the many spatters of curry and pasta sauce. And the little frill details are so cute! Nissen has way more designs, shapes, and colors for plus-size aprons (including full sleeve and cosplay maid-esque aprons), so be sure to check out the Nissen Smileland shop.

If you prefer a dark pallet with vintage, lolita-esque or spooky elements, these are must have plus size items for your 2022 Japanese wardrobe. Finding gothic inspired peices available in plus size can be a challenge in Japan, so we've scoured Rakuten, one of the biggest online shopping malls in Japan, and have found the cutest plus size gothic clothing available this season. Dresses (plus size 2L to 6L depending on the item, click an mage for more info) We're loving the comeback of knee length dresses in plus size fashion. These romantic dresses can be easily paired with casual or more formal accesories to create a look that can go from day to night. Tops (plus size 2L to 11L depending on the item, click an mage for more info) Skirts

It gets chilly in Japan! Check out what's been trending in plus-size outerwear for Winter 2021. Duffle Coats Shown Here: Punyus | ダッフルコート | ¥8,800 (sale) Long Trench Coats Shown Here: Clette | トレンチデザインロングコート | ¥7,320 Tan Anoraks Shown Here: Nissen | 大きいサイズ モッズコート | ~¥2,500 MA-1 Jackets Shown Here: Punyus | スーパービッグMA-1 | ¥8,800