Cue Mariah Carey’s famous jingle because it’s tiiimeeee! With December rolling up (so quickly) as if she has a whole problem with us this year, we can’t help but think about the Christmas season and all it may bring. While many are pulling out the ugly sweaters, warming up the hot cocoa, and rummaging through their favorite department stores, we think it’s the perfect opportunity to give you all our brief list of items you should NOT gift a plus size person this holiday.
Now, don’t get your stockings in a bunch just yet. Of course, we’ve all heard the good saying, “It’s the thought that counts.” That, our friend, is true. However, although it is, you must (also) consider the necessity of putting much thought into said present for the person you’re giving it to. This (specifically) applies to your full-figured family members, friends, and even colleagues.
Wrapping up a diet book and slapping a bow on it isn’t the way to go, nor is “blessing” someone with a gym membership. Simply put, you may believe the gesture is nice, but we’re uncomfortable. Gone are the days of the awkward grins masking the fact that our feelings are hurt and humiliated in the back of Santa’s sleigh. If you’re still unclear on where we’re going with this, keep reading.
We’ll be the first to admit it; the gift-giving protocol isn’t talked about enough… and for great reason. From not wanting to appear ungrateful to shaking in your boots at the thought of shooting down one’s sentiment, there are a lot of red-ribboned surprises larger individuals have received that we either couldn’t use or weren’t too fond of the idea… at all.
Granted, not every (seemingly) backhanded offering is on purpose. Some have no intentions of offending the person, whatsoever. But… this is why “reading the room” is important and keeping your gifts universal if you don’t know the receiver personally.
Top 5 Items You Should NOT Gift a Plus Size Person for Christmas
#1 – Clothing
This may be debatable, but it’s an unspoken truth that needs to be heard. Unless you’re a close loved one of the person and know their exact size and personal style, gifting a plus size person with clothes is not recommended. Finding the correct wardrobe to complement our body types is already hard enough.
Buying someone new attire they can’t fit could add insult to injury. Additionally, one’s style isn’t to be assumed by the width of their waist, and not all people on the heavier side prefer to be hidden under baggy fashion pieces as society tries to portray.
#2 – Exercise Equipment
Contrary to popular belief, some “socially fat” people hit the gym more than the ones parading themselves as “rats.” On the flip side, others are happy with their bodies the way they are and have no desire to lose weight.
Fat doesn’t equate to unhealthy or immobile. So, gifting someone an exercising bike or treadmill off the sole idea that “they need it” could come off as rude and disrespectful. We’re human, too. Humans with decisions that we have every right to make and boundaries that should never be broken.
#3 – Chairs
You may have a friend who recently moved into their new spot and could use lawn chairs or living room furniture. While it’s sweet to think of purchasing them a set, it may not be wise. Not all chairs are “fat-friendly.” From uncomfortable armrests and hard seats to an overall small sitting space, it could be an unpleasant (and even unsafe) experience.
But… if it’s an absolute must, check out some of our suggestions for plus size chairs that are spacious and made for the guys and girls on the higher end of the scale here.
#4 – Weight Loss Books
As we mentioned earlier, diet books are a no-go. Yes, you may have overheard the individual expressing their desire to drop a few pounds. Yes, you may think that providing them with helpful materials to jumpstart their journey is what any “good Samaritan” would do.
However, it could present itself as if you’re affirming what they’re already insecure about. This makes room for questions in search of answers to validate, such as, “Am I fat?” or “Do you think I need to lose weight?” Protect plus size people’s mental health… at all costs. Because we matter, too, even if the world has forgotten.
#5 – “Fat-Related” Personalized Gadgets/Apparel
We’re no longer in an era where plus size women, in particular, want to walk around with a “Juicy” graphic tee or keychain that says “BBWs do it better.” With the rise of cancel culture and the body-positive movement, many have concluded that those terms are connected to fetishism.
Unfortunately, brands are still creating these types of products and selling them at a fast rate. Keep them on the rack this Christmas!
When it comes to gift-giving, thoughtfulness always trumps assumptions. Avoiding items that feel more like judgment than joy is key to making the holidays truly special. Instead of gifting things that miss the mark, focus on presents that celebrate individuality, confidence, and style.
Remember, the best gifts show love, appreciation, and an understanding of who someone truly is—not what society thinks they should be. This season, let’s ditch the “no-nos” and make every gift a resounding “yes!”
To our fluffy readers, what is the worst gift you’ve received for Christmas? Share below!
