Merchandise Focus: Plus-size Women

There are other interesting legends about the early days of the industry. For example, Lena Bryant’s initial mail order business was maternity wear.

“Back then, pregnant women did not normally go out of the house,” says Sheila Garelik, president of Brylane Apparel Group, which includes the Lane Bryant catalog. “From maternity wear, Lena Bryant branched into mail order for large women.”