Luxury Spas Struggle to Provide Size-Inclusive Robes

Lack of extended sizing options leaves plus-size spa-goers feeling unwelcome and uncomfortable

Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:18pm

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Many plus-size customers have experienced issues with ill-fitting robes at luxury spas, leaving them feeling excluded and unwelcome in spaces meant for relaxation and pampering. Spa executives cite challenges like limited vendor options and logistical hurdles as reasons for the lack of size-inclusive robes, but customers argue that this perpetuates the belief that wellness is only for certain body types.

Why it matters

This issue highlights the broader problem of size discrimination in the wellness and hospitality industries, where plus-size individuals often feel marginalized and unwelcome. Providing size-inclusive amenities is not only a matter of practical comfort, but also signals an inclusive and welcoming environment for all guests.

The details

Many plus-size spa-goers report being offered makeshift solutions like extra towels or sheets to cover up when the standard robes don't fit, or being told to keep their regular clothes on. This can make them feel singled out and self-conscious in a setting meant to be relaxing. Spa directors cite challenges like limited vendor options, laundry logistics, and the industry's focus on 'one-size-fits-most' as reasons for the lack of extended sizing.

  • In the last nine months, the author has experienced robe sizing issues at five different luxury spas.

The players

Alexis Gaskin

A creative strategist and consultant who does extensive research before spa visits to avoid poor experiences due to lack of size-inclusive robes.

Ronny Maye

A freelance travel and lifestyle writer who has experienced robe discrimination at spas both domestically and abroad.

Kelleye H. Martin

The spa director at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, which offers robes up to size 5X and believes guest comfort and dignity are paramount.

Ella Kent

The director of spa, fitness, and wellbeing at Sea Island Resort and Spa, where robes go up to size 5X.

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What they’re saying

“Being fat my whole life, I was raised to not expect accommodations. But when I'm told there is inclusivity by a company, only to be met with unsure staff members who didn't know how to help, I get angry at the $300 I dropped.”

— Alexis Gaskin, creative strategist and consultant (Harper's Bazaar)

“When spas, or any similar service, are exclusionary, it upholds the belief that wellness is only for certain demographics. That brief moment when you're told 'There isn't a robe in your size' can cause unnecessary duress and anxiety in an environment that is meant to be relaxing. It sends the message that not everybody is welcome at this facility.”

— Ronny Maye, freelance travel and lifestyle writer (Harper's Bazaar)

“When something as simple as a robe does not fit properly, it can shift a guest's focus from relaxation to embarrassment, diminishing what should be a restorative and joyful experience.”

— Kelleye H. Martin, spa director at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa (Harper's Bazaar)

“The industry standard, and what vendors are eager to sell, is the one-size-fits-most model. This route can be seen as the path of least resistance. Unfortunately, that's the reality of what's marketed towards us.”

— Ella Kent, director of spa, fitness, and wellbeing at Sea Island Resort and Spa (Harper's Bazaar)

What’s next

Spas could incorporate robe size preferences in pre-treatment intake forms, train staff to be more respectful of diverse body types, and hire plus-size employees or consult with body positivity advocates to better address blind spots.

The takeaway

The lack of size-inclusive robes at luxury spas is a symptom of a broader issue of size discrimination in the wellness industry. Providing accommodations for all body types is not only a matter of practical comfort, but also signals an inclusive and welcoming environment for all guests seeking relaxation and pampering.