The muumuu is a loose-fitting Hawaiian dress with no waistband or form-fitting features, often worn by pregnant women and plus-size individuals. It was introduced by missionaries to civilize Polynesians and is now made of lighter fabric and printed in vibrant colors. Despite being considered a “figure buster” in the fashion industry, it remains a suitable option for plus-size individuals.
A muumuu is a loose-fitting dress of Hawaiian origin that is usually printed in bright colors and floral patterns. It is designed to sling from the shoulder and does not have a waistband or any other form-fitting features, making it appear flared when worn. Pregnant women, plus-size individuals, and others often choose to wear a muumuu because the dress provides a roomy, comfortable fit.
The shape of the muumuu is largely derived from the Mother Hubbard dress, named for its intent to show the least amount of skin, making the person appear to have the conservative values of a grandmother. Missionaries first introduced the muumuu to the Polynesians in an attempt to civilize them, as they considered it wild for the natives to walk half-naked in their indigenous South Sea island environment. The Polynesians only made it because of the consistently peaceful climate, but the missionaries found it primitive. They introduced the billowy, loose-fitting muumuu with a high neckline and long sleeves made with heavy, drab fabric as the standard dress code. Characteristic of this type of clothing is the yoke, which is an extra layer around the neckline, and the train, the part of a muumuu that the wearer wears behind.
The traditional-style muumuu is now considered a Victorian artifact worn only by women in the Pacific islands. However, due to the hot weather, they have changed the fabric to a lighter material, namely cotton, and also printed them in vibrantly colored flower patterns of basic Polynesian motifs. Also, the muumuu does not have a yoke and train like Mother Hubbard’s dress, making them easier to fabricate.
Due to its penchant for making its wearer appear to have no figure, the muumuu has been considered a “no” in the fashion industry, despite attempts to bring the look to the runway. Many who consider themselves fashion conscious call it a “figure buster” and a “sack of potatoes.” However, muumuus are still considered a suitable fashion option for the plus size individual. For the average figure, fashionistas have recommended modifying the dress shape through shrinking, tailoring, and accessorizing with belts to accentuate the waist.
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