From Closets to Cash Registers: How GLP-1s Are Reshaping Retail Habits

Losing weight with the help of GLP-1 medications can feel like opening the door to a new chapter of life, but it also brings unexpected challenges. For many people, something as simple as getting dressed each day becomes complicated when their closet no longer matches their changing body. Shifting sizes, lingering fears of regaining weight, and even the influence of social media can make this transition harder than it seems.

In this study, we asked nearly 1,000 Americans who have lost weight with GLP-1s about how their wardrobes and their self-image have changed along the way. Their experiences reveal not only the practical realities of replacing clothes, but also the emotional hurdles that often come with visible transformation.

Key Takeaways

• 54% of Americans who lost weight on GLP-1s have kept their old clothes out of fear they might gain the weight back.
• 37% of Americans taking GLP-1s have gone through two clothing size changes and have lost an average of 40 lbs.
• 69% of Americans losing weight on GLP-1s still purchase their old clothing size because they're unsure smaller sizes will fit.
• 1 in 4 Americans using GLP-1s say social media has influenced how they "should" dress post-weight loss.

"My Closet Doesn't Fit Anymore"

• 37% of Americans taking GLP-1s have gone through two size changes, while 30% have gone through one, 25% through two, and 8% through four or more.
• Most Americans taking GLP-1s have spent between $100–$249 on replacing clothing items in their wardrobe.
• 66% of Americans who lost weight on GLP-1s donated their old clothes, but 54% kept them out of fear that they might gain the weight back.

From Baggy to Bold

• 69% of Americans losing weight on GLP-1s still purchase their old clothing size because they're unsure smaller sizes will fit.
• Most Americans experiencing weight loss on GLP-1 say they're more likely to wear active wear (57%) and jeans (55%).
• 1 in 4 Americans using GLP-1s say social media has influenced how they "should" dress post-weight loss.
• Nearly 1 in 4 (23%) started following influencers closer to their new size for style and fashion tips.
• Nearly 1 in 4 Americans losing weight on GLP-1s say they'd consider a clothing rental subscription design for people in active weight change.
• Nearly 1 in 10 Americans who've lost weight from GLP-1s (8%) experienced negative comments about their weight loss from friends, family, or online commentators.

Methodology

For this study, we surveyed 959 Americans who have lost weight on GLP-1s. Their ages ranged from 19–78. Among them, 28% were men, 70% were women, and 2% identified as non-binary. Before starting GLP-1s, respondents reported an average weight of 241 lbs. After GLP-1 use, respondents reported a weight of 199 lbs.

About Levity

Levity provides personalized, medically supervised weight loss programs designed to support real, lasting change. With expert guidance and access to proven GLP-1 medications like compounded liraglutide with B-12* and Ozempic, Levity helps patients reach their goals safely and sustainably. Whether you're navigating changing clothing sizes or adjusting to a new lifestyle, we're here to support every step of the journey.

Fair Use Statement

This content may be shared for noncommercial purposes only. If you choose to reference or republish these findings, please include a link back to Levity with proper attribution.

*Compounded drugs are permitted to be prescribed under federal law but are not FDA-approved and do not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or quality.