Kacey Musgraves is facing a storm of criticism online after what many are calling a 'condescending' reply to a fan who pointed out the lack of inclusive sizing in her new Walmart clothing line. The country music star's 100-piece Kacey Lee collection, created in partnership with denim brand Lee, launched exclusively at Walmart stores and online on Tuesday. The line, inspired by Musgraves' Western roots, includes womenswear, swimwear, menswear, and even pet accessories, with prices ranging from $8 to $42. However, the collection quickly drew social media backlash when it emerged that most items only go up to XXL in tops and size 18 in bottoms.
Activist Leads Criticism
Megan Ixim, a self-described 'fat activist' and model, spearheaded the criticism by posting a video to her 133,000 Instagram followers, accusing Musgraves and Walmart of 'excluding fat people.' Ixim, who uses the handle @msgiggles, expressed her disappointment that 'plus-size customers are not only NOT able to shop this collection in store, but the collection has very limited styles of extended sizes available online.' According to Walmart.com, the only sizes above XXL in the Kacey Lee line are in the swimwear category, with tops, bottoms, and one-piece swimsuits available in 2X and 3X, but exclusively for online delivery, not in-store purchase.
Ixim noted that this is not the first time Musgraves has faced scrutiny over sizing. She referenced a previous collaboration with Reformation in 2024, where extended sizes were limited to a few pieces and available online only. 'We're upset. I'm disappointed,' Ixim said, adding that Musgraves' many plus-size fans 'deserve more.'
Musgraves' Response Stirs More Controversy
As Ixim's post gained traction, Musgraves decided to address the criticism directly. She commented under Ixim's video, writing: 'Hiii not in my control at all. Sorry you're disappointed. Hope this helps!' followed by a pink-heart emoji. The response was met with widespread disapproval, with fans labelling it 'rude' and 'mean.' One Reddit user described the comment as 'objectively condescending,' particularly the phrase 'Hope this helps!' Others felt the tone was 'passive aggressive.' Some argued that Musgraves should not have responded at all, with one user noting, 'Celebrities being shady toward much smaller creators is so tacky.'
However, many came to Musgraves' defence, pointing out that 'extended sizing is not the same as plus-size' and that Walmart never advertised 'plus sizing' for the collection. Supporters also believed Musgraves had no control over the sizing or where extended sizes were available. One defender wrote, 'Her comment is rude and in poor taste, but I genuinely believe she didn't have control over what sizes are available. Of course she could have demanded they go up to a certain size, but that would require insight into purchasing and sales that I don't believe she has.'
Background on the Collection
The Kacey Lee collection is sold in 2,100 Walmart stores across the United States and coincides with the release of Musgraves' latest album, Middle of Nowhere. The album, her seventh, was released on May 1 and has received critical and fan acclaim. Musgraves recently announced a supporting U.S. tour, starting August 20 in Chicago, Illinois, and concluding October 27 in Seattle, Washington. The Texas-born singer-songwriter rose to fame after competing on Nashville Star in 2007 and releasing her breakout single 'Merry Go 'Round' in 2012. She has since won eight Grammy Awards and collaborated with artists such as Willie Nelson, Miranda Lambert, Katy Perry, and Noah Kahan.
The Daily Mail has reached out to representatives for Musgraves for comment but has yet to receive a response.
