Another Reason to Love Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy is launching her own plus-size fashion line. McCarthy is currently one of Hollywood’s most bankable actresses with a string of hits under her belt, most notably The Heat, a comedy that amassed over $200 million worldwide.

However, some media outlets seem to focus incessantly on the fact the Bridesmaids star isn’t as slim as her female co-stars and peers. Last week she stepped out for an informal red carpet with her recent weight loss scrutinised across the internet. She has been upfront about the difficulties she has faced trying to find dresses for award ceremonies, ?Two Oscars ago, I couldn’t find anybody to do a dress for me. I asked five or six designers – very high-level ones who make lots of dresses for people – and they?all said no.?

Thankfully Marchesa proved they are the classiest act of all at this year’s Emmys.

Today wwd.com reports the actress and comedian is now creating a fashion line. She will collaborate with Gerard Guez’s Sunrise Brands and plans include accessories and beauty products as well as clothes. In fact, the Emmy-winner has wanted to be a designer since forever, with Jean Paul Gaultier being one of her personal favourites. At one time it supplanted her desire to become an actress. When she first moved to New York she was attending the Fashion Institute of Technology before she dropped out to pursue stand-up.

When can fans expect to see Melissa’s wares in stores? Tenetative plans point to late next year with a casual sportswear range launching in the US, Canada and UK. McCarthy told wwd.com that she was constantly on the lookout for new looks that fit her frame, ?I always said, ?Why can’t I find great stuff?? And Sunrise was up for the challenge.?

McCarthy can be seen next in St. Vincent opposite Bill Murray.

Follow Jeanne Sutton on Twitter @jeannedesutun