Melissa McCarthy's clothing line was a "selfish venture".

Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy

The 44-year-old actress - who recently launched her own apparel range Melissa McCarthy Seven7 with Sunrise Brands - has confessed she was inspired to design the collection to "create a better closet" for herself.

The curvaceous star - who has made the line available in sizes four to 28 - wanted to create a collection that caters to women of all sizes after struggling to find clothes she liked that suited her frame.

She told PEOPLE: "I started this line because I wanted to know. Where are the normal clothes? This really is a selfish venture. I wanted to build a better closet for myself.

"I've worn every single piece. There are little jeans that are super stretchy and they come all the way up, because I just do not need to see anyone's muffin top, and I do not need to see anyone bend over and be able to tell what colour underwear they're wearing anymore.

"There are lots of sleeves here! Hallelujah! Do you know how many fights I've had about sleeves?" she asks. "I was actually told once, 'Plus-size women do not want sleeves, in any capacity.' I was like, 'Are you crazy? That's not accurate! I am plus-size, and I want them, I have friends who are size 26 and size 8 and they want a sleeve! Very few things [in Seven7] don't have sleeves. My stuff has sleeves, my stuff has pockets, you can count on that."

The 'Spy' star added she hopes the line will help "empower" women and put a spring in their step.

She explained: "Clothing and fashion should be fun. You're supposed to put it on and then have a little kick in your step that day!

"I want women to get dressed every day and feel good about themselves. I don't care what it is... if it makes you feel good and empowered, I stand behind it 100 percent.

"And if I can be a little tiny block on that wall, I'd be proud of that."