Inside a plus-sized consumer’s capsule wardrobe
Part of shopping ethically is also shopping less, which is why building up a capsule wardrobe of basics that can be worn over and over again is a great way to keep your closet sustainable. Finding genuinely size inclusive sustainable brands can be tricky, so I’m going to share the fruits of my labour with you.
Linen for summer, a long sleeve and trench for winter
If you only want to shop at one retailer to build your capsule wardrobe, Universal Standard is your ideal store. Offering a comprehensive range of wardrobe staples up to a US size 40 you’ll find almost everything you need including workwear, loungewear, athleisure and intimates.
I’m currently eyeing this gorgeous linen jumpsuit in sea moss, retailing for $214.
As we head into winter, there’s this turtleneck available in five different colours for $99, and this trench available in black, camo and khaki.
Promenade linen jumpsuit; Foundation turtleneck.
Jeans and a skirt
On any given day over the summer, there was a 75 per cent chance I could be found wearing one of the several dresses I bought from Wray NYC last year. Their range, which goes up to 6XL, tends towards the more colourful end of the spectrum, which isn’t necessarily ideal for a capsule wardrobe, but it is ideal if you’re tired of the overwhelming amount of black clothing marketed to plus-size consumers. Though I will stick to the brief and recommend their Drew Jean in Ecru for $366, or their Kim Skirt in Black for $252. Keep an eye out for sales – they happen regularly.
Drew jean; Kim skirt.
A swimsuit you actually like
While Hackwith Design House sells a wide range of clothing up to size 28, their swimsuits are what caught my eye. There’s something for everyone, with high-waisted bottoms, bandeau tops, knotted tops, rash guards and several gorgeous one piece options. Highlights include a knotted top in fig for $99, and the cut-out one piece in eucalyptus for $186.
Cut-out one piece; Knotted top.
A go-with-everything dress
Romanian-based Loud Bodies has quickly become one of my favourite brands thanks to the hands-on approach of founder Patricia, and her commitment to transparency and ethical manufacturing. Sizes go up to 10XL, and they offer free customisation and consultations if you’re unsure which size to order. I bought the Sofia dress in white cotton for $240 last year. They also have an affordable range, which includes this adorable Victoria dress in black tencel for $131.
Sofia dress; Victoria dress.
A shirt
Sotela offers gorgeous, well-made pieces in a similar size range to Universal Standard (the brand uses its own sizing, however, with sizes ranging from 0 to 10). The majority of their items are made to order, with a four-week lead time to ensure minimal waste. Try the Pomelo button up shirt in black for $244, and the Sol top in white for $202.
Pomelo button up shirt; Sol top.
A bodysuit
Girlfriend Collective is one of the most talked about athleisure brands, and for once, plus-sized consumers don’t need to feel left out! The brand, which receives a “good” rating from Good On You, makes its clothing out of recycled materials and offers a recycling program, called ReGirlfriend. They have a wide range of athletic gear, but also offer outerwear, sleepwear, and intimates.
This robe, made from a blend of tencel and recycled cotton and available for $133, is calling to me, and this Ava Bateau bodysuit in black, retailing at $92, is the perfect staple for layering underneath dresses and skirts.
Dawn dream robe; Ava bateau bodysuit.
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