In the past few years, we have seen a number of clothing brands make strides towards becoming more inclusive for more bodies. We have seen brands put a stop to retouching their models, and are showcasing their clothing using different body shapes and sizes. While this is a huge step in the right direction, we understand that clothes shopping can still be an uncomfortable experience for many.
Whether you are shopping for a body that is in recovery from an eating disorder or shopping for a body that has said goodbye to weight cycling and dieting, we know that there can be a number of emotions that come with trying on clothes - especially if your body has changed. It certainly doesn’t help when, say, you are a different size at every store you walk into. Or, when the store simply doesn’t carry clothes that suit your body type. How frustrating!
In case you missed it - we wrote a blog earlier this year about how to navigate clothes shopping when your body has changed. Click here to read it!
What Does an Inclusive Clothing Brand Look Like?
A truly inclusive clothing brand is one that caters to the needs of those that are comfortable in size 24 or greater (1). Additionally, they cater to various body shapes, meaning that they carry petite, tall, and junior sizes. Ideally, they would even offer included tailoring services or custom fitting to truly meet all needs.
Even beyond sizing, though, inclusive brands focus on creating a pleasant shopping experience for all customers. Maybe you can recall going into a store where the “plus size” section is in the back corner of the store - separate from the smaller sizes that are put on mannequins at the front of the store. This creates an entirely different shopping experience for customers in larger bodies, and honestly, is so not cool.
Yes - inclusivity involves carrying a range of sizes. However, it ALSO involves creating a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience for all. We would like to highlight a few brands that take YOU into consideration - no matter where you are in your recovery or in your intuitive eating journey. No matter what type of body you are in.
8 Inclusive Clothing Brands We Love
Universal Standard advocates for those in all body types by offering inclusive sizing (00-40). They have even challenged the norm of S, M, and L sizing; for example, their medium is a size 18, which is more representative of the median size of an American women. PLUS - they take it one step further with their Fit Liberty program, which allows you to exchange a piece of clothing if your size changes. No questions asked.
eShakti takes it one step further as a made-to-order clothing brand that accommodates sizes 0-36. That means that you can customize your hemline, neckline, and even sleeve length to make the garment that you feel most confident in. The best part? 100% refund if it doesn’t fit.
Known and loved by many, Torrid is a go-to for those living in larger bodies. With storefronts all over the US, they are easy to find. They’re a one stop shop for workwear, casual wear, and even swimwear. They focus on creating an inclusive environment by carrying sizes up to 5XL and 32.
You may remember the #aeriereal campaign that started the movement towards using untouched images of their models and representing those of different ethnicities, shapes, and sizes. They were one of the first in the lingerie industry to challenge the norm. While they do not offer a full range of extended sizing at this time, we think they deserve a spot on the list for giving everyone a seat at the table.
For those of you that enjoy engaging in some joyful movement now and then, Fabletics has got you covered. Offering sizes ranging from 2XS-4XL and bra sizes 30A-46D+, they are on the road to making movement more accessible for any body shape or size. We love their unique silhouettes and fun seasonal colors and patterns.
With true size inclusivity (L-7XL), Superfit Hero is another great activewear brand on a mission to make movement comfortable. There’s nothing worse that having to constantly adjust your sports bra when you’re in downward dog. Everything is high-waisted, has pockets, and has varying amounts of coverage.
For those who just truly hate shopping and are looking for a stress-free solution, Stitch Fix to the rescue! They automate the shopping process; you take a quiz, then someone shops for you, and sends the clothes straight to your door. While there are other models like this out there, Stitch Fix is a more size-inclusive option, offering sizes up to 24 and 3X.
When many of us think about bathing suit shopping, we may shudder a bit at the thought. However, this brand makes shopping for swimsuits a little less daunting by offering an array of styles and sizes (up to 26 G and H). We promise that they’re not drab one pieces, either. We’re talking bright bikinis, high waisted bottoms, tankinis - you name it, they’ve got it.
Nuuly is a rental service where you are able to select 6 (or more) items of clothing each month from a wide variety of brands. Their sizing is inclusive and the clothes get shipped directly to your home! You get to select different items each month, send the ones back that you don't like, and potentially purchase the ones you do (at a pretty nice discount).
Altar is a company based in Portland, Oregan with a focus on sustainable materials and independent artisans. They sell apparel sizing from small to 6x but also have jewelry, cosmetics and much more!
We know how important it is to feel comfortable in your skin AND your clothes. In fact, this is a key part of neutralizing body image while in the recovery process or in the Intuitive Eating journey. These brands are ones that have the potential to create an enjoyable shopping experience for everyone.
If you find that you are struggling with neutralizing body image, reach out to us! We have a number of services to help you restore your relationship with your body. Whether it's through one of our virtual services or through 1-1 nutrition counseling, we are here to support you.
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