Something I’ve learned about style in 2019 so far: fashion is fun, but it’s even better when it’s earth-friendly. I absolutely love how designers are voicing and actively showing that they care about the planet. One thing I challenge sustainable designers to do, however, is to make their pieces more accessible to people of all sizes — everyone should have the option and ability to shop ethically without feeling limited to a handful of stores.
YouTuber Deb, AKA Clothes in Abundance, talks about the struggle of remaining ethical when buying new clothes. She believes sustainable styles don’t always cater to everyone. Deb asks the question, “How can we have a diverse slow fashion community that includes plus-size women (and) people of diverse incomes?” This is something the industry is improving on, but still working on completely answering.
With that, here are five sustainable, body-inclusive brands that include the cutest staples, basics, workwear, athleisure, and swimwear:
1. Reformation
If you’re in need of bright pieces, this is the brand for you. Reformation offers a variety of colorful sundresses, cute basic tops, and high rise jeans. Once a month you can tour its LA factory and meet the people behind the sewing machine.
2. Eileen Fisher
Obsessed with basics? You could create an entire sustainable wardrobe shopping Eileen Fisher’s neutral collection. All of its pieces look very light and airy; perfect for the summer. Its sizes range from 0 to a 24W. However, it does run on the pricey side so be ready to splurge.
3. Karen Kane
It’s interview season and if you’re anything like me your closet majorly lacks business wear. In a world oversaturated with trendy pieces it can sometimes feel impossible to find chic workwear. The sustainable brand Karen Kane offers pages of plus-size tunics, jumpsuits, and dresses.
4. Girlfriend Collective
Now for my favorite type of wear, athleisure. Girlfriend Collective has the cutest athletic sets in colors like seafoam greens, soft purples, and deep reds. It features sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL. We love a body diverse brand! According to its website its packaging is completely recyclable and most of its athletic wear is made from recycled materials.
5. Chromat
This summer sustainable fits will take over the beach with the size inclusive brand, Chromat. It features a variety of strappy bikinis and trendy neon one pieces, made from fishing nets and plastic bottles. We love a recycled style moment.
When curating new sustainable fits remember it’s a process that will take time. So don’t feel bad if you make fast fashion purchases here and there, I know I do. Nothing great can happen overnight. I’m hopeful we will continue to see brands become more environmentally friendly while offering sizes for every body type.