Size inclusive clothing brands & clothes shopping guide!

Shopping can be overwhelming, triggering and distressing for anyone, in any body. 

When you live in a body that does not conform to our cultures narrow ideals, be it through size, ability or gender conformity; trying to find clothes to fit, you feel good in, and that expresses who you are; can feel devastating and impossible. 

Going shopping and not finding anything in any store to fit your body is a reality for many people. And others feel too uncomfortable to even try. It is inaccessible to always purchase multiple sizes online just to try for size and need to send back. 

After many conversations with many clients over many years I have started to compile a list which may be a helpful place to start. This is not an exhaustive list. Please email or contact us on social media with options to add to the list. 

The list has been reviewed since its first release now including active wear, underwear and wedding. The next review will include gender neutral and inclusive brands and more masculine/ male options. 

Before you start shopping …

• It is important to know that there is no standard sizes; all stores will be different. 
• Take measurements and check the sizing chart of each brand and check the return policy! Make use of Afterpay and purchase a couple of sizes so you can return the ones that don’t fit without running short on cash flow! 
• I have created my own cost key:
  • $  Less than $50 per item
  • $$ $50 – $150 per item
  • $$$ $150 + per item
• I decided to leave out brands that only went to an 18  or 20 as these are more common and easier to find. 
• There are no sponsorship or affiliate links – Just wanted to make a list for my clients.

(I acknowledge that my research is based on shopping and dressing for women and people who identify as feme/ female. I intend to address this soon) . 

THE BRANDS

More Ideas…

• For ethical fashion brands look at the fantastic resource at Ethical Fat Fashion
• Once you find some brands that work for you keep an eye on eBay, Depop, buy swap sell( facebook) and Gumtree for some second hand bargains. 
• Also have a look for local clothes swaps and plus size second hand markets in your area.
  • For example: A+ Market Fashion 
  • Swap.com 
  • Curvy Design Market 

Looking for inspirations?

If you are not sure how you want to dress or what you want to say with your style or even how to dress a body shaped like yours – find someone to follow on instagram, Tic Toc or Mys Tyler who looks like you! 

There are some fantastic bloggers/ social media identities who have great ideas. The bonus is that seeing more people who look like you can be very healing. 

(But if any of these influences start talking about dieting, weight loss, green smoothies or any other diet culture crap unfollow that shit! You want to follow people that make you feel good!) 

Some hashtags to explore: