We all know finding cute plus-size clothes can sometimes feel like searching for a unicorn, right? But then, when you throw in the need for sustainable plus size brands, and it can feel downright impossible. Where do you even start? Despite popular belief, what we wear matters — but not for the reasons you think.
It’s not always about trendy patterns or the perfect fit anymore. It’s about knowing your clothes aren’t contributing to overflowing landfills or harming the environment. Who doesn’t want to feel good about their purchases? We’re talking brands that use recycled materials, prioritize ethical production, and are genuinely committed to making a difference. Forget the greenwashing; these are companies walking the walk, offering stylish plus-size options that prove you don’t have to compromise your values for your wardrobe.
What we wear matters for the planet, and it matters for the future. The Curvy Fashionista has done the digging, and we found the brands that are actually doing the work and put them all in one place. You know, so we can all look good and feel good about what we’re wearing without feeling like we’re sacrificing the planet.
Photo Credit: www.statethelabel.com
CLOTHING
State The Label offers various pieces, from swimsuits to rompers. If you love stripes and fun patterns, look no further. Their website shares, “Most STATE garments are made in our studio here in sunny Athens, GA. Our small team of 10 cuts, sews, paints, washes, finishes, folds, tags, and packs each item. For over 10 years we’ve worked with the same family-owned cut and sew factory in Manhattan’s Garment District. They create our more detailed pieces – anything with more complex collars or buttons – as well as our Britches and swimwear.”
Known for their underwear, swimwear, and lounge pieces, TomboyX is a sustainable brand you should be shopping! Additionally, they sell sizes 3XS-6XL.
With sizes up to 3XL, Poplinen has great basics and beautiful spring arrivals. Their website reads, “Our mission is to make sustainable fashion more accessible through education, diversity, and social good practices.”
Photo Credit: www.baacal.com
BAACAL
Baacal believes that “Women of all sizes deserve beautifully designed, expertly fit, well-made, sustainable clothing. Designed for and inspired by women like us, size 10-28.” If you’re looking for something chic, a fun pattern, or a fabulous set, Baacal is the place for you.
Athleisure is in, and we know you’ve been searching for a sustainable plus size athletic wear brand! Girlfriend Collective designs ethically-made activewear with recycled materials in sizes XXS-6XL. They have incredible workout wear for all bodies.
For elevated essentials that range from XS to 4XL, head to Jamie + The Jones. When asked how they source their materials, their website says, “We love to source as much domestically as we can, and especially love to support other small businesses like ourselves! Our hand-wovens are our most transparent garments, as they can be traced from seed to sew and currently produced in the USA by small-batch weavers. Our silk crepe and raw silk are currently sourced from China as these items are not available domestically at this time.”
Eileen Fisher offers sizing up to a size 3XL and chic casual wear. They’ve also dedicated a section of their website to their sustainability efforts and giving back beyond the clothing.
“Hackwith Design House began with the goal of making long-lasting and versatile clothing that is as unique as its wearer. In September 2013, we launched with just one limited-edition design. We’ve grown to offer additional size-inclusive seasonal collections, swimwear, and a buyback program in The Sustain Shop. Everything is made in-house in our Minnesota studio by our talented team of sewers. To reduce waste, the majority of our items are not made until ordered by you,” their website reads. They offer clothing up to a 3/4XL, with beautiful coastal and flowy pieces.
For fun, unique, and exciting clothing pieces, check out Big Bud Press. They offer clothing in sizes ranging from XS-7XL. When it comes to sustainability, they do it all in-house. “Big Bud Press is a fast-growing Los Angeles-based clothing label specializing in unisex, everyday goods. We pride ourselves on our ethical and local manufacturing practices. We are sweatshop-free and independently audit all of our manufacturing partners,” their website says.
Flowy dresses are always in season, and Christy Dawn offers that and more. With sizes up to 3XL, they have strong values in how they produce their products. They have farm-to-closet values with a four-step value process including reciprocal, regenerative, ethical, and evolutionary choices.
Loud Bodies offers sizes XXS- 10XL in many feminine clothing pieces. Their brand is committed to action believing that, “All our items are made exclusively from fabrics that carry certifications to attest their sustainability such as organic cotton, linen, Tencel, and Ecovero. We also use deadstock, which are leftover fabrics from luxury brands that would otherwise be rotting in landfills or incinerated. Nothing new can be more sustainable than using something that is already produced, so using deadstock fabrics is a brilliant way to reduce textile waste and uphold sustainable values.”
Reformation has a sustainability tab on its website with information on how they do it all! From how they operate to the reports of their work. Additionally, they offer up to a size 3XL.
Photo Credit: www.quince.com
Quince
Quince’s sustainability section reads, “We’re committed to working with factories that meet the global standards for workplace safety and wage fairness. We offer the best in organically produced materials and package our products in an environmentally conscientious way.” They offer up to size 3XL.
“The Standard Stitch was founded on the belief that the fashion industry should be shaken up. The way most clothes are made is wasteful, dirty, and downright harmful. But it doesn’t have to be, right? It’s about time the fashion industry receives a makeover,” their website reads. With sizes up to 5XL, The Standard Stitch offers quality essential clothing for everyday life.
Tips for Shopping Sustainable Plus Size Brands
- If you’re shopping in person, Check the Fabric Labels:
- Look for natural and recycled fibers like organic cotton, linen, hemp, Tencel (lyocell), and recycled polyester. These materials tend to have a lower environmental impact.
- Prioritize Ethical Production:
- Research the brand’s production practices. Do they disclose where their clothes are made? Do they prioritize fair wages and safe working conditions?
- Embrace Circularity and Durability:
- Invest in well-made, durable pieces that will last longer. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and minimizes textile waste. Explore brands that offer clothing take-back or repair programs, promoting a circular fashion model.
- Look for Transparency and Greenwashing Red Flags:
- Be wary of vague claims like “eco-friendly” or “natural.” Look for specific details and certifications.Research the brand’s sustainability initiatives. Do they have clear goals and measurable progress?
- Support Brands that Value Inclusivity and Representation:
- Choose brands that showcase plus-size models of diverse shapes, sizes, and backgrounds.
Sustainable plus size brands have never been more important, and with the 14 options above offering a range of sizing options and style options, it is great to see them all come together on one big issue and make a move toward the larger issue at hand.
Do you have a sustainable clothing store that you shop from that is not listed above? Comment your favorite sustainable plus size brand below!
