I have been planning this low shop month for about two weeks now, and have already drastically reduced what I have bought. Once you start thinking about these kinds of things, it is hard to not just press forward full steam ahead.
While I don’t plan on exclusively shopping sustainable, ethical, small shops in the future, I am excited for this month! There are very few choices on the inclusive side of sustainable fashion. For some reason, the plus size shopper is very often forgotten. It is usually at the excuse of “small budgets” and “resources”, but you and I both know that is a cop out.
While looking at this upcoming month of shopping less and small, I have been hunting for brands that cater to plus sizes. A frustrating thing I came across while searching, is that so many brands that claim “extended sizes” stop at an XXL or 2X. This is not true size inclusion. I did find a few brands that go up to 3X, but anything above that is a needle in a haystack. I did find a few brands that cater to a wide range of sizes, and am so excited to whittle down my list and make some decisions throughout the month.
After going through my closet, I know that there are a few things I really want for the upcoming seasons. I know that most of these items are at a higher price point. But premium quality from smaller, ethical/sustainable brands usually comes at a price!
- BLACK JUMPSUIT – Preferably 100% cotton or linen. Wide straps to be able to wear a regular bra or short sleeves.
- LINEN DRESS – With short sleeves. I totally don’t mind wearing tank tops or strapless things. But sometimes I forget to shave my armpits, ok?
- FLORAL MIDI DRESS – With a slit. Always with a slit. I want something sexy, but that I don’t have to wear shapewear with!
- DISTRESSED DEMIN SHORTS – This one will be the hardest, I know!
I have three pieces to choose this month!
HACK WITH DESIGN MIDI DRESS
I was thrilled to stumble across Hack With Design. With sizes from XS – 4X, it is so great to see designers consciously choosing to include larger bodies along side straight sizes. Hack With Design makes no more than 25 of each design they put out and make everything in their studio in Minnesota. Many of their items are made upon order, and their fabrics are gorgeous cottons, linens, Tencel and other sustainable options.
One thing I will note, is I didn’t see a large variety of body types modeling the clothes. I would love to see the offered garment on a straight size body and a plus size.
SOTELA LUNA WRAP DRESS
My friend Natalie has rocked the Sotela Jumpsuit many times, and I flip flop between if I want the wrap dress or the jumpsuit. They are both so gorgeous and offered in linen, and I just don’t know which one I will wear more. I feel like the jumpsuit calls my name, especially if it fits perfectly. I know a dress is inherently easier to fit, and with their made to order items, I want to be 100% sure.
Sotela’s sizing is AMAZING, and goes from 0-28! Their size guide is super easy to navigate with your measurements.
REFORMATION AUGUSTINA DRESS
I saw this dress a few weeks ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it. I have almost pulled the trigger on multiple Reformation pieces, but for some reason I just assume that they run super small. The brand only goes up to a 3X, and it just looks like it isn’t going to actually work for my size 24 body. Blue isn’t a color I normally gravitate towards, but this just screams summer.
DISTRESSED DEMIN SHORTS
This is one I can’t seem to find a brand or specific pair. All I want are the Agolde shorts in plus size. Super distressed, not cheap looking, true denim. But I can’t find anything that isn’t American Eagle or Torrid and looks poorly made. I just don’t love anything that is readily available in plus. I know I can be super picky and particular, but a pair of shorts is the time to be specific! So, I am putting this at the very bottom of my list, and allowing a contingency. I don’t have to find them from a small shop, but I can only TRY one pair all month. I honestly don’t think I will find the exact pair I am looking for, but I will continue the hunt!
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