The size-inclusive fashion brands proving every body is beautiful
As the fashion week catwalks slide back towards a size 0 standard, we spotlight the chic fashion brands welcoming all shapes and sizes
For a while it seemed that the fashion industry was gradually beginning to shift its standards in line with real women’s, well, realities. For a few seasons there was a wider range of models on the catwalks, plus-size model Paloma Elsesser won Model of the Year at the Fashion Awards in 2023, and beautiful clothing became available in a far more democratic array of sizes. Then came the SS25 fashion month and the full realisation of a trend that many fashion editors had been slowly noticing – the return of size 0.
While there were a few outliers, painfully thin models were once again the norm on the catwalk this season. Some point towards the rise of Ozempic – and its popularity among celebrities who previously claimed to be happy with their ‘larger’ frames – while others suggest the vogue for Y2K fashion, which rose to prominence in an era when extreme shininess was celebrated, may be to blame. Whichever explanation you believe, the good news is there is some respite, with several elevated high street and luxury brands expanding their sizing repertoires in both directions, with many big names offering stylish clothing in options from a UK size 2 to 28. From luxury brand Pleats Please Issey Miyake to mid-range favourites Ganni, Rixo and Reformation, there are also a few newbies breaking the mould. Here are our favourite size-inclusive fashion brands for AW24.
Ganni
Known for its slogan T-shirts and perfectly slouchy sweatshirts, as well as its signature animal motif dresses and trousers, Ganni is the epitome of affordable luxury. Bag a versatile leopard print dress this season, available in an impressive range of shapes and silhouettes, with a good handful – denim midi we are looking at you – also offering extended size options. With a slew of gorgeous pieces spanning from a UK size 2-24, don’t miss the eco-friendly brand’s icons edit. Choose the black poplin V-neck dress for a failsafe wardrobe staple, whatever your size, whatever the occasion.
Pleats Please Issey Miyake
Distinguished for its (you guessed it) flowing folds and democratic sizes, Pleats Please Issey Miyake’s iconic concertina pleats expand and retract as the wearer moves, making it one of the most effortlessly size-inclusive fashion brands on the market. It’s beautiful tunics, skirts, blouses and dresses have changed little from a design aspect over the last three decades, yet still feel both modern and timeless. Luxurious and indulgent, without being showy, buy well and these pieces will serve you for life. We are particularly lusting after this season’s grey, green and black Meteorite print trousers, as well as the wear-anywhere Fluffy Basics black jumpsuit, perfect for working, partying or lounging in style: and all available in a UK size 4-20.
Reformation
A favourite with Stateside socialites, this sustainable and stylish US brand started life as an LA vintage store. Embracing the female form, whatever its size or shape, Reformation prides itself on giving shoppers the opportunity to ‘show some skin’. With a focus on people and ‘progress’, you can feel good about your next must-have purchase, whether that’s a tartan mini skirt, cashmere cardigan, or slinky slip dress. With most items available in a UK size 4-20, there’s also an extended size range up to a UK 28 as well as a petites line.
Pangaia
Luxury comfies too chic to lounge around in, this all-American brand, which has become a favourite with A-listers, creates all its pieces using earth-friendly practices. Famous for its mid-weight tracksuits in a range of rainbow colours and core neutral hues, Pangaia is your go-to for perfect transitional throw-ons. Available from XXS to XXL (UK size 4-18), there’s also a rewear forum allowing shoppers to buy and sell their pre-loved purchases. From activewear to knitwear and outerwear, this brand has all bases, and the environment, covered.
The Hour London
It’s all about the detail when it comes to The Hour London’s gorgeous range of dresses, with fetching necklines, distinctive sleeves and body-skimming shapes designed to feel good and flatter. Spanning a UK size 12 to 24, the Liberty fabrics collection is particularly inviting, from the Kristina gold silk midi-dress to the blue blouse and trouser set. Designed to serve women with curves to brag about, the brand focuses on classy, beautifully curated designs, complete with subtle flourishes and perfectly honed tailoring.
Sinéad O'Dwyer
Innovative Irish designer Sinéad O’Dwyer founded her eponymous London-based brand with a mission to subvert the standards of the fashion and beauty industries. The jarring mix of both delicate and dominant tailoring is cut to suit a range of body types, with some styles more daring than others. We are totally in love with the cheekily detailed satin shirts, which could serve your wardrobe for years to come, while the Shibari vests and leggings are certainly more of a lewk. Spanning UK sizes 6-26, there’s a style for every body.
Rixo
A one-stop shop for the perfect wedding guest dress or cocktail party number, this London-based brand is not yet 10 years old, but has been making waves among those in the know practically since launch. With an inclusive size range covering UK sizes 6-26 (although not all designs come in all sizes), it’s easy to hit the size filter for an edited preview of what will suit. From printed dresses in vintage-inspired cuts to cool, modern jackets, and timeless cotton blouses, anyone can relive their Sienna Miller boho era with just a handful of stunning purchases.
Skims
Every woman knows that underwear is as important as outerwear. Made famous by its bra that broke the internet, Skims makes underwear to support and flatter, with the enticement factor playing second fiddle. Simple and practical, it all just works under your clothes, from its butt lifting shorts to its bust lifting bras, and everything in between. Co-founder Kim Kardashian is the face of the brand, which stands for body positivity and inclusivity, with sizing options spanning a UK XS to 5XL. The technically constructed shapewear will enhance your curves and stretches to twice its size. A must-have wardrobe support-system.
Ester Manas
Spotted by the prestigious H&M Design Award, the Hyères Festival, as well as the LVMH Prize and the Andam Prize, Ester Manas is deemed a size inclusivity pioneer. From ruffled dresses to ruched trousers, crumpled boleros and wildly sheer animal print dresses, the pieces and the models represent the public to a see-through printed tee. Pioneered by partners in love and business, Ester Manas and Balthazar Delepierre, the Brussels-based brand is only just starting out – but is certainly heading in the right direction.
