By Lola Connelly
You may have heard the word ‘inclusive’ within some fashion brands (or not). But what does it mean?
Inclusivity: A climate in which diverse individuals come together to form a collective whole, enabling and empowering individuals to make contributions consistent with their beliefs and backgrounds.
In other words, race, gender, class, sexuality or disability are not excluded. But rather represented in a positive light. Encouraging every one of us to celebrate our bodies for who we are. This is an important aspect within fashion. After all, fashion representing the diversity of humankind and different types of beauty is a reason to celebrate.
Here are a few ethical US and European fashion brands which highlight inclusivity.
Firstly, Christy Dawn offers clothes within ‘Petite’ (XS-XL), ‘The Extended Sizing Collection’ (1X-3X) and ‘Maternity Friendly’. All which serve as staples for the future rather than following current trends. To produce sustainable and inclusive clothing, Christy Dawn honours Mother Earth with every decision they make. In particular, regenerative practices to heal Mother Earth and ourselves.
Moreover, sustainable is not enough at Christy Dawn. Instead, Christy Dawn take a step further. Honouring the contributions of communities, reinforces their belief in the power of reciprocity. Whether that is the weavers in India or the photographers in Los Angeles. Have a look at their website to see a glossary of Slow Fashion and Fabric.
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Boob Design aims to produce high quality and sustainable clothing. Particularly for those going through pregnancy, nursing and beyond.
They take great pride in human rights and caring for the environment. And even have a section dedicated to their people behind the garments. Called ‘Behind The Seams’.
Indeed, a strong inclusive relationship with everyone in their supply chain, makes it more reliable. In particular, Boob Design won’t search for the cheapest option, but rather a shared vision towards ethics and sustainability.
Every material used has to serve a purpose and reach their rigorous criteria. From well fit garments to sustainability.
To be a part of the community, search #BOOBCOLLECTIVE. You can be featured on their website and ‘share the love!’. No matter the stage of your pregnancy, Boob design has you covered.
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As well as being transparent as possible, Girlfriend Collective aims to create beautiful clothes. From maternity, to XXS-6XL. They even supply a sustainability report on each piece of clothing.
They currently have a collection called ‘Everyday GF’ where 100% (!) of the net proceeds go to The Loveland Foundation, The Okra Project and the NAACP Legal & Defence Fund.
These are all very important charities committed in addressing the fight for racial justice; support for black trans people and black women and girls. This collection is also of course made from recycled polyester and is recyclable.
Above all, because Girlfriend Collective is so transparent with all their practices, they have nothing to hide. They list their factory and material certifications, the recycled material process and how it gets made.
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4. Dressarte Paris
For women who are always struggling to find clothes which are the perfect fit. Then have a look at family-owned atelier clothing line Dressarte Paris.
With a made-to-measure system, Dressarte encourages women to love their bodies. To emphasise, in under one month, a personal stylist, designer and tailor will create your clothes. Click here to see how it works. However, if a tailored option isn’t for you, Dressarte also offer sizes from XXS-XXL. Even more, Dressarte design wedding dresses and suits.
Moreover, ethical production and sustainability is a top priority. Using upcycled, biodegradable and eco fabrics, certainly show their commitment to reducing waste. You can even choose one-of-kind fabrics rescued from landfills.
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5. Miakoda (Based in the US)
Miakoda aims to be sustainable in a 3-dimensional way. In other words, materials; labour practice and social sustainability is at utmost importance.
All in all, Miakoda represents and is inclusive to everyone. From models, sizes, to the people they work with. For instance, when casting models, Miakoda promise to avoid colourism; provide inclusive sizing; and represent various abilities. Furthermore, Miakoda promise to be inclusive of all genders and identities. After all, they are not womenswear. They are ‘Everyone’s Wear’. It is so uplifting to see a brand represent so many people from different walks of life. Also, the founders want you to know:
Lastly, along with their zero-waste collection, Miakoda also work with sustainable plant fibres. For instance, bamboo, organic cotton and modal.
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6. Sotela (Based in the US)
Altogether, founder Hanna Baror-Padilla, dreamt of a clothing line which was both ethical and adapted to the changing female body. Along came Sotela!
In fact, Sotela is a strong advocate on body appreciation and celebrating humans in every form. Rather than using the words small and large, Sotela created their own size and wording: size 0-10. But don’t worry, they have a guide and video for size comparison. Inclusivity is a strong value embedded within Sotela. As of which, will not compromise people in any part of their supply chain.
In any event, there is no sweatshop labour at their base in California. And of course, use eco-friendly materials such as tencel and linen. Above all, the goal is to empower women and develop a positive relationship with clothing.
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7. Birdsong
Birdsong is ultimately one of those few brands which are not only stylish and sustainable, but also generate 50% of profit back to women’s organisations.
Due to made-to-order, multi-purpose and durable clothing, nothing goes to waste. Accordingly, Birdsong also turn scrap fabric into bags and scrunchies. Furthermore, are size inclusive, offering sizes from UK6-24 within every clothing piece. A lot of the time, their pieces gather inspiration from 1970s ‘Glam Rock’. For a sense of nostalgia. Within their designs they use natural fibers or Tencel. Birdsong also have a ‘Unisex’ section!
P.S Their dresses have pockets!
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Do you know of any other ethical brands illuminating the beauty of inclusivity? Let us know in the comments below.
Lola Connelly
Lola is a Media and Communications graduate from Newcastle University who is highly passionate about sustainable and ethical fashion. She is also an enthusiastic photographer and avid film lover.
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