These 5 Cult Brands Offer Plus-Size Clothes—Here's How They Stack Up

Fashion, frankly, is becoming fatphobic again. It's a "blink and you might miss it" moment happening within luxury and contemporary retail brands. Plus-size and curve models are noticing a significant reduction in work. Brands are getting rid of their inclusive offerings after previously promising to expand their size ranges. Weight-loss medication is becoming commonplace among industry insiders and in Hollywood circles. As a plus-size shopper, I've never felt more discouraged. As a journalist, there's now a deep fire to prove that, yes, people above a size 12 deserve stylish clothes too.

Over the last few years, there's been a slew of internet-famous direct-to-consumer brands that made getting dressed up fun again. Whether it's influencer-led labels that capture a sweet Scandi aesthetic or celeb-loved brands that prioritize sustainable clothing, these five fashion labels promise that their clothes are cute, cool, and—most of all—accessible to most people, whether it be through plus-size-focused advertising campaigns or an expanded, inclusive size range.

To put these buzzy brands to the test, I called in a haul of massive proportions. Nearly 20 pieces, 12 outfits, and five hours of wear time later, here's exactly how these cult-loved brands' plus-size sections fared in comparison to their straight-size counterparts and how they actually feel on different bodies.

Djerf Avenue

Matilda Djerf's brand is a constant fixture on my For You page. Started in 2019, the brand has come to exemplify the minimalist Scandinavian style every 20-something is after. There are perfectly slouched blazers, aesthetically pleasing pastel robes, and crisp two-piece poplin sets that evoke late summer. While high-quality Scandi-style clothes are easy to come by, it's a challenge to find pieces in larger sizes. Djerf Avenue's transparent sizing model solved all of my problems when I found the brand a few years back. Nearly every item on the brand's site is available in up to a U.S. 3XL or 18/20. An oversize fit for most items also means sizing is more inclusive, fitting up to a 24 at best.

Sizing: up to a 3XL

Price range: $$ to $$$

Ana wears the Breezy Shirt and Breezy Midi Skirt

The brand's Breezy Shirt fits like, well, a breeze. I was able to size down in this top for a slightly oversize fit without feeling like I'm being swallowed by the clothes. A slight crop also makes it perfect to tuck into jeans without extra material.

When I was chatting with Djerf through Instagram DMs earlier this summer, she told me I simply had to try this piece, so naturally, I obliged. The label's summer collection features a skirt that riffs off of the brand's signature Breezy line. Just like the Breezy Shirt, this cotton poplin midi is easy, lightweight, and breathable. Again, I'd recommend sizing down if you're looking for a garment that's true to size.

Ana wears the Citrine Mini Dress and Forever Blazer

In my mind, Djerf Avenue has always been associated with simple, classic fits and closet workhorses, so when I saw the brand drop this daring, semi-sheer minidress, I was sold. It's not often you find sexier pieces in inclusive sizing, so I knew I had to take this dress for a spin. The knit material on this mini gives it a bit of stretch, comfortably fitting up to a U.S. 22, if not larger.

Djerf Avenue's Forever Blazer has no competition in my book. This garment is the brand's best seller, and it's the reason every single Gen Z fashion icon will wear an oversize, slouchy jacket to the club. While it's on the pricier side, the cost per wear on this blazer ends up being in the single digits after constant use.

Réalisation

Réalisation is a indie darling with a slew of Instagram-famous dresses and adorable floral frocks worn by editors and influencers alike. Started in 2015 in Australia by Alexandra Spencer and Teale Talbot, Réalisation has become highly associated with a young generation of cool, hip, digitally savy It girls. As it's an Australian brand, sizing can be quite tricky, so I've found a secret loophole to shopping the brand as a plus-size consumer. I usually focus on the cut of the piece and the material—other curvy girls know this tip well! Of course, there's always room for improvement when it comes to sizing, but don't let the numeric labels on the clothing scare you. Réalisation definitely fares better than most.

Sizing: up to an XXL, with bias-cut designs fitting a U.S. 16/18/20.

Price range: $$$+

Ana wears the Jade Dress

Although I've always been a fan of Réalisation's silky dresses, I've never tried the brands curve-friendly stretchy options until now. I sized down in the Jade, and I'm glad I did. I'm currently between sizes, so for a snug, formfitting look, taking your usual size rather than sizing up is the way to go. This might be one of my favorites on this list thanks to the tropical colorway.

Ana wears the Carrie Dress

When it comes to Réalisation's non-stretch dresses, the key is to focus on the construction of the garment. With the brand's bias-cut styles, the actual fit can be quite flexible. While the label says a U.S. 12, the reality is that most of the bias-cut pieces fit a U.S. 16 and beyond. I own the brand's famous Amber dress and two versions of The Gia, so I knew what to expect for this dress. It's utter perfection, and its asymmetrical hem and off-the-shoulder neckline are reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw's style in Sex and the City—10/10!

Aligne

As an editor, I've worked with Aligne a lot before. The brand's minimalistic yet elevated aesthetic makes it a perfect go-to when I'm on the hunt for an elegant wardrobe addition. While international sizing tends to scare me, I've been pleasantly surprised with Aligne's chic extended-size offering. Unlike other brands, Aligne's extended sizes exist in nearly every single SKU, and sizes cap at a U.S. 18/UK 22. After the brand's butter-yellow Leo waistcoat and Daphne blazer went viral earlier this year, it has been catching everyone's attention.

Sizing: up to a U.S. 18/UK 22 and 40-inch waist

Price range: $$ to $$$

Ana wears the Daphne Scoop Long Waisted Blazer and Markus Rigid Horseshoe Jean

I have zero notes on this blazer. All I can say is wow. I've taken my normal size for this one, and it fits nicely. It is a bit big, especially when the back waist panel isn't tightened all the way for a snatched look. If you have a larger-than-average bust, I'd suggest sizing up due to the scoop neckline on this beauty. I've never been more pleasantly surprised by inclusive tailoring than with this piece.

I love these jeans. Since receiving them in the mail over two weeks ago, I've worn them at least five times. I can't say enough good things about them. While the rich indigo wash on these makes them look 10 times more expensive than they actually are, I'm much more partial to the cool horseshoe shape these have. It's quite rare you'll find trendy plus-size denim, so these are a definite winner.

Dissh

If you're on TikTok, you've probably heard of Dissh. This Australian brand founded by Maree Henry and currently led by her daughter Lucy Henry-Hicks has been making the rounds on social as of late thanks to its elevated, quiet luxury esque aesthetic composed of neutral color palettes, crisp linen pants, and timeless maxi dresses that have the internet's attention. I've always loved Dissh (mostly its knitted dresses that I'll easily throw on when I'm in a hurry), so when I was investigating the emergence of DTC fashion brands and their inclusive offerings, I knew I had to take the rest of the collection for a spin. My verdict? This one is definitely worth it.

Sizing: up to an XXL

Price range: $ to $$

Ana wears the Stevie Black and Stone Mini Dress

As a 5'9" gal who is closer to a size U.S. 16, I was nervous about trying this viral two-tone dress. Shockingly, though, it might be one of my favorite offerings on this list. The ruching means the standard U.S. 12 on the label doesn't take the stretchy, breathable material into account. If it were any shorter, this dress would be an HR violation if worn in the workplace, but that doesn't matter. I'm still obsessed.

Ana wears the Ivy Sleeveless Midi Dress

I own and love Dissh's pleated knitted maxi dress, so I wasn't surprised this variation also worked for me. This dress easily fits up to a U.S. 24 or 26 given the cozy, knitted material. The bateau neckline also makes this dress feel incredibly rich, garnering another point in my book.

Ana wears the Kerry Asym Knit Top

This off-the-shoulder knit top is simply stunning. While it's not offered in Dissh's extended sizing, I found the largest size easily fit me, but it's not as slouchy as I would have liked. Either way, it looks perfect with a pair of simple white linen trousers, as styled above.

Ana wears the Theo Black Contrast Tank and the Stevie Black Bubble Mini Skirt

As a plus-size shopper, I was terrified of buying into the bubble-hem trend. There are very few options available on the market in my size, but I knew I had to try it out in the name of fashion. If you're a fan of low-rise bottoms and statement skirts, you'll love this look. The drawstring closure meant there was a considerable amount of give, and I was able to make this skirt work perfectly for me. Be warned: If you're any taller than 5'8", you might find this on the shorter side.

There's something so great about a simple tank. I wore this one paired with the above bubble skirt for a chic, elegant look. It's stretchy, comfortable, and extremely versatile with any jeans or shorts that are already in your closet.

Reformation

Reformation is one of my favorite retailers, hands down. I've written countless stories about the label—whether it's Euro summer finds or wedding guest dresses—so it was no surprise it was one of the first brands I turned to when it came to comparing standard and plus-size offerings at the internet's favorite brands. Its extended sizing is quite inclusive, with most garments going up to a 3XL or a U.S. 24, which is much better than some other brands on this list. If anything, Reformation's extended sizing runs a bit big, meaning most pieces can fit up to a U.S. 26 thanks to shirred, adjustable backs and knit formations. Although Reformation's plus-size offerings pale in comparison to the number of straight-size items available, it's one of the only mainstream DTC retailers that openly highlights its extended-size range on its website rather than hiding it.

Sizing: up to a 3XL/U.S. 24

Price range: $$ to $$$

Ana wears the Malika Linen Top

I can't say enough about Reformation's linen. It's semi-affordable and incredibly luxe feeling. The shirred back panel on this halter made this top so comfortable sans the itchy, rough feeling I tend to get with linen-based fabrics. I've sized down for a formfitting look, which is what I'd recommend for this top, especially when styled with the oversize Horseshoe Jeans from Aligne I previously gushed about.

Ana wears the Taiga Dress

One word: cuuuuuuutttteeeeee. Reformation's summer dresses have a cult following at this point, so this trendy polka-dot mini was high up on my list to try. The sweetheart neckline and drop waist make this feel ultra romantic, and it's perfect for any summer weddings or post-work happy hours you have on your calendar.

Ana wears the Anabella Linen Top

There's something about Reformation's delicate, lacy Anabella top that evokes summer for me. I might not be a Juilliard dropout, but I sure am interested in living on a farm with this pretty, European-inspired top. Similar to the above top, I wish I sized down, as Reformation's linen has a bit more give than other brands I've tried in extended sizing.