With sustainable fashion on the rise, brands big and small are manufacturing stylish handbags using mushroom-derived "leather," dresses from upcycled materials, and activewear out of plastic waste. But what about underwear? The lingerie and intimates we wear shouldn't be an afterthought — neither in the design, nor in the sustainability, department.
Fortunately, there's a crop of cute, comfortable, and sexy underwear brands out there that are checking off the eco-conscious boxes without sacrificing style. All that's left to do now is shop them all.
From brands that use recycled materials and organic fabrics, to ones that trace their unmentionables from the cotton farm to your drawer, the sustainable-chic picks ahead really do have it all. So, go ahead and indulge in lingerie that will make you look good and feel good (in more ways than just one).
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Years of body negativity brought on by the latest fad diet or fitness craze have made my relationship with exercise a rocky one. Growing up, I was surrounded by “Beach Body” boot camps and personal training programs that signified largeness as something to be lost. But, years later in adulthood, I found positivity in hiking and a sense of calm in yoga flows. I discovered that breaking a sweat could be an enjoyable escape instead of about how many calories I might burn. Since I spent so much time feeling like physical activity was a punishment, I didn’t jump to spend my money on new fitness clothes — plus, options for plus-size retailers who do it right were already limited which made finding quality brands with inclusive activewear tricky. But, as the industry began to acknowledge bigger bodies, well-made and fashionable options started to emerge in the plus-size activewear space. And, I was lucky enough to receive a handful of such styles from the most popular brands to try on myself for size, fit, and feel.
Although my relationship with exercise today is not completely healed, it’s become one with a very real glimmer of hope as I learn to be thankful for my body and appreciative of all it does for me. So, without further ado, scroll through to learn about my favorite activewear offerings for fat folk with stand-out product reviews the brands I tried on IRL and loved — I’ll continue to add more styles worth sharing with you as I discover them. Let’s say goodbye to the duds we once wore in darker times and hello to more size-equitable styles of sports bras that won’t dig, trendy printed sets, and unique silhouettes meant to highlight our bodies instead of hiding them.
Athleta
Size Range: XXS-3X or 00-26
As a certified B-Corp, Athleta prioritizes people just as much as business. It definitely shows in each garment with the obvious care they took to create the perfect fit. I tried on was the Elation Bra and the Elation 7/8 Tight. The fabric felt sturdy and thick while also being incredibly smooth and soft to touch and on the body. The ultra-high rise on the Elation Tight is probably the highest I’ve ever experienced, and the set is compressive without feeling restrictive. There’s a pretty deep waistband pocket in the back that you can slide your keys and wallet into as well. The Elation bra curved perfectly around my back rolls and gave me the perfect lift. The thoughtfulness of the design really shines through.
The leggings passed the squat test with flying colors with a waistband that doesn’t dig. Although the elation bra and tight is recommended for lower impact workouts like yoga and Pilates, they held up when I did some high knees and light jogging in place. This was definitely my favorite set among all the ones I’ve reviewed, and the print on this is epic! Although, they do have this same set in a solid colors as well.
Universal Standard
Size Range: 00-40
Universal Standard is known for their wide range of sizes and perfecting everyday classic staples, but they are quickly making a name for themselves in Activewear. I tried the Next-to-Naked bodysuit in black, and just like the name, it feels akin to a second skin. It has a sort of barely-there feel with little to no compression. It’s buttery soft and honestly can be used for really any workout you’d like. However, if you are doing something more intensive I recommend wearing a sports bra as there is no hold or lift with this bodysuit. If you are someone that prefers wearing no clothes, I’d have to say this is the next best thing!
Besides my Storm costume from a few Halloweens back, I’ve never owned a bodysuit. This piece is definitely something I’d work out in, but I can also imagine myself wearing this with an oversized shacket and platform converse for a cute casual outfit.
Beyond Yoga
Size Range: XXS-4X or 00-28
Beyond Yoga is definitely a force with their custom Space Dye Performance fabric known to be incredibly smooth with a unique texture. I tried on the Spacedye Slim Racerback Cropped Tank and the Space Dye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging in Purple Pop. First off, I was immediately drawn to the fun bright color! If you can get your hand on this seasonal favorite, I highly recommend it. You’ll be the center of attention in the best way!
This set would be good for low-intensity exercises as the top does not hold down your boobs enough to wear it on a run if you are busty. However, it is incredibly comfortable. While doing squats, high knees, and running in place, I did have to adjust the leggings every now and then. Although it wasn’t that bad, it’s something to keep in mind.
Fabletics
Size Range: XXS-4X or 00-24
Fabletics is known for their trendy workout clothes and celeb partnerships. I was excited to get my hands on some of these goods because I’ve seen lots of Fabletics love on Instagram. I tried the All day Everyday Bra and Oasis High Waisted Pocket Legging in a 3X. I love how these leggings have cool side pockets that can definitely fit your phone or keys. The strappiness of the bra was very cute. However, the bra itself was not as compressive as I’d like. I’d probably have to size down to get the fit I’d want to do slightly more intensive activities. There was a little adjusting of the leggings while I did squats, high knees, and running in place.
I’d double-check on sizing for Fabletics and even read reviews because the sizing could be a little off compared to what the overall size chart says depending on the garment. Overall the pieces were standard for activewear, but the cool pattern and design were what stood out the most.
Super Fit Hero
Size Range: L-7XL or 12-42
SuperFit Hero has revolutionized the activewear space in more than one way. Not only do they exclusively cater to a size large and up, but the brand’s use of Plus Models on the larger end of the plus-size of the spectrum also shows how seriously SuperFit Hero takes representation.
I tried on the Superhold pocket bike short and Superhold bra in their Air Fit Size (2X or 18-20). The Superhold fabric is very compressive in all the right way. There is zero gaping and the bike shorts hold up during squats, stretches, high knees, and jogging. I love this color blocking in the set that I reviewed, but Superhold goods are also available in solid colors as well.
Lululemon
Size Range: 0-20
Lululemon was quite late to the extended-sized workout-wear party. Although its sizing is limited, the brand does make a solid pair of leggings. It’s worth noting that the top pictured in my snapshot above is not from Lululemon, as I did not fit into any of the bras that were sent over. All of this goes to say that further extending on sizes is needed to cater to more bodies on the brand’s part!
Although the Align Pant was my favorite in my initial review of their extended sizing. I’d have to say the Invigorate High-Rise Tights are my favorite pair of leggings from Lululemon now. I’ve owned these for a couple of months now, and I’ve worked out in them AND also wear them to run errands. These are more compressive than the Aligns and hold their original shape more, too. There is still adjusting needed to the waistband after squats, high knees, and running in place — but all in all, I cannot lie, they’re a solid pair of plus-size leggings.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Spring has sprung — and no, this isn’t an April Fools joke. If you’ve ventured outside in the last few days, you were likely met with the standard spring fare: sun, showers, and temps above the 50s. This calls for a complete wardrobe switch-up. Gone are the days when puffers, shearling jackets, and layers upon layers of Heattech were necessary for even the briefest of outdoor stints. Welcome warm-weather outfit possibilities with skirt-boots combinations, lightweight outerwear like trenches and quilted jackets, and silk, cotton, and linen frocks. Hell, I wore shorts yesterday… in March… in NYC!
To help make the transition from scarves and coats to dresses and sandals a breeze, we went ahead and gathered up some looks worthy of a try this spring. Think: floral pants (groundbreaking!) paired with graphic baby tees, split-leg jeans with brightly-colored slides, and mini dresses styled with cowboy boots.
Click on for 20 cute spring outfits that will make you excited to dress up again.
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The fashion industry isn't always the most conscious — socially, economically, or ecologically. The retail business loses thousands (if not millions) of dollars every year on wasted materials and the move towards fast fashion is digging our planet into a serious hole. But despite all of its faults, many of us still find ourselves attracted to fashion more than any other industry. Fortunately for us (and the environment), there are a few select members of fashion's inner circle that are using their voices to change the way the industry works — specifically on the sustainable front.
The six ladies ahead might draw us in with their unique abilities to put outfits together and pose for the camera, but it's their authenticity and dedication to inspiring change that really keeps us coming back for more. From Reese Blutstein of @doublexposure, who's constantly putting pressure on brands to use less paper and cardboard in their packaging, to Natasha Halesworth, whose brand, The Consistency Project, makes shopping for recycled clothing easier than ever — it's clear that these women are dedicated to making the fashion industry a more conscious, eco-friendly space.
In time for Earth Day today, they share advice on how we can all reduce our carbon footprint, starting with our closets.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
राहुल वैद्य को जब मुंबई एयरपोर्ट पर स्पॉट किया गया, तो इस दौरान उनका लुक देख ऐक्टर रणवीर सिंह की याद आ गई। सिंगर ने Gucci का अटायर वेअर किया था, जो एक नामी लग्जरी ब्रैंड है। वहीं रणवीर की बात करें, तो इस लेबल के लिए उनके प्यार से तो सभी काफी अच्छी तरह से वाकिफ हैं।
तमन्ना भाटिया (Tamanna Bhatia) बी-टाउन उन एक्ट्रेसेस में से एक हैं, जो इंडियन से लेकर वेस्टर्न ऑउटफिट्स तक में वह बेहद खूबसूरत लगती हैं। तमन्ना का न केवल स्टाइल बहुत ही क्लासी और ट्रेंडी है बल्कि एक्ट्रेस को बहुत कम ही आपने बोल्ड रिस्की सिल्हूट में देखा होगा। ऐसा ही कुछ हमें आज भी देखने को मिला, जब एक मुंबई के बांद्रा में स्पॉट किया गया।
सोहा अली खान को मुंबई के एयरपोर्ट पर स्पॉट किया गया, लेकिन लाइमलाइट तो उनकी सुपर क्यूट बेटी इनाया खेमू चुरा ले गई। इस स्टारकिड ने कैमरे को देखकर ऐसा पोज मारा, जिसे देख लगा कि ये नन्ही सी बच्ची भी अपने स्टार पैरंट्स और रिलेटिव्ज़ को देखकर चीजें सीखने लगी है।
अमायरा दस्तूर (Amyra Dastur) बी-टाउन की स्टाइलिश एक्ट्रेसेस में से एक हैं, जो नए-नए फैशन ट्रेंड्स की वजह से लगातार सुर्खियों में बनी रहती हैं। अमायरा का न केवल ड्रेसिंग सेंस बहुत क्लासी है बल्कि वह अपने लुक को स्टेटमेंट बनाना भी जानती हैं। ऐसा ही कुछ हमें तब देखने को मिला, जब एक्ट्रेस को मुंबई एयरपोर्ट पर स्पॉट किया गया।