I Put Plus-Size Activewear From Popular Brands To The Test

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.

Old Navy

Size Range XS-4X
I was kindly gifted some pieces from Old Navy’s active line. R29 readers to really be a fan of their offerings, so I had to see what all the hype was about. I received a medium support sports bra and a pair of light compression leggings from their fan-favorite PowerSoft line of activewear. It’s marketed as “peachy-soft” and very comfortable. I definitely agree with this description: It’s smooth and very easy to move in and didn’t feel cheap or scratchy despite being the most budget-friendly option I’ve reviewed for this piece. If you want something ultra-compressive, however, the leggings might not be for you because they are pretty light. However, I don’t see that as an issue as it added to the non-restrictive feeling when wearing it. For the bra, I took out the removable cups because my boobs are on the bigger side. Also, I’m around 5’9″ and the leggings were full-length on me.

I did a series of exercises while wearing this active set including jogging, deep squats, high knees, and stretching. The medium support bra surprisingly held my boobs down pretty well, so I definitely felt supported with slightly higher intensity movement activities. Although the fabric was slightly thinner than the fabric Athleta (Old Navy’s sister brand) uses, the four-way stretch in the fabric works very well as all these movements happened so seamlessly. While doing these exercises, there was some adjusting of the leggings, but it was pretty minimal. For the price and quality, Old Navy active makes a product that’s genuinely hard to beat. I do really love Athleta, but if you are looking for a solid budget option this is it.

Shop Old Navy

Girlfriend Collective

Size Range: XXS-7XL 
Girlfriend Collective has totally revolutionized the activewear space with its eco-friendly, size-inclusive apparel. I tried a few items from Girlfriend and fell in love with this black Skort and Paloma bra set, both in a 4XL. I’m usually a 2X in most of my other activewear, so this tells me that GF collective runs pretty small. I’m not sure how the sizing is on straight-sized consumers, but plus consumers should really look at the clothing chart and follow that. For the best fit, GC recommends measuring yourself and doesn’t offer a conversion chart for pants sizes, so a little bit of work is involved if you’re unsure what size to go with. But it’s pretty accurate! Upon opening the recyclable packaging, the material felt a little on the stiffer side but was still really easy to slip right on. You wouldn’t know that it’s made from upcycled plastic bottles.

I loved the fit and look of the skort! It’s genuinely so cute and falls on my body really nicely. I’d even wear it as a mini skirt for a night of dancing. It held up during activities such as squats, high knees, and running in place. The shorts on the inside had to be adjusted slightly in between some of those activities; I’d also go ahead and use Megababe to prevent any further chafing from the thigh area. As for the Paloma bra, I think I could have sized down for more compression. It was a little loose around the bottom band (I’m a 42DDD in regular bras).  I’d avoid any workouts above low-moderate impact with this bra.

Shop Girlfriend Collective

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.

Shop Athleta

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.

Shop Universal Standard

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.

Shop Beyond Yoga

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.

Shop Fabletics

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.

Shop Super Fit Hero

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.

Shop Lululemon

We often run into products that not only have to be seen to be believed but also put to the test. Tried & True is where we suss out these trending goods & services by taking them for an IRL spin to discover if they’re up to snuff.

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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What Black Creators Can Learn From Signed, Blake

Before content creation became a legitimate career field, Black women have been influencing the world as we know it. Our fashion, style, and make-up looks turn into global trends that we end up not being credited for. Now, in the creative space, Black influencers are making sure that brands know their worth and add tax. R29Unbothered spoke to Chicago based lifestyle content creator, Blake Gifford, aka Signed, Blake, about her journey as a creator, and how her law degree has helped her navigate her brand partnerships, the community (more like family) she’s built with her audience, and her popular Amazon drop collections.

A little over a decade ago, as Gifford was graduating college and her friends were starting their new jobs or going off to law school, she began to blog about her journey and what she envisioned for the next stage in her life. “I didn’t have a ton of money, so I would shop at thrift stores a lot and share [on my blog] how I would tweak [an outfit] and make it my own,” Gifford says.

When Instagram launched, Blake would share photos of her outfits on the platform and her blog organically started growing. While continuing to blog her life, Blake also went to law school and had her sights on becoming a defense attorney but soon realized after interning with the Bronx Defenders that the work was very emotional and personal. “I didn’t think I could do it and maintain a healthy headspace without reopening my own wounds [from] growing up in foster care,” Gifford says. Gifford had been in foster care from age eight through eighteen. She decided to pivot into intellectual property law since it would be useful to her as an influencer. Before she had a management team, Blake would look over all of her contracts and negotiate her own deals, which made her feel more confident in pushing back on terms.

“It’s important for brands to partner with Black creatives but also pay us what we’re worth, because like it or not, we drive the culture. End of discussion.”

Signed, Blake

As a Black creator, Gifford has had to advocate for herself, considering brands have a tendency to pay Black influencers less than their white counterparts. The pay disparity is so pervasive that, last year, Adesuwa Ajayi launched the Instagram page Influencer Pay Gap, exposing brands and how little they pay Black creators compared to white creators. Gifford says, “It’s important for brands to partner with Black creatives but also pay us what we’re worth, because like it or not, we drive the culture. End of discussion. We drive the culture, so if you want to be on top of what’s happening at the moment, you need Black content creators,” she says.

Gifford has been able to set trends and move culture because the community she’s built over the past decade is invested in her as a creator. Alongside fashion, Blake also shares her cleaning and organization habits under the hashtag #NeatFreaky, as well as her apartment renovations, and her adventures with her lovely dog Bash. “Ten plus years ago, no one was making money doing this at all and I didn’t get into it with the goal of making money,” Gifford shares. “I got into it with the goal of finding a community…I feel very indebted to my community because they found me during a time when I was really struggling with my own self-esteem,” she says. “I always say people don’t buy products, they buy people and the fact that I’m able to sell products is because people are invested in me as a person.”

This, she says, is what sets Black influencers apart.“Community is within our culture of being Black, we are raised where everything is a village and so I think Black people innately bring that mindset to what it means to be a content creator in a way that is really unique and special,” she says. Gifford’s connection with her community was particularly noticeable with her fashion collaboration with Amazon. The Drop is Amazon’s fashion line that works specifically with content creators on a seven-piece capsule collection. Noticing a gap in the market, Gifford literally slid in Amazon’s DMs. 

“I noticed that all the content creators were white, thin, and mostly New York City-based,” says Gifford. “So I slid into their DMs and simply told them I should be next and they responded, ‘Email us, we’d love to talk about it,’ and within 24 hours of my initial email I had a contract on my desk.”

As Gifford designed her luxurious yet affordable capsule collection, she included her audience in the process by posting on Instagram stories and creating polls on what her audience wanted to see. She implemented the feedback she received in the final styles, patterns, and fabric options she picked. 

Gifford also advocated for the change she wanted to see, specifically with diversity and size inclusion. “I told [Amazon], there are not enough plus-size women and Black creators and that they need to open those doors.” Her first drop was pushed back slightly due to the pandemic and it worked out in her favor because she was able to make sure the collection had an inclusive size range (XXS – 3X). “I also acknowledge my body type privilege and being on one extreme end of the size chart has let me know in a really small way what it feels like to shop and not find anything that fits, so I can only imagine what that feels like for plus-size women,” Gifford says.

It’s her commitment to wanting everyone to feel beautiful in her clothes that drove her decision to also incorporate affordable luxury and high-quality fabrics in her collection.

“To me, luxury exists at every level, it’s not about the price of things but how I feel,” Gifford says. “Black luxury specifically [is] about finding and radiating joy in a world that wants us to be anything but happy. I try to infuse that into every aspect of my life.”

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The Leather Harness Is The Newest — And Most NSFW — Workwear Trend

There’s an image that comes to mind when you think “corporate dress code.” I bet it includes some version of a suit and a button-down shirt. But this season, workwear is adding a BDSM twist to its roster. It’s take-your-leather-harness-to-work season, as evidenced by the fall 2021 and spring 2022 collections that made a case for pairing tailored sets with the body accessory. 

After almost two years of working from home, workwear has started to look different, with “business comfort” — think: tailored joggers and sneakers paired with suits — set to take off as we return to the office. For those who are still in a panic about what to wear IRL, rest assured that tailoring remains one of the biggest trends for women. But this is not your grandfather’s suit. Instead, brands are offering new takes with intentionally oversized silhouettes, two-tone blazers, and mini skirt suits.

Other designers are suggesting a more NSFW approach to workwear.

For its 100th anniversary collection, Gucci showed a lineup that included equestrian nods, with leather whips, polo riding hats, knee-high boots, and body harnesses. Creative director Alessandro Michele paired the latter with velvet monochrome suits, corseted dresses, and flowy frocks that could seamlessly go from a conference meeting to a happy hour-turned-dinner. For fall 2021, Dion Lee showed black belted harnesses as crop tops, white asymmetrical bib-like pieces over flowy tops, and mesh cut-out mini dresses with corseting. Meanwhile, Dior’s Cruise 2022 showed a myriad of ladylike dresses and collegiate button-downs and turtlenecks paired with, you guessed, leather harnesses. 

It might seem doubtful that people will wear leather accessories to work. But harnesses have already shown their mainstream potential. Born out of the ‘80s and ‘90s, leather harnesses have long been associated with kink-adjacent fashion. In the early 2010s though, they made their runway debut, with designers like Herve Leger and Prabal Gurung embracing the look. Reminder: This was the era of Fifty Shades of Grey, the books-turned-movies that brought conversations around BDSM culture to the mainstream (and made Seattle’s corporate culture hot!).

A few years ago, the leather harness made another mainstream comeback: Celebrities like Timotheé Chalamet, Michael B. Jordan, and Orlando Bloom donned iterations of harness-like accessories — which the Call Me By Your Name actor tried to pass as a bib (yeah, right!) — on the red carpet, paired with tailored button-down shirts. On the other end, mass brands like Zara welcomed the accessory into their ranks. 

But while fall trends have announced the return of the leather harness, the spring 2022 runways proved that it’s going nowhere. Instead, it’s making its way to workwear now. For proof, look no further than LaPointe’s latest collection inspired. For the spring 2022 presentation, inspired by rave culture, the brand’s designer Sally LaPointe turned a downtown storefront into a club, complete with ear-busting techno and neon lights. The selection included monochrome suits to match, featuring feather details and topped off with harnesses. 

It’s clear that, after spending a year in lockdown, we’re not willing to stick by the rules. Just in time for the Great Resignation and the arrival of subversive basics, the era of boring pantsuits and corporate briefcases is over. Having spent the majority of last year at home, we’re also no longer wasting any time — going from the conference room to the club with no stops in between. 

Get started with some harness options, below.

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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