Inclusive Sizing: These 15 Female Founded Brands Make Memorable Pieces for Women up to 3X

Yours truly at the Poplin event at the Universal Standard Showroom in Redmond Washington in 2017.

As a personal stylist for women, I’m THRILLED that more and more mainstream brands are providing inclusive sizes for women size 3X and in some cases, beyond. But, the options aren’t limitless. And often, the result is that women who wear extended sizes (aka plus size) clothing, end up with boring pieces because they can’t find unique options. No more!

I’m a super fan of these brands that are expressive and size inclusive. If you or someone in your life struggles to find clothes that communicate her authentic personal style in any size, I’m so glad you’re here.

Not a size 3X? That’s okay, too! Remember that these brands include size 3X. The sizes start anywhere from 0 to 10. Enjoy!

Frances Valentine

I’ve been obsessed with Frances Valentine for years. Kate Spade founded this brand after she sold her company. And while she is not longer with us, this brand has stayed true to the original intent while keeping things fresh. These vintage-inspired options have a 60’s country club vibe- think Palm Royale meets J.Crew with some life-changing accessories and caftans thrown in.

You can find size XS- 3XL at Frances Valentine.

Female Founder

This inclusive and eye catching brand makes beautiful pieces and is led by a Native American creative powerhouse.

B. Yellowtail

If you’ve been with me for years, you’ll likely recognize this name. But, if it’s been a while since you’ve visited the B. Yellowtail site, you’ll certainly want to go back. Bethany Yellowtail is the founder and creative force behind the brand. She and her team have also expanded into home goods, jewelry and more. It’s a wonderful place to find thoughtful gifts. I love the dishtowels and earrings. B. Yellowtail is Native American owned and every piece makes a statement.

You can find size XS- 4X at B. Yellowtail.

Female Founder

This female founded company carries items up to size 3XL.

Hanifa

As you can see, Hanifa is all about expressive pieces. If bold silhouettes and texture resonate with you, don’t be afraid to dive in. I’m also losing my mind over this cardigan dress. If you have a little voice in your head telling you to wear black or avoid horizontal stripes or the endless number of other rules to try to make your body seem smaller, that’s not what we’re here for. The goal is to embrace your body and understand how to choose pieces that flatter you at every size. Remember, the strategy to dress your specific body type is the same at size 00 as size 3X. So express yourself. Embrace your authentic personal style. And if this one isn’t right for you, there are plenty more memorable brands on this list.

You can find size XXS to 3XL at Hanifa.

Female founder

Effortless sophistication that is size inclusive, sustainable AND female founded?! Yes, please!

Diarrablu

Diarrablu is another brand I’ve been following for years. I bought my first piece in early 2020 as a gift to myself to make getting dressed everyday at home more appealing. This female founded brand is sustainable. It’s also glamorous while still being comfortable. You may have seen some pieces at Nordstrom. Hooray! Look for the brand there or head over to the original site for a wider selection. And don’t miss the jewelry! While they have fewer pieces than they’ve had in the past, it’s a must see. In fact, I’m wearing a pair of Diarrablu earrings right now!

You can find size XS- 3XL at Diarrablu.

Female Founder

Marcella NYC

Another one of my absolute favorite brands, Marcella NYC checks all the boxes. The pieces are sustainable, ethically made, high quality, reasonably priced and bring a memorable edge to every outfit. Need more reason to visit this website? The brand was founded by a couple, so it’s partially female founded, AND you’ll find petite-friendly, tall-friendly and maternity-friendly choices. I also love the handbags, shoes and other accessories. My only belt- it’s from Marcella:)

You can find size XS- XXXL at Marcella NYC.

Female co-founder.

Sustainable, ethically produced pieces up to size 3X. Wear lovely clothes that reflect your values.

Eileen Fisher

Sure, most people are familiar with Eileen Fisher’s minimalist pieces. And, I often remind women that if you are planning to age into them, don’t do it too early. BUT, if minimalism, effortlessness and values-based pieces speak to you, nobody does it better. Eileen Fisher is a true legend and the more you learn about her and this company, the more you’ll love them both. It’s true, she’s not in charge anymore, but her legacy lives on. And if you haven’t been to Eileen Fisher Renew in Columbia City (a neighborhood on the South end of Seattle) you are definitely missing out. This groundbreaking shop is filled with second hand Eileen Fisher pieces, first donated by Eileen Fisher employees, then by customers. It started in 2009 and celebrated over 2 million garments in 2023. It’s a really incredible shop and whether or not Eileen Fisher pieces are your jam, you should swing by.

If you follow me on LinkedIn, you may have seen an article I recently shared about Eileen Fisher’s progress and now the brand’s ability to include pieces that have been soiled or torn in the Renew program. This really is a VERY cool brand.

Also, “you can study Eileen Fisher's business practices and sustainability initiatives, particularly through the lens of experiential learning and sustainability consulting, in MBA programs like the Bard MBA's NYCLab, which has Eileen Fisher as a client.” Eileen Fisher also gives out grants to women owned businesses….. there’s just SO much here.

You can find size XS- 3X at Eileen Fisher.

Female Founder.

BAACAL

The founding designer and namesake of your likely beloved Vince is Cynthia Vincent. She’s the force behind Baacal. The site says it best: BAACAL is the first designer-led clothing brand for women who wear size 10-28 “The True Size Majority”. Expect to find effortless pieces designed and make mostly in Los Angeles with a commitment to sustainability. Baacal makes limited run pieces, 80% of which are made from upcycled, vintage and existing materials.

You can find size 10-28 (or 4X) at BAACAL.

Female Founder.

Wide leg jeans are flattering on most figures and this pair comes in multiple colors up to size 3X.

Ponte fabric for the win! These pants are available up to size 3X.

Spanx

Just imagine if Eileen Fisher and Spanx Founder Sara Blakely ran the world. In March of 2012, Founder Sara was named the world's youngest, self-made female billionaire by Forbes Magazine and one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People. All this makes you want to buy her products, right? Don’t worry. Spanx products will make you want to buy more Spanx products:) Truly inclusive sizing means that Spanx clothing is available up to size 3X INCLUDING in tall and petite sizes. This is extraordinarily rare. The only clear opportunity for improvement? Models that reflect the sizes the brand offers.

You can find size XS- 3X at Spanx.

Female Founder.

Bold. Never boring. This brand offers exciting classic pieces up to size 22.

Mix it up with a playful swimsuit available up to size 22.

Boden

Okay, Boden doesn’t have a female founder (as far as I know). BUT, I decided to include it because if you are struggling to find great pieces in your size, Boden is a stellar resource. One of the great exports of the UK, Boden offers up playful preppie pieces, many of which are also available in petite and tall sizes. Although petite is often only offered up to size 12 or so. Tall or long pieces can sometimes be found up to size 22. Boden’s selection is fun, well-made and is a great value for the price. Keep your eye out for sales. And don’t miss the accessories including some bold shoes, handbags and jewelry. I also adore the unexpected choices in swimwear. Fun Fact: Boden carries menswear and kids clothing.

You can find size 0 - 22 (or 3X) including some tall pieces at Boden.

Ulla Popken (Popken Fashion Group)

A family run fashion group comprised of multiple brands, the Popken Group, “allows women and men to personify themselves the way they want. Uncompromising, trendy, and style-conscious.” You’ll have a great time exploring all the brands. I especially appreciate that the brand refers to their market as “true size.” So good. Full disclosure: I don’t love the majority of the pieces. BUT you can find some gems in here, like this leather jacket available in an array of delightful colors so I’m including it to offer you another resource. I mean this jacket…..

You can find size 12-30 or 4X at Ulla Popken including some long and short options.

Family Founded and run.

LYSSE

Lysse’s breathable, washable fabrics are sculpting, flattering and made to last. This female founded company offers a four way stretch vegan leather that’s a great way to introduce edge into your looks. Thanks to sizes up to 5X, you get to reject the clothes (if they don’t resonate) rather than feeling like the clothes have rejected you. This outfit communicates a polished, confident, edgy style that is anything but boring. You can also find this brand at various department stores, so you may start there to get the best return policies.

You can find size XS- 5X at LYSSE.

Female Founder.

BAIIA Swimwear

I recently included an array of pieces from BAIIA on a client’s Intimates and Loungewear Wishlist. She and I fell in love with the design, quality, color palette and versatility. This suit, for example, is reversible! This female founded Australian brand is committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Even better, check out this from the brand’s vision and values: Be the pioneers of compassion in women’s fashion.
We make sure we’re nurturing, empathising and truly stepping into our women’s shoes. Our customers are everything, and how they feel about themselves is why we started and why we’re still here.

From swimsuits to cover ups, the pieces are designed for a curvy body, not just a larger size of a straighter cut. The result is a fit that celebrates your silhouette and empowers you to love your body, just in time for the pool. BAIIA also sells swimsuit bundles to simplify mixing and matching as well as multiway choices so you can wear the same piece multiple ways, making you feel like you have more pieces while buying less.

You can find size 0-22 (or 3X) at BAIIA.

Female Founder.

Available to size XXL, this day to evening trench coat is the ideal statement piece.

Available to size 24 this leather blazer is a show stopper. A classic piece that is luxurious and timeless.

Lafayette 148 NYC

I LOVE this brand and have been recommending it to clients for years. It’s luxurious so the price point will reflect that. But the quality is worth the price, especially the leather. Don’t worry. There’s also an outlet! I discovered it many years ago at Neiman Marcus and have loved it ever since. It’s really great for curvy women. I featured the lead designer Edward Wilkerson and brand on the blog for Black History Month in 2013. (He’s since left the brand.) The co-founder and CEO Deirdre Quinn is still at the helm of one of the very rare, vertically integrated fashion brands. (This means that, “from sketch to final design, each piece never leaves our hands.” You’ll feel good in these pieces and about supporting this brand.

You can find sizes 00-XXL/ 24 at Lafayette 148 NYC . The brand also carries a small petite collection.

Female Founder.

This female founded company makes pieces up to size 40 with affordable options that are well made.

Universal Standard

In 2017 a client shared Universal Standard with me. At that time, the brand had two key pieces, the Geneva Dress (still going strong!) and a super cool puffer. This start up created by two powerhouse women had a showroom in NYC and one in…. Redmond, Washington. The team and I quickly connected and within a few months, the Poplin community enjoyed the first private event EVER at the showroom. This was the beginning of a longterm relationship with the brand. You can count on reasonably priced pieces that are well made from an ethical company. The Universal Fit Program gives you the option to return certain pieces if your size changes. Incredible. If you haven’t already checked out this brand, you absolutely should. The vision- to ensure that two friends can go shopping together and regardless of size, can buy the same top at the same location- is the world that we all should live in.

You can find sizes 00- 40 at Universal Standard.

Female founders.

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