This year’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show came like a reckoning. We didn’t need its CMO Ed Razek to tell us that the multimillion-dollar lingerie label is no ally to inclusivity. But tell us he did in a spectacularly cringe-worthy moment. The brand obviously needs to try harder if it wishes to be relevant to plus-size women and transgender and gender nonconforming audiences. That will take time. We’ll use that time to invest our interest in lingerie brands that support diversity. Read on for four inclusive intimate apparel brands you should consider the next time you shop.
[ Next: What Happened to Victoria’s Secret? ]
4 trans-positive, size-inclusive lingerie brands that need your attention
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TomboyX
The sustainable lingerie brand is not just size-inclusive, it's designed for all gender expressions. From boy shorts to soft bras to travel-friendly multipacks, TomboyX has everything you are looking for in sizes XS to 4X. The brand was launched in 2013 and its products are not just environmentally sound, it also makes sure its partners are paying their workers a living wage. "We recognize the influence of brands on culture... We don't believe it's us or them (or you). We think there's room for all of us," reads the brand's official website.
Image: @tomboyx
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Rebirth Garments
Rebirth Garments is the gender-neutral, radical visibility brand we could have all used when we were growing up. Chicago-based designer Sky Cubacub (who identifies as non-binary) launched the label four years ago when Cubacub realized the giant void in the fashion industry when it comes to gender nonconforming clothes. Rebirth Garments challenges beauty standards that are sexist, sizest, ableist (yes, the brand caters to disabled customers) and gender conforming. There are no standard sizes and all the pieces are made to order and tailored to fit your needs.
Image: @rebirthgarments
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Chromat
Chromat has brought together fashion and architecture to create fantastically playful swimwear, lingerie and activewear that help women, femmes and non-binaries embrace their strengths. Chromat was started in 2010 by Becca McCharen-Tran. Its runway shows and advertisements feature models of all colors, sizes and gender expressions.
Image: @chromat
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Origami Customs
Origami Customs makes customized, handmade lingerie, swimwear, bodysuits, leggings, slips and compression gaffs for all shapes, ages and genders. It offers sizes from XXS to 5XL and the wait time for custom fit pieces is usually one to four weeks. Origami Customs' swimwear fabric is 80 percent recycled content and its lingerie is made from eco-friendly bamboo. You can also read about its Community Program that strives to make its products reach people who do not have access to body-affirming clothing and resources.
Image: @origamicustoms
