Over the last two years there has been more and more retailers branching into more diverse size ranges which has been wonderful to see but there is always room for more. Universal Standard is a U.S retailer who are giving curvy women the option to buy premium quality wardrobe staples or sustainable fashion for a better use of the word, with their minimalist approach but exceptional attention to detail. In a world where poor quality plus size fabrics are sadly too common nowadays owners of Universal Standard, Polina Veksler and Alexandra Waldman aim to push industry quality to a new level via their mantra “Set The Standard”. Then comes Tria, a brand new collection to Universal Standard where they have teamed up with three of New York’s elite fashion models who are beyond a size 10 – Candice Huffine, Katy Syme and Georgia Pratt. The concept stemmed from the basic question “If you could design one piece that you always wished you had in your closet, but could never find, what would it be?” as a result the three models have spent the last 7 months closely working with the brand to design and choose exactly what their key piece would be.
The collection launched this week with a size range of 10-28 showcasing inclusivity for a broad size range. As Co-founder and CCO Alexandra Waldman says, “This project is an indication of what’s ahead for the brand. By leading with strong design and high quality, we’re bringing something completely revolutionary to this space.” So for those looking for a key wardrobe staple that will last the test of time, the below styles will definitely be of interest to you.
The Collection
“The Katy”
“The Katy”, a classic kimono dress made from satin-back crepe from France created by model Katy Syme. It’s that new take on the LBD with something that can be dressed up or down quite easily. In a recent interview when asked about the collabouration Katy remarks – “ We’ve always agreed that the options for a self-professed ‘cool girl’ are limited for those of us above a size 10. When I was invited to join this project, I jumped at it; to work with my beautiful friends, and create something we’d all spent a lifetime looking for”. And you do get just that with this piece, that cool girl glamour should you decide to slouch it up, define your curves or opt for more of a formal fitted feel with high heels for an event.
Dress: $160 colours – black or teal
“The Georgia”
A crisp white shirt dress made from a sateen stretch cotton. Georgia’s style is the tall girl favourite shirt dress. Definitely something that has multiway qualities to it – worn loose as seen in the campaign, worn with an OBI belt for more of a fitted look or worn open with jeans and a simple t-shirt for more of a duster jacket effect. Georgia remarks – “I really liked the direction US was going and their approach to simplicity. For me it was an opportunity to share what I would like to be wearing, with a customer who may feel the same,”.
Structured shirt dress: $120 – colours white, black or teal
“The Candice”
The red carpet tee designed by Candice Huffine, is that kind of top that is whatever you want it to be. The cut out detail gives it that added oomph and with the material in a French satin back crepe, it gives you that silky texture but matte finish on the outside. It’s something to pair with jeans for a casual cool feel or simply add tailored black trousers to get that jumpsuit effect for a more glamourous look. Candice says: “Immediately, I was drawn to their impeccable design, luxury fabrics and idea that a curvy body is a wonderful canvas for beautiful fashion”.
Top: $90 both in black and white.
All looks can be found at Universal Standard.
Imagery by photographer Lily Cummins.
Lou xx
