If you’re trying to move away from fast fashion and synthetic fabrics, it can be hard to know where to start. Finding slow fashion options in plus sizes can be a challenge. Many brands are doing things the right way, but stop at a large or extra large.
This guide is for anyone who’s ready to invest in fewer, better pieces — made from natural fibers, built to last, and actually available in your size. Many of these brands now offer a direct link to their plus-size section, so you’re not stuck scrolling through styles only to find out they don’t come in your size.
WHAT’S WORKING FOR ME
When I started moving away from synthetic fabrics last summer, I began with Merino wool. It was the easiest entry point — comfortable, breathable, and surprisingly low-maintenance. Most of my wardrobe is now Merino wool, and I’m filling in the gaps with a few other natural fibers to bring in different textures, colors, and patterns.
The main fabrics I’m using right now are:
• Merino wool
• 100% organic cotton/Cotton gauze
• Bamboo
• Tencel
• Linen
BRANDS THAT OFFER NATURAL FIBERS IN INCLUSIVE SIZES
These brands carry natural fiber clothing with size-inclusive options. Most offer at least XXL/1-3X, and many focus on fabrics like Merino wool, organic cotton, bamboo, linen, or Tencel.
|
Brand |
Size Range |
Primary Fabrics |
|
Up to 3X |
Organic cotton, organic linen, merino wool, tencel |
|
|
Up to 3X |
Merino wool |
|
| Smartwool | Up to 4X | Merino wool |
| Branwyn | Up to XXL | Merino wool innerwear |
|
Up to XXXL |
Bamboo viscose, organic cotton |
|
|
Up to 22/24 (3) |
Cotton gauze, linen, cotton blends |
|
|
Up to 3X |
Supima cotton, linen, some bamboo blends |
|
|
Up to 3XL |
100% organic cotton |
|
|
Up to 3X |
100% Cotton/cotton gauze, linen, some natural fiber blends |
|
|
Up to 4X Up to 30 Up to 30 |
100% Cotton/cotton gauze, linen/linen blends |
The budget-friendly options I’ve found through Old Navy and BloomChic are very affordable and less of an investment compared to other brands. Just be sure to check the fabric tags — I’ve been able to find 100% cotton and linen blends that still fit within a slow fashion approach if you’re intentional about what you choose.
STARTING WITH A CAPSULE
You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. A simple 12-piece capsule is a great place to start—enough to give you options without feeling overwhelmed. Think 6 tops, 4 bottoms (shorts, pants, or skirts), and 2 dresses. That’s what I’m using for daily life, and I’m planning to use the same formula for travel. It works well for carry-on only, and if you have extra room, you can always add another dress or a few more pieces. This count doesn’t include shoes, accessories, or outer layers—just the core clothing.
A well curated 12-piece capsule gives you at least two dozen outfits without repeating—enough to cover nearly a month. With the right accessories and shoes, you can stretch it even further. In colder weather, you can swap out two of the tops for top layers like sweaters or cardigans. Jackets would count as outerwear and can be added on top as needed. It’s flexible, repeatable, and doesn’t take up much space.
FINAL THOUGHTS
There’s no perfect formula, and you don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Start with a few key pieces that feel worth the investment — things you’ll actually wear, in fabrics that fit your needs. From there, you can build a wardrobe that works for your everyday life.
Slow fashion is possible in every size.