Did you know that October 6 is National Plus Size Appreciation Day? It’s a day to celebrate ourselves and remember that sizes are just a number and that our value as people does not depend on stereotypes imposed by the patriarchy.
In a society that insists on classifying us and opposes the inclusivity of curvy and plus-size women and mothers, fashion brands want to break down barriers and change the narrative.
Here we bring you five Latina-owned brands that celebrate and support beauty and femininity.
Rebdolls
Rebdolls was founded by Grisel Paula, a Dominican-born, New York-raised model. She ventured into modeling and decided to create her own brand where plus-size women would feel included and celebrated. Rebdolls launched in 2014 and has been a huge success. Their slogan #sexyforall describes the main goal of the brand. You can visit their website and follow Grisel’s Instagram.
Blogger House Curvy Closet
This amazing consignment store concept was created by Darlene Lebron and Sandra Negron, two Latinas based in New York. Blogger House Curvy Closet is a store where you can buy and sell plus-size fashion items. It’s an initiative where you can find unique pieces and sell everything you have in your closet and no longer use. Visit their website and Darlene and Sandra’s Instagram.
Ashley Nell Tipton
Ashley Nell Tipton is a Latina fashion designer born in San Diego and winner of the 14th season of Project Runway. She was the first to make an entire collection focused on plus-size women, an idea that won her the final prize. Always focused on her Mexican heritage, Ashley has taken her beautiful designs a step further with prints, colors, and garments that celebrate the Latina identity. Visit her website and Instagram.
Femme Kulture
Femme Kulture is a clothing brand that brings a fresher and younger touch, reflecting the empowered Latina woman who stays true to herself and her culture. Femme Kulture offers garments of all sizes and also some baby clothes. It was created by Lorena Carmona Moore, a woman of Latina descent based in the Bronx. Visit her website.
Selva Negra
Selva Negra is a clothing brand created by Kristen Gonzalez, of Mexican-Filipino descent, and Sam Romero, both proud Latinas based in Los Angeles, California. Selva Negra brings a different approach to fashion by creating hip pieces with a unique, fresh, and contemporary design that is sustainable and inclusive for all sizes. This concept proposes a more ethical way to consume fashion without the repercussions to the environment. You can see their work here.