The Gap company, through its Old Navy brand, is on a journey to revolutionize the plus-size shopper’s brick-and-mortar experience — simply by making it equal to what a straight-sized customer expects when they enter a retail space. In August of last year — after “years of extensive research,” according to the brand — Old Navy launched the BODEQUALITY campaign, completely altering the extended-size retail experience for the better. The retailer promised that every women’s style stocked in-store would be available in sizes 0 through 28, and mannequins showcasing clothing in sizes 4, 12, and 18 would flank the inclusively-sized racks. (Online customer would be able to select models in any of these three sizes while shopping the brand’s e-commerce hub.)

This may not sound like such a big deal to anyone who’s accustomed to seeing models and clothing that match their body type, but if you are a plus-size customer you know the shopping struggle intimately. Imagine you step inside a store and are directed to a poorly lit, neglected corner where there are only a few racks with played-out styles and designs. I know this may seem a tad bit dramatic, but for plus-size shoppers like myself, this sad imagery of an in-store shopping experience is a little closer to reality than we’d like. Not only are plus-size shopping sections often smaller and lacking in options, many retailers who “offer” extended sizes don’t actually stock them in physical stores, leaving those with larger bodies to perpetually surf the internet with no hopes for the IRL brick-and-mortar experience that their straight-sized peers take for granted.

This is exactly why we need more brands thinking of retail in an inclusive way.  I paid a visit to the Old Navy store in Downtown Brooklyn to shop for a new pair of jeans and get a feel for the changes that were implemented back in August 2021, to see if the experience still lived up to the hype. Upon arriving at the store, it took only moments to confirm that the retailer has maintained its promise of a revolutionized shopping experience for plus-size people by making their experience identical to straight-sized customers. It was pretty weird (in a good way) seeing a style of denim stocked through size 28, but it was also a very lovely feeling too. 

After walking around the shop and browsing other styles online, I’ve narrowed down some styles that I think are worth your attention. I personally tried on the High-Waisted Button-Fly O.G. Straight Off White Jeans and Fit You 3 sizes in 1 Extra High-Waisted Rockstar Super Skinny Black Jeans and loved them, and I included a few more pairs from the brand’s assortment that I think are worth checking out. From the perfect pair of full-length wide-leg jeans to the high-waisted straight-leg jeans of your dreams, there’s a pair of denim meant to rock every world. 

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Black-Wash Cut-Off Wide-Leg Jeans, $44.99

All hail wide-leg jeans — this cut, and black-wash combo are perfect for taking on casual things in a comfy more relaxed fit. Don’t mistake comfort for laziness, especially with these. The black wash adds a subtle hint of sophistication to a look with little effort.

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Sky-Hi Ripped Wide-Leg Jeans For Women, $49.99

Skater inspired-clothing of the 2000s is trending at an all-time high. This light washes roomy pair of jeans is a nod to that culture. Live your early 2000s teenybopper fantasy of being the skater girl in a Disney Channel Original Movie today.

Old Navy High-Waisted Button-Fly Slouchy-Straight Black-Wash Jeans, $39.99

If you aren’t quite into the full-on wide-leg vibe of the washed black-denim finish above, these are the next best bet. While both pairs have a similar finish, this pair has a slimmer leg allowing more visibility for whatever shoes you are wearing.

Old Navy Curvy High-Waisted O.G. Straight Black Ankle Jeans, $39.99

If you are a Curvy gal like me, then this deep black pair of straight-leg jeans are ideal. The wash is also very refined and can definitely be worn for a cocktail hour or a nicer evening out. Although, these Curvy high-waisted O.G jeans would look just as great with the perfect white tee.

Old Navy Fit You 3 sizes in 1 Extra High-Waisted Rockstar Super Skinny Black Jeans, $54.99

We all know size fluctuation is totally normal and happens to everyone. Old Navy has designed their Fit You line of denim where three sizes are represented in one pair of jeans. Right now Fit You jeans are only available in the Rockstar super skinny cut, but lets keep our fingers crossed for other iterations of this revolutionary style.

Although I’m not personally a skinny jeans fan, I got to try these on too. They fit pretty well and the extra high-waist was a nice touch especially for those with a larger backside.

Old Navy Curvy High-Waisted Button-Fly O.G. Straight Off White Jeans, $39.99

The fashion girlies have been going crazy for white. It’s perfectly understandable when you think of the crisp all-white looks that can ensue. This pair of off-white curvy denim is a great starting place for tackling the iconic monochromatic look.

I personally tried the non-curvy version of these and loved the fit. They were the perfect straight leg cut. As someone with hips, I’d imagine the curvy fit is even better because of the extra inches of room in the hip area.

Old Navy Mid-Rise Kicker Boot-Cut Dark Wash Jeans, $34.99

Because of the early-2000s fever everyone has been going through, boot-cut styles are having a revival. If you have been tempted to snag a pair of western cowboy boots, you might as well grab these too.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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As far as winter clothing trends for 2022, the balaclava is at peak popularity. Originally worn by soldiers in the 19th century during the Crimean War, balaclavas are used as protection from deeply cold winter weather. The ski-mask-shaped style’s quick rise to fame is not a surprise in the era of “anything goes” fashion. It’s the ultimate combo of super functional and fun.

Although many have jumped on the balaclava train with no hesitation, for some, the close-fitting headgear poses a few issues. For starters, such a tight-fitting style is less big hair-friendly and more conducive to flatter, non-texturized hairstyles. The balaclava also tends to come in one size, posing problems for those with larger heads.

Enter: the Slouchy Oversized Balaclava sold by Echo. As a girl with an Afro and a member of the big head club, I was intrigued and knew I had to see what it was all about. I also enlisted the help of my coworker and fellow big head club member to test out Echo’s claims. If you do have a large head or are just curious to know our hot takes on this slouchy balaclava, read on.

Echo Dramatic Oversized Faux-Fur- Trim Balaclava, $99

“I love hats so much all year round. However, most don’t actually fit my head with the exception of flexible styles like beanies and berets. I’m definitely down to wear hats during the winter, but that usually depends on the way my hair is styled on that specific day. With my Afro out, I typically will not wear a hat. However, if my hair is braided, in a wig, or flat twisted then I would opt for a hat when I can.

I love the wide range of balaclava designs I’ve been seeing. My biggest reservation has to do with the fact that I can’t really wear one that’d feel comfortable because I have a larger head and my Afro is big too. 

I’m really into the faux-fur oversized balaclava from Echo. It doesn’t feel super constricting which is important. I don’t think I’d wear it when my Afro was at its largest and fully stretched because it would definitely mess up the style. It’s big head friendly and not tight at all especially when your hair is braided down. It has a luxe, high-end look that gives off luxurious vibes. 

I definitely felt protected from the cold weather and wind in this. I don’t even feel the need to wear a scarf when it’s on because it protects my neck from the elements as well. I plan on wearing this again throughout the rest of winter. I’m so glad I got to try it out!” – Chichi Offor, Associate Writer

Echo Dramatic Oversized Faux-Fur-Trim Balaclava, $99

“The amount of headwear that adorns my head during the winter is directly correlated to whichever hairstyle I’m rocking at that time. If I’m wearing braids, twists, a wig, etc., then you will definitely catch me in a beanie or two. I also love wearing hoods.

I was not aware of the balaclava trend until R29 wrote a story about it. When I looked into it I just thought, ‘Okay so it’s another trend for small-headed people with flat hair.’ I also did not find too many balaclavas attractive, especially for people who wear headphones or big earrings.

But oh, I L-O-V-E this balaclava — probably because she’s not like other girls. Even if I was bald, my head would take up a good chunk of the earth’s atmosphere, so I was prepared for this hat to be snug or tight around the afro. Lo and behold, this thing effortlessly glides over my twist-outs and only needs a tug or two to scooch over my fully-fluffed afro. And, not to toot my own horn, but I look like an adorable high fashion granny traversing the city in it.

Unfortunately, though, I would not call this afro friendly. I’m either wearing it all day or not wearing it at all because once it comes off, my hair is a mess. If your hair is not a constant victim of anti-gravity and returns to its desired shape after wearing hats, then you need not worry (you also probably don’t need to read this review).

Echo’s Balaclava keeps my face cozy and my big head warm. The only elements I encountered during these two weeks of wear were wind and 25-degree weather. If it’s similar to other furry hoods, I assume that it would pick up snow pretty well — but I would hate to get caught in the rain with this on.

The question is not will I wear it again, but in fact, when will I take it off? As someone who works from home and has a good hair day maybe 2 or three days out of the week, this balaclava is my lifeline. It also keeps my scalp warm during twist-out days. I’m not obsessed with the fact that the knit fabric scruffs up my afro (where are the balaclavas with satin lining? Looking at you Grace Eleyae!), but in the winter I do not care too much. Long live Echo’s big-head Balaclava.”– Alexandra Polk, Lifestyle Writer

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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With more than eight percent of global greenhouse gas emissions produced by the apparel and footwear industries, fashion’s growing impact on the planet cannot be ignored — and while consumers are beginning to shift their focus from fast-fashion to higher-quality and smaller-batch products, certain aspects of clothing production continue to be problematic, no matter the scale. For anyone concerned equally with ethics and sustainability, the use of animal products is an ongoing issue, particularly within the footwear industry, where leather is widely used. However, one shoe brand is using a plant-based material in lieu of a synthetic- or animal-derived option, bringing an unexpected food — apples, to be exact — to the forefront of sustainable footwear production. World, meet Sylven.

Mel Sneaker, $295

New-York based Sylven was founded in 2017 by Casey Dworkin, a 15-year veteran of the footwear and accessories industry. (If the mention of a sustaintable leather alternative has already sold you on the footwear brand, proceed straight to the brand’s website and plug in our exclusive discount code, REFINERY, for 15% off your Sylven purchase.) While the small-batch operation originally launched with animal leather, the company has since shifted to fully producing all their shoe styles with apple leather, a vegan and lower-impact material made from organic food waste in Italy. “I’m such a huge fan of apple leather,” Dworkin explains. As a designer that has always prioritized sustainability, I love that I finally found a vegan leather option that isn’t fully plastic that actually looks and feels like the real deal.”

The designer’s switch to non-plastic vegan leather is a small compromise embedded within a complex environmental issue. Although unprocessed animal hides are biodegradable, the pre-manufacturing tanning and dyeing treatment of the material requires a menu of hazardous chemicals that heavily pollute water systems. While advances in “vegan” leather substitutes have helped to curb the use of the genuine stuff, these materials frequently employ plastic-based materials such as PVC and polyurethane — making it counterproductive as an eco-friendly alternative to real leather.

From her brand’s earliest days, Dworkin was committed to innovative sustainable materials and practices, as well as prioritizing small-batch production using both natural (wheat, barley, and coconut) and recycled materials. When she landed on a high-quality, sustainable vegan leather alternative to the genuine Italian leather she’d always used, Dworkin knew she had to make the switch. The apple leather manufacturer and the shoe factory are also both located in Italy in close proximity to each other, making the creation of a Sylven shoe a local operation in addition to a more eco-friendly one.

Jayne Boot, $425

We spoke to the designer about how the plant-based substitute measures up to the real Italian stuff. “Apple leather looks and feels identical to real leather on the surface,” she explains. The main difference lies beneath — where normal leather has a velvety hand on the underside, apple leather is felt-like. In a Sylven shoe, a lining made from corn and wheat byproducts is added, making it hard to decipher any substantial differences. Other differences to consider? “A finished shoe made of apple leather is also more lightweight than a standard leather,” Dworkin says. “The apple material does have some stretch, but probably about half as much as a traditional animal-based material.”

Amalsi Boot, $450

While it’s easy to get caught up in Dworkin’s passion for building a sustainable business, the sheer curb appeal of Sylven’s wares should not be overlooked. The brand’s offerings are classic and timeless — think heeled boots, minimal Scandi-style sneakers, and streamlined mules for day-to-night wear. When prompted, Dworkin admits that “choosing a favorite shoe is like choosing a favorite child. I can say that the shoes that get the most wear in my closet are definitely my Mel sneakers,” she continues, “but when I’m getting a little dressed up, I’ve been loving the Jayne boot” — a ’90s-inspired square-toed ankle boot with an unexpected contrast insert. Eco-conscious shoe lovers can shop Dworkin’s picks and other apple leather shoe styles (including the striking Amalsi boot and the universal Cass flat) online at Sylven’s website.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Odds are you’ve probably heard of Cuup, a start-up bra brand that’s risen to the peaks of Instagram notoriety in recent years for their unlined brassieres that promise to fit larger cup sizes just as well as smaller ones. Whether the rise to fame has to do with the brand’s simple-yet-sexy vibe or the custom grading system (designed to more accurately replicate the natural contours of a body), there’s no mistaking that Cuup has built an impressive cult following. Among the praise and cheer for the brand, a whisper of criticism has been building up for some time, based on the limited band sizes in the gauzy inventory. Well, if you are one of the plus-size folks that have been dying to get your hands on a Cuup bra, it’s your lucky day: The brand has now officially extended their band-sizing past 38 to include bra sizes with bands in the 40 – 44 range.

Cuup “The Plunge” Bra, $68

It’s taken a while to get here (two years to be exact), but the design team at Cuup chose not to skimp out on good, intentional design. “Empowered and inspired by this customer, we dove into studying [their] needs. Through in-person fittings and feedback sessions, we developed a design formula that is modern in its unique alchemy of bridging style, fit, support, and functional design”, explains Pascale Guéraçague, CUUP Chief Design Officer. In an environment where many brands are lazily jumping onto the trendiness of size inclusivity and quickly shelling out poorly designed garments (and wondering why the plus-size community doesn’t accept the meager bones thrown their way), this approach is refreshing. Guéraçague further explains that launch “required advanced material development, and was imperative to work with real women to successfully and authentically serve [extended-sized] customer.”

Cuup “The Balconette” Bra, $68

The new, improved and more inclusively sized collection of bras includes a host of crowd-favorite silhouettes, all of which retail for $68. The Plunge is a mesh bra with a deep “v” cut that’s great for wearing underneath most necklines. The Balconette is Cuup’s take on sexier bra shape — but thanks to the brand’s signature no-frills design, it’s still practical for everyday wear. The Scoop boasts a deeper, “c”-shaped curve, and is made with an opaque, buttery material. The Demi is like your classic t-shirt bra — but it’s built with breathable “spacer” fabric in lieu of the suffocating foam often found in casual lingerie.

Click here to shop the buzzy brand’s foray into more inclusive sizing here.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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If you're looking for stocking stuffers and want to step it up a few notches from the drugstore checkout line bits and bobs, you've come to the right place. Mark your small gifts for the guys in your family found, because it is possible to cobble together stocking stuffers that are useful, beautiful, considerate, and representative of the giftee’s personal aesthetic. We’ve rounded up 30 stocking stuffers for the men in your life, from chic knick-knacks to practical gloves, skincare products, and more. Any man in your life will be pleased with one of these goodies below.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Big-box retailer Target has a long history of high-low designer collaborations that offer fashion-forward product mashups at reasonable retail prices. In the past several decades, they’ve brought their cheap-chic magic to Marimekko, Missoni, and Rodarte, and more recently, Christopher John Rogers and Rachel Comey. The ever-famous Red Dot Boutique’s latest partnership is a little more youthful but no less stylish — this time, they’ve teamed up with the legacy toy brand Lego for a 300-piece collection of gifts, home goods, toys, and pet accessories inspired by the Danish toymaker’s signature primary-hued building blocks. The assortment also includes a wide range of apparel for kids and adults, with sizes extending up to 4X. Prices will range from $1.50 – $120, with most items coming in below $30.

We couldn’t have asked for a collaboration better suited to holiday gifting — even if the person on your list is unfamiliar with the bright building blocks, Lego’s offerings boast a youthful appeal that will be a joy for anyone to unwrap. However, it’s pretty likely that your giftee has had a brush with the increasingly popular brand. According to the Washington Post, Lego is “the world’s largest and most profitable toymaker,” and there are a growing number of AFOLs (that’s Adult Fans of Lego) who spend hundreds of dollars on elaborate sets and showcase their achievements on Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit. (Luckily, you can nab a gift for around $20.)

It’s a tall order to schlep your way through 300 products to find the goods that will suit your gifting needs, so we’ve highlighted a few of our favorites below. (You can also click here to sort through every single interlocking piece yourself.) From candy-colored home goods to convertible color-blocked puffer jackets, there’s something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. It’s the perfect opportunity to scoop up something juicy, but you’d better get to building your cart — this rainbow-toned collaboration is likely to sell out in a flash.

Color-blocked Puffer Jacket, $60

Our plus-size writer Chichi Offor suited up in this bold striped puffer — you can see her wearing it in her usual size of 2X above. Made from recycled polyester, it features an oceanic coloway and zip-off sleeves for easy conversion into a vest.

Reusable Urban Brick Lightweight Tote Bag, $5

This extra-roomy packable tote boasts a dazzling, Tetris-like pattern, making for an eye-catching stocking stuffer for your giftee — or just a high-capacity shopper for all of your schlepping needs.

Side Striped Jogger Pants, $30

Lounge colorfully in these teal joggers, complete with a tonal stripe for extra fireside flair. They boast a hybrid cotton and recycled polyester construction, along with a high-contrast adjustable drawstring for an easy fit.

Brick Storage Box With Contrast Handle, $12

What Target calls a storage box we call the triumphant return of the top-handle bag. Sure, you could use this for playroom storage — but it would also be a cheeky conversation starter when packed with your evening essentials and brought out on New Year’s Eve.

Ceramic Tumbler Mug Set With Silicone Sleeves, $20

These crayon-colored drinking cups will definitely not stayed tucked away in our cabinets — we’re envisioning them jazzing up our kitchen’s open shelving with their bold and multi-hued presentation.

Contrast Pocket Convertible Zip-Up Puffer Jacket, $70

This longline puffer boasts bold patch pockets big enough to hold a host of odds and ends — but the functionality doesn’t end there. It’s also equipped with a zipper at the hip for removing the bottom half of the coat when less cold-weather coverage is needed.

Color Block Puffer Scarf, $20

We can’t resist the complementary pink and red tones and overlapping design of this folded, sherpa-lined scarf.

Minifigure Patch Beanie Hat, $20

Knitted puff-ball accents keep this textured beanie from feeling like your standard sporting goods-store buy. (The Lego man appliqué helps, too.)

Utility Pockets Tote Bag, $40

This eye-catching tote is equipped with plenty of real estate, both inside and out. The interior can accommodate a small laptop and boasts a vibrant lining that belies its monochrome exterior.

Contrast Pocket Sherpa, $50

If you have yet to pull the trigger on a fleece-y layer for winter, may we recommend Lego’s sherbet-hued iteration? Made entirely from recycled polyester, this high-contrast windbreaker is available in kids’ and mens’ sizes, too. Go ahead and outfit your whole family — we won’t judge.

Silicone Coaster Set With Wood Holder, $12

A neatly-stacked set of coasters will add a splash of color to your next soirée.

Dog And Cat Colorblock Puffer, $15.99

We thought we had every gasp-inducing dog sweater on the internet dialed — until now. Not only will your furry friend love this toasty puffer, but the tropical colorways will help you keep track of them at the dog park.

Multi-compartment Trinket Box, $20

With a Scandi-chic solid birch lid and compartments made from the same glossy plastic that’s used to make Legos, this cheerful storage box will certainly brighten up the desk-scape of anyone on your list.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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