FIT for ALL
Stay cool by the pool with swimwear pieces and accessories that are size-inclusive—and super stylish.
IF YOU’RE LIKE ME and live in a larger body, the return of warm weather comes with its fair share of anxieties: Will I find a swimsuit that fits me and feels good? Will I hide my left or right butt cheek with this tiny towel, which would barely fit around my thigh? Everyone deserves to be comfortable in the summer and feel like a million bucks, which is why I’ve rounded up some swimwear and accessories that are designed for a wide range of body types.
VILLA FRESCA
Founded a few months ago by Gabi Gregg, one of the industry’s most influential designers, content creators and bloggers (who launched her GabiFresh blog in 2008), Villa Fresca was the next logical step for a woman who popularized the plus-size two-piece, affectionately nicknamed the “fatkini,” in 2012. Bright colours, sexy, daring cuts and glamorous details are featured in this collection, which is offered in sizes 4 to 30/32 and designed for those who embrace their curves and make no apologies. VILLAFRESCA.CO
FREE LABEL
Based on the West Coast, Free Label is a favourite among fans of slow fashion, multi-functional pieces and soft, comfy bralettes. It uses sustainable fabrics, many of which are woven in Toronto especially for the brand. Its 2024 swimwear capsule collection, featuring two multi-fit pieces in red and navy, comes in sizes XS to 5X. FREELABEL.COM
BOHÈME X BETH RICHARDS
Bohème is, without a doubt, one of the Canadian slow-fashion brands that make me swoon the most. All the choices that founder Sarah Shabacon makes— from soothing colours to impossibly soft fabrics to oversized silhouettes with long, slouchy sleeves—absolutely delight me. Pieces in the brand’s 2024 swimwear collection, a collaboration with designer Beth Richards, are made from Econyl regenerated nylon, come in sizes XS to 4X and include a one-piece, one style of bottoms and two styles of tops.
ZALESKA
Jewellery is one of those things that many take for granted, but anyone who deviates from the standard sizing has trouble finding it. Canadian jeweller Zaleska addresses this gap in the market by specializing in inclusive jewellery, with rings ranging in size from 4 to 15 and custom-length necklace chains at no extra charge. In addition to its regular collection, which is available in silver or gold vermeil, Zaleska also offers madeto-order fine jewellery. ZALESKA.CA
SOL KYST
Sol Kyst would have been the answer to my prayers when I was a chubbyfaced ’90s tween who dreamed of wearing the same shades as her idols but couldn’t find a single pair that didn’t make her look like a potato trying too hard to seem cool. Offering three frame sizes—Mini, Midi and Wide—this
Canadian label brings style within reach of many more people. I recently bought the Hangover model and finally got to experience the thrill of running errands with the blasé look of an incognito celebrity, black sunglasses covering half of my face. SOLKYST.CA
ODDBIRD CO.
There’s nothing more depressing than getting out of the pool—or, worse, the ocean—and having to awkwardly cover yourself with a towel that doesn’t fit around your body. If you’re a plus-size person, you know what I’m talking about. For a few years now, I’ve been swearing by Oddbird Co.’s Turkish-cotton towels. They are not only gorgeous and of the highest quality but also easily wrap around my size 26/4X hips with room to spare. ODDBIRDCO.COM
NATURALIZER
Since there aren’t as many options for wide feet as one would hope, why not go for an everyday style and prioritize comfort? These sandals—which are simple and practical and come in a wider fit—are as pretty as they are comfortable and can be paired with dresses, jeans or shorts. NATURALIZER.CA
APRIL CORNELL
This Canadian company—which is based in Montreal—has been my go-to for summer hats (and, occasionally, superflowery home linens) for the past few years. As a 40-year-old writer living in the country, I own several raffia hats from April Cornell, as they’re pretty, affordable and adjustable and they withstand the test of time wonderfully. APRILCORNELL.CA