Nordstrom expands size inclusive model
NORDSTROM is championing inclusivity by rolling out a new sizing initiative in 30 of its stores across the US.
The retailer has been working with multiple fashion brands to “fill in the gaps” in standard sizing policies, and is aiming to make sizes 0 and 2 more readily available, as well as sizes 14, 16 and 18.
The majority of womenswear brands run sizes 2-4 through to 12, with plus size brands often only starting at a size 18.
Nordstrom first unveiled its new initiative back in October, when it launched the concept at its Century City location in Los Angeles with a focus on denim brands such as Topshop, Rag and Bone and Madewell. For the holiday season, the retailer introduced the extended sizing concept to its website, expanding to 40 brands. The latest rollout sees 100 brands including Nike, Adidas and Theory expanding their sizing options across multiple categories such as denim, dresses, swimwear, activewear and lingerie.
“The industry really needed a retailer to be the voice of customers and ask for more sizes,” said Tricia Smith, Nordstrom executive vice president and general merchandise manager for women’s apparel, in a statement. “It’s been hard work and we’re making progress. We’re thrilled more and more brands are extending their offerings to this population of stylish women who were previously missed.”
Inclusive sizing has become a hot issue in the fashion industry recently, with increasing numbers of designers and retailers offering more diverse size ranges. The latest companies to hop on the bandwagon include LA-based sustainable clothing brand Reformation, which launched a collection in a size-inclusive range of 0-22 in collaboration with curvy model Ali Tate Cutler earlier this year, and Reese Witherspoon’s fashion brand Draper James, which joined forces with plus-size retailer Eloquii on a 30-piece capsule collection for spring.