Can we just start off by saying how grateful I am for Plus Size brands? Over the course of my lifetime, the shopping options for the Plus community have grown tremendously! We’re no longer relegated to a corner of mumus and grandma clothes. Thank goodness! I especially love when Plus Size brands grow and evolve, offering more products that help us feel heard and seen.
Arula is a Plus Size brand that has been around for a few years now. They are the big sister of Altar’d State. I have been honored to work as a brand representative for them since the beginning. While they have definitely had their ups and downs in their product launches, they keep trying to honor women in bigger bodies with what they do. This summer, they are expanding again… Arula offers Plus Size intimates! This brand new collection is made up of bras, bralettes, and underwear. I was so excited, I placed an order on launch day!
The undies are currently sold in five different cuts, four fabrics, and a variety of solid colors. Because of the way my weight is situated, I opted to try the hipster and boyfriend cut in the seamless and cotton fabrics. Both styles were incredibly soft and comfortable, without rolling below my belly line (which drives me crazy about many kinds of underwear.) The only complaint I have is that they were not moisture-wicking, which left me feeling just a tad soggy on a hot summer day.
I also decided to purchase a couple of bras. I prefer bras that are full coverage for everyday wear. I chose the Underwire Bralette and the Everyday Wirefree Bra. I also opted to buy them in the soft peach/ivory color so they would work under any shirt or dress.
The Underwire Bralette features a really pretty lace pattern on the cups. The fabric was soft, not scratchy and the underwire provided support without digging into my skin. I was able to wear it all day quite comfortably. The bra has a secure five hook closure at the back and straps that are able to crisscross. The thing I wasn’t thrilled about was the look along the band, since it didn’t have an adjustable fit. It created a bit more of a bulge than I would like under a smooth, fitted shirt. The bra is pretty from the front, but would definitely make me feel more confident with an adjustable band.
The Everyday Wirefree Bra is very lightweight and breathable. I love that it is supportive, even without the underwire, though it doesn’t really push anything up. Again, I was able to comfortably wear this bra all day with no discomfort. This one DOES offer an adjustable band! It fit much better on my back and created a much smoother line. I’m looking forward to putting this one to the test on long school days because I know I will feel much more comfy and less irritated in a soft, supportive bra.
I didn’t really know what to expect with the Arula intimates collection. I had high hopes, but also know that sometimes it takes them a while to work out the kinks. So I’m glad to say, I am really happy with my purchase. The undies and bras are quite soft, cozy, and fit great! Hopefully they continue to put love and care into the collection, offering more colors and styles as time goes by. I know that I will be purchasing all of the items again!
Forty Fat and Fabulous 