As we stand in the midst of sparking culturally relevant conversations on modesty and the power it holds to dress in your own narratives, there’s much to be said about size-inclusivity as well. Whether we like it or not, our bodies are instrument to politics and cultural change. According to global forecasts, the global plus-size clothing market is projected to be valued at $362.10 billion by 2032. That isn’t just a number, but a marker shaped by consumer empowerment and representation.
The MENA region, however, comes with a slightly different story. While progress is on the horizon, the conversations surrounding size inclusivity are strangely quiet. Hidden. For our debut cover star, Ameni Esseibi, it was a harsh reminder that bodies out of the norm will be constantly reminded as such. And yet she persisted unapologetically. The same goes for the size-inclusive brands in the region. Although few and far between, there are those who design for the entire size range, not just for a handful. With clothes that don’t pinch or cling, but actually flatter and fit right in all the necessary places, here are some size-inclusive brands in the GCC region that you should check out.
Bunni
Sporting modest dresses, sets, and abayas, this Abu Dhabi-based label is challenging the stereotypes surrounding modesty and size inclusivity. Intertwining comfort and style without compromising on size, they offer a range of pieces that take you from the office to a girls’ night out.
Dima Ayad
They say be the change you wish to see, and Dima Ayad took that personally. As a curvy woman herself, Dima Ayad began her namesake label in 2010 to make sure every silhouette can find a style for themselves, something Ayad struggled with herself. With pieces ranging from XS to XXXXL, you can find sleek, elegant pieces in geometric patterns and metallic finishes that are a celebration of craftsmanship.
HOMAQ | HQ Travels
Emirati label HOMAQ and its travelwear line HQ Travels are all about modernising the abaya. Rooted in minimalism and femininity that’s emphasised by intricate yet delicate embroidery, their pieces go all the way to XXXL.
MUSE
This Dubai-based artisanal label allows modest wear to be chic, whimsical, feminine, and deeply personal. Produced in small batches and with a size range that goes up to XXXXL, each piece is made to last lifetimes, and that includes every body under the sun.
MULU
Like most others in this list, MULU was born out of the desire to change. Initially, it was strictly a plus-size brand but as it grew, so did the size range. Now you can find basics, hoodies, and abayas from XS to XXXXXL. The pieces are as minimalistic as they can get, made to be mixed and matched with others. Although simplistic, pieces like these will always have room in our wardrobes, as they’re key to layering or toning down a loud outfit.
Needle And Thread
Based in the UK but with a firm base in the GCC region as well, Needle & Thread is for the hyper-feminine, dreamy, girly girls. Ruffles, floral patterns and appliques, and soft, billowy silhouettes are the norm here but we’re not complaining as the ethereal pieces make for some fabulous occasionwear.
NASS
Elevating modest wear with minimalistic design, sharp tailoring, and timeless fabrics, NASS features pieces that transcend every occasion in mind. Sets for power dressing? Cape jumpsuits for sundowners? Modest gowns for a gala, gathering, and everything else in between? Not only do they have it but they have it from sizes XS to XXXL
The Giving Movement
Born and made in the UAE—we’re talking from supply to production—The Giving Movement makes loungewear, activewear, and streetwear eco-friendly, sustainable, and size-inclusive. With a size range that goes up to XXXL, these are pieces that are made with nothing but comfort in mind. After all, you’re meant to be living in them.
