If you're someone on the bigger side of the clothing size spectrum, you're well aware of how hard it is to find fun and fashionable clothes. Especially in South Africa, where the fashionable plus size memo has yet to hit our shores. Most plus size fashion either caters for a demure crowd and isn't accessible price wise, or it errs on the side of very sexy body con dresses. There is hardly ever any middle ground.
Enter fashion label, Me&B. The store was founded in 2018 by the mother and daughter team, Betina Swart and Kelly Gibberd and they've just opened their first brick and mortar store in Johannesburg, at the ultra-hip 44 Stanley in Milpark.
Calling themselves “Inclusive Fun Fashion”, the clothing label doesn’t only cater to plus sizes but it goes a long way to make them feel part of the fun fashion. “We founded this brand with a strong belief that the fashion industry deserved a shake-up,” they say on the
company’s website.
Their clothing ranges from size 32-46. The most unique aspect is that everyone between those ranges gets access to the same item. So, a size 46 gets to wear what a size 32 gets to. This is almost unheard of when it comes to plus sizes where they are usually relegated to more flowy “flattering” fabrics and “functional” cuts.
Doing things differently
Most plus size women will tell you that they just want the same access to clothing that their smaller counter parts have. This is a detail that M&B have also built their brand around.
“We believed it was time to do things differently. We wanted to create an environment where everyone could shop, feel included and, most importantly, feel comfortable in our clothes,” they say. “Tasked with proving that high-quality, fashion-forward clothing could be available at fair prices, we created piece after piece that is testament to our passion for making fashion more accessible to all. We see that same excitement, comfort and belief reflected in the eyes of every woman who tries on a Me&B piece.”
The brand also carries kids clothing that would make for some really adorable mommy and me outfits. Alongside the in-person stores, fashionistas can also shop from their
online store.
We picked five stylish items we think you should add to your wardrobe today:
The Statement Swimsuit
The ultimate summer staple to launch all the moments that will be spent poolside and on the beach this December. This fun print will let everyone know you mean business when it comes to poolside aesthetics.
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Everything in this range
This print. Need we say more?
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This gingham dress
Timeless print. Check. Flowy fabric for the summer. Check. Flattering neckline for everyone. Check. This is a winner.
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This hot pink ensemble
No dull days allowed with this statement two piece. Whether you’re enjoying a fancy cocktail at your nearest rooftop spot or brunching with the girls, you’re sure to turn a lot of heads in this hot “customer fave”.
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This kid’s geo-print dress
What says fashion forward toddle than a graphic print. Lose the Barbie pinks (which are perfectly fine) and show off your toddler’s chicer side with this dress.
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The deets
Me&Be, 44 Stanley Shop 2, Braamfontein Werf, Johannesburg, 2092
Find them on
Instagram or
their website.