WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
Reformation, she’s the girl everyone wants to be. She’s sweet and humble; she’s eco-friendly; she has a captivating style; and, most importantly, she’s considerate of all of her fellow women.
“We believe the perfect fit is the most important part of our clothes. We spend hours fitting on different bodies and have a meticulous approach to our fits” – Reformation
The positively conscious brand, founded by former model Yael Aflalo, has made waves by carving out a niche for elegant attire in the current climate of streetwear-centric fashions. By going against the grain and tapping into dormant notions, Aflalo’s focus on classic, inclusive and kind-to-the-Earth pieces has secured Reformation’s place on the market as the preferred cult brand for fail-safe occasion dresses.
But, with such a wide range of dresses available, from floral off-the-shoulder dresses to mini silk slip dresses, comes confusion about the sizing, fit and after-care of their products ― things that the Californian cool girls who adopted the brand rarely ever discuss. So, we got in touch with four Reformation savvy individuals (who you probably already follow on Instagram) to discuss the sizing, fit and after-care of Reformation dresses so that you may purchase yours with peace of mind.
Reformation Dresses Overview
How do Reformation dresses fit?
There are many factors one should bear in mind when it comes to choosing between different sizes of Reformation dresses – material, style and length, to name a few. But as a rule of thumb, we'd recommend opting for your true size.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
Reformation dresses are made from high-quality sustaianable materials; consequently, Reformation dresses tend to be super comfortable.
How should you care for your Reformation dresses?
To ensure your Reformation dress looks brand-new for years to come, you may want to consider hand washing your garments. Please check the specific washing instructions printed on the tag located inside of your Reformation piece before making any decisions.
Alicia Tenise (@aliciatenise)
Style blogger based in California, USA wearing the Alta floral-print midi dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I purchased my first Reformation dress whilst I was in New York City in 2016 – I visited their boutique and instantly fell in love with one of their wrap dresses. Not only did I love the flawless fit of the dress, but I also loved the fact that it had been sustainably made; thus, the investment was a no-brainer.
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
Reformation dresses are made to last for years and years – for this reason, I suggest picking a dress you can wear in multiple ways. Personally, I love layering cropped sweaters over my Reformation dresses when it’s cold outside and pairing them with sneakers and a little denim jacket during the warmer months.
How do Reformation dresses fit?
I feel like the sizing of Reformation dresses varies from dress to dress. In general, I’d say they fit true to size; however, If you’re in-between sizes, or on the bustier side, I’d recommend sizing up.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses fit?
I recently spent an entire day in town wearing this Reformation dress, and I found it to be super comfy. I’m a pretty curvy girl, and this dress hugs me in all of the right places; thus, it makes me feel both mentally and physically comfortable.
How do you care for your Reformation dresses?
In my experience, Reformation dresses wash well, but I recommend treating them with TLC. I either hand wash my Reformation dresses or take them to my local dry cleaners. Needless to say, I do this to ensure they look as good as new and last for years to come.
Reformation Dresses: A Sizing and Fit Guide
Lauren (@laur.symore)
Sustainable fashion content creator based in Boston, USA, wearing the Paxton puff-sleeve mini dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I bought my first Reformation dress in 2019 after saving money from a summer internship. For a long time prior, the brand was on my radar – I would scroll through their collections and dream about wearing their whimsical dresses and perfectly tailored jeans.
This Reformation purchase was an important investment because it marked the beginning of a journey towards becoming conscious about my consumerism. From here on, I was actively aware of the global impact of my sartorial choices.
In case you didn’t know, Reformation is an exemplary sustainable fashion brand – they use eco-friendly recycled materials and are completely transparent about their supply chain. The label is equally committed to ethics and aesthetics which is why it’s the type of company I’m proud to support.
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
Reformation offers an inclusive range of sizes (XXS-3XL), but be warned, the sizing is a little different to other brands. In my case, the shoulders are a little roomy in certain styles; however, once you’ve found the right fit and design for you, my only advice is to get ready for lots of compliments from passers-by!
How do Reformation dresses fit?
In my experience, Reformation dresses tend to run slightly large for my body type, especially around the shoulders. For this reason, I intentionally search for Reformation dresses that have elasticated sleeves or adjustable straps.
The fit of the dress depends on the material that’s been used to create it. For dresses made with stretchy knit materials, I tend to have less difficulty with sizing because they naturally mould to the shape of my body. On the other hand, I occasionally run into issues when purchasing dresses made with less stretchy materials (e.g. cotton and viscose), which is why I always buy these styles in a petite size to ensure they complement my small frame.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
The Paxton puff-sleeve mini dress – which I’m wearing today – features an A-line cut, square neckline and delicate lace detailing. I find the fit comfortable and flattering; I especially like how the skirt of the dress is thigh-length and how the light, breathable fabric of the sleeves, which allows for better airflow and reduces the appearance of sweat stains.
The only detail that may cause discomfort, especially if you’re sensitive to compression, is the tight elastic around the upper arms and shoulders that creates the puff sleeve effect.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
I find Reformation dresses easy to maintain. As long as you follow the instructions found on the tag, your dress will still look the same years down the line as it did when you first purchased it.
Depending on the material, I either green dry clean or hand wash my Reformation dresses as I want to make sure that everything I do is considerate of the environment. I follow this up by air drying my dress.
Reformation Dresses: A Sizing and Fit Guide
Sachini (@sachinidilanka)
Blogger based in London, UK, wearing the Mica orange-print midi dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I bought my first Reformation dress during the UK’s first COVID-19 lockdown to cheer myself up during a challenging time. When it arrived, it instantly put a smile on my face – even though I knew I wouldn’t be wearing it outside of the house for a very long time!
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
I'd let them know they’re in for a treat! There’s a stunning choice of dresses in all kinds of prints and no matter which one you pick, I can almost guarantee you’ll feel incredible in it.
Most Reformation dresses are versatile enough to wear to work, to brunch and even on a date. Thus, they’re an investment piece because you can dress them up or down for numerous occasions.
How do Reformation dresses fit?
I’ve always opted for my true size when purchasing Reformation dresses, and I’ve never regretted it. In my experience, they always fit perfectly and are always the perfect length.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
The Mica orange-print midi dress is significantly comfortable. It’s the kind of dress that moves with you, and it’s especially flexible around the chest area. For this reason, I think it’s the perfect dress for a summer's day.
How do you care for Reformation dresses?
Reformation dresses are of the highest quality, so I carefully follow the washing instructions on the dress label to ensure that the fabric remains intact. Additionally, I usually steam my Reformation dresses rather than ironing them, so the delicate fabrics don’t get too heated! I want them to stay gorgeous for years to come.
Reformation Dresses: A Sizing and Fit Guide
Shareeta (@shar.eeta)
Malaysian TV personality based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia wearing the Hyland linen dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I've been a Reformation fanatic since 2015 when I first purchased a selection of crop tops from the brand. And it was in 2018 when I purchased my first Reformation dress – I opted for a classic white striped linen piece that’s cinched at the waist. I still get compliments on it today. The quality and the cuts are incomparable and the ethos behind the brand makes me appreciate clothing a whole lot more.
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
It's a great investment piece to own. You will find yourself wanting to wear it often because it's just so flattering. So for your first piece, I’d recommend picking a design/colour that can be styled in different ways many times over. A linen midi dress in a solid colour would be great! They are so versatile.
How do Reformation dresses fit?
Customarily, the dresses fit true to size. Depending on the cut, I find myself getting different sizes as sometimes I want things to fit a little looser a little tighter.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
I’m currently six months pregnant, so I wanted a dress that I could wear comfortably after delivery as well as during pregnancy – something with a fuss-free design that is flattering to all body types. This dress checked all the boxes.
The dress flares out a little beyond the waist (which is great for me right now) and the ruched bodice manages to accentuate my curves without being too tight.
How do you care for Reformation dresses?
I’ve had a lot of my Reformation dresses for over three years now and even though I regularly wear them I find they’re all still in prime condition.
Reformation Dresses: A Sizing and Fit Guide
Tyla-Lauren (@tylauren)
Digital content creator based in New York City, USA wearing the Wren dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I purchased my first Reformation dress last summer after hearing so many amazing things about them – especially about the way they fit. Now, Reformation dresses are the mainstay in my wardrobe.
I was instantly attracted to the fun, feminine styles that felt a little out of my comfort zone but perfect for experimenting with during summer. I’m thankful for Reformation for helping me expand my style.
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
I would advise people to opt for the style they’re most comfortable with: for me, that's a midi length dress with sleeves and a subtle pattern. And once they’ve purchased the dress, I would advise them to dress it up and down. I dress my Wren dress down with lace-up sandals and dress it up with a blazer and heels.
How do Reformation dresses fit?
I can safely say that this Reformation dress fits true to size. I ordered an 8, and I honestly thought it would be too small but it turned out to be ideal. Because of its stretchy nature, I’m able to move around in this dress without feeling stiff. It’s also super easy to get on and take off which makes life easier.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
The fabric of the Reformation dress is lightweight and comfortable which I love because I tend to feel too hot in the summer here in New York City. For this reason, the dress is perfect for everything from a wedding to a casual day in the park.
How do you care for your Reformation dresses?
Reformation dresses wash well and keep their shape as long as you either hang dry or dry clean them. Additionally, I’d suggest washing the dresses in cool water to prevent shrinkage or damage.
Reformation Dresses: A Sizing and Fit Guide
Ashley Kane Harper (@ashleykane)
Creative blogger and content creator based in California, USA wearing the meadow floral-print midi dress
Why and when did you first invest in a Reformation dress?
I bought my first Reformation dress about seven years ago, during a time when the brand’s high-neck, thin-strapped, super low back dresses were a must-have for fashion insiders. I simply had to have one for myself.
What advice would you give someone who’s looking to buy their first Reformation dress?
If you’re thinking about investing in a first Reformation dress, I would suggest you carefully consider the fabric, stretch, cut and dimensions of the piece before making the purchase. There are manifold styles to choose from and, naturally, some are going to suit you more than others.
How do Reformation dresses fit?
Although Reformation dresses are often stretchy and flexible, I usually size up when purchasing them to ensure they’re not too short, tight or low-cut. Right now, I’m (very) pregnant, and I love the fact that I can pull off this beautiful smock dress with or without a baby bump.
How comfortable are Reformation dresses?
Reformation dresses are super comfortable, which makes them ideal for any occasion. I’ve worn Reformation dresses to weddings, dinners, to spend time in my garden and even on my honeymoon. They’re closet keepers, for sure!
How do you care for your Reformation dresses?
Reformation dresses are high-quality garments that stand the test of time. Bearing this in mind, it’s super easy to keep good care of them – even if, like me, you wear them constantly.