One of my favorite parts of this job is sharing size-inclusive clothing. I know how much of a struggle it can be to shop for pieces in extended sizes. And I’m so grateful to all of the size-inclusive brands out there working to change this and it is my pleasure to partner with one of these brands – Marie Oliver. I was first introduced to their pieces a few years ago and it was a “love at first sight” connection. If you love beautiful prints, detailed embroidery, and thoughtful silhouettes, getting to know this brand is a must!
Southern Style
There’s just something about the way southern women dress. Maybe you disagree or maybe you’re reading this as a style maven hailing from the Pacific Northwest. Rest assured, I mean all due respect to our country’s various regional fashion sensibilities. Not to mention those days I strive to channel my inner French girl, or piece together a look worthy of the Amalfi Coast…even if the closest I’ve been to Italy in a while is Epcot’s replica of St. Marks Square.
But much like their ability to wield thinly-veiled barbs into everyday conversation (pay close attention the next time you hear us say “bless your heart”), the sartorial style of the southern woman is seemingly second nature. And boy does it shine through in Marie Oliver’s beautiful pieces. I’m so excited to partner with this brand and share more about them today!
About Marie Oliver
Founded in 2015 by Sarah Doggett Evenson and her husband Peter, Marie Oliver is a North Carolina-based ready-to-wear label. This women’s brand continues to grow, most recently with the addition of an extended-size capsule collection. And while the southern sensibilities I’m drawn to are all there, like bold colors, prints, feminine details, classic silhouettes, and a penchant for being just a little bit dressy – they’ve made a name for themselves nationally. As it turns out, women everywhere love designs that help them feel their very best! What started as a brand in the founders’ hometown can now be found in over 250 stores and online.
Why I Love Marie Oliver
A few years ago I saw my friend Sarah Tucker wearing these beautiful dresses, skirts, and tops unlike any I’d ever seen. Turns out they were all Marie Oliver and one browsing session on their website later, I was hooked!
Marie Oliver designs strike a balance of traditional and classic while also being incredibly unique. I continue to be amazed by the beautiful prints, embroidery, and details that set this brand apart. The thought and care that goes into their silhouettes is evident especially in their new plus size pieces. I have found my Marie Oliver clothes to not only be excellent quality, but also flattering and exceptionally well-tailored.
Size-Inclusive Styles
In addition to their existing line, I am so appreciative that this brand has worked hard to develop extended size options. Over the past few years, I have been able to wear Marie Oliver’s more generously cut styles in XLs and XXLs. But now, even more options are available with their new plus size capsule collection.
It varies per piece, but items in this extended sizes collection are available up to a size 2X or 18. The product options include tops, jackets, dresses, and blouses. However, be sure to do some browsing because many of their other styles are available up to a size XXL.
After trying various cuts, I’m wildly impressed with the incredible job they did grading their patterns for extended sizes. They fit comfortably in the arms, shoulders, and bust without reading as oversized. This is something that can be hard for brands to do when they decide to extend sizes. From my experience, Marie Oliver pieces fit true to size and I wear my typical size 18 or XXL.
My Marie Oliver Favorites
After trying some of this brand’s pieces over the years and in their latest collection, here are some of my favorites for your shopping consideration:
Kara Dress
First up, the Kara Dress! This piece nails the tiered style that I know many of us love. It comes in both prints and solids, so there are lots of great options (the black version I’m wearing is on sale!) And there are so many fun ways to style this Marie Oliver dress. You could pair it with boots and accent colors for a gameday look! Or style it with some sandals or flats for an easy outfit to wear while running errands, shopping, or grabbing lunch with friends! I can comfortably wear an XXL in this one.
Natalie & Rhett Wrap Dresses
The Natalie and Rhett wrap dresses are feminine perfection. And they have the kind of punchy twist that only Marie Oliver textiles can provide! I’ll be wearing one of these two tonight on a double date with some friends and I anticipate them being on repeat for many more occasions. They’re perfect for everything from church and brunch to showers and date nights. And I love that they can be worn all the way into fall because the colors are so transitional. Just layer a sweater or lady jacket on top to get even more mileage. I wear a size 18 in these and both prints that I’m wearing are currently on sale!
Whinslet Dress
The Marie Oliver Whinslet dress can be dressed up for a formal wedding or packed with sandals and woven accessories as a special resort-ready outfit. The beautiful watercolor print that I’m wearing (in a size 18) is currently on sale for an excellent price!
Finley Top
Lastly, I can’t leave out the Finley top! This Marie Oliver piece is a gauzy, yet substantial, blend of linen and viscose that skims over everything. It plays nicely with pants, but would also look great with the matching skirt or a pair of bottoms that you already own. I love how the moody blend of lilac, brown and ochre feels both fresh and autumnal. I wear an XXL in this cut.
Marie Oliver Clothing
It is my pleasure to work with brands like this. Ones that are women-lead and who care about quality, integrity, and inclusivity. I look forward to supporting and sharing Marie Oliver as they continue to extend sizes and I hope you enjoy wearing their beautiful pieces as much as I do. For additional size-inclusive style inspiration, be sure to check out my favorite wedding guest dresses, size-inclusive swimwear, and white dress styles.
