It’s a problem women all around the world will be familiar with: clothes don’t really seem to go bigger than a size 12. Not chic clothes, anyway. For Melinda Andaloro, this was the catalyst for starting her own business.
Diving deep into what women want, Andaloro discovered size inclusivity was at the front of mind for many a fashion-loving customer — there just wasn’t anywhere for them to shop. Enter, Saroka.
“Saroka’s brand ethos evolved in my ‘20s after my body changed and I realised that most young Australian designers were designing with one body type in mind — tall and slender — using size six models and stopping their size range at a 12. This approach made me feel excluded and no doubt would for other women too. This exclusion in the industry inspired me to start Saroka,” Andaloro tells marie claire.
“I would say Saroka is changing the status quo by taking the lead in size inclusion, catering for women up to a size 16,” Andaloro says, confirming the brand will extend sizes as they see a demand for it. “We want women who have often felt excluded to now shop with confidence at Saroka, knowing that our designs have been carefully considered with a variety of body shapes and sizes in mind.”
And what great shapes they are. From cutesy prairie-inspired tops to laid back linen pants, Saroka’s pieces are made to measure and made to last. Plus, with a focus on sustainable practices, including using 90 per cent completely biodegradable fabrics, the brand has managed to carve out two very different niches.
“My most loved piece is the Rumer top. The design is a standout! It’s versatile enough to dress up and dress down with denim. My second favourite would have to be our Dahlia pant, the silhouette is incredibly flattering and is proving to be our most coveted style,” Andaloro says of the range.
So, while their linen focuses might not be your go-to during winter, we’re stocking up for that impending European holiday, stat.
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