Gabbi Hall
Disclaimer: I have been a long-time Universal Standard wearer, and I now get to collaborate with them from time to time. Lucky me! There are affiliate links included in this Universal Standard review. That just means I make a small commission if you end up purchasing an item, if you use my link. That helps me cover the cost of maintaining this website and bringing you more brand reviews, travel guides and more.
What Is Universal Standard?
Let’s start with the basics: Universal Standard is a clothing company offering sizes 00-40. They offer elevated wardrobe staples in high-quality fabrics. They are committed to “revolutionary inclusivity” as they call it—gender, race, size, etc. Universal Standard wants to eliminate “us” and “them” mentality. So, not matter who are you and what your size is, you can get clothes you love and feel confident in. And speaking of sizing, let’s dive into their approach to sizing since it is different than most brands.
How Does Universal Standard Sizing Work?
Universal Standards doesn’t dictate size based on old school standards. If the average woman is a size 18, shouldn’t that be a medium? Universal Standard thinks so. As a size 22/3X woman, I wear a Universal Standard size large in most items. If I want something to be more fitted, like the Geneva Dress, I will order a medium. They make it easy to find the right size, but translating the numerical sizes we’re accustomed to into their sizes when you’re shopping.
Find Your Universal Standard Size >
And Have You Heard About Universal Standard’s Fit Liberty Program?
Fit Liberty is one of the biggest benefits of shopping Universal Standard. All of us have weight fluctuations, and US wants to make sure you can still wear the clothes you love when you do. Here’s how they describe the program:
A revolutionary shopping program that allows you to buy for the size you are right now, in this moment. If your size changes, we’ll replace your clothes and send your new size – for free. FIT LIBERTY gives you the freedom to change sizes without fear, anxiety, or added expense.
Is Universal Standard Worth the Cost?
So, when you weigh the values of the Universal Standard brand with the quality and Fit Liberty programs, I 100% think that Universal Standard is worth the cost. And if you’re not ready to make the investment at full price, I recommend keeping an eye out for their sales like the Universal Standard Mystery Box sale, which typically happens in Q1 (Jan-March) each year. They offer steep discounts on boxes of 3 items. So you can order a mystery box, and they’ll send you 3 dresses (or other items based on the type of box you choose) at the price point you’d typically spend on 1 item. It’s an amazing deal! make the investment at full price, I recommend keeping an eye out for their sales like the Universal Standard Mystery Box sale, which typically happens in Q1 (Jan-March) each year. Or keep an eye out for their Sample Sale (usually in the summer).
My Favorite Universal Standard Clothing Items
The Geneva Dress >
Think of this as an upscale t-shirt dress. It’s a stretchy, soft and rich fabric. The dress is fitted, but still gives you room to breathe. I wear it most often with sneakers and a jean jacket, but you could also dress it up. Oh, and it comes in a wide variety of colors.
The Bodysuit >
Okay, hear me out. I know bodysuits are intimidating if you’re not totally confident in your skin—because this is basically like putting on a second skin. But if you’re going to dabble, THIS IS THE BODYSUIT. It’s so soft and the material is thick enough that you don’t see any cellulite through the fabric. The straps are adjustable, too. I usually go braless in this one and pair it with a cozy cardigan and sneakers or Birkenstocks for running errands and chores around the house.
The Layering Turtleneck >
The turtleneck is from the recently launched UltimateS by Universal Standard collection. It’s a collection of “intimates” as they call them with really soft underwear (which I also recommend). This turtleneck isn’t limited to wearing it at home. It’s the perfect seasonal transition piece. It’s thin and soft, so you won’t overheat. But still adds a nice layer if there’s a chill in the air. It comes in a few basic colors, making it a great staple.
The Tee Rex >
This t-shirt may seem basic, but it’s the highest-quality t-shirt I own. I love the longer sleeves and the thicker, soft fabric. Like other Universal Standard items, the fabric doesn’t show little lumps and bumps. It’s casual enough to wear in leggings and nice enough to be styled with dress pants for work. In fact, I’m wearing a navy blue Tee Rex as I type this.
Universal Standard Review Wrap Up
As you can tell, I have a glowing review of Universal Standard. I’ve never had a piece that didn’t feel like it had been meticulously considered from fit to fabric. If you want to invest in staples that will last you years and have timeless cuts, Universal Standard clothing is right for you.
You can check out my other brand reviews here. Until next time, here goes nothing.
