Plus-Size Fashion Exploration: A Size 18 Fashion Blogger Tests Doen's Top Gowns and Latest Fashionable Picks

Doen, a brand founded by sisters Margaret and Katherine Kleveland in 2015, continues to make waves in the fashion industry with its latest collection. Based in Santa Barbara, California, the brand is known for its soft, romantic, and pastoral aesthetic, which is evident in its latest offerings.

The Pascual Jacket, inspired by 1940s barn jackets, is a standout piece. Crafted from garment-dyed cotton, the relaxed, boxy design accommodates up to a size 24 frame. The jacket's cotton fabric has a 'lived-in' feel, making it comfortable and versatile for various outfits.

The brand's commitment to size inclusivity is also evident in its clothing. Plus size sizes typically begin at about size 44 (EU) or XL, and go up to size 60 or more for women. For bras, plus size ranges from band sizes 85 to 135 with cups from C to G or beyond. Specialised online shops like Happy-Size.de offer a wide range of plus size clothing, while physical stores like Hirmer Big & Tall in Munich cater to plus size men.

One of Doen's best-sellers, the Mallory Dress, is another example of the brand's size inclusivity. Made from 100% cotton poplin, the dress features a smock bodice that stretches softly across the body. The Mallory Dress is unexpectedly enhancing, shaping and framing without overwhelming, and the fit runs a touch generous, accommodating sizes above a UK 18.

The Ischia Dress, a romantic, vintage-inspired piece made from a blend of organic cotton and viscose, is another size-inclusive offering. With double-puffed sleeves, a scoop neckline with petite ruffles, and an adjustable waist tie, the dress is very generous with its fit and is the most size-inclusive piece tried, accommodating up to a UK size 26.

The Idella Top, crafted from lightweight silk satin, is intentionally oversized and suitable for those over a size 18 to wear, making it ideal for layering or wearing solo. The top features a relaxed silhouette with short puffed sleeves and a plunging V-neckline, adorned with delicate lace trim.

The Sebastiane Skirt, made from organic cotton poplin, features a romantic, Edwardian-inspired A-line shape with a scallop eyelet hem. For cooler months, the skirt can be paired with a snug turtleneck, leather jacket, or knee-high boots.

The Melina Dress, a blend of 55% silk and 45% viscose, has a vintage charm with modern elegance. The Lisa Pant, cut from 100% cotton, has an exceptionally high rise, sitting well above the natural waist, drawing the eye upward and creating an unmistakably cinched shape.

Celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Dakota Johnson, Kaia Gerber, Selena Gomez, and Kylie Jenner have been spotted wearing Doen's signature pieces, further solidifying the brand's reputation.

The Julienne Blouse, made from an airy cotton-silk voile, is versatile, easy to wear, and easy to style. The Idella Top will be available online on August 26th and is expected to sell out quickly.

Doen's pieces generally are quite affordable, making them accessible to a wide audience. With its commitment to size inclusivity and its soft, romantic, and pastoral aesthetic, Doen continues to be a brand worth watching in the fashion industry.