This tragic outfit is why I taught myself to sew and why I’m prioritizing a goal to start a clothing line for tall women. Four years ago I did this photoshoot to celebrate a successful year for Runaway Apricot and create an image to take my business to the next level with more speaking engagements, press and live classes. I wanted the patterns and colors of my portrait to reflect my personality and the flavor of my spice-infused cooking. But clothes at the store fit terribly like this and make me feel like I’m misshapen. And apparel companies don’t make interesting and artistic clothes for their limited tall lines, available online only. And if the clothes in the stores don’t fit, why should I invest in renting designer clothes that aren’t authentic to my wardrobe or budget?
There needs to be more shopping options for tall women. Tall women want to wear color, prints and patterns. We too want options for sustainable fashion. And while we’re out here enduring the constant stares and questions about our height that continue to bully us even as adults, we don’t want to be belittled by brands that claim to be inclusive, but refuse to lengthen their size ranges as they widen.
I commend the women that are already working to answer the call:
I believe there needs to be more – tall womenswear brands for all of the aesthetics, lifestyles, budgets, and passions of tall girls and women. Since companies choose to relegate us to a forgotten subcategory on their website while exploiting us to model for their promotions, we need more of our own brands.
So that’s what I’m passionate about now as I transition in my career. For years I’ve grown my expertise in email marketing and e-commerce optimization while working with 50+ companies to help them achieve their goals. Now, I’m prioritizing the experience, network, and capital I need to build a business of making tall women like me feel supported and beautiful so we can be more confident in our lives.
I invite all of the collaboration, advice, support, connections and resources.
And now wait is over! I invite you to follow Robyn Bandele on Instagram and Facebook.
Stacey
I also want to start a tall women’s clothing line. I am so frustrated by the lack of options. Can we help one another?
Robyn Andrea
StaceyYes, let’s chat! I would love to learn about your story and find a way to collaborate.
kace
this brought tears to my eyes. thanks for making a space for us (i often feel so small even at 6’1″; precisely for the reasons you stated).
Robyn Andrea
kace<3 <3 I see you, sis. I'm so happy my message connected with you.
Keisha R
I googled, “How to start a clothing line for tall women”, and this is the first thing I opened. I am 100% connecting with your drive. I am right at 6ft tall and I am woman who loves fashion and style and femininity. I also wear a 12 to 13 sized shoe (not wide either). I find it so hard to find classy, flirty, sophisticated options that fit well and are affordable. I know there are other women like me out there.
Robyn Andrea
Keisha RAww, I’m so happy you’ve found me/my blog. There are absolutely more of us out there who want the sophisticated style aesthetic in clothes that fit. Let’s keep in touch!
Amanda
I’m so excited for this. As all the other commenters, I also have found it extremely difficult to find clothing that fits, is sustainably and fair made, and has a style I like. I’m 5’10 and have a size 12. I’ve been trying in vain for months to find a few pairs of ethically made long pants that don’t leave my ankles cold and naked. In that search I came across your website. I love you style! I really hope you can launch your brand soon and look forward to it!
Robyn Andrea
AmandaYess!! I’ve pushed the launch date back because of Covid but your note definitely keeps me energized for developing the brand π
Amanda Grittner
Robyn AndreaHappy to hear that! It must be a big challenge to start this in these times. I’m sure you’ll do it and wish you lots of enegery!
Dakota Pilcher
I also want to develop a clothing business for tall women. The lack of options is driving me insane. Can we help one another?
Ayesha
I am also hoping looking to start a Tall clothing range in the UK, Over the years I have found it so frustrating trying to find clothes that fit so I am really excited and hopeful that I can create something for tall women to feel sexy and stylish in.