We are building a Fit Library and we need your help

At Gertrude & Loom, we believe plus-size bodies deserve clothing that fits as they are, not as traditional sizing systems assume they should be. Too often, garments are simply graded up from smaller sizes, resulting in sleeves that are too tight, busts that don't fit, rises that are too short, and proportions that don't reflect the incredible diversity of plus-size bodies.

We're building our range differently. By working on real bodies to understand the fit challenges, we can create garments that are more comfortable, more flattering, and thoughtfully designed for bodies that have long been overlooked by mainstream fashion.

Our Fit Library is a confidential database of measurements, body proportions and fit feedback and photos of real plus-sized bodies. It helps us design clothing that better reflects the diversity of the human body and continually improve the fit of every Gertrude & Loom garment.

We're looking for fit models to fit-test the Gertrude & Loom range

We are also looking for fit models. And are particularly interested in hearing from those whose bodies are often overlooked by traditional sizing, including those with fuller upper arms, larger busts, apple shapes, varying heights, pear shapes with bigger bellies, and bottoms. 

What's involved?

We may ask you to come for an in-person fit session, if you live in Newcastle or Sydney. You'll receive a payment for this. 

Or, we may ask you to photograph yourself in the garment, front, back side and detail areas and then join us on a Zoom call. You'll be gifted the item of clothing you are helping us fit-test. 

Or we may just ask you to fill out a survey to help us better understand common fit problems. You'll receive a discount voucher to spend at the store.

Any information you supply us with will become part of our Fit Library so we can draw on those insights to design clothes that resolve fit-issues for plus-sized bodies. 

Next steps

If you'd like to work with us to help define the Gertrude & Loom range and build our Fit Library please email us at hello@gertrudeandloom.com.au

Indicate whether you are wanting to be a fit model, or just available to respond to a survey. 

If you would like to be a fit model or contribute to the Fit Library, you'll need to send us full length front, back and side photos. These photos help us understand proportions and fit challenges across different body shapes. Wear something that allows us to see the natural shape of your body, tights and a close fitted t-shirt. Your face does not need to appear in any images, or it can be blurred. Photos and measurements will only be used for garment development and will not be published or shared.

We need the following measurements: 

• Waist: Measure around your natural waist, which is the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button. 
• Seated waist: Sit down and measure again. 
• Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, keeping the tape level all the way around.
• Upper arm: Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm (bicep) with your arm relaxed by your side. This is especially important for plus-size fit testing because sleeve fit is often an issue.
• Bust: measure across the fullest part of your bust
• Thigh: Measure around the fullest part of one thigh, usually a few centimetres below the crotch.
• Calf: Measure the fullest part of one calf. 
• Crotch length (body rise): Wearing a pair of pants that sit just above your belly button, measure from the centre front waistband, through your legs and up to the centre back waistband.
• Height: Head to toe, and belly button to toe. 
  

Your information will be used through the sampling stage for the development of the Gertrude & Loom collection. 

Many thanks, 

Gertrude & Loom