How To Find Quality Activewear for Fuller Busts
- Sep 1, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 27
Embrago Founder Karen Poirier Talks with Elizabeth Joy of @ConsciousStyle
Understanding Quality in Fashion
One of the key elements of slow fashion is quality. We often discuss the importance of quality in this space. However, just like the term "sustainable," quality can have many interpretations. This can lead to confusion, especially with the prevalence of greenwashing.
Quality isn't simply about price or brand name. It's a complex concept that involves numerous decisions made during the design and production processes. Defining and identifying quality can be challenging.
That's why I turned to the professionals. Who better to ask about quality than those who design and produce garments? I reached out to our Conscious Fashion Collective, a community of fashion designers, product developers, and brand founders with decades of experience. I asked them: What is quality? How can we identify it? What do you wish shoppers knew about quality?
Nine professionals responded, sharing insights across various categories, including intimate apparel, denim, activewear, sweaters, dresses, next-gen materials, and even latex. Let’s dive into their wisdom!
Meet Karen Poirier | Embrago
Karen is the founder of Embrago (pronounced em-BRA-go), an activewear brand designed for fuller busts, midsize, plus-size, and menopausal bodies.
Indicators of True Quality in Activewear
When it comes to activewear, the true indicators of quality are its fabric and construction. It's crucial to evaluate how well a garment supports you without restricting your ability to breathe and move. Activewear should be assessed based on a broader range of features.
Fabrics: Most mainstream activewear is made from synthetic, chemically-treated fabrics. This is based on the misconception that seamless designs and moisture-wicking materials are inherently better. However, this isn't always the case!
Synthetic fabrics can vary in quality. Generally, they aren't breathable and may expose you to toxins. They can irritate the skin and trap odor-causing bacteria.
Natural Fabrics: While not common in activewear, natural fabrics have distinct advantages. For instance, cotton and wool are naturally odor-resistant and durable. They can be worn multiple times while sweating without needing a wash. Additionally, there are naturally anti-microbial fibers available.
Construction: For many women, especially in the U.S. where the average size is 14 and the average bra size is 34DD, seamless construction often fails to provide the necessary support. In fact, it can be uncomfortable.
Without seams, the so-called "built-in support" in most activewear relies on tight compression around the ribcage or constrictive chest bands. For women with curves, remember: seams are your friend.
Design Decisions Impacting Longevity
Most mainstream and fast fashion brands focus on selling “more and new.” They prefer simpler designs, standard scaling, and easy construction. This often results in fewer pattern pieces, fewer seams, and less technical design.
Fit and Accommodation: This approach translates to less attention to fit, especially for curves. Larger tolerances in production can lead to inconsistent sizing, making it harder for individuals to find the right fit.
How to Examine Activewear for Quality
If I were to educate a consumer on how to assess activewear quality, I would start with the fabric content. Avoid anything that's 100% synthetic or that claims performance based on chemicals or coatings. If it feels like a plastic bag or a raincoat, steer clear!
With natural fibers, consider the weight and quality of the fabric. The "hand feel" is essential. Generally, the fabric should feel strong, smooth, and consistent—not rough, hard, scratchy, or paper-like.
Next, turn the garment inside out. Look for covered seams or flatlock seams. Check if the edges are cut precisely and cleanly. Ensure the seams are straight and symmetrical.
Run your fingers over the threads of the seams. They should feel smooth, not rough or inconsistent.
Check the Bust Support: Are the cups seamed to shape and support? Or is the front bust panel a single piece of fabric? A single piece can lead to a uniboob! Be wary of foam cups or inserts and elastic bands under the bust. These can cause extra sweating, friction, chafing, and discomfort.
If there are underwires, they should not rest on your breast tissue. They need to be securely covered with extra padding at the ends to avoid poking or break-through.
Looking for guidance on what styles would work best for you? Read more in Best Yoga Tops for a Big Bust (What Actually Works).
