Not that long ago, the gorgeous, comfortable and timeless pieces I wanted for my wardrobe weren’t size-accessible. Luckily, things are (albeit slowly) getting better. If you know me IRL or follow me on Instagram (@gabrielle.lisa.collard), you won’t be the least bit surprised to learn that Oddbird Co. has become my go-to for sourcing pieces for what is now my “unofficial uniform.” I love this company to bits for many reasons: It’s family owned and run, and every piece it makes is comfortable—and can be worn anywhere, anytime—but what tops my list is its inclusivity values, versatility and commitment to sustainability. Little details get extra points too, like free alterations and compli- mentary lifetime repairs. We spoke with Los Angeles-based founder Ceren Alkaç-Lee about her love for the storied textiles of her native Turkey, her creative process and the company’s decision to offer sizes XS to 5X.

How did Oddbird get started?

“After I gave birth to my second child, in 2015, I went back to Turkey to visit loved ones in the city of Izmir, where I used to spend summers as a kid. During the trip, I met a lot of textile artisans who’d been continuing Turkish traditions for generations. So, creating this brand came from wanting to showcase, honour and protect their one-of-a-kind craft—which is being threatened by fast fashion—while also respecting our planet. That’s how I started designing a small collection of affordable, sustainable and ethically produced garments—and how Oddbird Company was born.”

What is your approach to creating clothing?

“Oddbird is a seasonless brand, so our core collection stays basically the same year-round. Because we’re a small business with high environmental standards, this is the best approach for us. Chasing trends creates a huge amount of waste, both in terms of resources and fabric, and we want to avoid that. When I sit down to create a silhouette, I ask myself three questions: Will I be wearing this piece often? Does it work on different body types? And how many different ways can I wear it? The third question is the most fun for me. I love thinking up new ways to rock a garment: wearing a dress five different ways, turning a super-comfy housedress into a jacket or exploring all the things a towel can be. Each of our pieces is designed for sleeping in, eating in, breastfeeding in, running errands in and even working in. Not to brag, but I think we’ve pulled it off!”

It’s obviously important to oddbird to make clothing that’s accessible. Why have you chosen to offer such a wide range of sizes?

“Committing to providing such a breadth of sizes is the best decision we ever made. I’m shocked that so few brands do the same. It’s not difficult, and if [other brands in] the industry claim the contrary, that’s unfortunate. Since sustainable brands produce items in smaller batches, we have an opportunity to serve a more diverse community. It’s such a liberating business model! It’s an honour and a privilege for us to share the culture, heritage and tradition of Turkish textiles with so many people of all shapes and sizes.” 

Read more:
Inclusive Fashion: 15 Plus Size Brands We Love
8 Actually Sustainable Fashion Brands to Shop
Earth Month