Downing Studio: Designing A Plus Size Collection

“Everyone should have access to this look. So we designed it ourselves.” – Senior Merchandising Manager at Dia&Co

Pretty silhouettes that go from work days to road trips and are guaranteed to be favorites for long brunches with the girls. That was the inspiration behind the latest Downing Studio collection for fall 2020. As an exclusive Dia brand—yes, you’ll only find it here—we co-design each collection with our partners to bring the sophisticated, feminine vibes of Downing Studio to life. 

The story behind the line was about creating something that didn’t exist in the plus size market. Gayle Farhadian, our Senior Merchandising Manager and brains behind Downing Studio, had searched high and low for plus size lines that represented this easy, romantic aesthetic. 

Inspiration from our mood board for the collection.

 “I couldn’t find anything out there that was feminine and vintage-inspired, but with updated silhouettes that were easy to wear. It made no sense that there are so many options like this for straight sizes,” she said. “Everyone should have access to this look. So we designed it ourselves.”

This collection was concepted as a capsule of versatile styles that could easily become part of an everyday wardrobe. The snakeskin and floral print sets work together or pair back to graphic tees and peasant tops. The midi dress silhouette is a staff favorite because it can go from casual to dressy with a simple change of shoes. Like magic. 

After all, whatever ease we can find these days is welcome, right? Getting dressed should spark joy and is one thing we can control and feel good about. The idea of “be good, do good,” on the graphic tee is a daily reminder and pretty much sums up this year’s #2020goals. 

We believe a life well-lived is about romance, optimism and ease. And there’s no better way to capture that attitude than by dressing for it.