As a career fashion writer covering all things retail and ecommerce, I constantly have my radar out for brands serving overlooked audiences. The plus-size market has boomed in recent years, but shoppers in my community still struggle to find fashionable, high-quality clothing specifically tailored to our curves and proportions.
Mainstream brands claim to embrace body positivity with extended sizes, yet their selections consistently disappoint in terms of fit, style and fabric. Even more frustrating? Condescending attitudes from slimmer associates assuming we want to hide our bodies under shapeless sacks.
So when I first discovered 11 Honore back in 2017, it gave me hope. Finally, a company laser-focused on understanding our plus-size needs for a flawless custom fit. Over the past 5 years, I’ve probably ordered at least 50+ items from casual dresses to career pantsuits to formal gowns.
As an experienced 11 Honore customer, I’m breaking down every aspect of this brand in an honest 2500+ word review. Consider me your trusty personal shopping friend! I’ll highlight what they do exceptionally, where they still miss the mark, and how they compare to alternatives.
Let’s dive in…
Why Plus-Size Shoppers Need Better Options
- The average American woman now wears between a size 16-18
- Yet only 21% of apparel sold in the US caters to plus-sizes
- 80% report feeling frustrated with lack of fashionable plus-size clothes
- Less than 15% of the $93 billion spent on high-end fashion applies to plus-sizes
With over 100 million plus-size women nationwide, why does our $32.5 billion market get ignored? It comes down to the extra effort required from design to production. But ignoring us means leaving money on the table.
Forward-thinking brands like 11 Honore give me faith things can improve…
Finally, Plus Sizes Done Right! My 11 Honore Origin Story
Back when 11 Honore arrived on the scene in 2017, options felt slim for sizes 12+. I had no clue who founded this mysterious company with its odd European numeric name. But I took a chance on one of their floral wrap dresses.
When it arrived fitting like an absolute dream, I realized two industry veterans stood behind the brand:
Founder Patrick Herning brought tech and digital expertise from his ecommerce agency working with major retailers like Bloomingdales. He partnered with Kathryn Retzer, whose editorial background includes 7 years as Beauty Director at Allure magazine.
Together they secured $2 million in funding from Nordstrom and others to launch direct-to-consumer 11 Honore as an upmarket destination for “plus-sizes designed right.”
The name itself celebrates the average American woman falling between a size 12-24. In European sizing, that translates to 42-54 which they rounded to a symbolic 11 Honore.
With investment backing and expertise covered, they developed proprietary fit technology collecting 60,000+ data points on real women’s bodies. That deep dimension insight lets them cut patterns perfectly scaled to curves for sublime comfort.
But enough origin story, let’s get into the clothes!
Inside My 11 Honore Wardrobe: Favorite Pieces
Obviously no single brand can serve all needs for all occasions. Over the years, I’ve learned 11 Honore shines brightest for:
- Everyday contemporary staples in elevated fabrics
- Polished and trend-right workwear essentials
- Special occasion dresses with fine detailing
Their in-house label focuses on affordable basics you’ll love living in, while premium designer collabs offer all the elegance I crave for weddings, events and vacations.
Let me showcase a few favorites currently in my closet rotation…
Charlie Wide Leg Jumpsuit
My perfect pairing for summer office meetings, this sage utility jumpsuit looks so sharp with white sneakers or metallic strappy sandals. I adore the adjustable waist ties and open strappy back elevating the wide leg silhouette. It even has pockets!
I reach for this constantly as an alternative to sundresses. The cotton twill fabrication somehow feels perfectly breathable yet crisp. Effortless polish at its finest!
Price: $168
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Camilla Faux Wrap Maxi
Talk about va-va-voom drama! This sweeping gala-worthy gown makes me feel like a complete screen siren. I channel Old Hollywood glam to the max in this figure-skimming Matte Jersey stunner. The surplice neckline is so elegant and alluring at once.
I always get compliments whenever I debut this at fancy events or our annual office holiday party. Finding formalwear cut just right for curves can be impossible, so this ankle-grazing showstopper is worth every penny.
Price: $298
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Charlie Bubble Top
Who says basics have to be boring? This playful puff sleeve peplum top instantly livens up any outfit. The shoulder details slim your upper half while the peplum ruffles balance out hips. I love how it looks dressed up with tailored pants or down with distressed denim.
It‘s the perfect flirty femininity I crave from my staples. Great quality cotton lawn fabric that feels substantial, yet light enough for our humid midwest summers. Runs very TTS if you check the size chart.
Price: $98
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Clearly I‘m just scratching the surface, but you get the idea! Now onto the finer details of being an 11 Honore devotee…
Nitty Gritty Details: Cost, Shipping, Returns & More
Before you can shop with confidence, it’s critical to understand exactly what you’re getting into. Here’s my real talk overview of pricing, sizing, delivery, returns and anything else you’re wondering about:
The (Higher) Price You Pay
There’s no sidestepping the fact that 11 Honore sits at a luxury price point. As a premium contemporary label, most pieces range from about $100 up to $400. The materials, construction and inclusive sizing do add expense compared to mass fast fashion.
I don’t mind investing more for signature pieces that fit impeccably season over season, but I know cost remains a barrier for many. That said, discounts and financing options help increase accessibility if you budget strategically.
Compared to similar quality plus-size pieces at Saks, Nordstrom, or independent boutiques, 11 Honore feels aligned value-wise.
Sizing That (Actually) Fits
Finding your perfect size match might normally feel likeguesswork. Not so with 11 Honore’s ultra-detailed system spanning sizes 12-28 (X-4X). Their size chart compiles extensive measurement data like sleeve lengths and hip circumferences for precision.
You also fill out a Style Profile with height, weight and fit preferences. This lets their algorithm serve up better personalized recommendations tailored to your body type.
After years shopping here, I finally feel free from consistently second guessing if something will fit. Plus you can reach out directly for guidance as needed.
Shipping, Returns & Exchanges
11 Honore offers free standard shipping in the U.S. with delivery averaging 5-7 business days. I’m in Ohio and typically see my orders arrive in under a week.
You can also pay extra for expedited 2-day ($15) or next day delivery ($50) if you need something ASAP for an occasion.
Their return policy permits 30 days to send anything back for a refund as long as it’s in original condition. You do have to cover the $10 return shipping label fee yourself which is fair. I’ve had to exchange a couple items over the years, and customer service handled quickly without hassle.
One downside I’ve noticed is additional unexpected taxes and import fees for my Canadian friends ordering – so keep that in mind!
Can I Get a Discount??
As much as I wish everyday felt like Black Friday, discounts are fairly limited beyond the standard 15% off your first order when you sign up for emails.
Occasional flash sales do pop up, so that mailing list helps you grab deep deals fast. I also seem to get special coupon codes during the holidays, though last year‘s felt stingier with only 10% off.
I know cost concerns keep some shoppers away. The brand tries addressing that through AfterPay and Klarna financing options to split costs into 4 interest-free installments.
I still think a loyalty or referral program would be amazing. Especially for devoted customers like myself who easily spend thousands per year! But maybe I‘m dreaming…
How 11 Honore Compares to Similar Brands
I‘ve name dropped competitors a few times, but you‘re probably still wondering exactly how 11 Honore stacks up. As a seasoned plus-size shopper, I‘ve scoped options across categories and price points.
Let‘s pit 11 Honore against 5 key contenders:
11 Honore vs. ELOQUII
The #1 question I get asked is how these two fare against each other. Known for trend-focused fashion, ELOQUII first wins on affordability thanks to higher price sensitivity.
But 11 Honore prevails on materials and quality construction for investment wardrobe essentials. ELOQUII also primarily uses viscose and poly blends, while you‘ll see more natural fiber options from 11 Honore.
ELOQUII sizes reach 28, while 11 Honore goes up to 32. Beyond the extended range, ELOQUII varies more in consistency fit wise.
For budget fast fashion, go ELOQUII. But 11 Honore makes sense splurging for signature occasion pieces and luxe basics to elevate your aesthetic.
11 Honore vs. Premme
If you crave bold styles from plus bloggers and influencers but still care about quality, Premme is a top contender. This direct-to-consumer line offers tons of vibrant prints, mixed textures and feminine details targeting the younger demographic I often dress for work.
I give Premme the edge for its cool hunter collaborations and capsule drops. But the sizing stops at 24 compared to 11 Honore’s 32 cap. For professional polish, 11 Honore wins for tailoring and construction.
11 Honore vs. Universal Standard
Universal Standard gives 11 Honore stiff competition as industry leaders in fit technology for sizes up to 40. If you want minimalist essentials in neutral hues, I‘d be hard pressed to pick a winner.
Universal Standard adds more lounge and activewear to its mix compared to 11 Honore‘s concentration of premium occasion-wear. Prices feel on par, materials look comparable quality at first glance.
One standout difference: Universal Standard holds B-Corp sustainability certification for its supply chain and transparent practices. So give them an edge for ethical production.
I’d say Universal Standard works better for versatile wardrobe basics you want to mix and match, while 11 Honore excels when dressing for cocktails or weddings.
11 Honore vs. Good American
Thanks to founder Emma Grede’s expertise broadening the denim market for all bodies, Good American initially launched with a focus on flawlessly fitted jeans up to size 4X.
They’ve since expanded into lifestyle categories from workout-ready activewear to swimsuits and even shoes. With IMPLIED’s marketing savvy and Klarna financing partnership making the brand more accessible to younger audiences, I‘d pick Good American first for casual weekend wear and going out looks.
While selection has improved, 11 Honore still outpaces Good American for occasion dressing and tailored pieces. But for the girl on the go needing a perfect pair of jeans, Good American has that 4-way stretch magic!
11 Honore vs. Marina Rinaldi
Historically known as one of the OG contemporary plus size brands launched in the 80‘s, Marina Rinaldi still offers that timeless, European flair. The quality craftsmanship shows through on statement outerwear pieces and luxe knits.
Marina Rinaldi feels best suited for someone with elevated tastes craving imported Italian wool coats and skirts in a curved silhouette. The sizing tops out at 22-24, with less technology informing the precise fit. There is some overlap style-wise with 11 Honore on formal gowns and polished button downs.
Trend-focused shoppers and younger audiences might find Marina Rinaldi too mature. For traditional sophistication though, Marina Rinaldi holds its own against 11 Honore – especially for workwear staples.
Am I Keeping 11 Honore In My Cart?
We‘ve covered a lot of ground on my 11 Honore experiences these past few years! So what‘s the verdict – will I remain a loyal long term customer?
My Absolute Favorite Perks
🌟 Exquisite fabrics and construction quality
🌟 Consistently flawless size chart accuracy
🌟 Gorgeous luxe dresses for special events
🌟 Easy exchanges and returns when needed
Where They Still Miss the Mark:
🌗 Pricing remains exclusionary for many budgets
🌗 Lacking clear sizing for some designer collabs
🌗 Sales and discount codes too infrequent
🌗 Continued website tech glitches
If I‘m investing in signature career staples or splurging on vacation looks, 11 Honore stays top of mind. The tailored fit through hip and thigh never wavers, even as styles change seasonally. For everyday versatile separates, I tend to browse brands like Universal Standard first.
But when I need chic cocktail attire or a sensational gown embracing my shape? 11 Honore always delivers. Those show stopping special pieces earn their price tag in comfort, confidence and compliments.
So while the cost prohibits making them my sole go-to, 11 Honore secured a forever spot in my closet for statement styles I‘ll treasure for years.
TLDR: Key Takeaways from My In-Depth 11 Honore Review
Top Pros
- Ultra precise fit technology cuts for curves
- Gorgeous elevated fabrics and quality
- Flawless formalwear and occasionwear
- Great for contemporary career staples
- Extended size range up to 32
Where It Falls Short
- Runs higher price point/luxury positing
- Limited discounts or sale options
- Some sizing consistency issues
- Website functionality can glitch
If you appreciate expert construction tailoring to properly fit and flatter your body, I cannot recommend 11 Honore enough. For curvier shoppers tired of shapeless tents passing as plus-size "fashion", their precise approach finally does us right.
Now head to 11honore.com to find your perfect fit! Please drop any other questions below – I love helping fellow plus size fashionistas. Happy shopping!
