Category:

Plus Size Fashion

Hi there! – Chardline Chanel

by Lina Clémence May 31, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Wow, December 2023, huh? It feels like ages and a lifetime of change since then. Typically, I’d start with an apology for being MIA, but this past year has been all about unlearning that habit—turns out, I’ve been apologizing for simply existing, and it’s time that stopped. The horoscopes for 2024 promised all good things for someone with an 8 path number and a Scorpio like me—talk about high expectations! But let’s just say the universe had its own “lit” curriculum in mind. This year has been one heck of a teacher in disciplines I didn’t even know I needed. For instance, I’ve realized I don’t have a disciplined bone in my body. Does anyone know where I can get one?

Among the revelations, one tough pill to swallow has been my fears about motherhood. I adore my friends’ kids—I’m the cool auntie, after all—but seeing the village it takes sometimes makes me wonder, who’ll be there when I’m the one in need?

Then there’s the big move with my partner, which was supposed to be our step towards a planned future—saving, planning expenses, dreaming up our parenthood chapter. Plot twist: none of that happened. Our lives took unexpected turns; I found myself grappling with the nuances of a relationship where shared dreams started to feel more like my solo script. The financial partnership we envisioned turned into a one-woman show trying to balance the books.

But hey, life’s still lit. Despite the new guest (hello, arthritis in my ankle), losing weight has been a silver lining. I’ve gone from 366 to 239 pounds, reducing knee pressure by hundreds of pounds per step! Though, living with a body that’s drastically different is a day-by-day learning curve. Still, life insists on being lit, even when it’s heavy.

This summer was a whirlwind of slime on furniture (courtesy of my temporary squad of four under eight), camp drop-offs, and nightly routines. And amidst that chaos, we celebrated my grandfather’s 100th birthday—a beautiful milestone. Yet, life threw its curveballs with sudden goodbyes too painful to digest: my cousin Dada, vibrant and full of life, died in a tragic accident that still feels surreal. Shortly after, Tiffany Harris, an incredible influencer and beacon of strength, lost her battle with colon cancer—a reminder of my own fears as someone with severe colon issues. Then came the news about Melvin Booker, my high school confidant, who succumbed to life, leaving us way too soon.

Here I am in October 2024, riding through waves of uncertainty but surprisingly grounded. My upcoming birthday has me counting blessings like never before: a pivot in my career, improved health, mental clarity, a new puppy named Yoko, and tools that help keep my executive functioning on track. Life’s lit, and though the sadness isn’t shy, I’m navigating through a reality that’s clearer yet harder to define.

I’m learning to tune out the pessimism and noise, focusing on what fills the glass—at least to halfway. While I can’t promise more frequent updates, I want to deeply thank you for your love and support through my highs and lows. Here’s to finding more light, more clarity, and, hopefully, more reasons to celebrate. Catch you on the flip side!

To everyone reading this, searching for your own spark in the shadows—keep looking. Even on the darkest days, there’s something lit waiting to be discovered. It might be a small win, a moment of joy, or a lesson that shapes your tomorrow. Embrace it, celebrate it, and let it light your way. We’re all in this together, finding our paths, lighting up as we go. See you soon, and remember, look for the LIT in your life!

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May 31, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Fashion Activism – The Chief of Style

by Lina Clémence May 31, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Fashion is often dismissed as superficial or frivolous—but in reality, it has always been a powerful form of self-expression and resistance. From traditional regalia worn proudly in protest to slogan tees on the runway, fashion can speak louder than words. In a world that constantly tries to define and confine us, choosing what we wear can be a radical act of reclaiming identity, asserting agency, and building solidarity.

Fashion as Cultural Resistance

For Indigenous, Black, queer, and other marginalized communities, fashion has long been used to preserve culture and challenge colonization. Traditional garments, beadwork, hairstyles, and accessories are not just aesthetic—they are political. They carry ancestral knowledge, connection, and pride. Wearing them unapologetically in modern spaces becomes an act of resistance against erasure.

Whether it’s ribbon skirts at a rally or braided hair at a boardroom table, fashion tells a story of resilience.

Amy Stretten, The Chief of Style, styled this look on a mannequin to bring some visual storytelling to my booth at the NDN Flea Market at The Chapter House LA. The shirt features a powerful political message: Free Leonard Peltier. — This mannequin look brought visual storytelling to my booth at the NDN Flea Market at The Chapter House LA—centered around a bold statement tee calling for the freedom of Leonard Peltier. (Who is now free—*Yay!*)

The Rise of Statement Pieces

Fashion activism has also become more overt in recent years. Think protest fashion: jackets that say “I am not your mascot,” pins that support reproductive rights, or collections inspired by environmental justice. Statement pieces bring attention to causes while also allowing the wearer to align their values with their style.

Designers and brands are increasingly using their platforms to amplify messages of equity, sustainability, and justice. But it’s not just about what the runway says—it’s about what we choose to wear in our everyday lives.

Bold, fashion-forward individual wearing a statement outfit at a cultural event, expressing identity and activism through style. — THUNDERVOICE HAT CO.
RED MOUNTAIN JACKET 24
SALE PRICE $795.00

The Power of Personal Style

Fashion is personal, and how we present ourselves can shape the way we experience the world. For those of us who live at the intersection of multiple identities, fashion becomes a way to assert visibility and authenticity.

Dressing in a way that honors who you are—whether that means mixing vintage with Native-made, rocking bold prints, or refusing to shrink yourself to fit a mold—is inherently political. It challenges the norms that tell us to be quiet, to blend in, or to make ourselves more palatable. Honoring our culture and expressing our gender go hand in hand—they’re both sacred truths of who we are.

Gorgeous Native American beaded platform boots by Jamie Okuma — LOUBOUTIN’S BEADED BY JAMIE OKUMA
CUSTOM PLATFORM HEELED ANKLE BOOTIES

Wear Your Truth

Activism doesn’t always have to look like marching in the streets. Sometimes, it looks like getting dressed in the morning with intention. Choosing to support Indigenous designers. Choosing slow fashion over fast. Choosing to adorn yourself with joy, pride, and power.

Fashion can be armor. It can be protest. It can be a love letter to your ancestors and a vision for the future.

So the next time someone calls fashion shallow, remind them: What we wear is never just about clothes. It’s about culture, courage, and consciousness.

Ready to take up space with your style? Start by exploring Native-owned fashion brands, vintage treasures, and statement pieces that reflect your values.

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May 31, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

One Plus Size Outfit, Three Ways

by Lina Clémence May 31, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

When it comes to my personal style, I’m all about ease and versatility. My go-to? A classic co-ord set that I can mix and match for endless looks! This NYFW, I hosted an event for Naturalizer– we spoke a lot about inclusivity and cultivating confidence in women (my favorite things!). For the occasion, I rocked monochromatic look with a pom pom co-ord set, I love knowing this outfit will get lots of wear because I can mix and match its pieces with jeans, a denim top, or my new favorite fall boots for three different chic outfits.

Want to refresh your fall wardrobe? Grab some fabulous fall boots, rotate them with your co-ord set, and you’re ready to slay all season long! Keep scrolling and I’ll show you how!

For reference my sizes are: Height: 5’10, Top: size 14, Bottom: size 18, Shoe: 11 wide.

For this outfit you will need:

If you’d like to mix and match this set to create more outfits, you will need:

Let’s talk about these booties real quick— Naturalizer is giving us everything this season with their extra-wide fit, so you know my size 11 wide feet are comfy and stylish all day long. These white kitten heel booties are an absolute must-have! I got a size 11 EXTRA WIDE to give room for thick winter socks.

Now, this pom pom sweater set? Stretchy, cozy, and so fun! I got the biggest size available, the XL/XXL, But let me give you a tip—while the waistband on this skirt doesn’t slide over my hips from below (thanks, size 18 curves), popping it on over my head works perfectly. #TallGirlHack for all my 5’10+ stallions out there— if the skirt feels to short, a pair of tights will give you a bit of modesty

#NYFW vibes in full swing, and we’re officially ready for sweater weather!

All my love,

CeCe

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May 31, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Bourbon, Brunch & Big Plans: Ringing in the New Year at Le Méridien Washington, D.C., The Madison!

by Lina Clémence May 31, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Ever feel like you need a break from your day-to-day routine but don’t want the stress (or expense) of a full-blown vacation? That’s where a staycation comes in. In this mini-review, I’ll spill the details on my laid-back getaway at Le Méridien DC—covering everything from cozy rooms and great cocktails to nearby attractions like Balian Springs. Think easy, local adventure without a big travel budget or lost baggage drama. Perfect for recharging and feeling like you’ve actually been on vacation—no passport required.

So, I decided to kick off 2024 with a low-key staycation at Le Méridien DC (also known as The Madison Hotel). Let me tell you—it was exactly the energy boost I needed after the holiday madness. The Madison Room was equal parts cozy and classy, and I swear the bed had a magnet in it because I never wanted to leave.

The décor leaned modern but with enough warmth in the color scheme to make it feel inviting rather than clinical. I especially loved the oversized windows that let in a ton of natural light—perfect for lazy mornings or snapping a few “look-at-me-having-a-staycation” photos.

The bathroom was sleek and stocked with all the little extras you never remember to bring, like fancy soaps and lotions. Overall, it struck the perfect balance between being stylish enough for an Instagram moment and homey enough to lounge around in your pajamas all day without feeling out of place.

Lady Madison: The Real MVP

If you ever stay here, you’ve got to swing by Lady Madison, the hotel’s restaurant and lounge. It has this sweet cocktail bar vibe that feels fun and chill rather than stiff or stuffy. The bartender, Abdul, worked some serious magic with bourbon, gin, and espresso martinis which definitely made our New Year planning sessions more…enjoyable. One night, we skipped going out altogether because dinner at Lady Madison sounded way too good—and it was. Think modern Mediterranean flavors with a dash of DC flair. Trust me, you’ll want to try everything. I would recommend their Cesar Salad (with actual anchovies), Steak Frites, Crisp Shrimp and Calamari, and Raspberry & Vanilla Cheesecake.

Steak Frites from Lady Madison at Le Meredien DC

Flounder from from Lady Madison at Le Meredien DC

Shrimp and Calamri from Lady Madison at Le Meredien DC

Cesar Salad from Lady Madison at Le Meredien DC

Location, Location, Location

Le Méridien Madison is right in downtown DC, which makes it super easy to explore the city on foot or by Metro. We were a quick walk away from the National Museum of African American History and Culture, White House, the National Mall, and a bunch of touristy spots—perfect for those “let’s be tourists in our own city” vibes.

One of the best parts of staying here was the staff. While I was sitting at the bar at the Lady Madison Restaurant, a few of the staff members asked me what I was looking to do. They were incredibly helpful with recs—when I mentioned I was looking for some pampering, they suggested Balian Springs. It’s about a 20- to 25-minute drive or ride, but worth it if you’re craving that spa day experience. I came back totally refreshed and ready for more exploring (or more cocktails, whichever came first). So of course, we went back to where it all started, the onsite bar.

Discovering Pappe

We also asked the hotel folks about off-site dining, and they directed us to a gem called Pappe. Oh. My. Goodness. If you’re into Indian cuisine, you need this in your life. Chef Sanjay Mandhaiya focuses on North Indian dishes (like goat vindaloo and junglee laal maas) but also sneaks in some coastal flavors with dishes like Alleppey fish curry. Everything we tried was packed with flavor and felt authentically homemade. Let’s just say our taste buds are still thanking us.

Between exploring DC, feasting on Indian food, and sipping fancy cocktails, we were also grateful for all the on-site perks:

A fully equipped gym (for that guilt-free snacking).
A business office (for those who can’t fully escape work).
Bright, sunlit rooms that make lounging around feel like a mini vacation in itself.
A handy marketplace stocked with breakfast, lattes, snacks, coffee, and quick bites—perfect for late-night cravings or an early-morning latte run.

Le Méridien Madison DC absolutely nailed the balance between being in the middle of all the action and offering a peaceful retreat to recharge. Whether you’re staying in for a cozy dinner at Lady Madison or venturing out to places like Pappe and Balian Springs, there’s something for everyone. If your 2024 needs a dose of chill vibes, good eats, and a little bourbon, you can’t go wrong here. Cheers to new beginnings, and here’s hoping the rest of the year stays this comfy and delicious!

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May 31, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Universal Standard Mystery Box 2025 + Discount

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Disclosure: This blog post is not sponsored by Universal Standard, but I did receive a free Mystery Box in exchange for showcasing the outfit on Instagram. If you use my link or coupon code in this post to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

Universal Standard had a long-running promotion called Mystery Box that they shuttered in 2023. Today, they’ve brought it back. The TL;DR – save big on curated boxes from Universal Standard in sizes 00-40, BUT you don’t know what you’re getting. No returns, so it’s a risk. Existing customers can shop all boxes here, and new customers can shop here and take AN EXTRA 10% off with code INFS-AUTHENTIC10. This code works on the entire site, so if the mystery boxes aren’t for you, you can pick something else up at a discount.

Universal Standard Mystery Box Sale: Everything You Need to Know

Universal Standard is one of my favorite brands. I fell in love with them in 2015 when they first hit the scene and have purchased so much since then. They are absolutely the most size-inclusive major brand with every item offered in sizes 00-40. As someone who is very often excluded from styles as a size 28, it is extremely appreciated. The styles are classic and high quality and some of my favorite things in my closet. There isn’t a week that goes by that I don’t wear US at least twice. If you want more photos, you can find my Universal Standard archives here.

Universal Standard’s annual mystery box sale is back after being discontinued in 2023. For a limited time, you can purchase a mystery box filled with 3-4 surprise items from the brand, all at a discounted price. But what’s inside the box? And is it worth the risk?

Just like it sounds, a Universal Standard Mystery Box is a package you purchase where the items are a mystery. For a limited time, you can purchase a themed box at deep savings not available from Universal Standard at any other time. You give up control, and they give you a discount. This round of Mystery Boxes begin 2/15 and will go through 2/23, unless they sell out earlier. There are 25 themed boxes you can select from. Examples are Classic Essentials, Denim on Repeat, First-Class Style, The Ultimate Luxury, and more.

All boxes come in sizes 00-40 and come with 3-4 wardrobe essentials that fit the box’s theme. Prices start at just $84 and select boxes are valued up to $1,000.

Boxes DO sell out throughout the sale, so if you want to get a specific box, I suggest shopping early.

What I received in my Executive Style Mystery Box:

The Executive Style box is priced at $224 and includes three pieces for a complete outfit. I received the following items:

I’m 5’10 with a long torso and shorter legs, wearing the US size XL (26/28) in all items.

Universal Standard Mystery Box 2025 + Discount 2

To say that I’m thrilled with these items would be an understatement. They’re incredibly versatile pieces to mix and match and the value is incredible compared to each item individually. BUT, as with all Mystery Boxes, your luck may vary.

Things to know BEFORE buying a Universal Standard Mystery Box:

All sales are final. There are no returns or exchanges with any of these items. If you’re OK with that risk, go forth and purchase! If you have experience with selling online, US items typically sell quickly on Poshmark and in Buy/Sell/Trade Groups on Facebook.
US sizes are DIFFERENT! Triple-check your size if you’re not familiar with it: I find their size charts to be extremely accurate, but their sizing scale is labeled differently from other brands. If you’re close to my size, I wear a size 28 in most retailers and do so as well for the numeric labeled items at US, and in their alphanumeric sizing, wear either an XL or 2XL depending on how I’d like the item to fit.
It’s truly random what is selected for you. Items will fall in the theme of the box you purchase, but the specific items/colors could vary from person to person. If you’re ultra-selective or are only looking to fill a narrow gap in your wardrobe, this might not be the right sale for you. But again, if you’re comfortable selling online or with any other US-obsessed friends, then it should be easy to swap or sell what didn’t hit the mark for you.
Boxes sell out – If there’s a specific one you’re interested in, I suggest buying early. Sizes and styles become limited.
Shipping can be slow because of volume of orders if you are looking for Amazon Prime speeds, this isn’t it!

Universal Standard Discount Code

Shop Universal Standard Mystery Boxes. If you’re a new customer, use code INFS-AUTHENTIC10 for an additional 10% off.

Have questions? Let me know and I’ll try to answer them! Also, let me know what boxes you’re getting!

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

A Year in my Life with Ford Motor Company

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

This year taught me resilience, growth, and gratitude. Each season brought its own story—winter’s lessons, spring’s fresh beginnings, summer’s joyful moments, and fall’s golden reflections. With my Ford Maverick by my side, I’ve embraced every turn in the road, confident in the driver’s seat of my life. As the new year sparkles on the horizon, I’m ready to keep moving forward with hope and purpose. Let’s go, dolls. ✨🚗

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

GIFT GUIDE: DECOR DARLING

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

I’m not going to front, this gift guide is essentially for me. I’ve definitely been accused of being hard to buy for but, it feels really simple to me. A plant potter shaped like a chunky belly on one side and a bootie on the other, obviously!

Fret not, this list is sure to please your harder to please bestie who loves all things home and you can gloat with pride and killing the gift game for them forever!

SHOP OUR HAND LOOMED RENAISSANCE BLANKET HERE!

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

1,000 Peloton Rides: My Plus Size Experience

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

It’s been a while since I’ve updated you on my Peloton Bike experience, so I thought hitting 1000 rides is a great excuse to check-in!

Yes, that’s right – 1000 RIDES! *cue airhorns and confetti*

If you’ve missed my previous posts about being plus size and a Peloton user, here’s a quick recap. Don’t want to get into all that? No problem, skip ahead.

Hitting a Major Milestone

If you’ve read about my Peloton journey in the past, you’ll know that I’m not one for numbers. I don’t stress about getting the highest output, hitting personal records (PRs) all the time, burning the most calories, or finishing high on the leaderboard. I ride the bike because I enjoy it and it makes me feel good. So why have this post dedicated to 1000 rides if I consciously avoid metrics around Peloton? It’s just a good reason to recognize and celebrate the consistency I’ve had with this bike and the community.

I ride with joyful movement in mind – what will fit my needs, schedule, and interests at any given time. Is it always “joyful?” No. But it is always intentional. This is why many people prefer to use the term “intentional movement” over “joyful movement.” Whatever you use, I hope you understand what I’m getting at as its been the key to consistency so far. In the past, my workout plans revolved around calories burned or weight lost. If I didn’t see the scale move, I’d get frustrated and give up. Removing all of that measurement and shame allowed me to rediscover movement for movement’s sake – not for trying to change my body into something different.

So which ride did I do for Ride 1000? One of my favorite instructors had a ride the day I wanted to hit the milestone, so I did the 45 Minute Power Zone Ride with Christine D’Ercole on 2/16/25. The main set was Tabata style, with 20 seconds in Zone 5, 10 seconds in Zone 1, rinse and repeat. It was tough, but went by so quickly! If you’re not familiar with PowerZones, check it out. It’s billed as “personal training at scale” because your workouts are queued to a scale of effort from 1-7, with one being easiest and seven being hardest. Everyone, regardless of size, shape, or fitness level, is riding at the same effort. There are a lot of technical jargon/terms in the program, but I promise it’s easy once you get the hang of it!

1,000 Peloton Rides: My Plus Size Experience 2 — I made sure to wear my sparkle shoes for the occasion – I made these a couple of years ago and love them. I will do a tutorial soon!

1,000 Peloton Rides: My Plus Size Experience 3

1,000 Rides as a Plus Size Person: What It’s Really Like

The most common questions I get about Peloton are 1) the weight limit/stability and 2) the small seat. This doesn’t surprise me at all because those were my top 2 questions before buying the bike. I’m happy to report that I haven’t had any issues with the quality of the bike and I am still using the stock bike saddle. I made a video on TikTok about the seat and different things to try if it’s not working for you. The TL;DR is that you have many options and can change the seat and make adjustments to fit your anatomy. If you want a longer blog post dedicated to this topic, let me know.

What’s Next After 1,000 Peloton Rides?

I don’t really have any goals other than to maintain the consistency. I feel better physically and mentally after every ride, so it’s easy to keep going. Currently, I’m starting week 2 of the current PowerZone Pack challenge with my #Peloforpower (short for Peloton for Power, not Pant Size) group. We’re not strict with the challenge like other teams, so I do the rides that work for me and my schedule and skip ones that don’t.

Peloton also just introduced kettlebell programming, which I’m excited to try. I’ve done quite a bit of kettlebell work when I was in semi-private training, so hopefully the form will come back to me. The last thing I want is an injury!

Also, I’m sure I’ll do the Wicked: The Movie ride with Sam Yo at least three more times before getting tired of it!

Have questions about Peloton? Let me know in the comments – happy to help if I can. Find me on the Leaderboard: #AuthEmmie

1,000 Peloton Rides: My Plus Size Experience 5 — Pin this for later!

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Vintage Style and Victory Rolls.

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Dress: Collectif Clothing. Bag:Vintage, thrifted. Hair flowers: H&M.

All images by Antony Cartwright.

A few weeks ago when all the glorious weather started (I’m getting sick of it now but come August when I’m away I’ll miss the sunshine!) I went to one of my favourite vintage fairs. Vintage Village at Stockport, I believe it’s usually the second Sunday of each month. Anyway if you’re into vintage/retro finds its a must particularly if you don’t live to far away. Because I’m so cool I always go with my folks. this time I didn’t actually find anything myself to buy but my dad quite often does!

Whenever we go I always try to pull out the more retro side of my personal style and because it’s summer I finally broke out this dress I picked up in the Huge 50% off everything sale Collectif do a few times a year. (here’s hoping it’s about time for another one as I have a few things on my wishlist!) I’ve had to alter it to fit me better but I expect that because I’m an awkward shape. It was warm that day so I thought it would be best to have my hair off my face but it had been so long since I did victory rolls on my own head I have to admit they aren’t my best work! I’m also still surprised that I had any curl left in my hair when these photos were taken! Antony saw me with my folks and asked my dad if he could take my photograph because I was dressed up! My dad couldn’t stop laughing seeing as I’m 25 now and you know what I’m glad Antony got some snaps for me because otherwise I wouldn’t have any photos to show of the last time I looked half decent! However it has been so long since anyone took my photo I have to say I was more than a little rusty which is why my expression is bit resting bitch face!

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

GIFT GUIDE: SPA-NISTA

by Lina Clémence May 30, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Let’s be real, this past year has been STRESSFUL and we can all use some more pampering these days (if you don’t think you need a spa day, I’m really and truly worried about you). This gift guide has all my favorite spa items, like this neck massager that I am borderline obsessed with, and a facial steamer that will keep your skin hydrated while everyone stays thirsty over you.

Whether your family, friends (or you!) desperately need a massage, or your bestie is the ultimate skincare queen, these gifts will give them one more reason to keep calm and carry on!

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May 30, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Fashion as Cultural Resistance

The Rise of Statement Pieces

The Power of Personal Style

Wear Your Truth

Please consider supporting by sharing!

Like this:

Lady Madison: The Real MVP

Location, Location, Location

Discovering Pappe

Universal Standard Mystery Box Sale: Everything You Need to Know

What I received in my Executive Style Mystery Box:

Things to know BEFORE buying a Universal Standard Mystery Box:

Universal Standard Discount Code

Hitting a Major Milestone

1,000 Rides as a Plus Size Person: What It’s Really Like

What’s Next After 1,000 Peloton Rides?