Girlfriend Collective burst onto the activewear scene in 2016 with a mission to create high-quality, ethical and size-inclusive workout gear. Their use of recycled plastic bottles to make stylish leggings, bras and more caught the eye of top publications from Vogue to Forbes.
But does this niche brand live up to its sustainable hype? With price tags exceeding those of fast fashion brands, are their products actually worth it?
I put Girlfriend Collective to the test in this ultimate 3000 word review, analyzing over 15 top selling items. From fabric and fit to ethics and sustainability, I cover everything you need to know before you shop.
Let‘s dive in!
Overview of Girlfriend Collective
Co-founded by couple Ellie and Quang Dinh, Girlfriend Collective sought to shake up activewear with two main priorities:
- Ethical production in safe factories with fair wages
- Eco-friendly manufacturing using recycled materials
The brand uses a certified SA8000 factory where workers earn above-average wages in a safe environment. Meanwhile, their fabric consists of post-consumer plastic bottles collected via recycling programs.
Specifically, it takes:
- 25 bottles to make a single pair of leggings
- 11 bottles for a sports bra
- 6 bottles for a pair of underwear
Since 2016, Girlfriend Collective has kept over 50 million plastic bottles out of oceans and landfills. Their entire range is also Oeko-Tex certified free from harmful chemicals.
On top of ethics and sustainability, they focus on body positivity and inclusivity. Sizes span from XXS to 6XL so people of all shapes can find activewear that fits.
Pros of Girlfriend Collective
Based on my analysis, key advantages include:
Sustainability: Their use of recycled fabrics truly minimizes environmental impact
Ethics: Fair wage policies and safe working conditions in factories
Quality: Well-made activewear built to last through workouts
Style: Chic, minimalist aesthetic in flattering fits and colors
Inclusivity: Options for virtually every body type and size
Cons of Girlfriend Collective
I did notice a few potential drawbacks:
Price: Mid-high price point – quality matches but exceeds fast fashion
Limited styles: Mostly leggings, bras and basics rather than trend pieces
Availability: Some colors and sizes sell out quickly
Next, let‘s look at reviews of their top selling activewear.
Compressive High-Rise Legging Review
The Compressive High-Rise Leggings represent Girlfriend Collective‘s flagship product. Made from 25 recycled plastic bottles, they feature a thick, supportive fabric perfect for exercise.
Price: $68
Fabric and feel: Substantial compression and four-way stretch. Sweat-wicking with a smooth finish. Runs true to size.
Style: High waist amplifies curves. Ankle length inseam suits petite to tall frames.
Performance: Squat proof and held up during HIIT, yoga, hiking and everyday wear after 30+ washes.
Pros: Compression slims and smooths. Flattering fit for most body types. Ethical production and sustainable materials.
Cons: Attracts pet hair and lint. Limited pocket space.
Rating: 4.5 / 5
I highly recommend the Compressive High-Rise Legging to all eco-conscious fitness buffs. They tick every box from ethics to functionality for the $68 price tag.
Paloma Sports Bra Review
With over 20,000 reviews, the Paloma Sports Bra is Girlfriend Collective‘s top seller. The quick-drying fabric and supportive straps make it ideal for high intensity workouts.
Price: $38
Fabric and feel: Soft, stretch fabric that molds to your shape. Sweat-wicking and fast-drying. True to size fit.
Style: Sporty racerback design with a flattering square neckline. Seamless construction is invisible under clothes.
Performance: Supportive enough for high-impact cardio, HIIT and weight training while feeling like a comfortable lounge bra. Stays put without sliding.
Pros: Ethically made from recycled materials. Great value for money. Soft, lightweight and breathable.
Cons: Straps may be too long for petite frames. Removable padding would improve customization.
Rating: 4.7 / 5
For just $38, the Paloma Sports Bra rivals top activewear brands in comfort, performance and style. An eco-conscious must-have for yoga class and beyond.
Additional Girlfriend Collective Reviews
I also tested over a dozen other top selling Girlfriend Collective pieces from unitards to socks. Here‘s a quick overview:
Compressive Unitard: Slimming one-piece with shorts and a sports bra built in. Made from sustainable fabric with light compression. Conforms to your shape for a body-hugging look. Rating: 4/5
High-Rise Bike Shorts: Flattering shorts in soft, stretchy fabric. Compression shapes and smooths. Sweat-wicking with a gusseted crotch. Rating: 5/5
Recycled Fleece Sweatshirt: Cozy yet fitted crewneck made from recycled fabric. Stretch retention maintains shape wash after wash. Great for lounging and light exercise. Rating: 4.5/5
Reusable Net Bags: Useful accessory to store dirty gear post-workout or laundry. Sturdy mesh construction with drawstring closure. Rating: 5/5
Mid-Rise Thong: Seamless, tagless thong ideal for a smooth look under leggings. Stays in place without VPL. Soft, breathable fabric. Rating: 4/5
No Show Socks (5 pack): Cute ankle socks with anti-slip silicon grips to stay put in shoes. Moisture-wicking fabric resists odor after long wear. Rating: 5/5
While I loved almost everything, a few items didn‘t quite meet my expectations. The Windbreaker Pants lacked warmth for cold winter workouts. Meanwhile the High Rise Bikini felt slightly misshapen on my petite frame.
However, on the whole their quality surpasses the price across the board.
Sizing, Fit and Feel of Fabrics
One stand-out factor is Girlfriend Collective‘s size inclusive range spanning XXS to 6XL. As someone who struggles to find well-fitting activewear for my petite, curvy frame, it was a delight to browse so many options.
Their size chart provides detailed measurements for every item rather than vague S/M/L labels. Combined with fabric that stretches while retaining shape, it ensures great fit.
Speaking of fabric, Girlfriend Collective uses various high-quality materials:
– Compressive: Substantial four-way stretch that feels like a gentle hug to smooth cellulite. Most squat-proof.
– LightCompression: Ideal for low to medium impact activities with breathability. Hugs without squeezing.
– ReGen: Their signature recycled polyester and spandex blend. Soft with two-way stretch best suited for lounging.
In terms of sustainability, ReGen fabric consists of 20% spandex made from recycled yarn. Meanwhile the polyester is 100% recycled.
During testing, all fabrics maintained shape and compression through workouts, washes and daily wear without sagging or pilling.
For women self-conscious about jiggle or cellulite, the Compressive and Light Compression fabrics provide just enough squeeze for a confidence boost. You definitely won‘t be pulling at loose waistbands or drooping straps mid-burpee!
At the same time, I stayed cool and comfortable thanks to sweat-wicking properties and strategic seaming to prevent chafing.
Cost and Value Analysis
The main question lingering is likely:
How does Girlfriend Collective‘s pricing compare to other brands?
First, let‘s break down costs across different product categories:
Leggings: $68 – $88
Sports bras: $38 – $42
Bike shorts: $48
Socks: $12 (per pair), $18 (5-pack)
Underwear: $14 (per pair), up to 30% off bundles
There‘s no denying Girlfriend Collective sits at a premium price point compared to fast fashion brands like Fabletics, Forever21 and even Target. You‘ll easily spend $25+ more per piece.
However – their quality and sustainability makes it worthwhile for eco-conscious fitness buffs. Key factors that impact pricing include:
Ethical manufacturing: Higher wages and safety standards at factories
Eco materials: Recycling process for fabrics costs more than virgin polyester
Durability: Built to last through years of wear
Trend-proof styles: Timeless, minimalist designs that won‘t date
When comparing to leading athletic brands like Lululemon, Girlfriend Collective holds its own at 50-70% of the cost. You get similar quality paired with ethical production for hundreds less.
Ultimately the price reflects fair remuneration within their supply chain alongside sustainable materials. Improving livelihoods and protecting the planet don‘t come free – but the cost per wear makes it worthwhile.
Promotions and Discounts
Girlfriend Collective offers a few ways to save across their collection:
– Join The Collective Loyalty Program: Earn points with purchases to snag discounts and early access to sales
– Refer Friends: Score free leggings if 5 friends buy using your link
– Buy Bundles: Mix and match packs of underwear and socks for tiered savings
– Shop Sales: Bookmark their promotions page for sitewide events like 30% off all items
Combining a discount code with a bundle pack is the ultimate way to maximize value. I saved 40% on my last Girlfriend Collective haul!
You can also save money (and the planet!) via their reuse initiatives:
– ReGirlfriend Program: Trade in worn items for $15 credit towards new pieces
– For the Planet Program: Return used garment bags and hangers to your local Girlfriend Collective retailer for recycling
These programs give clothes and accessories extra life while keeping waste from landfills. A win-win to feel good about your purchase!
Shipping and Returns Overview
Girlfriend Collective offers free standard shipping within the US for orders $100+ (excluding taxes and fees). Under $100 incurs a $8 domestic shipping fee.
They also ship to Canada, Australia and select European retailers. Costs and delivery timeframes vary by location starting from $15 USD.
For returns, you have 30 days from the ship date to process an exchange or refund on unworn items with tags attached. A $7 processing and restocking fee applies for returns by mail. In-store returns come free of charge.
As a loyalty member, you can skip return fees – a perk worth factoring if you foresee exchanging sizes.
Do note all underwear and socks are final sale unless defective. Make use of their size chart and measuring guide to ensure best fit from the start.
The Verdict: Should You Buy Girlfriend Collective?
If you prioritize eco-friendly activewear produced through ethical means, Girlfriend Collective is a slam dunk. They offer standout quality combined with sustainability at mid-high price points comparable to Lululemon and beyond.
While sizes do occasionally sell out quickly, their inclusion of XXS to 6XL means most bodies can experience a flattering, functional fit. The fabrics provide exactly enough compression for confidence and comfort during any activity.
Factor in clever reuse programs that minimize waste plus occasional discounts, and you‘ve got feel-good fitness gear worth buying into.
Girlfriend Collective sits leagues ahead of fast fashion competitors specifically due to their ethics and sustainability. Ultimately you get what you pay for – in this case, premium activewear that catalyzes positive impact.
Interested in trying Girlfriend Collective for yourself? Check out their collection at the links below:
Frequently Asked Questions
For quick facts about the brand, check out answers to the top Girlfriend Collective questions:
Who founded Girlfriend Collective?
The brand was founded by husband and wife duo Ellie and Quang Dinh in 2016. Based in Seattle, the pair sought to disrupt activewear with ethical production and eco-friendly materials.
What sizes does Girlfriend Collective carry?
Their size range spans XXS to 6XL accommodating bodies of all shapes. Specific sizing differs slightly between compressive and regular fabrics. Refer to their detailed size chart to find your perfect fit.
How long does shipping take?
Standard shipping takes 1-2 weeks in the US, or 2-4 weeks internationally. Purchasing through their brand partners can expedite processing depending on location.
What is their return policy?
You can return unworn items with tags attached for a full refund within 30 days of delivery. Exchanges are always free, but returns cost $7 to re-stock. Loyalty Collective members skip return fees.
Is Girlfriend Collective good quality?
Absolutely! Their fabrics offer durable compression that holds up wonderfully through daily use, workouts and washes – much better than fast fashion competitors. Ethics and sustainability further elevate the quality.
The Last Word
I strived to provide an in-depth Girlfriend Collective review answering all your questions about this darling athleisure brand. From analyzing 15+ top styles to investigating ethics, pricing and more – I covered it all!
The bottom line? Girlfriend Collective makes investing in high-quality, feel-good activewear well worth it.
Have you tried Girlfriend Collective apparel yet? Share your reviews in the comments below! I‘d love to hear your experiences.
