Fashion entrepreneur Alexandra Waldman, co-founder of Universal Standard, passes away.
Alexandra Waldman, Visionary Fashion Mind, Bids Farewell at 57
In an industry-shaking announcement, Universal Standard co-founder Alexandra Waldman passed away on Friday, battling an aggressive form of cancer at the age of 57.
Waldman embodied resilience and audacity, having faced the toughest of circumstances head-on. She bravely endured numerous medical trials for nearly two years before her untimely departure, as detailed in a heartfelt Instagram post from Universal Standard this week. Her relentless focus on treatment led her to temporarily step away from the day-to-day business, a testament to her unyielding dedication to her mission.
The post added, "Alex was unapologetic and unwavering in her mission to make fashion more accessible for all people, regardless of size. She optimistically challenged the status quo, pioneering industry-shifting initiatives that have revolutionized fashion." Her unwavering spirit left behind a remarkable legacy, and her tireless quest for inclusivity serves as a blueprint for promoting a more inclusive future. The company remains steadfast in their commitment to her vision.
In 2015, Waldman co-founded Universal Standard with CEO Polina Veksler, launching a groundbreaking size-inclusive brand with its first 8-piece collection. Over the years, the brand expanded its product offerings, collaborating with major players in the industry to revolutionize sizing capabilities.
Universal Standard's noteworthy partnerships include a 2018 collaboration with J. Crew, producing a size-inclusive collection featuring a range of stylish pieces in sizes up to 5x. In 2019, the brand partnered with Adidas for a performance collection in sizes XXS through 4XL.
With a focus on strengthening its workwear offerings, Universal Standard acquired luxury womenswear brand, Henning, in April 2020, welcoming Henning founder Lauren Chan as the Universal Standard's head of brand partnerships. The brand also ventured into swimwear for the first time in June 2020, launching an eight-piece line that caters to sizes 00 through 40.
Against all odds, Waldman and her team at Universal Standard smashed conventions, advocating for size inclusivity and consumer-driven innovation in the fashion world. Their impact in the industry from 2015 to 2020 can be measured by their success in offering women's apparel in a broad size range, typically from size 00 to 40, a move that challenged industry norms limiting plus-size options.
Additionally, Universal Standard's relentless pursuit of fit perfection left an indelible mark on the industry. They developed a sophisticated fit system using data and customer feedback to ensure consistent and flattering fits across their wide size spectrum. Their primarily online platform made size-inclusive fashion accessible to a broader audience, contributing to the growing direct-to-consumer fashion trend.
As we continue to honor Waldman's memory, Universal Standard's commitment to breaking barriers and championing true size inclusivity remains steadfast. The legacy she left behind serves as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and compassion – values that will continue to propel the brand forward.
- In the realm of fashion and beauty, Universal Standard's legacy, led by Alexandra Waldman, continues to challenge the status quo, advocating for mental health, women's health, and labor rights in the industry.
- Waldman's audacity and resilience extended beyond fashion, as she championed science and health-and-wellness initiatives, advocating for accessible and inclusive healthcare services.
- As an entrepreneur and visionary, Waldman’s influence extended to finance and business, fostering a culture of innovation and disruption within Universal Standard and beyond.
- In collaboration with J. Crew and Adidas, Universal Standard broke barriers in the fashion industry by offering size-inclusive collections and performance wear, catering to a wide array of sizes.
- Waldman's influence extended to lifestyle and entrepreneurship as well, inspiring countless individuals to dream big and strive for inclusivity and innovation in their endeavors.
- As we carry on Waldman's legacy, Universal Standard remains dedicated tocontinuing her mission, driving change in the industry through her unwavering spirit and commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
