My Experience at a Universal Standard Trunk Show
Universal Standard is one of my favorite apparel brands. Offering their entire selection in sizes 00-40, Universal Standard is one of the few apparel retailers that is truly size-inclusive. Their clothing is, in general, excellent quality and classic enough of design to provide me with years of stylish wear. I have been wearing Universal Standard since 2017, but one thing that frustrates me about the brand is that it is web-based. That is until I was able to attend a Universal Standard Trunk Show.
I am updating this post in 2024 because I attended my third Universal Standard trunk show and really think this is an experience anyone intrigued with this size-inclusive brand should have.
This is a special opportunity to try Universal Standard, as they do not have brick-and-mortar stores throughout the country. It's also an opportunity for a personal styling experience and a chance to try new items.
My Experience at a Universal Standard Trunk Show
What is a Universal Standard Trunk Show?
Making its way across the United States, starting in the cities that have the largest concentration of existing customers, Universal Standard hosts trunk shows to let folks not only try on the clothing in person but also get styling tips from US staff and even experience up-and-coming pieces before they are available to the public.
Requiring appointments to keep it a manageable size, Universal Standard has enough apparel with them at these trunk shows where you can try almost everything from the brand in whatever size you wear.
For many folks, this is a revolutionary experience. Even though 67% of the female population in the U.S. wears plus sizes, such size range is rarely available in a brick-and-mortar store. And even if the size is available, it is rarely high-quality apparel and is rarely paired with caring and knowledgeable staff (and free water or bubbly) in an elevated environment.
How To Attend a Universal Standard Trunk Show
I was emailed that US on Tour was coming to the Washington, D.C. area. I am a previous US customer; previous customers in the area of an event usually receive emails of upcoming dates. Also, influencers like me who work with Universal Standard often share upcoming dates on their social platforms (I always share them as soon as I know in the Wardrobe Oxygen Facebook community).
Universal Standard also lists their upcoming trunk shows at this link. Anyone can register even if they have never shopped at Universal Standard. That means if a friend gets a link, you can also use it. Speaking of friends, you're welcome to bring one with you to the event!
My Experience at a Universal Standard Trunk Show
This year I attended my third Universal Standard trunk show. The last two in the D.C. area were at a private home/Airbnb in Northern Virginia. This year, the event took place in a sunny office space right on Dupont Circle.
Even though I own a LOT of Universal Standard (and, full disclosure, I occasionally receive free apparel to promote sales and new launches), there were many pieces I wanted to try out and see how they worked on my frame. I also wanted to experience fabric and quality to determine if any pieces would be a good idea for a future capsule wardrobe.
The email I received had a link to schedule an appointment; they were in one-hour increments. I scheduled my appointment at 1 p.m. on a Thursday afternoon. The link provided the address and information on transportation, parking, and how to find the building. I arrived to find two other individuals waiting for the 1:00 appointment block; Universal Standard buzzed us into the building and we took the elevator to the second floor.
There was seating, bottled water, and snacks for us. Once all guests had arrived, Universal Standard staff greeted us and invited us to share our names, share our familiarity with the brand, what size we wore, and, if we were new to the brand, what sizes we usually wore in other retailers. We were also asked what type of clothing (pants, jeans, dresses, workwear, loungewear, etc.) we were looking for.
Then we chatted amongst ourselves as the stylists from Universal Standard collected items and set up our fitting rooms. I recognized one of the employees as a person who has modeled apparel on the US site for a couple of years; two others I recognized from previous Universal Standard trunk shows I attended. All were very warm and friendly to all of us.
The Fitting Room Situation at a Universal Standard Trunk Show
The space was set up with six portable fitting rooms made from PVC pipe and full-length canvas curtains. The three back sides were taut like walls, the front had two curtains you pulled open to get in and out. A clip was there to keep the curtain closed while you were in side. These fitting rooms were larger than the fitting rooms at the first Universal Standard Trunk Show I attended a couple of years ago.
Inside each fitting room was a rolling rack where your initial items picked for you were placed, and you could place other items as you tried them on. There was a small portable fan in each fitting room to keep you from overheating while trying on clothing. There is contemporary music playing in the space, giving the vibe of a boutique.
The only mirrors are outside the fitting room. At this trunk show, Universal Standard had three large mirrors. There were only four individuals at my appointment time and we never had to share a mirror and often weren't at the mirrors at the same time. However, I had a feeling that two guests didn't show up as two fitting rooms weren't used.
Each of us guests had their own Universal Standard stylist. My stylist walked me through what items she placed in my fitting room and why. She was there each time I left the fitting room to assess how I felt about each garment, offer some tips for tying or tucking, and could bring a different size, look up price, other colors, and suggest alternatives.
What Kind of Fashion is at the Universal Standard Trunk Show?
Universal Standard had almost their entire selection of apparel at the trunk show, and each style was available in every size, though not necessarily every size in every color or wash. Folks were trying on suits, dresses, loungewear, jeans, t-shirts, pants, skirts, knit tops, and more. There was casual fashion, suiting, and dressier pieces at the US on Tour Trunk Show in DC.
The US on Tour trunk shows occasionally have fashion not available on the Universal Standard website. There were limited editions from previous and current US Style Club boxes, and some pieces that would be coming soon to the online store. I ended up trying on three items that ended up being in that month's US Club box but didn't buy them. The next day the box was launched and I bought it recognizing a dress I had tried on at the trunk show that I regretted not purchasing (the striped one above).
How Long is a Universal Standard Trunk Show Appointment?
Each US on Tour appointment is an hour in length which I felt was sufficient. I tried two dresses, a jumpsuit/romper, one pair of jeans, two pairs of pants, a pair of shorts, a blazer, and three tops without feeling rushed.
I have heard that some customers have been able to take their purchase home from a Universal Standard trunk show. However, the standard is you place an order and receive your purchase in the mail a week or so later.
Orders are placed through an iPad and a card scanner, and they are associated with the email address you have for your Universal Standard account (if you have made previous purchases). Universal Standard Trunk Show orders can be exchanged and returned like any web-based purchase. If you follow a Universal Standard ambassador (like yours truly), reach out to them as they occasionally have discount codes that can be used at the trunk show.
Should You Attend a Universal Standard Trunk Show?
I think your experience at a Universal Standard US on Tour Trunk Show will vary depending on your relationship with the brand, your comfort level trying on clothes in a group setting, and your expectations.
Some folks I've talked to had an incredible experience where they found a lot of clothing they loved. They didn't feel pressured to buy and learned a lot. Others had a less positive experience, not feeling as though they got enough personalized attention, not finding any clothes that worked with their body, or feeling guilty if they didn't make a purchase.
Every US on Tour event I have attended I had a great time. That being said I understand I am in an unusual situation being an influencer who has shopped and worked with Universal Standard for several years. I showed up in an outfit from US Summer '23, in my fitting room was a pair of shorts and a blazer I had already tried, and I had a good idea of what was currently on the website for sale.
I have no idea if the other three individuals at the trunk show with me made a purchase. I did see one individual (hi, Jeanine!) in a fabulous green dress, I knew one came specifically to look for quality suiting in larger sizes, and another was trying on jeans and casual tops. I did make a purchase of these pants and this sweater.
If you wish to have more feedback from your Universal Standard stylist, ask them for it. Want to try another size or style? Ask for it. Each customer wants a different experience and I believe they err on the side of caution, hovering at the ready but not being pushy. You can choose your own trunk show adventure; do not be scared to speak up if you need more than you are receiving.
A Universal Standard Trunk Show is not the time to air grievances. Feel free to share your thoughts on your experience and what you'd like to see at the next trunk show, but do not use your session as a time to vent. You are not being styled by the CEO, but your suggestions may help improve future collections as well as future trunk shows.
If you have hesitated trying Universal Standard or ordering items with new-to-you fabrics or silhouettes, attending a trunk show will be a great experience. No need to stress about returns, you can try that dress, those pants, and every style of denim. You can see that color in person and decide if you'd enjoy it in your closet. You'll be able to swap out sizes, see what other garments coordinate with it, and possibly see it on other bodies.
If you are a big fan of the brand, you should attend. It's fun to chat with the staff, hear about what is coming down the pike, get styling tips from those who know the brand best, and meet fellow folks in your area who love the brand or desire a more intimate and size-inclusive shopping experience.
What To Bring and Wear to a Universal Standard Trunk Show
I recommend wearing a skin-colored t-shirt bra and seamless underwear so they disappear underneath light colors and fitted garments. If you usually wear a certain underpinning under dresses or other garments, bring it with you.
If you are looking for a specific garment for a specific situation, bring the shoes you would likely wear. If work clothes, bring your favorite shoes for work dresses or pants; if a wedding bring your dressy shoes. If you know you often like to style garments with belts or other accessories, bring them as well. Universal Standard did not offer belts, shoes, or other styling items at their trunk show. Do not be afraid to bring a tote of footwear, accessories, and even different undergarments to get the best experience for your needs.
Consider wearing separates. If your outfit includes a bottom and a base layer/shell, you will have something to wear under jackets, cardigans, or tops while you try on different things. For the summer trunk show I attended, I wore pull-on shorts and a wrinkle-resistant matching blouse and Birkenstocks. It made it easy to slip on and off between outfit changes. That being said, all the items pulled for me came as outfits so I didn't need separates.
I recommend doing your hair and face as you would for work or a special occasion. Just like when going to the hair salon, it's a lot easier to focus on the clothes and not on what you find to be your faults when you look how you find to be your best. If applicable, consider a comb or lipstick to refresh your look after a few try-ons.
And be sure to bring an open mind. Allow the staff to bring you something you would not usually consider. Don't see it as upselling, see it as a chance to try something new with no strings attached. Use this opportunity to branch out with color, silhouettes, and even size.
What Did I Learn at the Universal Standard Trunk Show
I am writing this post because Universal Trunk Shows aren't going anywhere. Universal Standard loves the ability to visit different cities and connect with more customers than if they had a couple of brick-and-mortar stores. If Universal Standard hasn't yet visited your city, stay tuned!
This link will provide you with where the Universal Standard trunk show will visit next. US On Tour has visited Dallas, Boston, Seattle, Chicago, Richmond, NYC, NJ, NC, GA, CA, and more. Who knows, your city may be next!
Have you attended a Universal Standard Trunk Show? Share your experience in the comments!
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Thanks for the shout-out, Alison! It was such a nice surprise to meet you. I did order the green dress in blue. I think it will be great for summer work and casual outings. I appreciated that my stylist pulled petite-friendly items and a mix of work and casual items. If I had more time I would have tried on more linen. I am grateful for all of the work that you put in to try on items, take photos, and tell us your honest feedback.
I went to the Trunk Show on Friday afternoon and had a really demoralizing experience. My stylist wasn’t helpful or friendly. She really didn’t seem to want to pull things for me or respond when I asked for different sizes. She didn’t offer any help or ideas for styling and when I asked questions, she just did a lot of shrugging. Everyone else appeared to be having a great time so perhaps it was just my Stylist. It felt like she didn’t listen or even want me to feel happy or confident during the experience. When I tried to ask other Stylists questions while their customers were changing, they didn’t seem interested in engaging.
This is a night and day difference from the last Universal Trunk Show I attended, where I bought a lot of items. This experience has really soured me on the brand and left me feeling really dejected.
For what it is worth, I found the trunk show to be a good way to try on items you’re not sure of and determine fit and size. The stylist suggested things I hadn’t thought to try, but bought, and also advised me into a smaller size for some items, which she was right about. I prefer different fits in different items in this brand, although sizing seems pretty consistent.
I only am linked to Universal Standard due to Alison Gray/Wardrobe Oxygen. My first experience was ordering a linen shirtdress and the sizing needed assistance. I send emails for advice (Size small or XS?). A reply took so long that the dress became unavailable in color and size small. I had sent back a size M and ordered an XS due to how oversized the M had been. Due to the time it took to get replies (at least I got them…eventually), the size S blue dress was out of stock. I’ve kept the XS dress in hopes that the following year…a size S in the blue would be made again. Of course it was not made in the deeper color blue I like. Then, in Spring, I got a notice that the following day–a Trunk Show would take place in San Francisco. I live in Oakland so $7 bridge toll and drive to a neighborhood was undertaken after I had emailed again, asking if the Trunk Show was a hoax–due to short, advance event notification. The rented home was nice and dressing rooms didn’t have individual fans or mirrors. I bought several pieces and was advised that there had been an Oakland Trunk show before the SF date. It would have been nice to be notified about the Oakland Trunk show in advance. My take on the Universal Standard fit is that the pants are too roomy. I live near an Eileen Fisher Outlet and feel I get more fashionable items by shopping in the EF Outlet compared to Universal Standards Trunk Show.
I’m glad that you found it to be a good experience. I went to one and it was a disappointing and deflating experience. There was no personalization at all. The four people who were trying on at the same time had requested different things: I wanted professional office wear, one was looking for a wedding outfit, another was looking for a few good pieces for European travel. Yet we all were given almost the exact same items to try on. While there was some enjoyment in seeing how others looked in the same piece of clothing, there was a moment when all four of us were in front of the mirrors in the same dress and one of the staff commented on how versatile it was. I thought it was what they had on hand and really wasn’t the right thing for what any of us were looking for.
I also was frustrated that the “stylist” (read salesperson) didn’t engage with my questions. At one point I was given a high-waisted black pant with a bright colored top. I came out with the top untucked and they pushed me to tuck it in. I mentioned that I didn’t like the tucked look because I have very large breasts and I felt like a walking pair of tits the way that it looked. The response “tucked is a much cleaner look” and walking away. Later I asked about styling ideas for large busts (the person I was working with does not have breasts) and was told that everything US sells can be made to work for your body type – just pick what makes you feel confident.
It was nice seeing a couple of different colors in person. I agree that it was low-pressure in terms of pushing sales so there’s no harm in trying it out if you are curious. But my experience is that they give you what they have and tell you it looks good/works for what you want. They aren’t actually interested in listening to you or engaging with you as an individual.
This was helpful, thank you! I just registered for a Boston date, and then was second guessing that it was a scam, but your post hit all the things I was nervous about. I’m looking forward to this!
You posted the “tailored zip jacket”… I want. Not on the US website. Boo. The link doesn’t seem to work. Makes me wonder what else I’m missing. The suede overshirt on their website looks great, but $398? Honestly, washable suede is so much more attractive anyway.
I’m glad US is out there, and I appreciate your coverage of these topics. Strive on!
Also: “…Even though these trunk shows may have upcoming pieces available to try, the majority of what is available to try on is what is currently on the site. There is nothing incredibly revolutionary that will be pulled out of a back room to change your opinion on the current collection by Universal Standard.”
I disagree! I have not been to a trunk show yet, but when I visited the NYC store years ago, the sales people were super helpful, steering me towards things that would flatter my figure. When I tried on things in spite of their advice, they were always right. I can be quite the contrarian, so I was impressed. I came away very appreciative of the staff.
So excited to hear they may be coming back to Dallas!
I received an email from US about the trunk show and my recollection of the original post influenced me to sign up! Thank you for re-posting this. I am looking forward to trying some of the new activewear and some of the back to office offerings in person.
I went to the San Francisco trunk show. Bought the cigarette pants in charcoal though I’m still not sure about the color and didn’t want black pants. Also got a lesson on how to do a partial tuck with one of the tees that didn’t look sloppy! Had the same problem with the keyhole blouse and would consider one of the striped blouses if they go on sale.
I attended a trunk show last fall in Nashville, TN. I enjoyed the experience very much. I really appreciated the input regarding fit and color combinations. All aspects if the event made me feel special. They also gifted me a cardigan that I wear at work everyday! My money is tight so I don’t get to purchase from US often. I have, however, been a customer since 2016. I do most of my purchasing during the holidays when they have amazing sales.
Love this idea! Do they have a schedule of what cities they’re visiting? Hoping Phoenix or Scottsdale is on the list!!! 🙂
I made it to this and loved the atmosphere and experience. It was nice to have someone help you try on several pieces and get a sense of the line. Also enjoyed seeing what worked on others. New fan of US dresses. I find retail shopping a bit of a chore and online shopping is a bit disconnected. This was nice.
I went to the one in Richmond on Friday and loved it, I wish the option for an additional half hour was available. I bought 2 dresses and 2 tops and am considering getting one of the dresses in a second color. Did not feel pressured at all. I got some great styling tips, too. I brought a pair of heels and a pair of summer wedge mules and was happy to have them, they made a difference!
Thank you, as always, for the great and helpful review. I am soooo bummed that I missed this, after initially RSVP’ing yes. They sent a very friendly reminder, asking if I was a definitive yes. Worried about whether I might need to take my teen somewhere, I backed out. Again … their response couldn’t have been nicer. These interactions made me a bigger fan than I already am. Looks like you had a great time and you look amazing in the clothes 🙂
I ended up with one of the Carefree Stretch Twill Shirt dresses in black (black is definitely my jam and I would also consider it in the lighter version I loved it so much). Since it was out of stock in my size I was able to purchase the one I tried on. I also picked up a sweater.
I didn’t feel pressure to buy and appreciated the conversation around colors and what could work well with my existing wardrobe. I was most stressed by the thought of being there with strangers (introvert here too) and not knowing what the changing room would be like. I almost decided not to go but really wanted to get my hands on some specific things and try on multiple sizes. I didn’t feel pressure to talk too much and am really happy I went. I was able to try on 5 dresses, 3 pants, 3 sweaters, and 3 jackets. Would definitely do this again!
Jessica,
Do you wear it with a belt? I would like to see if that way. Too bad they didn’t show a model with a belt. What do you think?
Chris
Oh, whattt?? This is so cool! Looks like you had fun 🙂
Love,
Krissi of the marquise diamond
I bought the Kelsey blue jean jacket in light blue this fall but have yet to wear it! I looked at it this morning and thought, I need to wear that!
Is the Brulee more brown or purple? I can’t tell; photos conflict!
I like US though they seem to be cut for someone less hippy and with slimmer arms than me. It’s almost always hit or miss.
If I didn’t know the name, I would call it dark plum.
Thank you so much for your review. I found U.S. during the pandemic and have a few TRex shirts, which I love. But I would definitely, buy more items if they offered more petite tops & dresses. I live in Northern California and would attend a trunk show if one is in my area.
I very much enjoy your content, especially the reviews and Saturday reads. Thank you for what you do!
Alison, I’ve been thinking of ordering another pair of jeans from US & like the ones you’re wearing in this post. Did you go with your usual size for US jeans? Asking because I only have the Bae Boyfriend Crop Jeans & went with my usual jean size (lots of people say to size down with those but I did not; maybe I could have but they feel great all day when I wear them). For the Farrah’s, I’m seeing some reviews that suggest sizing up.
I didn’t size up with them, in fact I have a 12 in the Farrahs and I usually wear a 14 in most brands. However, I have the faded/distressed version which is softer and seems to run looser than darker washes (which is typical of any brand of denim). I’d stick with your usual size and if you’re going with the faded and want a snug fit, size down.
Thank you—very helpful!
I attended a trunk show in Chicago late last year I have been wearing US since about 2017 as well. The US staff really listened and were helpful on styles and fit; they helped me not go too large on everything, something I am prone to do. They had a good eye for what looks good close and for alternatives when the fit was not right. The experience was fun (I went with a friend), very low pressure, and will actually help with brand knowledge when ordering online. I came away with 2 sweaters, a dress, pants (so helpful one sizing here), and the short trench of my dreams. Would definitely go again!
I meant so helpful ON sizing!
I rec’d an invitation to that trunk show and toyed with going. My introverted self said no, just order. So, in the spirit of a fresh start and open mind, I ordered 6 pairs of jeans, all different styles. Just boxed all 6 up to return. My honest opinion of US clothing is, it’s designed for pear-shaped women. If, like me, you’re an apple with a large waist and small hips/butt/thighs, it just doesn’t work well. Then again, nothing does!!
BTW, I see US is now charging for returns. Makes sense.
Bette, I feel your pain. In general, apples are underserved in the fashion market, and if you’re an apple like I am with a smaller bustline, it’s even worse. I feel like I sit between an XXS and and XS with them–need the XS for my waist, but the hip area is often too large. Like the Stephanie pants look either a bit too small or quite a bit loose. I know Alison loves the Audrey pants, but I looked awful in them–too-tight of a waist but ballooning farther down my body!
That having been said . . . I have had luck with the classic Seine jean, where I have both 10 and 12 depending on how large I am, and I like their t-shirts and sweaters, too. It may be the pants that I just will never be happy with with. I am trying hard to shrink my tummy back down to where an XS fits me better everywhere, but I am likely to drop weight everywhere else first. In the meantime, lots of separates with elastic waists for me.
Oops–I am now between an XS and an S with Universal Standard. Trying to get back squarely into an XS.
Rebecca, thanks for the nice reply. I think I am spoiled for comfort by wearing nothing but foldover waist yoga pants — um, flared leggings — for the past 3 years. Yoga pants offer the perfect combination of forgiving waist and slim hips/butt/thighs. It’s hard-to-impossible to consider zipping myself back into tight jeans. So, unless a space age denim comes along, I guess I won’t be wearing jeans. Oh, well.
That’s so interesting because I’m a pear and have returned everything I’ve tried from US because everything pulls across my hips and bunches up! Like many brands, I’d guess they are best for a taller, balanced figure.
I hope they come back to Chicago soon (and include Milwaukee people again)! I thought it was a great way to give things a try, and it was fun to meet some of the people involved with the brand.
I have a physical disability, and the dressing room/mirror situation wasn’t ideal – the other people there at the same time as me 100% HOGGED the one mirror. Honestly, I’m used to being ignored in that way, and I didn’t hold it against US. I would definitely make time to attend another trunk show!
You make a great point about the mirrors. I had times when I struggled to see myself, and I would have loved a three-way as well, possibly set apart from the rest so I could check out my back view, and possibly not feel guilty spending too much time in front of the mirror. I hate that you were ignored, that’s extremely frustrating. It makes me think that along with more mirrors they should have some sort of more private changing area for those who may have special needs/sensory issues and definitely need the larger fitting rooms not just for comfort but for accessibility. Thank you for sharing your experience!
A three-way mirror is a great idea, as are differently-configured changing areas! I had noted in my questionnaire that I have a physical disability, so they did provide a chair. I’m not sure if that was standard in all of the “rooms”? My changing area wasn’t fully-encosed, and I have pretty much zero shame, so it didn’t bother me, but I could see it being problemtic for some. It sounds like they’re learning along the way and will hopefully make improvements!
I have not been to a trunk show – I hope they will come to DFW!
Did the pull-on cigarette pants fit similarly to the button-waist ones? I love the button-waist and have several pairs. I have been debating buying some pull-on ones so they’re smooth under certain tops.
They are sort of similar but not exact. I feel they are a bit looser in the waist and the inch or so below it. I almost feel I can size down in the pull-on style but fear it will affect the leg fit.
Wait! You didn’t buy that gorgeous wrap dress? You were in bomb shell mode in that dress, Alison!
I completely agree with Giuditta! You looked stunning in that dress!
I was rooting for the Cleo blouse. Extremely flattering on you, Alison.
It’s a lovely blouse, but the keyhole was a bit too low on me and showed my bra. If it came in petite or I was even an inch taller I think it would have been a great fit!
It was a fantastic dress, but a bit too plunging (I would have to pin it just so to not have it hang weird and also cover my bra). Again a time when I wish they carried more petites!
I wish I had gone. I also wish that I had known it was at an AirBnB and not some random person’s house, which is where in my head I imagined it was from the description. Maybe I read the invitation wrong! But that is what turned me off from going! So glad you had a good experience – I will go if they come to the DMV again!
I hope they do return. I know many who weren’t available this weekend. I know it would be lucrative/successful for US to come back to DC (maybe on the M side of the DMV this time!).