Shelter Clothing is proudly women-run, and our team is made up entirely of women. We believe in creating a supportive, empowering community for our staff, offering competitive wages and benefits. Half of our team are mothers, and we strive to create a workplace that acknowledges the unique expectations of motherhood.

Our Commitment to Inclusivity

At Shelter, we believe everyone deserves access to clothing that makes them feel amazing. We’re continuously striving to become more inclusive, and while we’re proud of our progress, we understand it’s an ongoing journey. Here’s how we’re working toward greater inclusivity:

-We showcase a diverse range of bodies on our website.

-Our product descriptions include detailed measurements for various body types.

-Our social media content reflects diversity in all its forms.

-We partner with influencers in sizes XXL-3X to ensure all bodies are represented.

-We prioritize thoughtful, patient customer service when discussing sizes and measurements, understanding how daunting online shopping can be for people who are not 'sample size' and have limited access to try things on

-Additionally, we encourage stores that carry our brand to stock larger sizes, offering XXL-3X on consignment so customers can try before they buy.

Size Inclusivity: A Core Focus

We’re working to expand our size offerings. Many brands start product development with a size XS, but at Shelter, our "sample size" is an XL, and we size up and down from there. We fit-test every garment on a size 2X body, making adjustments to ensure that each piece works for a variety of shapes and sizes before going into production.

The foundation of our designs is built for bodies with curves, rolls, and breasts. We believe you can’t create a garment for a body with rolls from a pattern meant for one without.

We understand that inclusivity is a key issue in the fashion industry, and we’re committed to doing our part to change the narrative. We’re not just going to talk about inclusivity—we’re actively shaping it.

If you have any questions about our mission or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to chat and offer full transparency about our brand. Email us at info@shelterclothing.ca.

Sustainability

At Shelter, we are deeply committed to sustainability in every decision we make. We exclusively use 100% natural, biodegradable fibers and operate on a made-to-order model, ensuring we only sew what’s already been purchased. We repurpose fabric scraps to create children’s items for Shelter Kids and focus on crafting durable garments built to last. Our capsule wardrobe is designed for repeated wear, encouraging longevity and promoting the idea of a uniform for life. We also advocate for repairing clothing, ensuring that each piece stands the test of time

About the Owner

I’m Alison McLean, a mother of four living on Denman Island, where I balance homesteading, raising my children, and running my business from a small home office.

Although I no longer sew, Shelter Clothing remains a deeply personal project. Each piece is crafted with care by my talented friend, Beverly, in Courtenay, BC. I created this brand to design clothing that truly fits my life—comfortable, low-maintenance, and made to move with me. I'm proud of what Shelter has become and how it empowers women to feel confident and comfortable every day.

I’m passionate about creating a brand that aligns with my values, and I’m dedicated to ensuring every person who wears Shelter feels the love and care poured into each piece.