M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech Review
When I shared that I found M.M.LaFleur was a great place to shop for midsize fashion for grown women, the brand thanked me by offering an outfit of my choice. I haven't reviewed M.M.LaFleur in a long while (2018 to be specific) and found this a great opportunity to see how the brand has changed and see how it fits my petite curvy frame. Knowing many of you are looking for polished yet comfortable clothing for work and beyond, I decided to try some pieces of their travel-friendly OrigamiTech collection for an M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review.
I am 5'3″ with a large bust and soft curves. I usually wear a size 14, but for some brands I find 14 to run snug. The last time I did an M.M.LaFleur review, a lot of the pieces were snug. In 2020, the brand sent me an outfit and unfortunately, the only piece I could wear comfortably was the M.M.LaFleur Snyder Jacket. I asked for a size 14 pant and found it fit… but just fit. Like wouldn't be comfortable and surely couldn't wear it after a large meal or certain times of the month. I also received a size Large top at the same time that also fit the same… just a hair too snug especially at the bust. So for this M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review, I veered on larger rather than smaller for my sizing.
This M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review is not paid. I received the clothing as a gift from M.M.LaFleur without obligation to post about them. This post was not reviewed or edited by M.M.LaFleur or any other party prior to publishing; all thoughts are my own. There are affiliate links in this post; if you click on a link and make a purchase I may make a small commission.
What is M.M.LaFleur?
Sarah LaFleur was a management consultant who was frustrated by a lack of women’s workwear options that were both stylish and practical. LaFleur teamed up with Miyako Nakamura (the former head designer of Zac Posen) and Narie Foster to launch M.M.LaFleur in 2013.
M.M.LaFleur ensures each garment they offer encompasses three things: functional details (think: adjustable hems and bra-strap holders); comfort (and not just comfortable-for-a-blazer comfort—we strive for I-could-nap-in-this comfort); and style. You'll find elevated looks in elegant fabrics and silhouettes that are machine washable, crafted for easy alterations, and have features like hidden buttons at the bustline to keep shirts closed and elastic waists to ensure comfort while still achieving professionalism.
M.M.LaFleur strives to make its manufacturing and shipping more sustainable, and to have an ethical and inclusive business model and team. You can learn more about M.M.LaFleur's sustainable methods at this link. The line is available in sizes 00P through 18. I will be going more into the sizing at the end of this M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review.
M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech Review
While M.M.LaFleur offered 2-3 pieces, I really wanted to try a few pieces from the OrigamiTech collection; I asked for the Colby Pant in 14, Moreland Jacket in 16, and Langley Bomber in XL. To style the pieces, I also asked for the Annika Washable Silk Tee in XL. I think the Annika Tee and the Moreland Jacket are the right size, but I could have gone down a full size with the Langley Bomber and Colby Pant.
Unfortunately, M.M.LaFleur doesn't carry petite (though they have a category of petite-friendly pieces), but the sleeves of the Moreland Jacket are easy to have altered, and the Colby Pant has a very large hem to make it easy to elongate the legs, or have them hemmed shorter. I didn't have the pants shortened for this review; the pants are just folded under to be a more appropriate length for my height.
The fabric of the OrigamiTech is finely ribbed/textured, stretchy, but not shiny. It is 100% polyester, has a nice weight to it. I truly think this kind of fabric looks as polished or active/travel-friendly as you desire based upon styling. With a silk top and structured shoes, this is appropriate for the office or a conference. With sneakers and a knit t-shirt, this could be great pieces for sightseeing or the weekend.
I washed the Moreland Jacket and Colby Pants before I scheduled the shoot for this M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review. I wanted to see how well the pieces held up. They did amazing. I machine washed cold and air dried by hanging the jacket over the back of a chair and the pants thrown over a shower curtain bar and they turned out hanging, fitting, and looking exactly like new.
M.M.LaFleur Moreland Jacket in OrigamiTech
I've washed machine-washable blazers and jackets before and they have always ended up… not as good. A bit wrinkled, a bit misshapen, not as crisp. Not so with the Moreland Jacket. This made me really see how this collection is great not just for the office, but for business travel and vacation travel.
The Moreland Jacket has zippered pockets, and inside the deep pockets there are smaller pockets to hold an ID and some cash or other small items and keep them secure even if you're pulling your phone or other items out of the larger pockets. The sleeves are easy to push up or roll if it's warm, and the fabric has enough weight for great drape but lightweight enough to be comfortable under a coat or when on a long flight or train ride.
M.M.LaFleur Colby Pant in OrigamiTech
The Colby Pant also has zipper pockets, and deep ones that can easily hold a large smartphone or even a small bottle of water to keep your hands free while sight-seeing. The back view is minimal with just faux besom pockets.
As previously mentioned, the pants have a very deep hem making them easy to let down if you are taller. The front seam adds polish even though the pants are stretchy. The front of the waistband is smooth; the remainder elastic and wide enough and stitched just so I didn't find it to roll or fold over.
M.M.LaFleur Langley Bomber in OrigamiTech
The Langley Bomber is super cool looking; a smaller size (along with better-fitting pants) would have provided a more formal look, but this version is an upscale alternative to a track suit. I could totally see wearing this combination for sightseeing, being ready to go from climbing hills and stairs at historical sites to enjoying a meal at an elegant cafe. However, the Langley Bomber does not have zipper pockets.
If the pants were a better fit on me, I was going to wear the Langley Bomber and them with a silky camisole and a pair of heels for a night out. I think the Delaney Jogger would be a cool alternative that would look equally great with heels and sneakers. I really see how this fabric and these cuts can dress up and down with ease.
M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech Collection
A lot of travel-friendly collections are weird fabric. Too techy, too slinky, too shiny. The OrigamiTech collection from M.M.LaFleur is polished, elevated, yet still great for travel or if you just desire more comfortable workwear that is easy to care for.
Prior to this M.M.LaFleur OrigamiTech review, the pieces went into the washing machine without a lingerie bag or fancy detergents, and then were haphazardly thrown over furniture to dry. They dried overnight and turned out looking fantastic. This is the kind of fabric you could wash in a hotel room sink or spot clean while on travel and still look great.
I appreciate the travel-friendly details like the zipper pockets, but how they are subtle and the color of the garment so the detail still looks polished enough for the workplace or a business conference. I also appreciate the focus on timeless style – these pieces look stylish now and will look stylish years from now.
Yes, this collection is polyester so don't expect breathability or to think this is the perfect capsule wardrobe for a trip to a hot and humid climate. However, the OrigamiTech collection is something I wish I had back when I had a job that had me travel a lot for work. I so often went from the airport right to the client site and would then fly from that client site to another, spot cleaning clothes in my hotel sink so I didn't look a hot mess at my second destination. This collection would have made my life easier and more comfortable.
I also think of a two-week overseas trip my husband and I took years ago where we each lived out of a backpack. Back then I had a collection of matte jersey pieces that mixed and matched for everything from a casual day hike to fancy dinners but the fabric isn't the kind I'd be as comfortable in now as a 40-something with soft curves. The OrigamiTech collection is a great alternative to achieve the same versatility with a bit more structure and design.
Other than these pieces, M.M.LaFleur has additional pieces in their OrigamiTech collection, making it possible to create a capsule wardrobe for the office, business travel, or your next getaway. The Delaney Jogger was sold out in olive in my size at the time of my order or else I would have gotten a pair. The Mazza Dress is a cap-sleeved shift with pockets that can dress down with sneakers and a denim jacket or glam up with heels and pearls for a cocktail reception or daytime wedding. The Cassandra Dress is a vest-inspired midi-length shirtdress that can be a duster/elongated vest, a work-friendly frock that can be dressed down with sandals or sneakers, or a jumper worn over a turtleneck or blouse.
M.M.LaFleur Washable Silk Review
I love silk, but I hate having to care for it. I am a klutz and am usually wearing a dribble of coffee or salad dressing on my ensemble. I was intrigued by M.M.LaFleur's washable silk and was happy to try the Annika Tee. As I mentioned, I ordered this top in XL.
The Annika Washable Silk Tee has a bit of a nubby crepe-like finish, but a drape similar to silk. It is a relaxed fit with sleeves that have a wide hem (easier to alter and easier to cuff). The neck opening has a small gold button in back for ease, though I was able to get this top on and off over my big head without needing to unbutton it.
I think the XL in the Annika Tee was a perfect size for my busty size 14 self. There was also plenty of room for my shoulders and arms; I often find non-stretch tops like this snug on my biceps. I think it would remain comfortable even if I had a tailor shorten the sleeves.
To test the fabric prior to this shoot and review, I machine washed this top and line dried it. The result was a crinkly crepe-like feel. I used a garment steamer to remove the wrinkles and return the top to a pre-washed new effect. It did require pulling the fabric taut while steaming to get the wrinkles out, but I was able to return it to a like-new finish.
The washable silk used by M.M.LaFleur is made in an environmentally responsible factory that runs on solar energy and recycles 90% of the water used in production. The Annika Tee in Washable Silk is available in sizes XS-XXL in several different colors; I chose Rosewater which is nice for spring and I felt a great color to pair with the olive color of the OrigamiTech pieces.
Besides the Annika Tee, M.M.LaFleur has several pieces available in washable silk at this link. I also love the idea of this washable silk skirt to pair with one of the tops to create a dress effect or to have a versatile skirt for a travel wardrobe.
M.M.LaFleur Price and Quality
When I shared outfits featuring M.M.LaFleur on Instagram I received a few replies where folks are shocked by the price. That much for an unlined polyester jacket? The thing is, we are judging price on dated methods to determine quality.
Polyester was invented in the 1930's but didn't really come onto the scene until the 1950's when DuPont purchased the legal rights to polyester fabric and released Dacron. Polyester was cheaper to produce than natural fibers, but in exchange, comfort was sacrificed. Earlier polyester fabric was rough due to the size of the fibers and the doubleweave knit.
These days, polyester comes in a range of textures, finishes, and weights due to innovations in manufacturing of the textile and new ways to modify the fibers and completed fabrics. These methods have added to the time, effort, and cost to produce some forms of polyester. And with new methods and ethics for sourcing natural fabrics, sometimes polyester and cotton, wool, or linen cost the same to produce.
Polyester is a popular fabric for performance apparel due to its durability, ability to repel moisture, easy care, and how it doesn't wrinkle. These are reasons why the OrigamiTech line is made from polyester. M.M.LaFleur spends years developing fabrics that combine a luxurious feel with features like machine-washability and odor resistance that reduce the garments’ impact once in a customer's closet.
As for a lining determining quality/price, that is also debatable in 2020. With new as well as questionable methods for clothing production, things such as jacket linings aren't as difficult to manufacture, and things like jacket linings can prove the quality of manufacturing, which is a more valuable determinant of quality.
And one thing that has remained a constant with M.M.LaFleur over the years is the quality of craftsmanship on top of the brand's commitment to sustainability. Speaking of ethics, M.M.LaFleur is also committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and states the racial and ethnic breakdown of their staff as well as their policies for inclusion, education, and accountability on the M.M.LaFleur website.
In 2022, price cannot be determined just by textile and details. What makes a company, how they treat their employees, how they source their materials, their attention to detail, who makes the clothes, and how they treat our planet are better determinants for the quality of a brand as well as its products. And when it comes to all of those factors, M.M.LaFleur is a quality brand that offers quality clothing.
Such a price may not be reasonable for all, but M.M.LaFleur's hope is the clothes you purchase from them last in your closet not for a season or two but for years and years. They create stylish yet timeless fashion from textiles that are easy care and durable. That's pretty rare, especially for such fashion appropriate for Corporate America and business settings.
M.M.LaFleur Sizing
If you are familiar with the brand M.M.LaFleur you may recall that in 2017 it extended its size range to include 14W-22W. The brand did a lot of customer research, featured their pieces on plus size models, and unlike many brands, didn't just grade up but created a different fit for their plus options. They were at the forefront of offering elevated corporate fashion in extended sizes.
Currently, plus size styles at M.M.LaFleur are minimal and all on sale. I reached out to M.M. LaFleur to provide information on their current sizing and the state of their plus size collection:
“While unfortunately we’re not able to design a full run of plus sizes at this time, due to customer feedback and demonstrated interest we are currently able and happy to carry sizes 0P-18 in our size range… To provide a bit more context: many brands develop plus-size lines by simply scaling up their existing designs, but we refused to compromise on fit, fabric, or comfort. When we first launched our plus line, we hired a separate design team with plus-size experience, hired new models, and, in many cases, created new designs exclusively for the plus-size customer. The truth is that we struggled to sell enough of our plus-sized clothing to offset the cost of producing it. We hope this may change in the future.”
This is disappointing, but not surprising. Looking at analytics of clicks and sales for Wardrobe Oxygen over the years, I have seen that plus size clothing sells at a far lower pricepoint than straight sizes. Outside of Universal Standard, the plus clothing that I sell is usually from budget-friendly brands while straight sized clothing will easily sell at twice the price.
I often receive comments, emails, and DMs from readers sharing they won't spend such prices on their clothing because they don't believe they will remain their current size, or they won't reward themselves with higher-price clothing until they are a certain size. I understand this, as I used to do it myself.
Around 2016 or 2017 I decided that I deserved to wear what made me feel good, even if I wasn't at my “goal” size or weight. In fact, at that time I was at my largest size ever. I began purchasing higher-end pieces that were the styles and the quality I desired, knowing that clothes can be altered and resold if I did end up changing my size or shape. I found that I didn't end up spending more money because I was buying pieces that held up better, fit better, and I enjoyed beyond a single season.
I am grateful that more higher-end plus brands and retailers like 11 Honoré, Henning, and Pari Passu are on the scene because all women deserve to buy the kind of clothes that fit their bodies, their lifestyles, and their personal style aesthetics. Whether we like it or not, clothing can affect how we are perceived, and women of all sizes deserve fashion that will have them taken seriously in the workplace and look great for all sorts of occasions.
I know that not everyone can afford higher-priced pieces, and as I mentioned in my Old Navy denim haul, price doesn't equal quality. But if you are discounting certain brands or retailers because of their pricepoint, you may be doing your wardrobe and your confidence a disservice.
I hope the tide turns, more women realize they deserve quality fashion regardless of their size, and brands like M.M.LaFleur see enough of interest to bring back (or start) plus size lines. If you wish a brand carried a better size range, let them know. Comment on their social media, send them emails. We live in a time where we all have virtual platforms to share our thoughts and avenues to communicate directly with brands. Use them, and you may help change the future of fashion.
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Went to one of their showrooms today and was shocked to learn they don’t carry petite sizes. It’s 2023, for Pete’s sake. I really liked the OragamiTech jacket and would have bought 2 of them but the sleeves were too long. Same with the jardigan that brought me to the store in the first place. I refuse to pay for alterations that would not be necessary if petite sizing was available, especially not at this price point.
What happened to your commitment to showcase size inclusive brands? This retailer is not only exorbitantly expensive it’s size range is not indicative of the American population. Disappointed.
I appreciate how thorough your reviews are. I often pick up a tidbit I can use to evaluate purchases I’m considering.
I have the Moreland jacket and the Colby pants in Olive and I adore them. I bought the same suiting pieces in the Dusty Blue, but I don’t find the color as versatile. There is a great B/S/T group on Facebook—I have picked up some great pieces there. I echo what everyone has said about how polished and pulled together you look.
Love that olive green suiting with the pink silk top on you, Alison! I really love the bomber jacket too! The idea of being able to machine wash the clothes is such a bonus. I can’t remember the last time I had anything dry cleaned, and I purposely don’t buy things that need to be anymore.
I splurged on a couple dresses at a pop up years ago. One got crazy pills like immediately from my bag rubbing against it and the other was easily stained. Have they improved the quality of the fabrics? I felt like I threw $400 out the window on non durable fabrics.
Just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the effort and expertise you apply to your reviews.
Alison, thank you for the wonderful review! I discovered MM LaFleur through Dia a year ago. Given the pandemic, I did not have much need for polished clothing at that time but am now needing more of a polished look. I so wish MM LaFleur would make more plus sized pieces – I absolutely love the items I have from them and your review is reminding me that I might be able to do some items even if they are not plus sized.
I love this suit on you, it looks so polished! That washable silk t-shirt has me intrigued as well and the pink color is gorgeous. I totally 100% agree about fitting the body you have TODAY. Not “waiting” to drop another size, not having “aspirational” pieces in your closet for “one day”. I firmly believe you get what you pay for, and then you feel like what you’ve paid for. Spend the money on quality pieces, and you’ll feel better in them and they will last longer. Also, #sidenote, I love your natural curly longer hair!
Allison, you look wonderful in these clothes, and I love the colors on you.
I recently moved away from Washington DC, and will miss being able to visit MM LaFleur. When you see the clothes you realize how very well made they are. So they last. And also, for me at least, a real destresser, because I don’t have to worry about how I look or how the clothes hold up. I think their line is really worth considering.
The pants don’t look big on you, Alison, but I guess I can see where, when you have your hand in your pocket, there’s extra fabric in the hip area. Good to know, as well as elastic waists, since I am larger waist, smaller hips and discreet elastic waists are my friend!
I have considered MMLF many times but the price point does make me wince a bit and then, when they have sales, they never have my size anymore. But since COVID and putting on about 10 pounds, I’ve bought a few less expensive things, saying I’ll loss this weight, and I just don’t feel great in them. Maybe time to order some MMLF, see how things fit, and then hit the resale site. And I agree with the poster who said they could use some larger-size models.
To briefly pile on – I’m also disappointed by their decision to discontinue plus sizes. My wife, who is tall and plus-sized, had great difficulty finding conservative suiting during the pandemic and finally found a suit at MMLF that worked for her. I think it’s an opportunity lost, particularly as women return to the office – some professions will remain in or quickly return to business attire, and finding plus-sized business attire is very tough right now.
I am still in their current size range, but my issue is more that their colors tend to be mostly muted and nothing I’m in the market for. If I need conservative suiting, Talbots is a better fit for my petite, curvy frame (although their suiting also is very limited right now). I check out MMLF pieces for workwear every few months, but I am consistently disappointed by their color selection. A handful of bright, cool colors would be a great addition. I’m glad that you showcased the pink tee – that color might work for me!
MM LaFleur never tried to be part of plus size fashion. They never worked with plus influencers never marketed it and then blamed us because it didn’t do well. I’m not impressed and their clothes are overpriced.
I’m a 20 and I have a LOT of MM LaFleur in my closet and am saddened by them ending plus sizes. I haven’t bought anything since before Covid and didn’t realize they ended it. In my field MM LaFleur has been a godsend because it’s hard to find plus size suiting and workwear that isn’t cheap or something I’d wear to a dance club.
Nicest-looking pieces you’ve posted in a while. The quality shines through, plus they are versatile and flattering. I do wish the prices were closer to what I’m generally comfortable spending, but based on your review I’m going to give them another look. Greatly appreciate your comprehensive reviews, and the information about the wide hems is invaluable to me as a tall woman.
I love MMLF and was one of their size 16 / +1 customers until they discontinued their plus sizes. That was a disappointment.
However, a shout-out to their resale site, where you can still find quite a few +1 pieces. I’ve gotten several great bargains and always look there first. The resale site includes some of the original photos of plus-sized models, which I think is essential for seeing how a garment will fit.
https://mmlafleur.archiveresale.co/mmlafleur
Re MMLF’s current pricing. I agree, it’s high; however, it’s no higher — and generally much lower — than many ridiculous fashion lines of poor quality and dubious origins. The company is worth supporting, if you need quality work wear that will last.
PS. Allison, I love the suiting on you! You look so polished.
Oh how I have wanted to love Mme Lafleur because their images are so…. well…. aspirational.
Polished. Powerful. Feminine. Intelligent.
They look like women who Belong There… whether that means the Boardroom or the legislative seat. As a plus size woman who struggles with imposter syndrome despite being well respected in my field and in my community, I’ve longed for exactly that kind of “sartorial armor.”
And I’ve purchased from mme Lafleur on several occasions… I bought a Jardigan. And a wrap top in a gorgeous teal. And a black faux wrap bodice dress.
Every piece fit…kiiiinda. They didn’t do me any favors, and they baaarely fit the size range advertised. The actual curves of a plus size body seemed not to be planned for.
And, more disappointing, but on me I guess, nothing lives up to the promise of those images. The jardigan was just… a heavy polyester open cardigan. I never wore it. The dress and top are, sadly, hanging in my closet with tags on and I am going to take this as my signal to find them a happier home.
I was so disappointed when MMLF got rid of their plus line. I had a few pieces and just LOVED them, but wasn’t in a position to buy regularly from them at that point. Now my income would allow me to buy more, but the items are gone and it’s such a bummer. I absolutely agree with the criticisms above, as well. Universal Standard seems to find offering a fully-inclusive size range profitable, with prices that are a little lower than MMLF but higher than your average department store/big box chain, but they’ve gone about it completely differently from MMLF and really made it a pillar of their brand and ethos. It just makes me sad that MMLF isn’t willing to make that commitment. (I now have LOTS of US pieces!)
You look fabulous in the Moreland Jacket and Colby Pants. I especially like the pink top paired with olive … it’s such a great color combination.
I have to say that I was extremely disappointed when I went to their website. All of the women are reed thin. All of them. This does not encourage me to purchase anything for my size 12/14 body.
Same here. And the price point is … oof. Love the idea of MM LeFleur, but I have a hard time justifying the cost.
I think the olive grey suit, especially the pants, looks so classy on you! I have been looking for a more relaxed fit, contemporary suit to update my wardrobe and to phase out the stuffy “working girl” black blazer and matching skirt I have in the back of my closet. Thanks for the review.
I am plus size and closely follow when higher end brands expand into plus. MM LaFleur did hardly any marketing around their plus line, virtually no partnerships with plus influencers, and didn’t include body diverse models in their general marketing efforts. Most plus size women I know never even knew they were an option for us. You can’t just build it and expect we will magically come – you have to, at minimum, tell us about it!
To me this is similar to when LOFT announced they were discontinuing plus “due to the financial pressures of the pandemic.” It was a limited collection, only briefly available in a tiny corner of a fraction of their stores, and the items were different cuts than their straight size items. After an initial brief marketing push, plus size models were nowhere to be found in their marketing. I can tell you why it wasn’t successful, and it had nothing to do with COVID!
The owner of Alice Alexander has written extensively about this issue of price and plus size buyers. She has found consistently that her plus items sell out more quickly than her straight size items. I also personally and anecdotally find this to be the case with many other higher end brands that expand into plus – their plus sizes sell out very quickly. I most recently experienced this with an independent brand called Curator SF but it’s also a chronic issue with Madewell’s plus sizes and often with Anthro as well. All of these brands are at a similar, higher price point.
Of course plus size women are not a monolith and some are very budget conscious for any number of reasons. But many of us are eager to pay for high quality, well-designed clothes in great (especially non polyester/rayon) fabrics.