Chromat

Founded in 2010 by Becca (Bex) McCharen-Tran, Chromat began as a series of fashion-and-architecture experiments inspired by McCharen-Tran’s studies in architecture at the University of Virginia. Early collections featured sculptural cage garments that blended engineering, technology, and fashion before evolving into the swimwear and bodywear for which the brand is best known. Chromat quickly gained international recognition for challenging beauty standards through radically inclusive runway casting. Long before diversity became commonplace in fashion, the brand regularly featured plus-size models, disabled models, transgender and nonbinary people, older adults, pregnant models, and athletes. Figures such as Denise Bidot, Mama Cax, Ericka Hart, and Geena Rocero became closely associated with the brand’s groundbreaking presentations. The label specializes in architectural swimwear, activewear, lingerie, and bodywear designed to celebrate all bodies rather than conform to traditional fashion ideals. Chromat became especially well known for extended sizing, ethical manufacturing, and the use of recycled performance fabrics. In 2019, the company transitioned to a direct-to-consumer model to make its collections more affordable while maintaining sustainable production practices. In 2025, founder Bex McCharen announced that Chromat would enter an indefinite hiatus following the release of its Spring 2025 collection. The decision reflected both personal and business considerations, including McCharen’s gender transition and a desire to pause the brand while exploring a new creative direction.