Shapewear is not just a plus size product. Women of all shapes and sizes swear by the confidence a great foundation garment gives them. Even those women (Kim Kardashian and Gwyneth Paltrow, we’re looking at you!) who don’t seem to need any extra confidence are singing the praises of shapewear. Which begs the question: in a world of shapewear for all, which are the best pieces for plus size women?
Your Shapewear Mission
Why do we all love shapewear? Essentially it’s because of its transformative properties. It allows women the chameleon-like ability to alter their image to suit their mood. So what you need to decide, as a plus size woman, is your image aim. And we’ll let you into a secret: it doesn’t always have to be the same! One day you might want to make a splash with hourglass curves. The next, smooth, subtle lines may be the order of the day. So here are the best ways to achieve some of our favourite silhouette looks.
Focus Your Waist
Working well under a dress or separates, shapewear that accentuates your waist is a great look for plus size women. Check out a bodycorset shaping brief. These shape the waist, smooth the tummy and support the back all at the same time. Similarly focussed on shaping your waist, a high waist panty girdle cinches your middle in a comfortable way with lightweight lycra rather than restrictive boning. These pieces shape your waist and bottom at the same time, which creates an uninterrupted curve from your waist down to your hips.
Boost Your Curves
Maybe you want to go all out curvy! So here you should look for shapewear that offers support from your bust, through your waist, over your bottom and down to your leg. A full shaping suit, cami including bra or full corset are the pieces of shapewear which offer this level of support. Your decision will be based on preference of material and compression. You can achieve a softer look by going for an underwired cami or shaping suit, and choose a corset for something more dramatic!
Slim Your Lines
Perhaps you’re just thinking about daily wear. You’re seeking a subtle and natural line. Something that smooths out your existing shape and sits underneath workwear and jeans alike. Look for medium compression shaping briefs and seamless shaping skirts or shorts. These garments support your shape from the waist and through your legs. They are a great foundation for any outfit, offering comfort as well as shape.
Stay Secure
Sometimes it’s not really about the silhouette at all – it’s about feeling secure in your shapewear and confident in your look. If you have purchased a high quality item that is the correct size, your shapewear should sit securely, whatever style it is. But if you prefer that extra bit of anchoring, choose shapewear that hangs from your shoulders. For example a shaping slip or bodysuit. The shoulder straps prevent any roll down, allowing you to go about your day or night without any worry of shifting shapewear.
Size it Right
Whichever pieces you choose, sizing is the all important aspect for great looking shapewear! You should buy shapewear true to your size. Aspirational sizing (buying a dress size smaller than you are) will only result in lumps and bumps. At Elle Courbee, we ensure that you can trust our sizing to be accurate. So your product will sit snug and smooth under your outfit of choice.
We have sourced a range of shapewear options which offer high quality garments that you can rely on. We know what makes great shapes for plus size women. So whatever your mood you’ll find the perfect piece of shapewear among our catalogue.
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.
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