When it comes to finding the perfect plus size shapewear, it can be tricky to know what’s right for your body shape, as well as fit for the occasion. Luckily our experts at Elle Courbee are on a mission to help you make the right consumer choices. So, going beyond bra fit, we thought we’d take a closer look at the bust line of shapewear and the pros and cons of drawing the line over or under your bust.
What’s the difference?
As with most things, there is a time and a place for everything. And to gauge it correctly, it helps to understand the difference between these pieces. You can choose shapewear that ends under your bust, where your bra sits, or alternatively continue your shaping line over your breasts. This choice affects more than just the bust, though. The area of support provided by your shapewear will vary depending on where it sits in relation to your bust. So it’s important to get it right!
Why underbust?
The great thing about underbust shapewear is its flexibility. You can wear an open bust full slip over your everyday bra, which makes this piece ideal for every day use. You can even choose a firm support shaping short or panty girdle which will maintain support beyond your waist, but give you freedom of choice as far as your bra goes.
Why overbust?
Choosing shapewear that continues support over your bust is great for an uninterrupted line. Look at a full bodysuit or integrated bra and cami, for instance. When your priority is your core, opting for an over bust piece of shapewear anchors your line from your shoulders and prevents any interruptions to your line.
Where’s your focus?
We all have particular parts of our bodies where we seek more support to raise our confidence. Therefore the bit you tend to focus on can help guide whether you go over or under bust…
Waist
If you want a cinched-in waist, a corset is a great way to go. A corset need not encompass your bust, so you can choose over or under bust depending on whether your bosom line or support is a priority. Corsets are extremely structured, giving you the choice of a subtle or dramatic hourglass look. Once a Victorian mainstay, corsets have seen an amazing revival in recent years. If you’re interested in trying one out, remember that as an added benefit, these foundation garments are also excellent for helping maintain a good posture.
Bust
Whether you want to maximise or minimise your bust, choosing a bodysuit or integrated bra and cami will give you the support that you need. These pieces give distinction to your bust whilst ensuring a soft line with no unwanted lumps and bumps!
Hips
Sandwiched as hips are between waist and bottom, lines and lumps are often the main concern for anyone who wants to focus their control here. So an open bust slip is ideal here. Anchored from your shoulders, your hips are shaped while maintaining the line above and below this area.
Bottom
With compression reaching up to your bust, try a firm control body-shaping short or long leg panty girdle. These pieces of shapewear offer lift to each buttock which brings a beautifully shaped line under trousers and dresses alike.
What’s the occasion?
When you plan to don your shapewear is pivotal in how you create your line. And as we know, it’s all about the lines! For special occasions, you may want to create a dramatic contour. So look no further than a cleavage-enhancing corset. For more understated continuous lines, a bodysuit may be more fitting. Or for ultimate flexibility or day to night functionality, go for an open bust slip. This will maintain control from thigh to bust. Plus, you’ll enjoy the freedom to choose a supportive or everyday bra and even to change it as you go into the evening.
There is no all encompassing choice that is right for every individual. That’s why, at Elle Courbee, we offer the range of items that we do. So consider your own focus and priorities and you’ll arrive at the perfect piece for you – whether that is over or under bust!
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.