Don’t ever make the mistake of thinking that shapewear is purely a plus size product. It’s about smoothing your silhouette and adding confidence. This is something that everyone needs a bit of at some point! So when it comes to plus size shapewear, are there specific pieces that fit better than others? Well, we’ll start by saying that “plus size” isn’t actually a body shape, and in fact covers a whole swathe of unique shapes and sizes. In this way, the answer is no. However, there are specific things to look for in plus size shapewear, depending on which part of your body you’re focussing on.
Know Your Size
Before you start buying shapewear garments, it’s important to know your size and have the right attitude to it. Most items, from control briefs to shaping slips, correspond to dress size parameters. Now, we all know how variable dress sizes are, so it’s always worth measuring your waist and bust and checking the size guide to ensure you’re ordering the right size. Always buy shapewear true to your size. Aspirational sizing – by which we mean buying a dress size smaller than you are – will only lead to a lumpy shape.
Smooth Lines
For everyday shape and comfort, a subtle and natural line is best. Plus size garments such as high rise control briefs and shaping skirts or shorts smooth out your silhouette. They end at the waist and so sit underneath workwear, jeans or dresses for convenient all day wear. Look for medium compression garments which support your shape from the waist through to your legs. These are a great foundation for any outfit, offering comfort as well as shape.
Waist Creation
Plus sizes that are more of an apple shape can benefit from waist focused garments to balance their look. Try shapewear that sits from your bust to your hips like a bodycorset shaping brief. This will shape your waist, smooth your tummy and support your back. Similarly, a high waisted panty girdle will cinch your middle with lightweight lycra rather than restrictive boning. These styles shape your waist and bottom at the same time, which creates an uninterrupted curve from your waist down to your hips.
Dramatic Curves
You may want to dramatically accentuate your waist to make a splash on a special occasion. Or just because you feel like it! For this, look for shapewear that offers support from your bust, through your waist, over your bottom and down to your leg. A body shaping suit, cami including bra or full corset all offer this level of shaping. As there’s compression across so many areas of your body, you’ll benefit from garments that are anchored at the shoulders, or are very structured so they hold their shape.
No Wobbles!
Sometimes it’s not really about how you look at all – it’s about feeling comfortable and confident as you move around. For plus sizes especially, you may feel that the movement of your boobs or thighs is uncomfortable as well as making you self conscious. Shapewear need not dramatically alter your appearance, but simply give your body the stability and support that it needs. Long line light compression shaping shorts are a wonderful wardrobe staple. Similarly, sports bras are not just for sports! They can give you the uplift and support to simply go about your day in comfort and confidence.
Regardless of whether a piece of shapewear is plus size, we love it because it can not only change how we look but how we feel. So, as a plus size woman, what’s your priority? And remember, it doesn’t always have to be the same… This is why different shapewear for different moods or occasions will always come out top!
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.
