In a world of shapewear, bodysuits are the queens! This type of foundation garment controls and shapes your bust, waist, hips and bottom all at once. But it’s not as simple as grabbing the first bodysuit you see. Very subtle differences in designs can mean a marked difference in how your garment will support you. So what should you look for if you’ve got your eye on the perfect bodysuit to take you into next year?
What’s great about a bodysuit?
Bodysuits aren’t the only shapewear to sculpt your core from bust to bottom. Corsets and girdles cover many of the same areas. However these differ from bodysuits as they are generally not anchored from the shoulders. This aspect of added security is often what makes a bodysuit great for both everyday and occasion wear. Alternatively, a range of control can be achieved with a shaping slip which hangs from the shoulders. This is great for ensuring smooth lines underneath a dress, but does not offer the same flexibility of use as a bodysuit. So with the most secure, comfortable and flexible shaping, this is why a bodysuit is queen!
So, on to the subtle differences in bodysuit focus…
Support
Choosing shapewear does not mean that you should neglect bust support in the traditional sense. This is why many bodysuits will feature underwired cups. As with an underwired bra, the substance of cup panelling will vary. So if you want to find a plus size bodysuit with a view to creating an hourglass shape, then look for a focus on supportive paneling. As a base garment, the Amelie nude body shaping suit is a great example of firm support.
Open Bust
At the other end of the spectrum, you can select a bodysuit which has no bust support at all! An open bust shaping body gives you the flexibility to team this foundation with your regular bra. So if you have a very specific bra that you adore and can’t imagine not wearing, there is a bodysuit for you! Since the bodysuit is all about flexibility, this is a wonderful thing!
Detailing
Plus size bodysuits don’t have to just be about compression and shaping. There are options out there which focus on detailing and embroidery. This allows these garments to make you feel sensual as well as giving you a shape to envy. Check out designs by Gorsenia for some really stunning lacework.
Lines
Maybe your desired silhouette is something altogether more subtle and streamlined. You can take support right down to the lower hip with a panty corselette. It may not be termed a ‘bodysuit’, but this length of plus size support is more encompassing than a traditional body. As a comfortable go-to, this type of foundation is fabulously accessible.
Colour
Don’t forget to think about colour when you’re purchasing a bodysuit. It can’t be denied that you’ll get more flexibility of use by going for a nude shade. However a black or navy colour looks really striking. It kind of depends on whether you intend to show the bodysuit off…!
Garment Care
How should you care for your new bodysuit? The key thing to remember is that it should last a couple of wears before needing a wash. Of course, this depends on what you’ve been up to. It is true, though, that aiming for a couple of wears between washes prevents damage both from over-washing and excess wear. If you can hand wash, great. If not, stick to the most gentle of cycles and never tumble dry! Don’t wring out water from your bodysuit as this can damage the fabric.
In reality, it’s helpful to have a couple of different styles of bodysuit in your shapewear wardrobe. Where some excel in panelled shape control, others allow a comfortable daily feel. So with something for each occasion, you really are the queen of your own shape!
