At a certain age, getting dressed involves more than throwing on a dress, top, or bottom — you’ll also need to consider your shapewear. Having the best shapewear for plus-size women in your closet helps accentuate your natural shape and emphasize your assets as you please — something that becomes especially important for women with curves. Take it from us: The secret to looking your best starts with the perfect foundational garment.
Types of Shapewear
The days of shoving your body into uncomfortably tight spandex are long gone. Constructed with control panels, form-fitting shapes, and lightweight, breathable materials, the shapewear of today is just right for highlighting your voluptuous shape. With the right plus-size shapewear, your body will look smooth and slim, giving you the confidence to strut your stuff. We’ve outlined five of the most popular types below.
Shorts: Shapewear shorts have become as much of a wardrobe staple as leggings. Designed to be worn underneath your skirts, dresses, and pants, these tummy-controlling and thigh-shaping pieces extend from just beneath the bust to right above the knee, smoothing out everything in between.
Leggings: As with shapewear shorts, shapewear leggings have become more and more popular due to their ability to work as both an everyday clothing staple and an excellent piece of shapewear. They’re made from the same stretchy and moisture-wicking materials as some of your favorite workout pieces and even out everything from waist to ankle.
Slips: Designed to create a slimming barrier between you and your dress, slips can also be used as a piece of shapewear when constructed with the right materials. Contouring versions are used to create clean lines and a smooth appearance, making them a closet essential.
Bodysuits: Another common type of shapewear is the bodysuit. Available in various designs, such as bikini cut and full body, shapewear bodysuits cover everything from your bust to hip, with some even extending as far as right above the knee. Best of all, they can also be tucked into a pair of your favorite pants to be worn as a standalone top.
Waist-cinchers: The most classic shapewear style comes in the form of a waist cincher. Modeled after the corsets of yesteryears, these modern-day designs are designed to give you that sought after hourglass shape by compressing the waist and pushing up the bust.
Whether you’re looking for a lacy bodysuit ($51.99, Spanx) or something more low-key, such as a pair of body-shaping shorts ($38, Spanx), we’ve got something for everyone. Keep scrolling to shop FIRST for Women’s picks for the best plus-size shapewear.