For plus-size women, navigating the realm of fashion and, more specifically, undergarments can feel like a daunting task, especially with limited options that cater to specific needs.
However, most retailers have progressed to include more size-inclusive options, including shapewear designed explicitly for plus-size bodies.
While embracing one’s natural curves is always of paramount importance, having the right garments to complement and enhance them is sometimes needed.
From enhancing comfort to boosting confidence, the right shapewear can make a world of difference in how one feels. So, we’ve gathered some of the best shapewear for plus-size women for any occasion.
The best shapewear for plus size in 2024
01
Smooth & Chic Thigh Smoother
$39.98 (usually $79.95) at City Chic
Available in either latte or black, these shorts make for a seamless base layer for just about any fit, featuring a power net lining for a smooth, sleek silhouette and a breathable cotton gusset for comfort.
Colours: Latte and black
Sizes: 14 to 24
Materials: 100 per cent cotton gusset
Key features:
- Wide high non-roll elastic support
- Gel tape for securing banding
- Power net lining for a smooth, sleek silhouette
- Thigh support
02
The Cotton
$59 at Thigh Society
These ultra-soft slip shorts are made from a luxurious blend of Pima cotton and modal, so smooth you’ll feel like royalty lounging at home. With a comfortable, tagless design, these anti-chafe shorts won’t roll or ride up, making them the MVP of loungewear. Plus, 4509 five-star reviews speak for themselves.
“These are definitely the thinnest shorts I’ve ever found,” wrote a five-star reviewer. “Perfect for under a dress. You barely feel them but they do a great job of keeping the chafe away. I’ve also been pleased to find they don’t roll down or slip out of place.”
Another wrote: “Of the three pairs I purchased this is the only one I have worn. Loved them. The day was hot and I felt comfortable in my linen dress. Will definitely recommend your product to my family and friends.”
Colours: Black, almond and rosette
Sizes: XS/S to 5XL/6XL
Materials: High-quality Pima cotton and modal fabric
Key features:
- Tagless for itch-free comfort
- Machine-washable and anti-chafe
- Flexible waistband that stays put (no rolling or riding up)
- Smooth, no visible lines under clothing
- Sweat-wicking and breathable fabric
- Available in three lengths for your preferred coverage
03
ASOS Design Curve All Day smoothing racer body
$13.50 at ASOS
This ASOS DESIGN lingerie and nightwear piece is the perfect blend of style and function, with its sleek bodycon fit and racerback silhouette. Simple, chic and comfortable – your wardrobe just got a new go-to.
Colours: Black, taupe and camel
Sizes: 18 to 30
Materials: Soft, stretchy jersey with cotton gusset
Key features:
- Shaping design for a flattering fit
- Crew neck and sleeveless style
- Racerback cut for ease of movement
- Thong cut for a smooth, seamless finish
- Bodycon fit
04
Subtile Shaper bodysuit
$159.95 at Simone Pérèle
For shapewear that looks like lingerie, you can’t look past this one-piece bodysuit shaper that hugs and defines your curves with control mesh, responsive knitted fabric and French lace.
Colours: Black and peau rose
Sizes: 10 to 18
Materials: 71 per cent polyamide, 26 per cent elastane and 3 per cent cotton
Key features:
- Comfortable sculpting with medium control
- Offers side support for the bust
- Stretch lace triangle plunge top can be worn with or without a bra
- Stretch lace detail at the thighs and butt lays flat for a smooth fit under clothes
- Boyshort-cut bottom
Also available at:
- $119.54 at Amazon
05
Something Else lace panty
$39.95 at Triumph
Perfect for everyday use and comfort, this popular shapewear piece features a reinforced front panel for tummy control and also aims to create slightly smoother lines.
“Love these undies, a favourite for many years now,” wrote a reviewer who left five stars. “My only regret is that they no longer come in white. Gently control with soft legging elastic. Top pick!”
Colours: Fresh powder and black
Sizes: 12 to 20
Materials: 85 per cent polyamide and 15 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Breathable and non-constrictive for wearing comfort
- High-waisted for full coverage
- Beautiful lace trim for a touch of femininity
- Tones and smoothens natural shape
- Stretch fabric provides a smooth finish and gives a slender shape
Also available at:
- $33.46 (usually $39.95) at Curvy
06
SHAPERX bodysuit
$21.79 at Amazon
With nearly 38,000 global ratings – the majority within five stars – this bodysuit provides tummy control while its whisper-soft and seamless construction makes it a necessity for enhancing your body’s natural shape.
“Great product,” said a five-star reviewer. “Material quality is amazing, the fit and style is as pictured. Once you put it on, you can definitely see the difference. [I’m] going back to get more colours.”
Colours: Black, beige, palace blue, pink, umber, brown, blue, sienna and smokeblue
Sizes: XXS/XS to 4XL/5XL
Materials: High-quality, lightweight, skin-friendly fabric
Key features:
- Adjustable straps and no compression bra design fit for all cups
- Full back coverage smooths the upper back
- Snap closure at crotch for easy manoeuvring
- The breast area is made of breathable mesh material
- Holds in the core, lifts chest and smooths abdomen
07
Spanx Shaping Satin Thong
$14 (usually $74.95) at The Iconic
Internationally acclaimed shapewear label Spanx is here to help you achieve a subtly smooth figure from morning to night with zero fuss – especially with this silky satin shaping thong.
Sizes: XS to 3xXL
Materials: 72 per cent nylon and 28 per cent elastane, with 100 per cent cotton gusset
Key features:
- Satin weave; some stretch; lined
- High-waisted design
- Thong coverage
- Part of the curvy (+ size) range, which is designed to complement and flatter fuller figures
Also available at:
- $39 (usually $69.95) at David Jones
Does shapewear work for plus size?
Designed to smooth and contour the body, providing support and shaping in areas where you’d like it to, shapewear can definitely work for plus-size women. Specifically plus-size shapewear.
Coming in various styles, including bodysuits, shaping shorts, leggings and camisoles, each of which targets specific areas of concern, it’s important to choose a piece that offers the right support and compression without causing discomfort.
Related articles:
- The best plus size activewear brands around Australia
- The best Australian underwear brands to slip into
- Five affordable activewear brands to get your sweat on with
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