Shopping for lingerie is way harder than it needs to be. It will look great on the model on the page, then arrive, and the straps cut into your shoulders or the band is up your back. What's more, it's usually not your body; it's the cut. Plus size lingerie comes in lots of shapes, and some shapes are better suited to certain body types than others. AVIDLOVE has some nice plus size lingerie, so it's worth taking a look around when comparing styles. In this guide, we cover the main body shapes and their best cuts.
Measure Before You Shop
Get a soft tape measure. Measure around the ribcage, just under the bust. Then measure around the fullest part of the bust. Write both numbers down and check them against the size chart of the brand you plan to buy from. A size 42 in one brand can fit differently in another.
Once the bra is on, check three things:
- The band sits level across the back.
- The straps stay on the shoulders without cutting in.
- Nothing spills out of the cups.
The same idea applies to plus size underwear. The waistband should lie flat, and the leg openings should not roll or leave deep red lines. If they do, go up a size. Measure again once a year, because bodies change.
Hourglass Shape
An hourglass shape has a bust and hips of about the same width, with a smaller waist. Pick styles that sit at the waist, so the shape shows.
Good choices are high-waisted briefs, bodysuits, and wrap styles that tie at the front. Soft corset-style pieces also work if the boning is flexible. Curvy lingerie in stretch lace stays comfortable all day. For the bra, a full-support style with a wide band keeps the bust in place.
Pear Shape
A pear shape has hips that are wider than the bust. The aim is to add some interest on top.
Look for bras with lace, ruffles, or light padding. Balconette and plunge cuts add shape to the bust. For the bottom half, full-coverage briefs or high-waisted styles with wide leg bands are comfortable and do not dig in. A darker colour below and a lighter or patterned colour above helps even things out. Plus size underwear with smooth, bonded edges also stays flat under jeans and leggings.
Apple Shape
An apple shape carries more weight around the middle, often with slimmer legs. Pieces that fall loosely from under the bust tend to feel best.
Babydolls and chemises sit lightly over the stomach. Empire waist styles start just under the bust and give a clean line. High-waisted briefs in smooth, stretchy fabric hold the stomach gently without squeezing. Soft-cup bras with a wide underband give support without pressure. To show the legs, try boyshorts or bikini cuts with a high leg line.
Rectangle Shape
A rectangle shape has a bust, waist, and hips of similar width. Extra detail can add curves.
Try ruffles, bows, or lace trim around the bust and hips. Padded bras add fullness on top, and peplum styles add shape at the waist. Bodysuits with side panels can give the look of a smaller waist. Curvy lingerie with gathered fabric or layered lace works especially well here.
Fabric and Special Occasions
Fabric plays a big role in the feel and comfort on your skin. For everyday wear, go for cotton blends because those are breathable. For special occasions, go for lace and mesh options as those are stylish and good-looking. Also, do not forget to check the elastic and seams. Elastic should be soft and seams should be flat, as they do not cause too much rubbing.
On big nights, plus size sexy lingerie conforms to the same fit standards as normal items. Adjustable straps, high-stretch content, and a band that does not budge are some important aspects to look out for. Plus size sexy lingerie that doesn't fit properly will look far worse than one that is appropriately sized. AVIDLOVE offers lingerie sets, bodysuits, and babydoll lingerie that make comparison shopping, size checking, and fit breakdown easier.
A Quick Checklist
Before paying, run through this list:
- Does the size match the brand's chart?
- Do the straps adjust?
- Is the fabric soft where it touches the skin?
- Will it work under the clothes you wear most?
- Is it easy to wash?
If the answer to all five is yes, the piece is probably a good buy. Hand washing or a mesh laundry bag helps lingerie last longer, and drying flat keeps the elastic from wearing out.
Final Thoughts
There is no one style that everyone should wear. Go for a well-fitted, correct silhouette, then find a cut that works for your shape. Hourglass: Use waist-emphasizing shapes. Pear: Use details on top. Apple: Use loose, flowy shapes. Rectangle: Use details that create curves.
First things first, comfort. Since plus size lingerie is meant to be worn all day, experiment with a few options and remember which ones are comfy. AVIDLOVE has a huge selection of curvy lingerie and plus size underwear in everything from thongs to boy shorts.
