The Plus Size Guide to Shapewear

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Shapewear can be so confusing! Which is why I called on Samantha (Sam) Walker, my homegirl in fashion, fellow blogger, runway queen and fashion show host to ask if she could write a guest blog post to help break down shapewear for us curvy girls. As a plus size model that is always on the go, constantly photographed and spotted at a variety of events around Cleveland, Sam is definitely a shapewear expert, so read on to see what she has to say...

A foundation is the under structure, substructure or base- it can be the braids under your hair weave, the brick underneath a building and can also be what you wear under your clothes. Your foundation- aka shapewear- is a critical piece of any ensemble; bodycon dresses and skirts, dress slacks, wedding gowns etc. The most important thing to remember is knowing what you’re looking for when shopping for shapewear. Are you in need of smoothing, cinching in or are you trying to create curves? Here’s the break down on the various types of shapewear.

via GIPHY

Tummy Control Shapewear
​Tummy control shapewear items are great if you’re looking to add extra curves around your bottom region while giving the illusion of a slimmer midsection. They come in either waist bands that only go around your tummy and in control top panties which have a more snug fit to hold in your belly. If you go with a high waist shaper it prevents the oh so dreadful muffin top and be aware that with the tummy going in, the booty will pop out more! Pay attention to where the seams are and if you don’t want indentations or hooks peeking through your clothes get a shaper with no hooks, zippers, or boning. 

Mid Length Shapewear
​Mid length shapers are great for giving you a smooth look for those pesky problems areas and are especially good for hiding panty lines and seams. Shapers come in a range of  lengths like the mid length which fits down to the knee and usually comes right underneath the bust line.  These can come in a short like form or high waist panties. They are a good option when wearing mid length skirts/dresses.

Full Length Shapewear
​Full length shapewear tends to come all the way down past the calves and are the most appropriate when wearing maxi dresses/skirts and dress slacks. Be advised that the elasticity of the shaper varies from brand to brand. If you are only wanting to smooth, then your shaper doesn't have to be as firm, but if you are looking to hold it in as well as smooth, then be sure the shaper has a firm structure and is not flimsy! If it is flimsy, it will not give you the hold that you are looking for. 

​If you are shopping online, be sure to read reviews on brands, since they often switch up materials which will change the fit of the shapewear. It can seem stressful trying to figure out what type of shapewear will work for you, but you can always shop in stores like Lane Bryant and utilize the store associates if you’re having a hard time. The most important tip is if you don’t want to wear shapewear, then you don’t have to. The best  thing you can wear  that fits you no matter what is your confidence.  Happy Shopping!

Thanks Sam! You can read Sam's blog Curvy, Confident and Nervous and follow her on Instagram to keep up with her and see what she is doing and what she will be wearing next! And if this isn't enough shapewear for you to choose from- no worries! Check out my Amazon Picks right here...