Body Shaping

Retro shapewear is back and one of the great benefits is the extra smoothing and shaping it provides. A sexy and supportive waist cincher garter belt is a cross between a corset and a garter belt. Just think how sexy you will feel on a special date with garter straps and thigh high stockings underneath that little black dress? A well-made waist cincher will have multiple contour bands that will shape your waist, hips, back and derriere.

A long-line bra will also help you smooth your midsection and provide some waist control, though not to the extent that a true corset or waist cincher will. The ever-popular "merry widow" style can be used as a body shaper under your clothes during the day, and a beautiful and provocitive piece of lingerie later.

A waist nipper without garter straps can serve double duty, supporting your tummy and back under that black clingy dress, but also as a part of your wardrobe. Got hips and curves that like high fashion? Wear it as a waist cincher over a flowing blouse (think or it like a really large belt) and a pencil skirt. Tyra Banks' Top Models wore corsets over ribbed tanks. Since there are no garters, this style is great with a pair of fishnet pantyhose. Very Julie Newmar, Meow!

While some plus size women feel they have too many curves and use shapewear to minimize parts of their bodies, many find that they are no different from their smaller-sized sisters in that there are parts of their bodiesthey'd like to enhance a bit.Corsets and bustiers can lift busts to make them apear larger,but they aren't practical with every piece of clothing in your wardrobe. Modern breast pads can increaseyour cup a full size, and are made to absorb your natural body heat so they feel natural against your skin.

And while some plus size women are looking to contain the generous curves in their backsides, others find they don't have as much curve there as they'd like. If this is you, try padded briefs that will give your booty a boost. Choose a low-rise padded panty for wearing under your jeans.

Finally, if you think that "shapewear" has to mean "constricting and uncomfortable", then you obviously haven't seen today's modern garments for plus size ladies. Look for cotton shapewear that includes about 10% or more spandex, and you'll find yourself looking great and forgetting that you're wearing anything special to smooth you out.