Ask FGG: “Where can I find plus-size lingerie?”
Ideas to coax your inner sensualist out to play
Two of my friends attended a burlesque-themed wedding last weekend, and I couldn’t wait to pore over their photos from the occasion. The images were striking — so many exuberant women and men dressed to express themselves and ready to celebrate, body issues be damned. Not the typical notion of a marriage ceremony, to be sure, but there was something honest and refreshing about seeing girls of all sizes looking carefree and vital in their corsets, garters or camisoles. This got me thinking:
Where can a girl shaped like me find something sultry to wear, even if there aren’t any burlesque-themed weddings in my immediate future?
Boy, do I have some sites for you (okay, us). The fashion statements made in those wedding photos reminded me that although we’re often encouraged to associate luscious lingerie with a seduction scene, there are plenty of reasons to keep a few daring pieces in your boudoir. If your social circle skews a little more traditional, don’t sweat it. You don’t need a bare-most-of-it nuptial occasion – or even a specific audience – to enjoy donning a bit of silk or lace. As Peony pointed out in her most recent Sex and the Single Fat Girl column, sometimes pulling out the garters or a slinky cami happens just for you. So whether sleeping in a luxurious chemise helps evoke sweet dreams or you’re looking to add a bit of secret-weapon “oomph” under your interview suit, try one of these venues to connect you with your sensual side.
(Disclaimer: Lingerie = body parts. Be sure to click the following links from a location that won’t get you fired.)
From baby dolls and cami/short sets to costumes and garter belts, this diva-licious supersite is a treasure trove of all things sultry. A girl could easily lose track of time time paging through the many options here, including three pages of widely varied bustiers and corsets. Bonus: The thorough sizing page includes a terrific explanation of how to select the right corset measurement.
Known for its bold, colorful and often goth-inspired dresses, separates and accessories, Torrid also offers an array of similarly styled bustiers, teddies and chemises (like the black & white one I coveted upon sight). Sizes range from 00 (comparable to size 10 or Large) to 5 (size 30/32 or 5X), although not every size is available online.
The brainchild of former plus-size model and writer for BBW Magazine Deborah Friedman, Plus Size Plum prides itself on offering a high-end customer service experience and hand-picked selections of intimate apparel. We found it notable for its mix of wild (an entire page of body stockings!) and mild (babydoll & peignor set).
Many of us have shopped the LB for denim, sweaters, tees and career wear, but their lingerie department is also worth a look. In addition to corsets, camis and negligees for every modesty level, you’ll also find specialty bras and the frilliest of panties.
An impressively diverse plus-size section features everything from basics and bridal lingerie to vinyl and leather. Lingerie Diva also offers the largest array of full-figured garters and hosiery that we found, but read sizing info carefully — many styles are only available in a single “Queen” option.
You wouldn’t know it from the models featured in the the company’s catalogs or web listings, but Frederick’s offers a decent selection of its lingerie, corsets, bras and panties in plus sizes. Some items fall decidedly more on the costume side, but there’s also a handful of very basic pieces like the renaissance corset or the satin cami & short set, both available in sizes up to 3X.
Tell us where you’ve found the pieces in your wardrobe that make you feel especially sexy, classy or adventurous. And don’t forget to send along your own burning questions to letters@fatgirlsguide.com for inclusion in an upcoming “Ask FGG” column.
I’ve ordered from Hips and Curves before and found their hot pants (short little shorts) to be great but when I ordered a garter belt with matching thong…the thong was built for a size 8 even though it said it would fit size 18-20 (I’m a solid 18). It wasn’t even as big as the picture on the front of the package. That was very disappointing especially since you can’t return lingerie once the package has been opened.
I’m excited to try out a few of these other sites! Thanks!
Thanks for the awesome recommendations!
A note about corsets — a real (steel-boned) corset is a surprisingly comfortable, supportive, flattering thing to have in your lingerie drawer. They don’t cost much more than the flimsy ones with plastic bones and will last for a long time.
Timeless Trends (http://www.timeless-trends.com/) makes beautiful ones that I love and they have great customer service. I’m an 18/20 on top and a 22 in the hips, and their 34 fits me perfectly. They go up to a 38! I haven’t tried the ones form Hips and Curves yet, but there’s one I really want on the site.
I’ve ordered from Hips and Curves. And loved everything I got. I have noticed that the g-strings etc don’t seem to size to the chemises. Overall I like the styles. Another place I’ve received items from is Oh Cheri which has a nice plus size section some the same and some different items.
I’ve ordered from several internet stores, including Hips and Curves. Whenever their stuff comes, though, it’s thrown into the box and wrinkled– and it’s a pain to get it into “wearable” condition. I prefer ordering from AboutCurves.com, where they nicely fold and gift-wrap each piece- it’s like getting a bunch of presents whenever I buy stuff from them. I hope this helps you shop!
Great tips, everyone! I’ll definitely be checking out AboutCurves (I love the idea of gift wrapping!), Oh Cheri and Timeless Trends. Strange that everyone seems to have similar experiences with the thongs…
And Gina, your feedback about Hips & Curves packing practices is something I hadn’t thought about. Sounds like some constructive feedback is in order!
I’ve ordered items in the past for my wife from http://www.divasandgoddesses.com/ – it has a large selection, the service is speedy and everything looks great on her. Recommended.
[...] recent Ask FGG covered plus size lingerie, and this week, we’re tackling a related reader question: I’m a size 22 and need to [...]
hips and curves is always my #1 one place to shop for plus size lingerie. they have styles that i can’t find anywhere else, especially the steel boned corsets.
i’ve never had the packaging issue before, my stuff has always come sealed neatly in little plastic bags – which i like because – ummm…it’s sanitary =)
oh, and torrid is the best spot for fun, printed, novelty panties!
[...] Finally, for a night out, and possibly some dancing, why not add some “WOW!” to your look while also keeping your midriff area from shaking every time you do? A dramatic, high-voltage corset (with either steel boning or plastic) will not only play to your sexy strengths from beneath an over-shirt or on its own, it will also help create a more defined waist and ensure that your midsection stays put while you move. For more examples of fun, sexy corsets, check out our recent Fat Girl’s Guide to Lingerie. [...]
[...] Oh, do I feel your pain. A few years ago, Target stopped carrying my favorite panties (I prefer a hipster style for coverage where I’m widest) and I still don’t think I’ve completely recovered. I think it’s common to become accustomed to a certain style, fabric, or cut, making everything else feel anywhere from alien and annoying to downright uncomfortable. You don’t mention a price range, but I did some digging and found some more affordable styles. For specialty boutiques that offer sweet nothings on the more frilly side, check out our Ask FGG column on plus-size lingerie. [...]
Thanks for the awesome recommendations!