Plus Size Intimate Apparel

About Intimate Apparel

Collectively called lingerie, intimate apparel is the foundation of a woman's wardrobe. Most of these undergarments are commonly put on before any other type of clothing. Normally, intimate apparel is covered up, leaving much to the imagination, unless it is purchased as sleepwear or bedroom attire.

Full-figured intimate apparel comes many styles and fabrics, each one created for a specific purpose. If you are looking to expand your horizons in this department, start out by purchasing a few versatile, sexy pieces that can spruce up not only your self-esteem, but your love life as well. Make sure you choose a fabric becoming of your style. Lingerie comes in:

• Silk
• Satin
• Cotton
• Spandex
• Nylon
• Leather
• Lace
• Chiffon
• Rayon
• Micro velvet
• Velour

For plus size women, less is not always more when it comes to lingerie. Many full-figured gals prefer to have their curves highlighted or accentuated by a piece of lingerie instead of leaving them exposed. Besides adding a bit of mystery to the equation, it also can give you a boost in the sexiness department.

Popular Plus Size Lingerie

If you are looking to upgrade your lingerie wardrobe, here are a few pieces every plus size woman should own.

A Properly Fitted Bra

Sure you already have a few bras in your dresser, but do they fit the way they should? Style doesn't matter as much as size when it comes to a bra. A well-fitted bra can help your posture, and actually help your tops and dresses fit better. Bras that are the correct size will also give your confidence a boost, as you stand up taller and straighter. Contact your local plus size store, such as Lane Bryant or Avenue, to see if they have any expert bra-fitters on staff. If you are looking for a sexy new bra, styles include:

• Convertible
• Underwire
• Soft cup
• Seamless
• Open cup
• Full cup
• Sports
• T-shirt
• Maternity or nursing
• Smooth cup
• Push-up
• Shelf
• Long-line

Pretty Panties

You all have panties in your plus size lingerie wardrobe, some of which are deemed "comfortable or necessary" while others are worn with certain bedroom attire or other type of revealing outfit, such as dance or club wear. But all women need to have some pretty or sexy panties in their wardrobe. These can be worn under your favorite pair of jeans or with a sexy nightie. You can be practical or a little daring. Some styles of ladies plus size panties include:

• Boyshorts or hipsters
• Briefs
• Thongs
• Bikinis
• Boylegs
• Hi-cuts
• Full backs
• G-strings
• Crotchless

Comfy and Sexy Pajamas

Plus size pajamas serve a variety of purposes and come in many sizes and styles. In the winter, heavier flannel sets are meant to keep you warm and cozy. In the summer, light cotton pieces help keep you covered while you stay cool. And then there are those sexy little numbers that really help round out an intimate apparel wardrobe. Choosing a pair of plus size pajamas depends on what needs you want filled. If you are looking for sleepwear that leaves more to the imagination and are comfortable to sleep in, select one of these:

• Short- or long-sleeved tops with matching shorts or long bottoms
• Nightgowns
• Nightshirts
• Camisoles
• Fleece or cotton robes
• Flannel sets

If you are looking for a sexier outfit, there are many from which to choose:

• Teddies
• Babydolls
• Chemises
• Cami sets
• Peignor sets
• Long or short lace gowns
• Charmeuse gowns

Other Intimate Apparel Items

There are other plus size intimate apparel items that could also be included in your lingerie wardrobe (if you don't have them already!):

• Stockings or nylons
• Bustiers
• Fantasy lingerie or costumes
• Corsets
• Leather lingerie
• Garter belts
• Girdles
• Shapewear
• Patent leather and vinyl

Shop for Plus Size Intimate Apparel

Now that you have an idea of what you want to wear, you need to know where to purchase the garments. You can buy many items if you shop for discounts or sales. Or if you want to purchase a few high-quality pieces, expect to spend a bit more money. Plus size intimate apparel can be found at:

• Target
• Wal-mart
• JCPenney
• Lane Bryant
• Avenue
• Catherines
• Hips and Curves

Comfort Should be First

While many of the items mentioned may sound wonderful, be sure to purchase something you will be comfortable wearing. Some women, whether they are plus size or not, may not enjoy wearing extremely revealing lingerie, and therefore choose more modest items. Be willing to experiment. Purchase one or two items you know you will feel good wearing and then try something new. Just be sure to check with each store's return policy, as most lingerie may not be returnable after it is opened, mainly due to sanitary reasons..