Sexy Support for Plus-Size Figures

The Right Lingerie for You

Photo courtesy of Hip and Curves

Any full-figured fashionista will testify that it's what's underneath that counts. The right underclothes can mean the difference between confident comfort and hours of misery, which makes finding the perfect fit essential -- and often frustrating. That's why we've compiled the best picks for plus-size lingerie that's both supportive and sexy:

Clingy fabrics call for seamless shaping. With its hidden underwires and smooth surface, the Dream Tisha bra by Le Mystere practically disappears under clothing. And because it's designed specifically for full-figured women, this bra will keep you ultra-comfy and secure. Sizes up to 44G. ($66, barenecessities.com)

Full-figured need not mean frumpy. Sexy style retailer Hips and Curves has something for every plus-sized vixen, from the demure to the downright naughty, in sizes up to 6x. "Every woman should have a pair of red panties," says Rebecca Jennings, spokesperson for the company. "Putting on a pair of red panties under a dull gray business suit or your pair of favorite jeans gives you a feeling of mystery, power, and a little rebelliousness." That sounds like the right advice! (hipsandcurves.com)

Based on your unique set of 14 different measurements, Snares of Venus will craft a custom-fit bra that's just your size. Tons of gorgeous style options allow you to match your bra to your personality, too. Bras start at $95, but if the perfect fit consistently eludes you, this can be a worthwhile investment. (snaresofvenus.com)

Many women wear spandex bike shorts to combat "chub rub" -- the painful inner thigh friction caused by going stockingless under skirts. Luvees offers a more sophisticated -- and breathable -- solution. Their two styles of lacy, padded thigh-protecting coveralls are simply adorable. Sizes up to 4x. ($22.50-$27, luvees.com)

Patterned, full-coverage cups make the Legacy Lace Lined Underwire from Playtex both sturdy and sassy -- and its under-$30 price is nice, too. Sizes up to 44DD will accommodate many larger ladies, but before you buy, assess the fit. According to Joanne Kaye, designer for Playtex, "Leaning into the bra to allow breast tissue to fall in is the best way of trying on. Straps should be adjusted to keep the bra in place, not to hold it up." ($29, platexnet.com for list of stores)

Champion's High Motion Control sports bras let you breathe easy when you're working hard. Complete with features like moisture-wicking fabric and ventilating keyholes, these hi-tech bras are real winners. Sizes up to 4x. ($31-$40, championcatalog.com)

When an outfit calls for bulge-control, Spanx does the trick. The Slim Cognito Body Shaper has straps that attach to your bra, holding everything in place -- while the ingenious snap-crotch feature allows for bathroom breaks. Sizes up to 3x. ($72, lanebryant.charmingshoppes.com)

Sometimes going braless is not an option, and strapless models can be less than comfortable. Mail-order retailer Silhouettes offers a clever solution: tank tops with built-in support. Each top is equipped with a full-feature bra (not one of those flimsy shelf things), complete with underwires, adjustable straps and hidden clasps in the back. The sequin-trimmed style is downright dazzling! Sizes up to 48G. ($36-$38, silhouettes.com)