The plus size shapewear bodysuit is one of the fashion garments that hide the most myths and controversies. But its history shows that it was the desired piece by most women to stylize their figure according to the tastes of the time. Contrary to popular belief, it was not reserved for a specific social class, it was not so bad for health, and there were even models designed for men (to treat back conditions or for dandies of the 19th century).
In reality, the origin and development of plus size shapewear bodysuit is a journey through the evolution of a part of fashion over time. It is considered that women’s plus size shapewear tank had their first antecedent in ancient civilizations when the Cretans used leather belts similar to belts to highlight the waist. Over time, the men’s clothing used in the Middle Ages on the battlefield inspired the shapewear that women would eventually wear.
First female plus size shapewear bodysuit
In the Renaissance, specifically during the 16th century, the first plus-size shapewear bodysuit properly emerged. Initially, they were intended for nobles and aristocrats to offer a shapeless, conical, straight, and rigid torso. The chest flattened, and the corset formed a low point at the waist. The cut was very military, somewhat similar to a female armor.
A century later, the shapewear bodysuit was structured with metal, wood, or whalebone rods so that the piece conformed to the body and gave it great rigidity. This bodice with Goliaths narrowed the waist and enhanced the bust. Through some straps, he was forced to keep his back very straight and her shoulders back. Its use ceased to be exclusive to high society and spread to the bourgeoisie. In addition, the models were decorated with ribbons in the lower area or lace, depending on social status.
During the French Revolution
During the French Revolution (1789 – 1799), the plus-size shapewear bodysuit slightly declined, re-emerge again around 1810, only with a different construction. It became curved, marking a very narrow high waist (of a wasp), wide hips, and raising the breasts. This model was called an hourglass corset.
A plus size shapewear tank- an undergarment for any woman
In the Industrial Revolution, throughout the 19th century, the plus size shapewear tank became popular, and many women incorporated it into their wardrobe as an essential undergarment to highlight their shapes. In the Belle Epoque (late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries), the shapewear was transformed into common in cabarets and night shows. Therefore, it became a fetish piece in some areas, and its shape was modified. The belly was flat. The chest was lowered slightly, the hips were large and projected back so that the back curve rose and became very pronounced.
Practical tips to help you in your choice
Buying a plus size shapewear tank requires having enough time to try it on calmly. Although it seems obvious, it is essential to find the right size so that the reducing girdle does its job.
Do not insist on holding your breath and buying a smaller one than you are not entitled to, nor do you opt for the one that does not reduce because it does not press the slightest bit. Ideally, you should feel the pressure exerted by the fabric without becoming overwhelming.
If you are unsure of the size, ask for advice because this garment should be as exact as possible, taking into account two variables: the waist and the hips.
The shape of your body and what you want to hide are the priority when choosing a low waist to press on the thighs and reduce the cartridge belts. Lateral reinforcements to achieve maximum remodeling of the contour of the silhouette. With extra elasticity in specific points that manage to elevate buttocks or high waist to refine this area of the body, you decide where to reduce.
Finally, when choosing a plus-size shapewear tank, consider the type of clothing you usually wear. For example, some are more comfortable wearing pants. Also, remember that some shades may not be discreet depending on their color, black, white, or nude, especially in light-colored dresses or with transparencies.
Comfort above all, with the right elasticity and capable of making your figure look slimmer, these are the keys to the ideal plus size shapewear bodysuit.
