I have never been someone with a ‘signature look.’ Capsule wardrobes look so good in other people’s stylishly, sparse spaces, but for me, a little more freedom to experiment is necessary. The only exception I make on that rule is underwear. Trial and error has led me to a pretty solid signature underwear: Maidenform Pure Genius Tailored Boyshorts.
I only wear these for a number of reasons. As someone who’s on the smaller side of plus-size, I’ve found that most affordable ‘boy shorts’ underwear puts me on the express train to Wedgietown. After just a bit of time, they end up heading into tanga territory. I’ve always had trouble finding briefs with a cut that actually covers my butt, but the shape and stretch fabric on these — a blend of nylon, cotton, and elastane at the crotch and 92 percent nylon and 8 percent elastane everywhere else — actually covers my butt. I normally wear a US 14 (UK 18) in dresses, but since the fabric on these is thick and stretchy and not inclined to pinch like other, thinner styles I’ve tried, I suspect my size sevens would even fit a US 16 (UK 20) dress (the shorts are available up to an twelve). They’re perfect for people who are ‘in between’ straight- and plus-size, or small plus-size folks like me. I also love the rather androgynous, no-frills look. No floral motif, lace trim, or teeny-tiny bow — just a solid swath of fabric that keeps me comfortably secure no matter what I’m doing.
They are now what I wear practically every single day. If I’m not dressing up for a (rare) hot date or wearing particularly tight pants that require no panty line (which, especially since going freelance, has become even rarer), it’s a pretty safe bet I’ve got these bad boys on. Whereas the rest of my dresser is a kaleidoscope of color and print, my delicates drawer is a singular, super-comfy mass of black Maidenform boy shorts.
More Strat-approved plus-size underwear
This pair of underwear has been well-reviewed on Amazon for plus sizes: ‘Fat-bottomed girls, these underwear RIGHT HERE!!! I won’t pretend I’m thin … I’m thunder thighs, big booty, and underwear have been a CONSTANT struggle for about a decade. Well, not anymore. These are thick but breathable, soft, sturdy, quality undies!! The elastic is PERFECT (frankly, every inch of these is PERFECT)! Don’t just get one pack … get two! Worth every penny and then some!’
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