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Plus Size Hosiery Guide

Finding beautiful, comfortable hosiery in extended sizes has become much easier. This guide covers everything curvy women need to know about selecting flattering legwear.

Plus Size Guide

Understanding Plus Sizes

Plus size hosiery typically starts at size 1X/Queen and extends to 6X or higher. Key measurements include:

  • Hip circumference: Most important measurement
  • Height: Affects leg length needed
  • Weight: Combined with height for sizing
  • Thigh circumference: Critical for stockings

Best Styles for Plus Figures

Control Top Pantyhose

Control top styles offer gentle shaping and support. Look for:

  • Wide, comfortable waistbands
  • Graduated compression
  • Cotton-lined gussets
  • Reinforced panty sections

Thigh-High Stockings

Wide-band thigh-highs work well for larger thighs:

  • Look for 3-4 inch silicone bands
  • Lace-top styles add stretch
  • Avoid narrow bands that dig in

Garter Belt Sets

Garter belts eliminate thigh-band issues entirely:

  • Adjustable straps accommodate all sizes
  • More comfortable for many plus women
  • Classic, glamorous look

Fabric Considerations

Best Materials

  • High spandex content: 15-20% for stretch
  • Microfiber: Soft, breathable, durable
  • Cotton gusset: Hygiene and comfort

Denier Selection

  • 15-20 denier: Sheer, elegant look
  • 30-40 denier: More coverage, forgiving
  • 60+ denier: Opaque, smoothing effect

Fit Tips

Getting the Right Size

  1. Measure hips at widest point
  2. Check brand's specific size chart
  3. When between sizes, go up
  4. Consider height separately from weight

Signs of Poor Fit

  • Waistband rolls down constantly
  • Crotch hangs low
  • Fabric stretched thin/shiny
  • Runs develop quickly
  • Thigh bands leave marks

Recommended Brands

Brands known for excellent plus sizing:

  • Hanes: Wide size range, affordable
  • Berkshire: Queen sizes to 295 lbs
  • Glamory: European brand, sizes to 4XL
  • Couture: UK brand with extended sizes
  • Torrid: Trendy styles in plus sizes

Style Advice

Most Flattering Options

  • Opaque tights create smooth silhouette
  • Vertical patterns elongate legs
  • Nude shades match skin tone
  • Black is universally slimming

Patterns to Consider

  • Small-scale patterns work best
  • Avoid large horizontal stripes
  • Subtle textures add interest
  • Fishnets in smaller mesh sizes

Pro Tip

Apply a thin layer of silicone-based lubricant to inner thighs to prevent chafing and help thigh-highs stay in place better.

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