The Best Bodysuit

Don’t get us wrong; shirts are great. They do what they’re supposed to, which is to say they cover your torso. But if you want something that stays tucked in, hugs your curves and is easy to accessorize, there’s one garment for you: The bodysuit.

Bodysuits can come with long or short sleeves and be modest or daring, but the basic configuration is the same. They’re basically like a one-piece bathing suit that can be worn anywhere. And we do mean anywhere: A good bodysuit can be your undergarment one day, then worn with a blazer to your office the next. The trick is finding the one that works with your body type.

There’s one thing you can expect all bodysuits to do though, and that’s fit snug. Unless you’ve got one that’s way too big, it’s going to accentuate your bust to some degree. The big question, then, is: Bra or no bra? Depending on the bodysuit and you chest, you may be able to do without one. While all bodysuits are stretchy, some have a little more “give” in strategic areas and can provide support that way. Others have a full-on bustier structure with a built-in bra. If that’s the case, you’ll need to keep your cup size in mind when shopping.

Now about those bottoms. In most cases the lower half of your bodysuit will be kept out of sight under your pants or skirt, but that might not always be the case. If you want to be daring, you can get a style that’s cut high on the hips and let a little skin peek out at the top of those jeans or shorts. If you’re a little shorter, a thong bodysuit can help create the appearance of longer legs. Of course, comfort is a factor too. That cheekier cut isn’t always the best option for all-day wear.

One of the best things about bodysuits is their versatility. As long as you don’t go too low on the neckline, you can easily wear one anywhere — especially if it’s basic black. It can work fine under a blazer at the office or as a casual night-out top. That’s not to say you shouldn’t explore more daring looks. Bodysuits with lace accents, sexy cut-outs or a “corset” style are something you can really build a date night outfit around.

Finally, you’ll want to make sure the material is decent quality. A bodysuit hugs your figure, after all, so it’s got to be comfortable. Most any bodysuit will incorporate at least some spandex or nylon, but that doesn’t mean it has to be sheer (unless you’re going for a bit of a see-through look). Thicker material will help you avoid embarrassing rips or loose threads around the edge. Look for something with a high percentage of cotton or microfiber. Not only will it be softer, it should also be easier to wash. Silver polymer is a newer fabric that might be a little pricier, but it does tend to be more durable.

If you find the right bodysuit, you’re going to want to keep it around. That means following the directions closely when it’s time to put it in the wash. In general, bodysuits with a fair percentage of cotton should do just fine in the washing machine, as long as they’re on the cold cycle. Ones that are mostly spandex might require a little more TLC. Make sure that they go through on the delicate cycle, and put them in a separate mesh washing bag if you can.