The Best Bodysuits For Women

Buying Guide

A bodysuit is a versatile garment that can be a wardrobe staple. Similar to a one-piece swimsuit, a bodysuit comes in one piece, covering your entire torso, including your hips, stomach and chest. You can find bodysuits in many styles and with looser or tighter fits and body-shaping features. 

Bodysuits can be dressed up or down. Often, they’re used to create a seamless look when you’re wearing a top that’s tucked into pants or a shirt. A regular shirt may have trouble staying unrumpled and firmly in place throughout the day, especially if you’re moving around, sitting or standing frequently. Bodysuits help solve that problem. Because they are form-fitting, they’re great for layering, too.

Of course, bodysuits can be more inconvenient — one-piece clothing items that require you to take them completely off when you visit the restroom add a layer of complication. For that reason, many bodysuits fasten in the crotch area with snaps, hooks or buttons. This also gives you the option of pulling your bodysuit over your head to slip it on or off, rather than always having to step into it. When shopping, you’ll want to consider how comfortable and easy to use the fasteners are.

With bodysuits, fit is important because they can be much more inflexible in their sizing than shirts and blouses. Torso lengths and waist sizes can vary greatly from one person to another, which makes finding the right size tough.

Fit difference affects both comfort and appearance. The last thing you need is something that’s too tight where it fastens between your legs. Additionally, the stretch of the fabric can cause it to be more see-through, which may limit the undergarments you wear with it. If you’re planning to wear your bodysuit under a jacket or shirt, this might not be a dealbreaker, but it’s worth considering.

Bodysuits come in a range of colors and patterns. You can even find some with spaghetti straps or fancy sleeves that emulate your favorite blouse styles. The neckline can also vary from one bodysuit to another. Some are round-necked while others are square. A mock or full turtleneck is another option that can help keep you warmer.

• Bodysuits are designed to conform to the body. If you prefer a slightly looser fit, you may want to size up a little. Check the dimensions of the bodysuit and determine how much stretch it includes.
• Opacity is important when you’re purchasing a bodysuit. Some have thinner material that lets more light through, especially when stretched. Make sure the material is thick and provides enough coverage if you plan to wear it alone.
• Bodysuits work well under jackets, cardigans, blouses or sweaters. If you opt for layering, you can go with one with thinner fabric, since you don’t have to worry about it being see-through.
• Cotton is a favorite material for comfort, but it can be prone to shrinking or losing its softness without special care. You may want to look at alternative fabrics. Also, you’ll probably want to make sure spandex or another stretchy material is built in.
• Check the length of any bodysuit you’re considering. Torso lengths can vary, and bodysuits don’t have the “give” that blouses and shirts have. Make sure there’s enough room so it’s not constantly pulling upward while you’re wearing it.