Why is it So Hard to Find Plus Size Underwear?

Finding plus size clothing that fits well and looks good can be tricky - and finding plus size underwear can be even harder! 

Traditional underwear brands like Victoria’s Secret and Calvin Klein have dragged their feet over inclusive sizing using feeble excuses that continue to exclude plus size women. 

While other brands like Savage X Fenty have opened the door for plus size women with their inclusive lingerie ranges, they are sadly trailing behind when it comes to sustainability. So where does that leave the plus size women looking for cute and ethical underwear that isn’t damaging the planet? Take a look at our plus size underwear buying guide for our affordable and sustainable options.

What underwear style is best for plus size?

Any! We believe that the underwear style you wear is completely up to you, what you find comfortable and how you want to feel in it. With a huge range of styles across women’s plus size underwear, you can test them out and find the option that’s right for you. You might also find that you wear different styles on different days, depending on how you’re feeling and what you’re wearing.

When choosing plus size underwear there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the fit needs to be comfortable for wearing all day from a busy day at work to lounging on the sofa. This means it needs to fit properly and not roll down or bunch up under your clothes.

Next, the coverage needs to be right for you. Some people might be looking for a style with more coverage to sit smoothly under their clothes and offer a bit more support. Our organic cotton high waisted knickers are a great full coverage option, coming down to the bottom of your bum and up to the small of your waist, for a comfortable plus size high waisted full brief style.

The organic cotton boyshorts can also be a good option if you’re looking for coverage across the bottom without elastic over the belly which might dig in. This plus size boyshorts style comes in two different waistband widths so you can opt for more or less support. 

Others might go for a more minimal style to avoid digging in. Our organic cotton thongs are perfect for a smooth fit that you can wear flat across the hips or pulled higher up to fit with and flatter your silhouette. With sizes up to UK 18, this is a great plus size thong comfortable enough for everyday wear.

We also have two different styles of bikini knickers for slightly different fits. The low-rise bikini is a classic pants shape with medium coverage across the bottom while the mid-rise bikini comes up a bit higher on the leg and the waist.

Shop organic cotton women's knickers 

How to figure out what underwear size you are

In general, your underwear size is likely to be the same as your normal dress size, but as we know, a size 16 in one shop might be different to a size 16 in another. The best thing to do is try on the underwear (over your own) to see what feels most comfortable.

Take a look at our size guide to get a better idea. It might be helpful to take your measurements for a more accurate fit. Our underwear runs from a UK size 6 to 22.

Well fitting underwear can be the difference between a good day and a bad day so take the time to ensure it’s right! Depending on the style, some people size up or down from their usual size to get it just right. For example, the boyshorts style sits low on the hips - often the widest point of the body - so sizing up here might be more comfortable.

If you are able to visit our shop in Oxford, you can try on some of our different styles and see what feels best. If not, we offer fuss free returns on all unworn and unwashed underwear for 30 days so don’t worry if it’s not right for you.

What's the best fabric for plus size underwear?

The fabric you choose for your underwear can be another factor in the difference between good and great plus size underwear. With organic cotton plus size underwear, you can ensure natural breathability making them great for wearing all day and all seasons. The soft fabric is light and smooth meaning it sits well under your clothes and skims your curves without hugging.

Plus size knickers multipacks and plus size underwear sets

Now that you’ve found the perfect pair of plus size knickers to feel confident and comfortable all day long, why not stock up and save with our women’s underwear multipacks? Save £6 with a 3 pack or get one pair free with a 5 pack.

Shop organic cotton women’s knickers multipacks

We also do bras! Take a look at our organic cotton bralettes or organic cotton non-wired bras for a sustainable bra option. Make it a set with our bra and knickers sets and save £4.

Shop organic cotton matching underwear sets

Find more expert underwear advice with our other blogs:

What is the best underwear style for everyday? A guide to women's knickers

A guide to cotton bralettes: 6 key questions answered

What will body positivity look like in 2025?