Try a Bodystocking

VERSATILE HOSIERY

The bodystocking is a much neglected form of ladies hosiery, often relegated exclusively to the realm of bedroom lingerie. What a shame! This versatile garment is too much fun to ignore and typically not as hard to negotiate in the restroom as you might think. Most manufacturers of bodystockings do not sew the crotch of the garment closed.

A little flair in your underwear can go a long, long way when it comes to outward confidence. If you're seeking a boost, please consider the following fashionable and practical ways to incorporate a bodystocking as any-day lingerie!

THE CLASSIC OPAQUE BODYSTOCKING

This style and cut of bodystocking is not unlike the basic tee - every girl should have one in at least two different colors. It's a great underclothes lingerie selection for any occasion where an undershirt and hose are called for.

When electing to dress in a sheer or light colored blouse, you will definitely want to wear a camisole, shift or undershirt… unless of course you're genuinely hoping for all the world to see your bra! This strappy, opaque one-piece achieves a sleek and smooth effect under clothing while acting as stockings, tummy tush smoother and a camisole. It doesn't get any easier than that! Also consider that the same effect may be achieved with a semi-sheer bodystocking cut in this style if the color of the bra you wear under it is close to your skin tone.

THE SUSPENDER STYLE BODY STOCKING

Normally the mention of suspenders brings to mind the kind of suspenders that are slung over the shoulders. When it comes to bodystockings, a suspender style indicates the cut of the fabric in the area from the waist/ hip to the top of the thigh. Suspender style bodystockings are extremely desirable to the girl with lingering restroom accessibility concerns. If you don't have a problem negotiating hose and a garter belt in the powder room you definitely won't have an issue with a suspender style one-piece. The only downside to wearing this style is that it will provide less smoothing under clothing in the hip and thigh area than a traditional bodystocking. The trade off may be worth your consideration.

A BODYSTOCKING WITH A HALTER NECKLINE

Halter style dresses and tops can do wonderful things for so many different kinds of body concerns! A halter neckline can bring attention to your cleavage and elongate your neck while de-emphasizing your waist, hips and thighs. It can make tiny breasts seem larger and large tummies seem smaller. All hail the power of the halter neckline! Unfortunately, many halter style garments come with their own challenges. In among the list is the lack of lining which is sadly pervasive in mass manufactured garments. Finding a bra that hides under a halter neck is challenging enough. Any extra bit of lingerie lining that will help to smooth out undesirable revelations is welcome! This is especially true of a non-romantic environment such as work or just a general social setting. Consider a bodystocking with a halter neckline as your all-in-one smoothing solution!

A BODYSTOCKING WITH A CINCHED NECKLINE

Bodystockings which feature a cinched neck look wonderful under a modest suit jacket! You will be committed to wearing the jacket all day long unless your bodystocking is opaque or lined but the look is at once stylish and commanding. A touch of subtle feminine romance under a power suit can do amazing things for the confidence level you bring to your next big meeting! It also eliminates the need for neck jewelry in your ensemble which can be a great boon when you want the real focus to be your face, hands or presentation.

THE CLASSIC LONG SLEEVE OPAQUE BODY STOCKING

The layered look is definitely a classic! A long sleeve bodystocking, in general, is ideal for layering under more casual looks. It helps to smooth under your clothing, cutting down on layer bulk while serving as a substitute for a long sleeve shirt and pair of tights or stockings. Try one under a cute short sleeve blouse and waist length spring/ fall weight jacket. Finish the look with a knee length (or higher) skirt and some trendy knee-high boots! The look is the epitome of versatile casual chic, transitioning well from day to night and is appropriate for ages from fourteen to forty.

A LONG SLEEVED FISHNET BODY STOCKING

For a night-time layered look that shows a bit of your wild side try a long sleeve fishnet bodystocking. Fishnet can be fabulous when it is used sparingly or suggestively. If you are not a red hot biker mama then pairing any fishnet hosiery with leather, pleather, sheer, spiked, stiletto or see-through is a faux pas. If you are not a goth punk vixen don't use fishnet with velvet, PVC vinyl, platform pumps, combat boots or copious amounts of lace.

If you're a regular gal with a hot date… a fishnet layer beneath an understated but slinky dress or top in a hose matching color can be quite enticing! This kind of restraint is also applicable to the make-up you wear with your evening fishnet look. Go smoky on the eyes or slightly dark and moist on the lips but not both. Using fishnet suggestively rather than overtly can spark interest from your date, instead of a hasty retreat. They will be intrigued by your lingerie because you are wearing it as it is traditionally meant to be worn - under your clothing!

BUYING GUIDELINES

Bodystockings are generally available in only two sizes: one sized or queen/ plus sized. Don't let your ego interfere with your sense of style! If you are a 12 or larger (US sizes), you are perfect just the way you are but one size garments will generally run a bit smaller than is comfortable. Ladies in the 10-12-14 range will have the hardest time getting the sizing right when purchasing a bodystocking for the first time. It is highly recommended that if you fall into that range you try on your garment prior to purchase.

If you are shopping online be sure of the store's return policy prior to finalizing the sale. As hosiery is considered an intimate garment many stores will give you a hassle over returns.