Plus size silk lingerie comes down to four pieces: a camisole, a chemise or slip, a robe and a pajama set. Start with the camisole. It is the easiest to fit, the easiest to wear, and the one you will keep reaching for long after the honeymoon.
I said it back in 2013 and I still mean it. A silk camisole is nothing fancy. It is the feel of the fabric and the way it skims your curves that does the work. Sis, that is the whole point of silk.
Silk or satin: what is the difference?
| Silk | Satin | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A natural fiber | A weave, often made from polyester or nylon |
| Care | Almost always hand wash | Non-silk satin can usually go in the machine |
| Cost | Premium | A wider range of price points |
They are not the same thing, and the label matters. Silk is a natural fiber. Satin is a weave. As So Sew Easy explains it, satin can be made from silk, but it can also be made from synthetics like polyester or nylon.
- Silk is the premium choice. It is known for breathability and a soft glow, and it almost always needs hand washing.
- Satin is glossy on one side and comes at a wider range of price points. Non-silk satin can usually go in the washing machine.
- Silk satin is both: silk fiber in a satin weave. If a listing just says satin, check the fabric content before you assume it is silk.
Neither one is wrong. Want the real thing against your skin? Go silk. Want the look, easy care and more sizes to choose from? Go satin.
The four silk and satin pieces to own
1. The camisole
Thin straps, a loose body, sometimes lace at the neckline. Wear it with matching shorts on the wedding night, then under a blazer for date night. Look for adjustable straps so the neckline sits where you want it.
2. The chemise or slip
A short slip dress. This is the one that feels the most bridal. A bias cut drapes over hips and belly without clinging. If you want more coverage, pick a length that hits mid thigh or lower.
3. The robe
The getting ready photo piece. A satin robe is a classic for getting ready photos. Check that the wrap closes all the way across with room to spare, and that the belt loops sit at your waist, not above it.
4. The pajama set
A button front top with shorts or pants. Comfortable, covered and still feels special. Good for the honeymoon suitcase and for brides who do not love lingerie.
How to get the fit right
- Read the size chart, not the size name. A 2X in one brand is a 3X in another. Measure your bust and hips and compare.
- Silk and woven satin do not stretch. If you are between sizes, size up. A little room looks better than pulling at the seams.
- Look for stretch satin if you want it closer to the body. The listing will say so.
- Check the straps. Adjustable straps fix most neckline and length problems.
- Check the return window before you order, and order early enough to send it back.
How to wash silk lingerie
Read the care label first. If it says hand wash, here is the method from Who What Wear:
- Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent, no more than a quarter cup.
- Swish the piece gently.
- Rinse in clean cold water until the water runs clear.
- Lay it on a clean towel, roll the towel up and press to squeeze out the water. Do not wring it.
- Lay it flat to air dry. Hanging can pull it out of shape.
Skip hot water. It is rough on delicate fabric and can make rich dyes run. If the label says machine washable, use cold water and a lingerie bag, and fasten any hooks or snaps first.
Satin and silky lingerie to shop
Real talk: these are satin and soft knit picks, not pure silk. They give you the look and the feel at a friendly price, and most can go in the wash. Check the fabric and the size chart on each listing before you order.
Want real silk? Look for “100% mulberry silk” in the fabric details, not just the title, and check the top size on the size chart before you fall in love. Real silk in plus sizes exists, but you will pay more and hunt longer.
Camisoles
- Ekouaer satin V-neck camis, 3 pack. Three colors to mix with shorts or wear under a blazer. Check the size chart for your size.
- Zeagoo satin V-neck cami tank. A simple satin cami. Check the size chart for your size.
Chemises and slips
- IN’VOLAND plus size sleeveless chemise. An easy pull-on chemise made in plus sizes.
- AusLook plus size lace V-neck cami sleep dress. Lace at the neckline for a more bridal feel.
- Ababoon plus size lace modal full slip. Listed in sizes 16 to 24. Modal is a soft knit with stretch, so pick this one if you want give.
Robes
- Ekouaer satin nightgown with robe set. A matching gown and robe, made for getting ready photos.
- GORGLITTER plus size 2 piece lace robe set. A lace robe set for the wedding night.
Pajama set
- Plus size lace cami and shorts pajama set. A cami and shorts set with lace trim.
Want a lingerie brand made for curves? Shop Hips and Curves at City Chic.
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Plus size silk lingerie questions
No. Silk is a fiber and satin is a weave. Satin can be made from silk or from synthetics like polyester.
Woven silk has very little give. Size up if you are between sizes, or look for a piece labeled stretch silk or stretch satin.
Only if the care label says so. Then use cold water and a lingerie bag. Otherwise hand wash in cold water.
Building your wedding night look? See our full list of plus size bridal lingerie picks in sizes up to 7X.
