Women's Bodysuits

A bodysuit is anchored at both ends, so the distance between shoulder and crotch matters more than any width measurement on the label. Scoop, square, halter and turtleneck necklines set the top of that line, while thong, brief and boyshort backs set the bottom. Coverage in between runs from strapless and cami through short, long and off-shoulder sleeves, and each one changes how much tension sits across the shoulders.

Support varies just as widely. An unlined jersey bodysuit behaves like a close-fitting T-shirt, while boned, shaping and built-in-bra versions hold the ribcage and do the work of a separate bra or shaping layer. Snap gussets are the usual closure, with hook-and-eye rows on more structured pieces. Ribbed cotton and modal breathe, nylon-elastane and mesh sit smooth under clothing, and lace or satin brings the piece forward as a top in its own right.