Plus Size Shapewear: What Nanbin Offers and How Sizing Works
Our size range covers 3XS to 6XL — one of the broadest in the industry. Plus size shapewear isn’t just a scaled-up version of the standard pattern. Fabric elasticity, mold matching, and comfort all need to be re-evaluated.
Here’s what we can do, how sizing works, and when custom development is needed.
What Plus Size Means at Nanbin
The standard size range (XS–XL) runs on existing molds with no additional setup.
Plus sizes start at 1XL and go up to 6XL. Within that range, 1XL–3XL can typically be produced as stretched versions of the standard patterns without dedicated molds. However, 3XS and 6XL require custom molds — because seamless construction uses one mold per size, and the farther from the standard range, the more mold investment needed.
In short: the middle band (1XL–3XL) is the most flexible. The extremes (3XS and 6XL) need custom development.
Nanbin’s Plus Size Product Range
Plus size covers the same product types as our standard line:
- Bodysuits
- Waist trainers
- Shorts
- Tops
All styles can be customized. There is no product type we can’t do in plus size — the only question is whether it goes through stock or custom development.
Stock availability: Plus size stock availability changes frequently. Contact us before placing an order to confirm current inventory.
Fabric considerations: Plus size garments demand higher fabric stretch and recovery. Seamless fabric offers better extension — good for extended sizes. Sewn garments rely on pattern engineering for fit.
How Sizing Works for Plus Size Shapewear
Our sizing system works two ways:
Standard size grading: We grade from standard sizes up to 1XL–3XL using proportional scaling. Suitable for most clients. No custom size chart needed.
Custom size chart: You provide your own measurements (bust, waist, hips, thigh, etc.), and we develop the mold to match. Best for brands that have precise customer data.
Seamless vs sewn sizing: Seamless products have better stretch and a wider fit tolerance — one size covers a broader range. Sewn products are more precise but require accurate measurement.
Sampling and fit test: The sampling process is the same as standard sizes — sample → fit test → adjust → bulk. Plus size sampling requires more rounds of fit testing because pressure points differ across body types.
Key Considerations for Plus Size Shapewear
Higher fabric recovery requirements. Insufficient elasticity leads to rolling edges, poor fit, and discomfort. In our experience, fabric choice affects the final product more than the size grading itself.
Compression level recommendation. From our production experience, starting with lighter compression leads to better wearability and more positive customer feedback. Tighter is not better — fit and comfort determine repeat purchase rates.
Comfort vs results. The core demand from plus size consumers is “effective but wearable.” Over-emphasizing compression may lead to customers not wearing the product at all. We prioritize comfort first, then achieve shaping within that constraint.
Custom Options for Plus Size Lines
All styles support OEM (your tech pack) and ODM (style development).
Dedicated plus size development: This is not simply scaling up a standard pattern. Different body types distribute pressure and volume differently. Plus size development requires new mold design and pattern engineering. Every plus size specialty line we’ve done used dedicated molds.
MOQ and lead time: Varies by style complexity and size span. Confirm at inquiry.
FAQ
Are plus size prices the same as standard sizes?
It depends on the style and size span. A wide range (e.g., S–6XL) requires multiple molds, which affects unit pricing. Confirm at inquiry.
Do plus sizes require dedicated molds?
1XL–3XL can typically use graded standard molds. 3XS and 6XL require custom molds.
Can you make 6XL or above?
We can produce up to 6XL. Sizes beyond 6XL need evaluation — confirm at inquiry.
Is the plus size sampling process different from standard?
The flow is the same: requirements → sample → fit test → adjust → bulk. However, plus size sampling needs more fit test rounds to confirm proper fit, so expect extra time.
Looking for plus size shapewear? Contact us, tell us your target size range and style needs, and we’ll confirm stock or suggest a custom solution.
