Q: If you were to recommend a great shapewear piece for plus women, what's a good first buy? Do you have any tips to finding great items to make you look trim?

A: A good all round item of shapewear is a high-waisted thigh slimmer. It will shape you from under your bust (it should go all the way up to your bra) and all the way down to your knees. Nobody need know you are wearing a piece of shapewear because you will have a completely smooth line from your bra to your knees.

The best tip for buying shapewear is to try it on under the clothes you want to wear it with. You may be amazed at the difference it makes! Also, think about what kind of shapewear would suit which outfit. For example, high-waisted pants might help you get into those jeans you’ve been wanting to wear, whereas for a dress that’s fitted at the waist a waspie or waist cincher will help give you that fabulous hourglass shape.

Q: In terms of shapewear, who do higher-quality items feature that makes them a good investment?

A: Higher quality items are usually the ones that have had more design and development specifications built into them to ensure they perform well. It will be reflected in their fibre content and their added design features. For example, they will have a higher elastane content in them for better control and design features that make them easy and comfortable to wear such as panels that don't roll when you sit down/stand up.

Q: Is there a bra style that you think is universally flattering on women?

A: All women are different, and prefer different shapes for their boobs. Some bras give a rounded shape, others more pointed, and there are variations in between. I generally think that for a natural shape you need a bra that gives a rounded look to your boobs - balconette bras are the best for this.

Q: Do you have any care tips for lingerie in general? What's the worst thing that you can do to a bra?

A: The worst thing you can do to a bra is machine wash it or tumble dry it. All underwired bras should be hand washed to help them retain their shape and last longer. When bras are machine washed (or dried) they shrink and the wires can pop out. Not to mention that they could damage your washing machine! Also, drying your bras on a radiator isn't good for them either. Hand washing with a delicates detergent and leaving them to drip dry is perfect.

Q: If you had to buy one bra, it would be...?

A: … a perfect fitting, nude coloured t-shirt bra. Boring I know but very essential! Smooth and neat, also it won't show under your clothes - even white.

Q: Simply Yours' Best-Selling bra is...?

A: The Gok Wan Banger Booster.

Q: To clarify, to which countries do you ship (UK/Europe/Etc.)?

A: UK and Northern Ireland.

Many thanks to Charlotte Bleasdale for her collaboration with About Plus-Size Fashion, and visit Simplyyours.co.uk to check out what they offer!