What To Wear Under Carla Kiley Collection Dresses: The Best Undergarments for Comfort, Confidence & a Seamless Fit
One of the most common questions I get is: “What do you wear underneath your Carla Kiley Collection dresses?”
Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or simply heading out for a regular day, the right undergarments can make a world of difference. As someone who prioritizes comfort and confidence—especially as a plus-size woman—I’ve tried a ton of options and found a few staples that I always reach for under my dresses.
Carla Kiley Collection dresses are intentionally designed with flattering cuts and thoughtful lining, so you don’t need compression wear like Spanx or Skims to feel confident—just comfortable, supportive undergarments that work with your body.
Here’s everything I wear under my CKC dresses for support, smoothness, and all-day comfort.
1. Soma Vanishing Tummy® High-Waist Brief with Lace
These are my holy grail when I want a smoothing effect without the squeeze of traditional shapewear. The Soma Vanishing Tummy High-Waist Brief gives a gentle hold, lies completely flat under dresses, and stays in place (no rolling or tugging). I especially love the lace trim—it adds a little something extra without creating lines under thinner fabrics. I also love the Vanishing Tummy High-Waist Brief. I wear a XXL in both versions.
- Why I love them: No VPL (visible panty lines), high-waisted smoothing, breathable, beautiful lace detailing.
- Perfect for: Under dresses on cooler days and jeans and shorts.
👉 Shop the Soma Vanishing Tummy Brief
2. Thigh Society Cooling 7-Inch Shorts
These are a must for me in warmer weather or when I’m wearing a flowier dress. I swear by the Thigh Society Cooling Shorts—they’re lightweight, breathable, and help with chafing without adding bulk. The 7-inch length works well under midi and mini dresses alike, and they don’t roll up. I wear the XL-2XL size. Prefer a cotton options? Give the Thigh Society Cotton Short.
- Why I love them: Cooling, moisture-wicking, no compression, and no thigh rub!
- Perfect for: Warm days when I’ll be out and about all day long – no thigh chafe here!
👉 Shop Thigh Society Cooling Shorts
3. My Favorite Elomi Bras
When it comes to bras, Elomi is my go-to for supportive, comfortable options that actually work for larger busts. I rotate between a few depending on the neckline and style of dress:
- Elomi Matilda Plunge Bra – great under v-necks like The Elizabeth, The Judy, and The Alexis. Offers lift and a flattering shape without spillage.
- Elomi Smooth T-Shirt Bra – seamless and invisible under more fitted bodices like The Mimi, The Angela, and The Kathleen especially under lighter-colored dresses.
- Elomi Charley Floral Embroidery Bra – super supportive for everyday wear. I reach for this when I want structure without sacrificing comfort. I wear this under all my dresses but especially love it under The Yolanda and The Savana.
Putting It All Together
The right undergarments can totally transform how a dress feels on your body. I design the Carla Kiley Collection dresses to work with a range of body types—and these under-layers help me feel extra supported, comfortable, and put together.
If you’ve been wondering what to wear underneath your CKC dresses, I hope this helps! And as always, feel free to message me with questions—I love helping you feel confident from the inside out.
