Speaking as a 'larger lady', I find the best way to choose a corset is to have one made specifically for you. It's a little more expensive, but the quality and fit will be a massive improvement from an off the rack one. That being said, all of mines are steel-boned corsets. The shop I use in Glasgow, Scotland is fabulous. They measure you, sit with you and talk to you about what you want from the corset and how you would wear it, etc. I'm sure with a little digging around you could find one near you that will be just as attentive. Custom is definitely the way to go. Just remember, if it is painful, or uncomfortable, it doesn't fit you. ;-)