Get some Pearl Izumi bibs. I have been buying the Elite variety (about $100 retail, but can get for around $65 new on eBay). They fit much better than the lower priced Pearls. I have used both regular shorts and bibs, and bibs are the only way to go.

I too used to feel self conscious about wearing bibs without anything over the top. I got over it. No one cares what you look like, and it is more comfortable to just have bibs. You do feel a bit weird the first few times, then realize no one really cares. Besides, what do you think when you see a bigger person riding a bike with bibs and a jersey? I think "...there goes a cyclist...good for him/her..."
CB