Let’s talk about shapewear. For some, it’s a hard pass. For others, it’s a solid yes. And some people don’t know enough about it to make up their minds. So, what exactly is shapewear? Let’s discuss.
What Is Shapewear?
Shapewear is a type of undergarment designed to compress certain regions of the body, making them appear more toned and altering how clothing fits. In recent years, celebrities have been endorsing certain brands, but before that, searching for shapewear was a pretty bleak process. Unless you were down to wear the same girdles as your grandma, there wasn’t a lot to choose from.
Some people wear shapewear only on special occasions, while others wear it daily. This is one of those situations where there is no right or wrong; you just have to figure out what is best for you. Here are some of the pros and cons of shapewear.
Pros:
- Shapewear provides excellent body contouring. For instance, if you have the perfect dress for an event, but some afternoon bloat has you feeling a little less confident, throwing on some shapewear can help.
- Shapewear allows you to control what is temporarily modified. If your lower stomach is your trouble section, shapewear is an easy, temporary fix for that.
- If your weight tends to fluctuate, shapewear prevents you from needing to buy a new wardrobe every time you’re in between sizes.
Cons:
- Most people who wear shapewear can confirm: If worn too long, the pieces become quite uncomfortable.
- Wearing shapewear that is too small is not only uncomfortable, but it can push everything up and out, which is the total opposite of what it’s supposed to do.
Ready to take the plunge? Here are some tips for first-time shapewear buyers:
Consider Your Goal
Different pieces do different things to your body, so really consider what your goal is. Do you want to smooth lines through your torso? Or maybe tone your legs? There are many types of shapewear out there. It just takes a little research and a few try-on sessions to understand your shapewear goals.
Find Your Size
Odds are, you’ll be your “usual” size for shapewear. Do not size down with the intent to flatten and shape even more. Wearing shapewear that is too small will create bulges and all kinds of discomfort.
Alter vs. Smooth
Shapewear made of heavier materials helps alter your shape, while lighter pieces simply smooth you out where you need it. Consider what you want, then try on different options to make sure your shapewear serves its desired purpose.
What are some of your favorite shapewear brands? Let us know in the comments below!