Ultimate Shapewear Guide: Enhance Your Curves Effortlessly

• Types of Shapewear
• Choosing the Right Shapewear for Your Body Type
• Tips for Selecting the Perfect Shapewear
• Styling Shapewear with Different Outfits
• Frequently Asked Questions

Types of Shapewear

As we mentioned above, there are multiple types of shapewear. A few generations ago, most shapewear was limited to corsets or girdles. Today, shapewear comes in multiple variations that can target specific areas using varying construction technologies. Apart from offering a slimming effect, the different kinds of shapewear also have specific benefits and usage occasions.

Bodysuits

Bodysuits provide unparalleled, full coverage. As their name implies, bodysuits cover most of the torso to create a seamless silhouette. This works especially well in tight clothes and dresses where any hems or seams from your undergarments are more obvious.

Within the umbrella of bodysuits, you'll also notice that they differ in terms of how much of the lower body they cover. Some bodysuits include shaping shorts for more extensive coverage. These work great under bodycon dresses or silhouettes that hug more of the figure. Alternatively, as you 'll see on MeMoi shapewear, there are also bodysuits with thong bottoms that aim to provide a more moderate compression level in the lower body.

Waist Cinchers

Although they’re often confused with corsets, waist cinchers (also called waist shapers, waist trainers, or slimming belts) are an entirely different garment. Unlike corsets, which are mostly worn for style and can be worn over clothes, waist cinchers are undergarments that provide compression. Take a look at the InstantFigure Tummy Control Slimming Belt. Made using a single-layer fabric in a slip-on style, this garment helps smoothen and flatten tummies without any extra material across the torso or lower body.

As explained earlier, waist cinchers are also great for back support. Since they add compression to the waist, they can help with posture and stability.  If you want to stand taller, look for waist cinchers like the NeoSweat Core Control. Designed with flexible steel bones, this waist shaper adds form to your torso.

Given their compact nature, waist cinchers can be worn virtually anywhere and anytime. Some cinchers are even designed to be worn during workouts.

Shaping Shorts

If you want to enhance the natural curves of your hips, thighs, and buttocks, look no further than shaping shorts. Designed to target the lower body, these garments can give a smoother, firmer, and more shapely appearance under skirts, shorts, or pants.

In terms of appearance, shaping shorts looks similar to short gym leotards. However, the difference lies in its construction. Shaping shorts are designed with higher levels of compression to give the appearance of a more toned lower body. These shorts also have a higher waist to create a seamless silhouette from above the hips downwards. For lower back pain, garments like the Tommie Copper Women's Back Support Compression Undershorts are constructed with a special back-hugging technology that provides muscle relief.

Since the length of your bottoms can vary, shaping shorts come in shorter mid-thing lengths, too. Conversely, some shaping shorts come in capri lengths for additional coverage.

Smoothing Panties

Among all the garments in the shapewear world, smoothing panties offer the lightest control. This makes it ideal for everyday use since the compression level is gentle enough to wear even on busy errand days. Because they cover the smallest surface area, smoothing panties are perfect for targeting the lower abdomen and the hips.

Depending on how much coverage you want in this area, you can opt for a thong to avoid seam lines, a wider gusset for more protection, or a brief or boyshorts cut covering more of the upper thighs. If you want to shape your booty and show off a sleeker silhouette, some smoothing panties, such as those from InstantFigure, feature double-layered control fabric that helps shape and lift. Since smoothing panties are also high-waisted, they enhance your curves and flatten any midsection.

Slimming Tops

Available in camisoles, tanks, shirts, and sleeved shirts, slimming tops boost your upper body’s curves while also smoothing out any areas of concern. Shapewear brand Maidenform notes that these garments can provide 360-degree shaping control, which means they can flatten the midsection, lift the chest area, and give the appearance of a toned back and arms. Because they come in a wide array of cuts, you can wear these under fitted tops.

Some slimming tops also come with built-in boning, pads, or cups. These help shape the chest by providing more lift. For women with fuller chests, there are also camisoles with underwires for additional support.

Choosing the Right Shapewear for Your Body Type

Are you worried that shapewear is not meant for your body? Think again! Shapewear isn’t just designed to help you achieve a confident silhouette. These garments are specially created to suit different body types and achieve diverse body goals. What matters is knowing what kind of shapewear works with your body for a comfy and flattering fit.

What is an apple body shape?

Apple body shapes refer to those with undefined waists, fuller shoulders, and narrow hips that the chest area may overpower. Ladies with these body types often have slimmer legs, so many like to “hide” their upper bodies while showing off their lower half. Now, if you think your legs are your strongest feature, you should highlight them! But shapewear can help so that your upper body makes you feel just as confident.

Shapewear for apple body types

This body type is all about definition. By shaping your torso, you create more harmony between your upper and lower halves. If you have an Apple body type, opt for shapewear with midsection support and waist cinching, like the AirSlim ElasticFuse Waistband Shaping Bodysuit. Using a patchwork control waistband and flexible bra cups, this shapewear will help lift your larger chest while trimming the tummy. This gives the illusion of a smaller waist and improved chest-to-hip proportions.

What is a pear body shape?

Pear body types have more pronounced lower halves. This usually means wider hips, fuller thighs, larger buttocks, and rounder calves. Women with this body shape may have slimmer arms and waist but carry most of their weight in their lower regions. The best way to play up a pear body shape is by streamlining more prominent areas that may typically overwhelm your figure.

Shapewear for pear body types

For women who have a pear body type, look for garments that shape your lower half to complement your upper body. Don’t worry; this doesn’t mean you’re merely shrinking your thighs or buttocks – after all, lots of women rightfully like their fuller legs! Instead, it’s about using shapewear to make your features more balanced. Shaping shorts are great at this. Models like the High Waist Smoothing Slip Short from Anti x Proof created using a four-way stretch fabric, waterproof liner, light smoothing compression, and raw cut hem can offer superior shaping without any irritation, so you can use these even while you run errands, work, or exercise.

What is an hourglass body shape?

As you may have guessed from the name, hourglass figures are very curvy. Hourglass body types have a small waist between a fuller chest and hips. Hourglass body shapes are considered softer and rounder, so some women want to add a little more structure for a smoother and slightly more statuesque appearance.

Shapewear for hourglass body types

Shapewear that smooths your curves without diminishing them is the way to go. Look for garments that accentuate your lovely waist while giving the appearance of more toned hips. High-rise shorts like these from Rene Ruiz are a great option since they have a seamless design that slips right on and sits above the waist, making them comfier. If you’re a curvy lady with a particularly heavy-set bust, bodysuits are fantastic since they can similarly lift your chest and give the look of a trim back.

What is a rectangle body shape?

Sometimes called an “athletic” build, rectangle body shapes have narrow hips and shoulders with the same width. The waist and thighs are also on the slimmer side, with minimal curves. Women with this body type are usually either very petite or tall and look wonderful in fitted clothes. However, if you want to create a different silhouette, shapewear can help.

Shapewear for rectangle body types

Shapewear can be used to create curves for rectangle body types. That’s right, shapewear isn’t just for cinching. In many cases, shapewear can help you create the illusion of a different figure without hiding yours. If you want to add volume in certain areas of your body to create the optical illusion of a more shapely waist, padded garments are a must. Examples of these include Shapellx’s smoothing shorts with removable hip pads. Because these make the hips look wider, the waist looks smaller by comparison. If you don’t want to pad, classic body shapers with waist-sculpting tech use a comfortable level of compression to create an hourglass shape.

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Shapewear

You’ve determined your body type, and you know exactly what you want, meaning it’s now time to select the perfect shapewear for you! As we’ve mentioned, the shapewear world is vast, so you do have a lot to choose from. While this promises you a fantastic variety, it can get pretty overwhelming – especially if you’re new to shapewear or this is your first time shopping after a long time. To make things easy, there are three factors to consider: compression, size, and materials.

Understanding Compression Levels

Did you know that shapewear actually has different compression levels? While some brands may have more multiple compression levels and sub-levels, in general, you’ll see light, medium, and firm. 

The light compression level offers the mildest smoothing effect, and the material also has the most give. You’ll usually see light compression levels in shaping panties, such as the MeMoi figure-flattering boyshorts. These are preferable if you have skin sensitivities or want a more subtle effect. 

A medium compression level provides enhanced slimming capabilities, which are typically achieved through higher coverage garments. Think of shaping shorts or figure-control tops. There is still some stretch at this level, but target areas of the body feel more cinched. These are ideal for more specific body sculpting. They may take some getting used to, but you’ll quickly adapt to this compression level and may even find it comfy for daily use. 

Finally, you have a firm compression level. Here, shapewear has the most support. To achieve this compression level, garments usually have multiple fabric layers and extra cinching features, like hooks, zippers, etc. Firm compression level shapewear can be used as long as you’re comfortable, but most people opt for this on special occasions via full-coverage bodysuits.

Choosing the Right Size

Although shapewear may often look rather small, it shouldn’t feel like a tight squeeze. Shapewear that’s sized right doesn’t squeeze around the areas where the garment ends, nor does it make you feel uncomfortable. Otherwise, this defeats the purpose by creating a disproportionate figure and negatively impacting your confidence.

When choosing your shapewear, choose one that is your actual dress size. Don’t be tempted to size down for the sake of extra cinching. At the same time, you don’t want to size up for fear of it “not fitting,” as bigger garments won’t shape the body as needed. If you have particularly fuller body parts, you want to take this into consideration since it could mean that certain silhouettes will be more comfortable. For instance, a body suit with a deep V-neck may be more forgiving if you have a larger chest. Meanwhile, if you have a notably rounder bottom, thong support panties are less likely to pinch and press.

Fabric and Material Considerations

The fabric and materials from which shapewear is made greatly influence how a garment feels and performs. Most shapewear is made with fabrics that have body-sculpting elasticity. Commonly, shapewear fabrics are a blend of cotton, nylon, elastane, polyamide, and polyester. Together, these create a breathable textile that is flexible but firm so it can hold its form and sculpt your body. Other shapewear will also have additional fabrics added in for extra support. The Shapermint Everyday Empower Jacquard Shaper Short, for example, also uses jacquard for additional shaping.

Other popular materials in shapewear design include zippers, bonings, hooks, and silicone grips. All of these work to improve compression, enhance curves, and prevent the garment from slipping or rolling up. When choosing your own shapewear, you want to ensure you’re not allergic to the fabric blend and materials. You also want to think about the purpose of this fabric or material to ensure it aligns with your own shapewear goals.

Styling Shapewear with Different Outfits

Part of what makes shopping for and using shapewear exciting is thinking about how to use it in your wardrobe. With the right shapewear, you can feel more confident as you style your clothes how you’ve always wanted to! No more avoiding outfits; with shapewear, your dream attire can become a reality. For the perfect shapewear and clothing pairings, read on.

Under Dresses and Skirts

Whether you wear flowy or fitted dresses or skirts of varying lengths, you want them to glide over your body. You can achieve this with shapewear that creates a smoother silhouette. Bodysuits and shaping slips are your best options since they have full coverage. This creates a seamless body line without any seams that can disrupt how your dress or skirt falls. 

Some more good news is that you’ll find shapewear with different necklines. For instance, MeMoi has a low V-neck shaper slip. InstantFigure, however, has a strapless dress version of high-compression fabric that can flatten areas without slipping. Alternatively, the Shapellx AirSlim Go Braless Shaping Lace Bodysuit has panels of romantic black lace along its neckline that you can let peek through a blouse or dress. With these variations, you’re sure to find a shapewear option.

Under Pants and Jeans

The last thing most women want when they wear pants is any bunching around the waist or excess folds around the hips. This is totally understandable since those can disrupt the silhouette you’re going for. 

If you’ve felt any of the above, here’s your chance to wear those pants and jeans with the ease and confidence you deserve! High-waisted shaping panties are your best friend since they don’t add bulk, are lightweight, and can cinch your waist and hips. If your pants are skin-tight or made of a thinner fabric, a thong shaping panty will eliminate the risk of any panty lines. With these on, pants will slip on with ease. If you’re wearing pants that are fitted from the waistband to the hem, you may want to try something with more coverage. The High-Waist Control Shapewear Leggings from SlimMe show how longer shapewear can create a sleek silhouette that you may prefer with your pants or jeans. In the colder months, having these additional layers can also help keep you warm. Win-win!

For Special Occasions

If there’s a time that most people think about using shapewear, it’s for special occasions. This is only natural since you want to look and feel your very best during these memorable events. That said, choosing shapewear for more formal get-togethers does take equally special consideration. Most formalwear is already lined and may have several layers. As such, you’ll want to ensure your shapewear is moisture-wicking so as not to cause any overheating. At the same time, you need shapewear that offers maximum levels of compression and support. This way, you’ll look trim and toned throughout your time, and your shapewear will not buckle under the weight of whatever gown or dress you’re wearing. 

Since special occasion outfits tend to be dressier, you want your shapewear to be as streamlined as possible. This means using something with a seamless design that just slips on, as zippers, velcro, and hooks may snag on your outfit’s fabric or embellishments. Slips with built-in cups, thigh compression, and flexible shaping are notably perfect since they are a one-and-done deal. Regarding the kind of shapewear, look for those that lift the chest and cinch the waist. This way, your beautiful silhouette will shine through even the most elaborate of outfits.