Shapewear doesn’t have a good reputation. Some compare it to those torture devices that squeeze your body to make it look more beautiful. Another perceived disadvantage of shapewear is that you need always adjust bits sliding up or rolling down. If you found yourself in these situations at least once, it means that the shapewear you bought was not good enough. Shapewear is expected to make you feel comfortable and in control of your body.
In particular, the squeezing and rolling discomfort you are experiencing depends on the fact that you have chosen the wrong shapewear. It is either the wrong size or the wrong piece for your body type.
No body is the same. In the same way, not every piece of shapewear works well with every body shape. In this article, we will help you to discover the perfect match so that the next time you will be able to look for the best shapewear to make you feel comfortable and confident.
Table of Contents
1. What results do you want to achieve?
Let’s start by describing what you are looking for in your next shapewear purchase. Some of us are interested in the level of control and the compression of the shapewear. If that’s the case, here are a few more aspects to keep in mind:
LIGHT CONTROL (MEDIUM) – You want to smooth out some bulges so that you can make wearing clothes more comfortable. In this case, everyday shapewear will smooth the most awkward spots of your body so that you can feel great all day long.
FIRM CONTROL (MEDIUM-HIGH) – You want to accentuate your curves. THat’s why you should opt for shapewear with firm control, which is made with stretchy fabrics. In this way, you can move your body and still see the shape you love. Firm control pieces should give you extra hours of comfort.
EXTRA-FIRM CONTROL (HIGH) – You have a special occasion where you want to look stunning. In that case, extra-firm control shapewear is the best option for formal and structured clothing, like prom gowns, wedding dresses, evening gowns, and cocktail dresses. This type of shapewear will make you feel toned and sturdy while still being able to breathe.
You can pick shapewear that is firmer or loser as you wish. However, you should never feel like an overstuffed sausage when wearing it. If you think that your breathing or movements are restricted, you should exchange your shapewear for another piece one or two sizes bigger.
2. What is your body shape?
The right type of shapewear depends on your body type. Here are some of the most common body shapes: apple, rectangle, hourglass, pear, or strawberry. Keep reading to find out more.
APPLE BODY SHAPE
You have an apple body shape if you have an ample bust and a full midsection. You also have narrow shoulders and hips. You carry extra weight in your belly. If your tummy makes it hard for you to pick the best clothes for your body, shapewear is there for you to make your waistline more defined. You will feel fabulous afterward.
RECTANGLE BODY SHAPE
If your body shape is rectangular, you have a small bust with a straight torso. You also have slim hips and long legs. Most models have your body shape, so clothes are designed for your build. However, some rectangular women worry that they don’t look feminine enough. Others complain that their bottoms are too flat. Shapewear can help you to achieve a curvier look while showing off your long and lean legs.
HOURGLASS BODY SHAPE
If you have an hourglass body type, your hips and shoulders are the same widths. Besides, you have the much-desired hourglass body shape.
You should be happy with having a body shape that so many women wear shapewear to mimic. However, even you might have developed some bulges that make your curves more unbalanced, and that impacts your self-esteem.
PEAR BODY SHAPE
You have a pear body shape if you have a small bust, a well-defined waist, slim shoulders, full hips, and a round bottom. Even if this body shape is loved by many, unrealistic beauty standards may have led you to a love-hate relationship with your bottom half. It’s time now for you to stop hating your body. You deserve to love every inch of it.
STRAWBERRY BODY SHAPE
People with this type of body shape usually have broad shoulders, a generous bust, narrow hips, and a small backside. Many people’s attention is directed towards your stunningly shaped upper body.
