How to Choose Shapewear

Want a sleek silhouette in your favorite outfit for an upcoming event? Don't worry, you do not need to hit the gym for an intense workout or avoid junk food. Absolutely, it's good for a healthy lifestyle if you do, but if you aim to get temporary or instant shaping to look and feel the best under any outfit, then there is a smarter option you can count on - SHAPEWEAR! Also known as a body shaper is no longer a red carpet secret but a wardrobe staple loved by modern women. It can be a game-changing apparel only when chosen correctly. A too-small or too-large fit can't show the magic that you want to see.

However, choosing shapewear might be a tricky task as it comes in different styles, colors, sizes, fabrics, and compression levels. This guide will get you through the key factors to consider while shopping for shapewear so that you find the right piece that looks good, feels great, and fits perfectly. Let's delve into it!

Key Factors To Consider While Choosing Shapewear

Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind when you look for shapewear to embrace your shape with optimum contouring and support:

1. Understand Your Body Type

To choose the right shapewear, it is essential to understand your body shape first. Whether you are apple-like, pear-shaped, rectangular, or hourglass-shaped, there is a shapewear that suits each shape perfectly. For instance, if you are apple-shaped, then a shaping camisole will help you get the right shaping, compressing your bust, and smoothing love handles to provide the illusion of a longer torso. Likewise, pear-shaped women can opt for a thigh-shaper, and rectangular or hourglass-shaped women can try a premium bodysuit to achieve a streamlined appearance. However, there is no fixed rule; you can choose the shapewear in which you feel most confident.

2. Look for Premium Fabric Quality

Shapewear works as a second skin, and hence, it's never a good idea to compromise on quality. Always invest in premium shapewear crafted from breathable, lightweight, stretchy, moisture-wicking, and skin-friendly fabric that hugs cuts and curves perfectly, keeping you comfortable all day long. Shapewear is generally designed from spandex, polyester, nylon, or cotton blends that allow proper air circulation and keep you dry throughout the day.

3. Consider the Occasion and Outfit 

When you consider the occasion and outfit for which you want to wear shapewear, you get the direction of finding the shapewear that you actually need. Shapewear comes in different styles to work well with each type of outfit, whether it's a skirt, bodycon dress, formal trousers, or even a saree. High to mid-compression shapewear could be an apt pick when you shop for occasional purposes. For an enhanced everyday look, you can go for daily wear shapewear with lighter compression. And, if you are wearing a sleeveless or off-the-shoulder dress, then a strapless body shaper could be your ultimate companion.

4. Pick the Right Colour

Shapewear mostly comes in three shades - white, black, and beige. To choose the right color, you need to consider your outfit. For instance, if you are planning to wear it under dark color dresses, then black could be a fine pick, and for lighter color outfits, choose white or beige, whichever works well. You just need to ensure that your bodyshaper perfectly complements your attire.

5. Level of Compression

You can't wear high-compression shapewear all day long. Even though you can, it is good to keep your body free and relaxed. It is ideal to choose them only on special occasions. For casual hangouts, office wear, and everyday wear, you can pick shapewear with lighter compression. Never forget to check the size chart provided by the brand to get the most out of your shapewear.

6. Check Style and Details

There are various types of shapewear available in the market. Tummy tucker, thigh shaper, high-waist shorts, bodysuit, etc., are some popular styles of shapewear that target different body areas like the bust, waist, abdomen, hips, etc., to provide sufficient support and smoothing for a super sleek look. Also, check for details like adjustable straps, sleeve style, zippers, or hook closures to ensure comfort and convenience.

7. Find the Accurate Size

Wearing a smaller size will help get a more sculpted figure - this is something most women believe, isn't it? In reality, it's a myth because sizing down in the desire for maximum contouring may make you end up getting awkward bulges or chafing marks, causing discomfort instead. Yes, you can choose higher compression shapewear in your size to wear occasionally for a highly sculpted silhouette. Measure your waist, hips, and bust using a measuring tape and check the size chart provided by the brand to figure out your accurate size. Remember, A right fit never digs into skin nor rolls down when worn under any outfit.

Pro Tips for First-Time Shapewear Users

If you are new to shapewear, then here are some bonus tips for your ease:

• Start by wearing shapewear for a shorter period to get used to the feel.
• Prefer lighter compression, to begin with, and then gradually upgrade to firm compression.
• Listen to your body and get it down if it hurts or restricts the movement; it might not be the right fit.

Remember, the right shapewear contours your body without being restrictive so that you feel confident every time you wear it.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the shapewear becomes a cakewalk when you keep several factors in mind, like body type, fabric quality, color, size, occasion, and style. Start the search by asking yourself - What do I want from my shapewear? To be clear about your purpose. Consider the right style and compression level that suits your occasion, outfit, and shaping goals.

Having the right shapewear in your wardrobe will allow you to enjoy the maximum benefit of it. Note that the right shapewear does not hide your body but highlights the best features to make you feel confident in your own skin. Don't feel afraid to try different styles to find the perfect fit. Happy Shaping!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of shapewear?

As the word itself suggests, shapewear is a body-hugging garment designed with the purpose of offering instant shaping by supporting and contouring targeted body areas for a sculpted look. It comes in different styles like shaping camisole, tummy tucker, thigh shaper, high waist briefs, bodysuit, etc., to suit every taste.

2. Can I wear shapewear daily?

You can wear shapewear regularly for an enhanced everyday look. Prefer daily wear shapewear, which comes in lighter compression to keep you in style, along with comfort. Avoid wearing it all day, as it is ideal to keep the body free and relaxed.

3. Where to buy shapewear online?

You can buy shapewear online from a trusted brand like Invogue, which offers an exclusive collection of shapewear for women crafted from premium quality, breathable, and skin-friendly fabric available in different styles, colors, and sizes at affordable prices!