Last Updated on April 6, 2023 by Ellen Christian
Buying Shapewear is one of those things that no one looks forward to doing, but most people need to do. Check out these simple tips.
Posts may be sponsored. This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Tips for Buying Shapewear
Have you ever slipped on our favorite dress or skirt and then looked at your silhouette in the mirror and thought “Yikes, I’m not wearing this!”
Maybe it was a little bit to snug in the hips. Maybe it showed off that tummy bulge you haven’t managed to get rid of yet. Or maybe you jiggle a bit more than you’d like when you walk.
Either way, don’t get rid of the dress, buying shapewear can help solve these problems in no time at all. We all wish we were toned and firm, but for many of us, that isn’t the reality. That’s why every woman’s closet should contain at least one piece of shapewear.
What is shapewear?
Years ago, wearing shapewear involved squeezing into something that was three sizes too small and having the “extra rolls” squeeze out in the worst possible places. Shapewear has come a long way since that time.
If you wear shapewear correctly, it should be comfortable but efficient. A shaping bodysuit is one of the easiest types of shapewear to wear.
- Shapewear comes in a variety of levels from light control to ultra slimming. What you choose will depend on your goals. Whichever you choose, worn correctly shapewear should not make you feel like you can’t breathe or are going to pass out. It should help smooth out lumps and give you a more sleek appearance.
- Choose the correct size. Going down a size in shapewear will not help you fit into a smaller dress size. It will make you look larger because you’ll have bulges coming out of places that there shouldn’t be bulges.
- Pick the correct option. There is shapewear intended to work on the thighs, hips, stomach, rear end and even your bust. You can choose tights, panties or an entire body suit. A camisole is a perfect option for women concerned about a muffin top. A body suit with an open bust can smooth your dress line and lift your bust. Panties can help eliminate panty lines under your jeans or favorite skirt.
- Do a sit test. Try on your shapewear under the outfit you intend wearing it with and then sit down. Can you breathe? Does it show below the hem of your dress? Does anything bulge out where you don’t want it to? Does the band roll over? These problems may indicate you’ve chosen the wrong shapewear.
Ellen believes you can feel beautiful at any age and size. She shares healthy beauty and fashion information geared toward women over 40. She is a direct sales rep for several fashion and beauty businesses.
Shapewear has really gone down in price. It used to be so expensive. And now there are so many choices too. I love the lacy, soft shapewear the best. I’ve never tried Spanx even though it’s popular, but they do have some nice sales now and then, so should take another look.
There are so many gorgeous choices out there now, Deb!
I’ve heard a lot about Spanx and the like. I personally don’t own any shapewear currently, but would be open to trying it in the future.
I have a few for when I need to wear something fitted for an event.
I bought a long line strapless bra to wear when my daughter got married. It really made a difference in the way my dress fit.
It really can make quite a difference!