Where To Start Your Shapewear Journey: What is Shapewear and How Does it Work?

Shapewear is typically linked to beauty, fashion...and little else,... and many people often assume that most people wear shapewear just to "look good for photos or special occasions". While the boost in confidence is amazing, that's not all there is to shapewear.

In addition to helping you look slim and radiant, shapewear can be beneficial in other ways as well. Examples include helping you improve your posture, providing abdominal support, and preventing chafing.

If you've never tried compression garments before, but you're curious and want to give it a go, join us to learn about the various uses for shapewear.

What is shapewear?
Shapewear -- sometimes called "basic clothing" or "shapers" -- is basically a type of underwear designed to shape your figure and accentuate your natural curves. It also smoothes out bumps in cellulite and fabric, helping to control the tummy well, giving the wearer a smoother, more toned silhouette.

For this reason, shapewear is often worn over tight dresses or form-fitting clothing. However, more comfortable fits and designs, as well as breathable fabrics, can be incorporated into casual everyday wear.

Shapewear is constantly evolving to suit people of all skin tones, shapes and needs. Today's shapewear styles allow you to target specific areas such as arms, waist, butt and thighs all at once or all at once. If you have excess fat in one area, you can target that area directly, or purchase a full body shapewear. Once you understand how different types of shapewear shape your body, you'll find it easier to choose a product that suits your needs.

What's Shapewear Works & How do I choose shapewear?

When picking out shapewear, you need to keep three things in mind: intent, size, and level of compression.

Intent refers to what and how often you plan to use the shapewear. What will you wear with this shapewear? Bodysuit? Sleeveless shirt? Onesies? Some cute plunging tops? Or maybe you're looking for athletic shapewear? Do you want to flatten your tummy, lift your butt, or both? Do you want to smooth your legs or accentuate your curves? Knowing the target area you want and the profile you want to achieve can help you narrow down your options considerably.

As you know, sizing is how big you should be based on your measurements. Shapewear sizing is tricky because it has to be exact. Shapewear that's too loose won't do you any good -- unless you can add more fabric underneath the garment. Shapewear that is too tight can be uncomfortable and, at worst, risky. It can cut off blood circulation and/or interfere with your breathing. Plus, shapewear that's too tight can pinch your skin, creating a bumpy, unflattering silhouette.

If you want something that fits like a glove, not too tight and not too loose. So if in doubt, please ask the store staff immediately for its size selection.

The compression level is how tight you want it to be. PRO TIP - Don't assume that shapewear that's too tight will work better. You won't get any of the benefits of shapewear, and you might even experience acid reflux, giving you a bad shapewear experience. If you are trying shapewear for the first time, please express your needs so that we can better recommend shapewear for you.

Lightly compressing shapers are great for beginners. They are also suitable for all-day wear. Just keep in mind that they don't sculpt and modify your figure too much - they're best for subtle changes.

Medium compression shapewear is perfect for those who are fairly used to wearing shapewear. They do create a more dramatic silhouette than lightweight compression shapewear.

Meanwhile, heavier or more compressive shapewear will produce the most dramatic results. If you're looking for extreme silhouettes, tight body shapers and exaggerated figures, this is the best choice. Just remember not to wear it for too long.

Are shapewear uncomfortable? How long can I wear it?

Shapewear is often considered uncomfortable due to its compressive properties (often heavy fabric). Thanks to advances in fabric technology, shapewear can be made lightweight and breathable while compressing, shaping and lifting your body. The zippers, buttons, and herringbone material of shapewear have also been made softer to better conform to exposed skin. Novices suggest that you can wear it for 4-6 hours a day.

Will shapewear change my figure?

Shapewear can shape your figure, flatten your tummy, trim your waist and deepen your curves. However, shapewear won't help you lose weight directly, and the changes aren't permanent. It requires you to combine diet and exercise for a long time , so that you can slowly achieve the effect you want.