If you’re like many women, you either don’t wear shapewear at all, or you just can’t seem to find the right fit, no matter how hard you try. Luckily, we have the inside scoop that we’re excited to share with you.
We’ve learned from our mistakes and have compiled a list of the top tips you’ll need when shopping for shapewear. Let’s dive right in:
Tip #1: Get professionally measured.
One of the best (and first) things you should do to guarantee a good shapewear experience is to get measured by a pro. Most specialty lingerie stores and department stores have a person on staff who is trained to measure women for the correct bra size and other undergarments. Have them measure you so you can help guarantee a good fit right off the bat.
Tip #2: Make a day of it.
Whether you’re looking for shapewear for a special occasion or just need it for everyday wear, it’s an important task and shouldn’t be something that you just pick out in a few minutes. Grab a girlfriend and spend an afternoon getting sized and choosing garments that are right for you.
Tip #3: Know what you’re looking for.
If you’re in search of the perfect shapewear it’s likely you need it for a special occasion or a certain outfit. Think about this before you head out shopping and determine which color you’re looking for. The most common you’ll find are white, black, and nude, although some manufacturers are branching out to make even bolder colors.
Tip #4: Know what type of control you need.
In addition to color, you should also keep in mind how much control you need. Are you buying shapewear to go with a form fitting dress or do you want something to mask lines on everyday outfits? Your choices are usually light, medium, and firm so depending on the level of coverage you want, this will also be a decision to make.
Tip #5: Narrow down your options.
Which part of your body do you want to shape? Do you need something to slim your stomach, your thighs, or another area of your body? There are countless options out there, so have an idea in mind before you go shopping or you might get overwhelmed.
Tip #6: Know the lingo.
There are a lot of terms out there when it comes to shapewear but what do all of them mean? Here are some of the top terms you’ll need to know:
- Girdle – Perhaps an old-fashioned term, a girdle is used to support your hips, waist and bottom.
- Brief shorts – Brief shorts are a “spin-off” of boy shorts and are used to mask lines in the hips and bottom. They’re made in several different cuts – very short to mid-thigh.
- Plunge – Plunge is used when referring to the bra section of your shapewear. How low do you want it to plunge? This is especially helpful if you’re wearing a low-cut shirt or dress.
- Seamless – Most shapewear nowadays is completely seamless, meaning it was designed to mask any thong, panty, or bra lines so they’re completely smooth.
Tip #7: Try many different brands.
The sizing and style will vary quite a bit by brand so make sure you try several to really know what’s the best fit for you. When you’re trying them on, take note of how each feels and make sure that it’s something you can wear on an everyday basis.
Before you head out on your next shopping excursion, keep these tips in mind and you’ll be rocking that shapewear in no time.
About the Author:
Cindy Prosser’s perfect morning starts with a hot cup of coffee, cool temperatures, and her favorite shapewear + skirt combo. While being a full-time mom and part-time freelance writer for BareNecessities.com poses several challenges to a perfect morning, Cindy doesn’t ever neglect her vow to exceptional fashion.
