Shapewear has become a staple in many women’s wardrobes, offering support, confidence, and a flawless silhouette under any outfit. However, with so many options available, choosing the right shapewear for your body type can be overwhelming. The key to finding the perfect shapewear lies in understanding your body’s unique shape and selecting pieces that enhance your natural curves. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to choosing the perfect shapewear for your body type.
Identify Your Body Shape
The first step in choosing the right shapewear is to identify your body shape. Everybody is different, and understanding your shape can help you find the most flattering and comfortable shapewear. Here are the most common body shapes:
- Hourglass: Your bust and hips are well-balanced with a defined waist.
- Pear: Your hips are wider than your bust, and you have a well-defined waist.
- Apple: Your shoulders and bust are broader, with a less defined waist and narrower hips.
- Rectangle: Your bust, waist, and hips are similar in width, with minimal curves.
- Inverted Triangle: Your shoulders are wider than your hips, with a less defined waist.
Knowing your body shape will help you determine which areas you want to enhance, smooth, or minimize with shapewear.
Choose Shapewear Based on Your Goals
Once you’ve identified your body shape, consider what you want to achieve with your shapewear. Do you want to smooth out your tummy, enhance your curves, or create a more defined waist? Here’s how to choose shapewear based on your goals:
-
For Smoothing and Slimming: If you’re looking to smooth out your figure and create a streamlined silhouette, consider high-waisted shorts or tummy control thongs. These pieces provide coverage and support for your midsection, helping to minimize any lumps or bumps.
-
For Enhancing Curves: If you have an hourglass or pear shape and want to accentuate your curves, look for shapewear that cinches the waist while lifting the bust and hips. Waist cinchers and boned sculpt high-waisted shorts are excellent choices for enhancing your natural curves.
-
For Creating Curves: If you have a rectangle or inverted triangle shape and want to create more curves, opt for shapewear that adds definition to your waist and hips. Look for pieces with targeted compression zones that shape and lift in all the right places.
Choose the Right Size
One of the most important aspects of choosing shapewear is selecting the right size. Wearing shapewear that’s too small can cause discomfort and create bulges, while shapewear that’s too large won’t provide the support you need. Here’s how to find the right size:
-
Measure Yourself: Use a measuring tape to measure your bust, waist, and hips. Compare your measurements to the sizing chart provided by the shapewear brand to find your correct size.
-
Try It On: If possible, try on different styles and sizes to see what feels most comfortable and supportive. Remember that shapewear should fit snugly but not be overly tight.
-
Don’t Size Down: Avoid the temptation to size down for more control. Shapewear is designed to work best when it fits your true size, providing the intended level of support and comfort.
Choose the Right Style for Your Outfit
The final step in choosing the perfect shapewear is selecting the right style for your outfit. Different outfits require different types of shapewear, so consider what you’ll be wearing it under:
-
Under Dresses and Skirts: For dresses and skirts, opt for high-waisted shorts, slips, or bodysuits that smooth your midsection and hips while providing coverage and support.
-
Under Pants and Jeans: For pants and jeans, choose tummy control thongs or high-waisted briefs that smooth your waistline without creating visible lines.
-
Under Tops: For tops, consider shapewear camisoles or tank tops that smooth your torso and provide support for your bust.
Choosing the perfect shapewear for your body type is all about understanding your shape, identifying your goals, and selecting the right size and style. With the right shapewear, you can enhance your natural curves, smooth out problem areas, and boost your confidence in any outfit. At Avanzo, we offer a range of high-quality shapewear designed to flatter every body type. Explore our collection and find the perfect shapewear to elevate your wardrobe and make you feel your best.