It seems the world is intent on throwing a party for any reason that comes to mind. As you start to venture out and reconnect with friends and family, you may realize that some of your clothes don’t fit as well as they did last year. While diet and exercise can help in the long run, it won’t help for that cocktail party happening next weekend. This is where shapewear can help. These garments are not just a quick fix for a party. They will make all of your clothes look great on you. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them a part of your everyday wardrobe.
The problem is that there are so many options available these days, it’s hard to know how to start shopping for shapewear. We’ll answer the most commonly asked questions about shapewear so you can choose the garments that are right for you.
The 5 Important Questions About Shapewear
1: What is shapewear?
A: Shapewear, or foundation garments, are designed to alter the body's natural shape. The goal of shapewear is to create smoother body contours that allow your clothing to follow its natural drape. They come in a variety of colors that can match either skin tones or garments. There are several types of shapewear available including:
- Girdles are also known as contour garments and fall under the category of "body sculpting" shapewear. They offer the most control.
- Body liners are versatile. They create a silhouette that works under most dresses and even pants outfits.
- Shaping slips are great for contour dresses.
- Shaping shorts work from the waist down to the thigh.
2: How do I choose shapewear?
A: Choose your shapewear based on the clothes you'll be wearing. Dress slips work under party dresses. Control panties work under slacks. If you can only buy one piece, choose the high-waisted long leg shorts. They will work under most garments. Choose the size that matches your current measurements. Don’t buy garments a size smaller in order to fit into a small outfit. The point of wearing shapewear is to enhance your curves and smooth bulges. Buying a size down will create the bulges you're trying to conceal.
3: Is it ok to wear shapewear every day?
A: There are tummy control panties made with light control that can be worn on a daily basis. Pick shapewear that is less constricting and you’ll be able to wear them more often. Don’t wear your shapewear longer than eight hours. Shapewear can restrict your breathing and the lack of oxygen can cause you to get lightheaded or even dizzy. Shapewear can also cause acid reflux and skin rashes. For these reasons, it’s best to give your body a break from shapewear sometimes.
4: How do I wash shapewear?
A: Check the care label on your garment. Other than that, handwashing in cool water is the best way to care for your shapewear. Use a mild lingerie detergent or a simple shampoo. If you must wash your shapewear in a washing machine, put them in a lingerie bag and use cold water on a delicate cycle. Heat is the mortal enemy of foundation wear. Never put your shapewear in the dryer. Lay it flat, layered between beach or bath towels.
5: Does shapewear reduce belly fat?
A: Shapewear does not reduce fat. It creates a uniform look to your body, smoothing out folds and bulges. Tummy control pieces can help smooth out the front of your dress or slacks. If you’re looking for a slimmer look, choose a body liner. There are several types of exercise gear that claim to reduce belly fat if you wear them while exercising, but true foundation wear is not designed to be worn that way. In fact, you can ruin your shapewear if you wear it while exercising.
