HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHAPEWEAR, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

Whether you’re showing off your figure in a sleek bodycon dress, or a pair of high-waisted jeans with a trendy body suit and blazer combo, snatched waists (we see you, Kim K) and smooth curves don’t come easy for most. But thanks to shapewear companies like Spanx and Kardashian-founded Skims, both of which we’ve put to the test, and newcomer Honeylove, we can get a little help when squeezing into our favorite styles.

“I love the shapewear market right now because there are so many options. It really depends on what you are looking for it to do,” says Jené Luciani Sena, author of The Bra Book: An Intimate Guide to Finding the Right Bra, Shapewear, Swimsuit, and More.

Shapewear comes in different levels of compression, from light smoothing to all-over compression that sucks you in, sometimes taking inches away. By implementing these expert tips on choosing the best shapewear, you’ll be able to find the right pieces to achieve the fit of your dreams.

Know your size and prioritize your health

“The most important thing to remember is to purchase your actual dress size,” says Sena. “A lot of women think they’re utilizing shapewear so they can look smaller so they buy a smaller size when in reality that ends up just giving you more lumps and bumps than you went in with.” She also suggests paying attention to size charts. “Just like with bras, brands can vary with sizing,” she says.

There’s also another issue to consider when it comes to sizing your pieces—your health. “If it’s too tight it can definitely cause digestion issues and pain, sometimes skin irritation, and even fungal infections if it’s rubbing or chafing,” she continues. “You also don’t want anything that puts too much pressure on your stomach, creating discomfort and, in some cases, acid reflux with prolonged use.”

Look for low-stretch textiles

“If you’re looking for a super-sculpted effect, look for fabric that has some give, but is fairly low stretch,” says Honeylove founder Betsie Larkin. “The stretchier the fabric, the more it will move with your body, and the lower the compression level will be.”

According to Sena, in order to make the garment compressing without causing lines underneath clothes, most companies rely on microfiber—a durable, moisture-wicking blend of polyester and nylon—combined with Lycra/spandex, a one-two punch of stretch and recovery that’s key for getting the right fit, comfort level, and compression element. The nylon is what makes the garment feel soft to the touch, while higher Lycra content means more compression. Some companies also add panels of strong mesh for a smoothing effect and increased breathability.

Always take your shapewear for a test drive

When trying on shapewear, go ahead and strut your stuff—sit, walk, twist, turn. Take it for a test drive on its own, as well as under garments to see how it feels and looks. The right piece won’t roll or dimple if it’s the right size, material, and shape for your body.

“Avoid garments that have elastic at leg openings or silicone taping that encircles the entire leg opening,” says Larkin. “That causes digging in which creates visible lines under clothing, which really defeats the purpose of shapewear.”

One size doesn’t fit all: Finding the right shapewear for each look

Choosing the right style of shapewear can make or break your entire outfit. According to Larkin, certain styles work best for specific silhouettes.

“For tight-fitting knee-length dresses and skirts, look for a piece that goes up to the bra line and down to the bottom of the thigh,” she says, noting that Honeylove’s popular SuperPower Short and SuperPower Mid-Thigh Bodysuit are great options, both of which feature a built-in wireless bra and added upper back smoothing. Honeylove’s shapewear is available in six colors in women’s sizes XS to 3X.

When your hemline hits above the knee and bike shorts aren’t an option, you’ll want a garment that features a brief bottom to create a smooth silhouette. Maidenform’s Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Brief boasts a high waist, stretch lace fabric, and a collection of 15 colors in women’s sizes S to XXL.

For tight pants and jumpsuits, she recommends looking for a product with a thong bottom, such as Skims’ Sculpting Mid-Waist Thong, to help avoid pesky panty lines without sacrificing good sculpting. Shop the style in nine nude shades in women’s sizes XXS to 5X. 

For low-back tops and dresses, you’ll need a garment that comes up to the navel without digging into your waist or features a drop back, such as the Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Thong Bodysuit, which can be worn several ways thanks to convertible straps, and is well-suited to low-cut necklines as well. The Suit Your Fancy Bodysuit is available in women’s sizes XS to XL in black and beige.

Ultimately, personal comfort depends on what size you’re wearing and how you tolerate compression garments. “It’s important to listen to your body and find shaping garments that give you the shape you want without sacrificing comfort,” says Larkin. If you feel uncomfortable, she suggests sizing up or trying a different style. “Shapewear is only helpful if it makes you feel good on all levels.”

Sena agrees. “Find something that’s compressive enough to give you the effect you want, but won’t ruin your night,” she says. “Who wants that?”