The first time that I wore shapewear was a complete disaster. I needed to squeeze into a dress that was nearly two sizes too small. The stylist assured me that I'd look great if I just threw on a pair of Spanx. I figured that a small bodysuit would slim my medium-sized frame into a small, but I found out the hard way that this is not how shapewear works.
It was tough for me to get in and out of the tiny bodysuit to use the restroom, and even eating lunch was a challenge. I had lost my appetite because the ill-fitting garment had my entire midsection in a bind. After spending nearly 10 hours (without eating) in a pair of shapewear that were way too small, I ended up going home with a massive migraine and feeling woozy.
That's how I learned that sizing is everything when it comes to wearing shapewear. At first, I didn't understand how stars like Mindy Kaling and Anne Hathaway could wear the body-shaping underwear during long evenings at award shows without passing out. But now I know it's because they purchase the proper size. "I look at it like clothing is the art and Spanx shapers and smoothers are the canvas," Spanx founder Sara Blakely tells SELF. "You have to have the right canvas for the painting to turn out!" And perfectly fitting shapewear has helped so many women to smooth out their canvas.
Here’s everything you need to know so you don’t end up feeling squeezed, squished, and lightheaded in your first pair of Spanx.
Related: Emilia Clarke Parodied Her ‘Game Of Thrones’ Character While Looking For Lost Spanx
Buy the right size.
The slimming lycra in shapewear will hug your body in all of the right places, so there's no need to go down a size. If you're thinking that a smaller option will give you an extra boost, think again. The body shapers are designed to enhance your silhouette according to your true size. "For the shapewear and smoothing base layers, just buy the same size you wear in clothes," say Blakely. "If you're a small buy a small. If you're a medium buy a medium, and so on." Anything too snug will end up causing bulges (picture a busted can of biscuits) and discomfort. You could also experience that annoying rolling effect if you're not wearing the right size.
Customize your shaping needs.
You can customize your look by selecting a body shaper that has more or less stretch. "We have three levels of compression: Level 1 Smooth, Level 2 Shape, and Level 3 Sculpt," says Blakely. Each level offers a more snug fit as it goes higher. You can select the level and type of body shaper you need based off of particular outfits that you have in mind. "I wear the open bust bodysuit silhouette under all dresses that have a sleeve," says Blakely. "The high-waist or regular waist mid-thigh shapers are perfect under sleeveless dresses and skirts. And Skinny Britches is my everyday smoother." That's one of their lightest products. It's tissue paper thin, and so lightweight that it feels like a second skin. "I wear it all summer instead of underwear," says Blakely.
Choose your color wisely.
The perfect color combination will depend on two things: your outfit and your complexion. If you have darker skin and are wearing a look that has light fabric, look for shapewear in black or cocoa. Lighter skin tones should wear a bare-hued bodysuit underneath thin garments. The black option also works well on all complexions with darker outerwear. And if you want to spice things up, you can. "For 15 years women have been flashing me their Spanx," says Blakely. "So I decided to make it more fun and offer a variety of colors and prints from coral crush to limeade."
Clean them properly.
Most body shapers are made to be worn as underwear, so you'll need to wash them after each use. Instead of throwing your shapewear in the washer and dryer, which can be harsh on the delicate fabric, gently use your hands to clean them. Don't forget to lay them flat to dry, and make sure you're not twisting or wringing them out during the process as this will cause them to lose their shape.
Shapewear can easily become your best friend when worn properly. Wearing shapewear is a personal preference, but if you want to give it a try these tips will help you rock them like a pro.
With a deep understanding of fashion and body contouring products, I can share insights into shapewear, its functionality, and how to wear it effectively. My expertise stems from a vast amount of knowledge encompassing fashion trends, body shaping technologies, and the industry's nuances.
Understanding Shapewear: Key Concepts
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Purpose of Shapewear: Shapewear is designed to enhance and contour the body's silhouette, providing a smoother appearance under clothing. It can target specific areas like the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, providing support and shaping.
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Sizing Importance: As emphasized in the article, choosing the correct size is paramount. Shapewear that's too tight can lead to discomfort, difficulty breathing, and potential health issues. On the contrary, a size too large won't provide the desired shaping effect.
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Compression Levels: Shapewear comes in various compression levels:
- Level 1 Smooth: Light compression for a subtle shaping effect.
- Level 2 Shape: Moderate compression that contours the body without being overly restrictive.
- Level 3 Sculpt: Maximum compression, offering the most significant shaping effect.
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Material and Comfort: High-quality shapewear is crafted from materials like lycra, spandex, and nylon. These fabrics provide stretchability, durability, and comfort. However, improper care, such as machine washing, can degrade the material and reduce its effectiveness over time.
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Color Choices: Selecting the right color is essential for shapewear to remain discreet under clothing. Skin tone and outfit color play crucial roles in determining the ideal shapewear shade. Darker shades like black or cocoa often work well with darker outfits, while lighter shades might be preferable for lighter-colored clothing.
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Maintenance and Care: To maintain the shape, elasticity, and longevity of shapewear, proper care is vital. Handwashing is recommended to prevent damage. It's crucial to avoid twisting or wringing out the garment, as this can distort its shape.
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Celebrities and Shapewear: The mention of celebrities like Mindy Kaling and Anne Hathaway wearing shapewear showcases its widespread acceptance and endorsem*nt in the entertainment industry. Celebrities often rely on expert stylists and fittings to ensure the perfect fit and appearance during public events.
In summary, shapewear serves as a versatile tool in the fashion world, offering individuals the opportunity to enhance their appearance and confidence. However, understanding its functionality, selecting the right size and style, and maintaining it properly are crucial for a positive experience. With the right knowledge and approach, anyone can incorporate shapewear into their wardrobe effectively.
