Shapewear 101: Why and HOW to wear it

Before we dive into Shapewear 101, I want to tell you about one of my news nightmares. Why? It illustrates one of my key points about shapewear and explains precisely the reasons I swear by it for professional events.

I’ve just finished an on-set interview and return to my desk feeling rather pleased. That segment went great, I think to myself. Then, my producer rushes over with concern in her eyes.“Lindsay, you could totally see your underwear out there! Are you wearing lace?” she asks. “We could see EVERYTHING.”

My eyes drop to my computer and my heart sinks. The emails are already coming in: “That was scandalous!“, “If I wanted to see this, I would open a Victoria’s Secret catalog”, “What was your anchor thinking when she wore that dress?” 

Thankfully, this was just a dream. It didn’t ACTUALLY happen, but it’s really not that much of a stretch. Changing light can reveal much more than you anticipate, especially on a TV set! You’d be shocked at how eager viewers are to comment on a journalist’s wardrobe or appearance. Although usually well-intentioned, these remarks are blunt and can sting a bit.

Where does shapewear fit into this equation? 

Whether you are dressing for a special event, preparing for a big presentation, or work in television news—NO woman wants a wardrobe malfunction!

High-Waisted Shaper Shorts

Shapewear not only gives your confidence a boost with its smoothing and sculpting powers, it takes that particular worry of your plate. You and your curves are covered. When it comes to looking elegant and professional, modesty is where it’s at!

Shapewear 101: Why wear it?

• More retailers are working with thinner, revealing fabrics. Shapewear provides must-needed coverage.
• Unlined dresses (think Amazon finds) show everything & demand additional support
• Allows fitted silhouettes to feel sleek and tasteful, not trashy

Amazon Dress | High-Waisted Shaper Shorts | Bow Heels

Now, let’s dive to into more specifics about shapewear and knock down a few misconceptions.

First, I know some people might be reading this saying…  C’mon… you don’t need shapewear. You’re right, no one NEEDS shapewear! We are beautiful just the way we are. That said, it’s important to remember bodies are ever-changing. Sometimes we feel amazing, other times we might need a little confidence boost.

Maybe life is getting in the way of your gym routine, perhaps holiday parties have left you with a bit more padding than you’d like, or you’ve lost significant weight and feel self-conscious about your excess skin. After I had my son, shapewear helped me come to terms with my postpartum body. I needed time to ease back into my fitness routine and loved how these high waisted shaping leggings and shaping tights smoothed out the areas I was hung up on.

Shapewear can help you appreciate your shape as it is NOW. And there’s no reason to feel embarrassed about using it!

That’s one of the reasons I was so excited to collaborate with Shapermint for this post. This company gets it! It’s a marketplace that sells a wide range of shapers… and—here’s the really cool part—it was created by women just like you and me, who use shapewear for all the reasons above. 

Are you new to shapewear? Still think it’s something only your grandmother would wear! Trust me, these garments have come a long way. Shapewear is now super comfortable AND effective. But, there are a few tricks of the trade.

Empetua High-Waisted Shaper Panty | Tweed Dress

Shapewear 101: What to know before you wear

Buy the appropriate size.

Don’t make the mistake of buying a size too small thinking it will hold you in better. You will not only feel uncomfortable, you will also be creating unwanted bulges in the same areas you are trying to smooth. In contrast, when you choose the right size, your shapewear stays firmly in place, no rolling down, no need to tug or pull. Best of all, you get the sleek look you desire.

Understand the levels.

Shapewear is organized in levels of compression. News flash: It doesn’t have to feel like a corset or straight jacket to work! In fact, that’s probably why shapewear gets a bad rap. Lower compression levels provide a “smoothing” effect, while higher compression styles are fashioned with heavier fabrics to “sculpt” and shape your body. Read descriptions carefully so you understand exactly what a particular piece of shapewear is offering. Levels vary from brand to brand. For instance, Shapermint describes them as Medium (light control), Medium-High (firm control) and High (extra-firm control). What does that all mean?

• Medium: Everyday shapewear pieces to smooth trouble spots and allow you to wear your clothing more comfortably
• Medium-High: Adds subtle contours to your shape, helping accentuate your curves. Made with supple, stretchy fabrics that move with your body.
• High: Have a special occasion coming up? These pieces are perfect for formal, structured clothing like wedding dresses, prom gowns and evening/cocktail attire. You will feel toned without feeling constricted.

 No lines, no problems! Shapewear ensures I don’t need to worry about my backside. 

Color confidential.

Sure, nude is boring… but it’s versatile. Think carefully about the colors you’ll be wearing your shapewear with before making your purchase.

High waist for the win!

Wearing a slinky dress? There is nothing worse that undergarments creating a “muffin top” where there isn’t one. High-waisted panty, shorts and bodysuit shapers guarantee a smooth line all the way up your torso. I always prefer higher waistlines, as I find them more comfortable. Make sure your garment offers some sort of anti-slip function so it stays put. Shapermint’s styles have a handy silicone strip.

Have shapewear questions? Please ask in the comments below. I’m happy to help!

Use code: LINDSAY10 for 10 percent off your Shapermint puchase

[Thanks to Shapermint for sponsoring this post]