Have you ever tried a smaller size dress? When it fits you that tight, it makes you look bigger than you are.
The shapewear behaves in a similar way, but amplified. When you try to get into a smaller size, there is strong compression in the coverage area. This creates a bulge in the surrounding areas. It gives you a weird shape. In addition, the too-tight shapewear will also feel very uncomfortable.
Now think about what happens when you put on a larger size bra? It just hangs. It does not really support your chest.
Again, it is the same for different type of shapewear. It wont give you the body sculpting or levels of compression you are aiming for.
When you do choose the right size shapewear garment, it could feel like a second skin. It will also serve multiple functional benefits. It could give you oodles of confidence with your desired silhouette.
Choosing the right shapewear sizes is of utmost importance, but also relies on your personal preference.
Most styles of shapewear come in only 3-4 basic colors to go with all your outfits. Even then, there is an overwhelming variety of designs, compression, and fabrics. So, how do you choose the right one for a noticeable difference, without the down sides? By first understanding how it is supposed to fit. By knowing how it should feel. And, by setting your expectations right.
Here is an easy guide to help you master your choice along with our size chart.
Customize your needs before exploring your options in compression garments.
Like any garment, your body type dictates your choice. Think about your body shape and your general style.
Do you wear a lot of skirts or halter/sleeveless tops and dresses? Do you wear a lot of jeans? Are you heavier on the waist, or a larger size and prefer tight tummy tuckers? Or is your aim to push up your chest?
With this in mind, you will know that you want the high waist tucker to go with your sleeveless dresses. Or a butt-lifting bodysuit to go with your jeans and sweaters. And you can safely go for extra compression, knowing it on't make you look bigger, when picked right.
This will also help you decide on the design. For your dresses and skirts, you might want more seamless fabrics like this power shaper. For a slimmer jeans look, you will want to opt for tight compressors like these shaper shorts.
A mix of 2 or 3 shapewear pieces is ideal to have as options for all of your outfits and complete your wardrobe.
Picking the right size
When you put on tight shapewear, it will feel uncomfortable. It could even restrict your breathing, or squeeze your veins. When you pick loose shapewear, it is like your regular undergarment. It might provide support, but not sculpting.
Opting for the correct size is key. A moderate compression garment, when chosen right, can have a strong visual effect even under tight clothing.
To really nail this choice, let's look at shapers and waist trainers differently.
Waist Trainer: Fit and feel
Fit
Waist trainers are usually worn during workouts. Sometimes, they are even recommended for lower back issues to support your lower back. Given its importance, let's understand the correct fit.
To find out your waist trainer size, measure right above your navel (or say 2 inches above your belly button). This is your narrowest point.
A common mistake is to wrap the tape too tight around your waist. When you measure, you should be able to pop a finger in between the tape and your waist.
Using this measurement, you can use the sizing guide on your shopping page. When your measurement is between two trainer sizes, go for the larger one.
Most waist trainers come up with adjustable hooks to adapt to your size. So, even with the larger one, you will still get your fit.
For instance, this one has a zip closure and velcro belts. This really helps even with progressive adjustments.
There are also options of one-size or plus-size belts. They cater to a bigger range of measurements and allow you to adjust the tightness.
These are more useful for post-surgery recovery so you can adjust to your comfort.
Feel
Tight: Waist Trainers, in general, should feel very tight. Tight enough to not be able to bend a lot from the waist. Although you should be able to move freely. You should not have to force or tug the material to get into it.
Warm: It is very normal for your skin to feel warm or your core to sweat more than normal (this is actually the good part).
Comfort: The trainers should feel snug and secure. However, it should allow you to breathe comfortably.
Shapers: Fit and Feel
Fit
To get the precise size, measure your bust, waist, and hips.
You take the fullest part of your bust (do not do it over a padded bra). For your waist, you take the narrowest part, 2 inches above the belly button.
A common mistake is to rely on your clothing size, but that is not the right way to go. Your dress size varies from brand and clothing category. We have all faced this issue and can relate. Your clothing size could also depend on your preference.
You could be a size S but wear M as you prefer more loose-fitting clothes. Going the old-school way and getting the tape out will guide you to your best shaper.
It is possible that your waist and bust are not in the same size category. In that case, choose your waist size to make the decision. If you find your measurements in between two sizes, go for the larger one.
Feel
Tight: The shapewear should feel tight in its coverage area. How tight depends on your chosen compression of the shapewear. Shapewear from good brands is made of scientific blends. They allow you to breathe very comfortably even for long hours.
For instance, this bodysuit is thick but with lightweight material to not feel heavy.
The design also plays a role here. The same bodysuit - has a front zip, broad shoulders, open crotch, and bust firmers. Each of these design elements contributes to the perfect fit.
Move: When in a shaper, you should be able to move freely and do most movements. If there is a restricted movement, it is usually good. Like when you cannot bend forward while sitting, it keeps a good posture intact. Slouching in a shapewear can be difficult.
Warm: You will feel warm in the coverage area and it is normal.
Shapewear is made of spandex and nylon, both fabrics that are great for colder climates and will burn more. This will also make you sweat and burn some calories. If you are in warmer weather, you could opt for cotton blends/breathable mesh fabrics to feel cooler.
You can do it!
When it comes to trainers and shapewear, you can see how important of the right choice is. Good brands come with thoughtful designs, well chosen fabrics and targeted compression. This will help you narrow your decision to the right option and the size that will deliver on what goals you have in mind.
And let’s not forget – help you feel fabulous and confident, no matter what outfit you’re wearing, without worrying that something pops out or doesn’t fit properly.
