If you’ve got a big event coming up and you want a little something extra to help you look and feel your best, there’s no harm in using high-tech fabrics and clothing design to give yourself a helping hand and a super sleek silhouette.
While shapewear isn’t a requirement for dressing well, if you’re feeling bloated or not as firm as you’d like, a good bodysuit or pair of control pants can help boost your confidence and make you feel better while wearing your favourite dress.
Here’s a quick overview of the various shapewear styles that might make an appearance in your closet
Bodysuits
For a quick lift, bodies and body shapers are the way forward. They may look a little like a swimsuit, but trust me when I say they’re very, very different! Bodies help to smooth out your stomach, lift your bosom and create a smooth silhouette – all in one! They are perfect for wearing under almost any outfit from trousers, tops, shorts, tanks, dresses to skirts. Many bodies have an integrated underwire bra to offer support, but if you prefer to wear your own, there are cupless styles available that often have matching separates.
Body control dresses
A good body control dress (also known as a shaping slip) hugs your curves, making them look smooth and toned. If you want shapely thighs, a defined waist and a lifted bust, a control dress under your party dress is the way to go.
If possible, get fit for your shaping dress professionally and be realistic about what it can do for you. A good shapewear dress, will give you a sleek, smooth silhouette, but it won’t make you a full dress size smaller.
Corselettes or body briefers
Corselettes or garter dresses are an essential piece of shapewear. Corselettes help create a smooth silhouette when worn under dresses and skirts. Most corselettes come with stocking clips to help keep them in place.
Shaping camisoles
Camisoles help smooth your upper body and flatten your tummy.
They’re more comfortable to wear than a full body control dress and are a good choice if you’re wearing a dress that’s fitted at the top and flared at the bottom. They also work well for pairing with a show-stopping top and a pair of trousers, jeans, or a skirt.
Waist cinchers
Nipped-in waists and hourglass figures are still highly desirable for many women. If you want to add a little extra definition to your waist, a waist cincher will be your new best friend. A waist cincher is a bit like a wide belt that’s worn around the waist to helps smooth out the tummy and support your back whilst helping create a more defined hourglass shape.
Shaping shorts and leggings
If you want a smooth line under a slim-fitting skirt or some skinny jeans, shaping shorts and mid-thigh shapers are a good option.
They help lift your bum and smooth out your thighs at the same time. You can even get shaping pants that help keep your skin cool, so you don’t get all hot and bothered on the dance floor.