When we choose a piece of shapewear, probably the first thing we think about is which bits of our body we want to shape. Control briefs are great for tummies, or shorts for thighs and bum. A corset or girdle will cinch your waist, while a shaping slip will follow a dress line from your chest to your thighs. Frankly, every garment has its place and we want it all! For solid all-over torso shaping, though, bodysuits and camisoles are particularly fab. So in a world of amazing shapewear, how on earth do you choose between a body and a cami?
What makes a bodysuit?
A shaping bodysuit is similar in style to a swimsuit or leotard like this. It will have shoulder straps and a gusset which is sometimes fitted with fastenings (to make going to the loo that bit simpler!) and sometimes not (a bit more comfortable to wear!) Some bodysuits provide firm compression, others are lighter. Some have underwired cups, some are completely open busted to allow you to choose any bra. The options are plentiful!
Why bodysuits are great
With all these bodysuit options, it’s unhelpful to make sweeping statements. What one woman loves to wear, another may not get on with. However, one thing that all bodysuits have in common is that they have two anchor points. The shoulders at the top, and the crotch at the bottom. This means that it’s impossible for your bodysuit to experience any kind of rolling up or rolling down. It’s hands down the most secure style of shapewear out there!
What makes a camisole?
A shaping camisole is like a vest that extends just past your hip line, like this one available in our shop. The key with this style of shapewear is that there is no gusset. Some women prefer the convenience of this when it comes to going to the loo for example. The compression ends at the hip, so you can choose a different compression of control briefs. But it’s important, when combining two pieces of shapewear, to think about any overlapping seams that may be visible under your clothes.
Why camisoles are great
Camisoles really are super comfortable pieces of shapewear. They’re not only sculpting for your waist and tummy, but are also supportive for your lower pack. A camisole hangs securely from your shoulders and sits snugly around your hips. With adjustable straps, you can alter the cami to a perfect fit, which means that it won’t move around as you go about your day. It’s a flexible piece of shapewear that can work with anything from jeans to a dress.
When to choose a bodysuit
Are there times when a bodysuit is the better choice? Possibly, although as we’re all individuals there’s no rule that fits everyone! If you feel that you would benefit from the coverage and security that a bodysuit gives you, then why wait for a special occasion? A bodysuit is ideal for times where you might be on the move and want a super stable foundation. Alternatively, for a casual jeans look, your bodysuit works great as a visible garment!
When to choose a camisole
There’s really no occasion when a camisole isn’t a lovely thing to wear. Seamless styles and slick fabrics sit comfortably against the skin, so for all day wear this foundation is ideal. Wearing a camisole also gives you the flexibility to choose any underwear to pair it with. So depending on your mood and the outfit, you might choose a thong, control briefs or even shaping shorts!
On paper it’s true that the only thing that sits between a bodysuit and a camisole is a gusset. But there is so much more to choosing the right piece of shapewear for your mood and outfit. With subtle detail and nuances, each of these pieces of shapewear should have its opportunity to shine. All the more reason to have both options at the ready!
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