Let’s get something straight here. We don’t believe there is such a thing as the ‘perfect’ body shape. It’s an idea that’s existed for almost as long as society has, and has had women everywhere chasing down solutions to change their natural figure. The problem is that the ‘perfect’ shape has changed so much over the years that it’s impossible to work out what it is. So this post isn’t about trying to be perfect (which doesn’t exist). Instead, it’s about choosing what the ideal body shape for you is, and if you can use shapewear to achieve it.
Understand Your Body Shape
The first step in working how if shapewear can help you achieve your ideal body shape is to work out what shape your body is now, and then finding shapewear that complements it. Knowing your body type will give you a general idea of what areas to focus on to bring out that figure you desire when you put on your shapewear. Shapewear is very versatile and can be used to accentuate body parts like the bust and bum, or to disguise problem areas like tummies and thighs. For example, a corset will be great if you want to give your waist a slimmer look while accentuating your bust line. If you want your midsection to have a slimmer appearance, go for a tummy slimmer such as girdles and bodysuits.
Choosing The Right Type Of Shapewear
The single most important thing when you’re trying to achieve a specific body shape -whatever it is – is to choose shapewear that is right for your body and for your ultimate goal. The level of control (or compression) of your shapewear, along with its style and cut, will determine the shape you end up with, so it’s important to make sure it matches your goals. For example:
- Light Control: Do you have some bulges you just want to smooth our so that you can wear your clothes more comfortably? You need light control, everyday shapewear pieces to smooth out the trouble spots without changing your actual shape too drastically. You on a very good day.
- Firm Control: Maybe you’re looking to accentuate your curves and show off your figure a little bit more, maybe in that sparkly Christmas dress? Firm control shapewear is made with supple, stretchy fabrics that move with your body while adding subtle contours to your shape. You should get hours of comfort from firm control pieces, without worrying about things moving around.
- Extra-Firm Control: The kind of thing usually reserved for special occasions – like weddings, birthday and Christmas. Or, you know, Friday night. This is the highest level of control you can get, and work really well with structured clothes like wedding dresses, prom gowns, evening gowns and cocktail dresses. They should leave you feeling and looking toned, but not constricted.
If you choose the right type of shapewear and target your problem areas with it, you should be able to create almost any body shape you want, whenever you want.
Long-Term Shaping
Of course, you might want something a bit more long-term than just one night. You might want a little extra help in achieving your ideal body shape, so that one day you don’t need the shapewear at all. And actually, shapewear can help you achieve that too. If you choose something like a waist trainer or corset and wear it daily, you can start to slowly alter the natural curves of your body to match the shapewear. There are some risks involved with this (which we talk about here), but done properly it uses the power of shapewear to alter your natural waist shape. It’s not permanent, and it does take some work, but if you’re committed to achieving your ideal body shape in the long-term, shapewear can definitely help you get there.
The important thing to remember here is that shapewear is a great tool to help you achieve your ideal body shape – the one that is right and comfortable for you. In a world so obsessed with photoshop, remembering that you are a real women with a real figure (and, you know, organs) goes a long way to feeling that confident sparkle you crave. At Elle Courbee we believe that confidence really is the best thing a woman can wear – and if some shapewear helps you achieve that, then you go girl! Make sure this Christmas you feel amazing every time you step outside, and please do send us some pictures of your cheesiest, most confident smile, whatever you choose to wear.
