I think we can all agree that shapewear is very successful in smoothing the line of your waist. But you may be wondering, amongst all of the control briefs and shaping shorts, can it ever be comfortable? How do you find the most suitable style for you? Does it benefit your body in different ways? Or could it cause you harm? We look at all of the different ways to shape your waist silhouette and work out how to wear it best!
Different Styles
There’s more than one way to smooth your waist. Different pieces of shapewear apply pressure to different parts of your torso. In this way, your shapewear can create a range of silhouettes by focussing on different parts of your body.
Full Torso
For full support from your bust to your hips, high waisted control briefs are the thing. With control very clearly focussed on the waist and tummy, these pieces of shapewear are great for a very defined contour. Panelling is the key here, allowing compression to lift your bum at the same time as compressing your tummy.
Low Rise
You may prefer something a little more understated. To keep the focus on your lower tummy and hips, a more basic control brief is probably better. These garments help to prevent the dreaded muffin top over your jeans, without compressing your full torso. They’re great for balancing out your hips, waist and bum.
Waist Cinching
A corset will always offer the most dramatic waist cinching effect. So for bold looks, this should be your first port of call. To achieve a smooth line, it’s vital to fit your corset accurately. Don’t forget about embellishments and how they may show under your clothes. Choose seamless and unadorned pieces for the most flexible use.
All Rounder
Sometimes the best piece of shapewear for your tummy needs to look beyond waist control. For great support from bust to thighs, go for an all rounder piece of shapewear like high waisted shaping shorts or a body suit. It’s all about creating a long uninterrupted silhouette rather than focussing just on your tummy.
Everyday
Maybe your shapewear isn’t about a specific outfit, but rather daily security. The stability that tummy control offers can give you a greater feeling of confidence. In this case, look for a medium support control brief. These garments make a fantastic foundation for anything from work wear to workout wear!
How to Wear it
When we choose a piece of shapewear, there are certain things to remember to keep comfortable. Waist compression shapewear can support your posture as well as slim your shape. However, it must be well fitted, secure and comfortable. So here we look at how to make sure that your tummy shapewear is working for you rather than against you.
Sizing
Don’t ever make the mistake of sizing a dress size down to achieve a better effect. This will just make you feel uncomfortable and is likely to create unusual lumps and bumps in your silhouette. By accurately sizing your shapewear, you’ll not only feel more comfortable but you’ll have the confidence that comes with a smooth shape!
Compression
The best compression really depends on frequency of wear, since it’s all linked with comfort. Subtle and natural lines come from medium compression. Or all out curvy looks demand a higher compression. Remember to choose good quality fabrics that are breathable. Panelled styles can help for higher compression looks, because they focus the compression rather than pull you in from all angles.
Anchoring
A well fitted piece of shapewear should not budge as you move around. Wearing the correct size is the best solution here. However, if you want to feel extra secure around your tummy, think about anchors. You can attach your shaping shorts to your bra, or simply wear a control body suit that is secured from your shoulders.
Well sized, good quality shapewear can support your tummy and back, while giving you the confidence to be yourself. At Elle Courbee, we want to offer you a selection that is easy to wear and comfortable all day. This is always the sign of good waist control shapewear!
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.
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