In the words of George Gershwin – Summertime, and the livin’ is easy… and the clothes are smaller… OK maybe not that last bit, but it’s true! Which means, in shapewear terms, that you’re more likely to flash your shapewear in summer. Floaty sundresses and strappy tops are undeniably elbowing their way to the front of your wardrobe. So how do you continue to enjoy the comfort and security of your shapewear whilst keeping it under wraps this summer?
Colours
Nude shades are crucial for underwear and shapewear alike to remain invisible under white fabrics. Indeed, unless you plan to visibly layer your shapewear, choosing a nude shade is the most versatile choice. On the other hand, stick to black, white, or navy if straps or necklines are layered. This is simply proof that it’s important to have a broad stock of shapewear colours so that you always have the freedom of choice.
Waist Lines
The last thing you want is for your control brief waist band to be visible under jeans or shorts. Many of us choose a high waisted cut of shapewear as it tends to provide a smoother and more consistent silhouette from bust to hip. Consequently, you just need to be mindful of this in your clothing choices. This may not be so straightforward as hipster waistlines become more prominent. The key, then, is in keeping a varied stock of control brief shapes and different lengths of top.
Hem Lines
Without winter’s buffer of tights, a dress can carry a high risk of shapewear flashing! From wrap dress cuts to higher hemlines for warmer days, shaping shorts may feel less appealing. But it’s really just a case of balance. And being able to check the weather forecast. Make sure that your shapewear hemline and your skirt or dress hemline has a good few inches difference to allow for you moving around. And if it’s a breezy day, maybe don’t wear your swishiest skirt!
Complete Silhouette
Flashing your shapewear can happen under your clothes too. When you wear lighter fabrics, any lumps and bumps that appear as a result of shapewear are much more visible. So for outfits of light cottons or shift styles, choose shapewear that supports your whole torso. A shaping bodysuit, for example, maintains control from your shoulder to your hip. If a bodysuit compromises your neckline, try an open bust style, which gives you the freedom to pair with your choice of bra for the occasion.
Breathing Matters
We mean your skin, of course! Shapewear is pretty obvious if it’s causing you to feel hot and uncomfortable. This is why the fabric construction of your shapewear is just as important as the style. Go for lightweight and breathable fabrics. The best fabrics will actually prevent you looking hot and bothered as the barrier between skin and clothes stops your clothing from riding up hot skin. On a side note, while we’re talking about breathing, it may seem self evident but if a piece of shapewear is affecting your breathing, it’s too tight. Take it off.
Loud and Proud
If this all feels like a bit of a faff, then why not simply stop trying to hide your shapewear? So many shapewear garments look great in their own right, and can be right at home in a summer outfit. A shaping cami can just be worn as a cami, tucked into jeans or shorts. Alternatively, visibly layer your shaping bodysuit with a summer shirt, cropped t-shirt, or blouse. Layering works best when it’s clearly intentional, so go for bold colours like red, navy or black.
The heat of summer doesn’t mean that you have to shy away from shapewear to stay comfortable. With the right fit and good quality fabrics, your shapewear choices can keep you feeling hot without feeling… well, hot!
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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