If you can hear distant jingle bells on the wind, you’ll know it’s approaching… the season for dancing is nearly upon us! Even if you normally shun the dance floor, during the festive season it’s hard to resist the dulcet tones of Noddy Holder telling you to get up and rock ’n’ rolling with the rest! What’s stopping you then? Hopefully not your shapewear – you’ve chosen a fabulous foundation layer and your silhouette is totally knockout. The last thing you want is for it to let you down on the dance floor. So here are our tips to keep your underwear in place all night long!
Choose wisely
The security of your shapewear can really depend on which shaping garment you’ve chosen. No two styles of shapewear are alike, and some are more fitting for dance floor antics than others. It’s really helpful to own a range of shapewear to have all occasions covered. So if you have a selection of different styles and compressions, make sure you’ve chosen the right piece.
Compression
If you’re eating, drinking and dancing, be realistic about your compression. Super firm compression is honestly going to make you feel uncomfortable. And that’ll transfer into how you feel and how you look. So choose a medium compression that will sit more comfortably all night long.
Anchors
The most secure shapewear will always be anchored somewhere on your body. This is why a bodysuit or shaping slip are such must-have garments. As they anchor from your shoulders there’s absolutely zero chance of roll down. High waisted control briefs can be tucked under your bra band for a similar anchor effect.
Size correctly
Accurate sizing is the absolute most important factor in feeling and looking great in shapewear. It’s also something that’s really easy to get wrong. We’re all guilty of aspirational sizing, taking half an inch off here and rounding down there. But the best thing you can do for a good shapewear look is to be utterly honest and accurate with your sizing. This is especially true when you’re moving around – on a dance floor for example!
Dress sizes
It’s true to say that high street dress sizes are often inconsistent and confusing. To make sure you’re getting it right, try not to go by dress size alone. If there is one available, consult a brand size guide as this will give you a clearer idea of which dress size to choose. Go by waist measurement if you’re unsure or tend to hover in between dress sizes.
Measuring
When you measure, make sure you’re doing it right! Take a waist measurement at the point that you see a crease when you bend to the side. For hips, the tape should sit at the fullest part of your hip area just above the thighs. Always round up to the nearest inch.
Get dressed properly
Yes, this does sound curious doesn’t it! We’re not suggesting that you habitually put your knickers on backwards, though. When it comes to shapewear, there are certain ways of dressing that will keep your underwear from moving around. So simply the process of getting dressed can pay you back when it comes to the dance floor.
Dry skin
If you’re dressing after a shower or applying moisturiser, wait to be completely dry before putting on your shapewear. Any moisture on your skin will encourage the fabric to move as your skin dries, which can then lead to lumps and bumps in your silhouette.
Magic tape
The secret of the red carpet is dresser’s tape. It’ll come to the rescue for necklines and dress splits alike, and is such a handy piece of kit for party season. Use it on control brief waist bands for a little extra stability, or on the legs of shaping shorts to prevent any rolling up of the leg line.
This party season, remember that shapewear isn’t there to make you feel constricted or uncomfortable. It’s there to give you stability and security in the slinkiest of party outfits. If anything, it should make you more inclined to get up and dance, not less!
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.