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How to choose the right size shapewear: different aged women wearing shapewear.

Shapewear size guide: finding the perfect size

How to choose the right size shapewear

Shapewear can work wonders and not just when it comes to your appearance. Wearing the correct size and fit can make you feel comfortable and confident. Well-fitting shapewear will support your body without feeling too tight or being uncomfortable. However, it’s important to make sure you find the correct size and fit so that you can feel confident and look fabulous. We will show you how to find your size and we will also give you some tips and tricks on buying shapewear.

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Shapewear: how to find the right size

Finding the right size is the key to finding a shapewear that fits comfortably and gives you a great figure. Wearing shapewear that is comfortable will make you feel confident and look great. We will explain below how to find out what size shapewear you will need.

To ensure that your shapewear fits really well and is comfortable at the same time, you should first measure the size of your waist and hips:

Shapewear size guide: an image showing you how to measure your lower body.
  1. Start by, standing up straight in a relaxed position.

  2. Next, find the narrowest part of your waist and place the tape measure around it. You should hold the tape measure close to your body. However, it should not be too tight nor should it dig into your skin.

  3. Make a note of the measurement.

  4. Now, find the widest part of your hips and measure your hip size the same way and make a note of the measurement.

You can now use your waist and hip measurements to determine which size shapewear you will need. You can find out what size shapewear you will need in our size guide. Select ‘Women's underwear & swimwear’ and use the ‘Lingerie bottoms & swimwear’ table to find out what size you will need.

Tip

What size shapewear should you buy?

If you are between two sizes or are unsure, it is better to try the larger size first. This will ensure that the shapewear is not too tight. Shapewear in a smaller size does not provide a closer fit, as it may feel too tight.

Shapewear for every occasion

How to find the perfect fit

Many people think that shapewear is uncomfortable because it's too tight, but this is not the case. If you keep the following in mind, shapewear can be a comfortable everyday item of clothing that you will enjoy wearing:

  • Shapewear should be close-fitting so that it can reshape your body. However, you should always feel comfortable in it. This means that you can move freely about in it and nothing feels too tight or digs into your skin. You can test this by sitting down and walking a few steps when trying it on.

  • If your shapewear slips or rolls whilst moving, it is best to try a different size or fit.

  • Make sure that your shapewear has a very good fit. When wearing shapewear there shouldn’t be any creases or bits that stick out.

Tip

Always put your shapewear on from the top and pull it upwards. It’s easier to put it on this way, even when wearing undergarments as shapewear is very close-fitting.

How to find the right size shapewear: a woman trying on shapewear in front of a mirror.

Shapewear tips and tricks

To get the most out of your shapewear, it's important to choose the right fit and also to double check the care label before washing it. Below you will find some useful tips on shapewear:

  • Shapewear will make you feel confident, and also depending on the type of shapewear it will shape your body to varying degrees. If you only want a slight shaping effect, you can try shaping jeans or leggings. If you need more support, then stronger shapewear would be the right choice. You can find more information on the differences and different types of shapewear in the following article: What is the best type of shapewear?

  • You can also opt for shapewear which can conceal certain areas of your body such as your tummy, thighs or buttocks. You should choose shapewear that optimally supports these areas. We will show you how you can use shapewear to conceal certain areas of your body in the following article: Shapewear for every body type

  • To ensure that you can enjoy wearing your shapewear for longer, you should take care of it and wash it properly. This will ensure it retains its great fit.

Tip

Generally, you don't need to wear underwear under your shapewear. This makes it even more comfortable and will give you a smooth figure.

Conclusion: how to choose the right size shapewear

It’s important to take your time when looking for the right type of shapewear. It should fit comfortably and at the same time support and shape your body in the right places. Take precise measurements and use the shapewear size chart to find out what size you will need.

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The image sources in this text are in chronological order:

Cover photo: David L/peopleimages.com – stock.adobe.com
1. – 2. Images in text are from C&A
3. Image in text: staras – stock.adobe.com