Although the use of shapewear may seem like a recent concept that emerged alongside digital influencers back in the 2010s, its origin dates back to a much earlier period, in Ancient Greece, around 1600 B.C. Beauty standards, since then, have undergone drastic changes, and fashion has had to keep up with them closely. The same can be said about shapewear, whose function has been modified over time to meet what society defines as beautiful in that month, era, century, or millennium.
Who has never watched a period series or movie and come across the famous scene of women squeezing themselves into tiny corsets, tightening the laces until they could barely breathe? Or seen young women of that time preparing for a ball, putting on layer upon layer of clothing, one over the other, to create a more voluptuous visual effect on the body?
Unfortunately, many people still have this image of shapewear in their minds: as something created to meet unattainable beauty standards and that represents the oppression of women in relation to them. But over the centuries and with the evolution of society, today the garment is seen as something that can provide more support, comfort, and even shape the body! The goal is no longer to hide, but to enhance and promote much more self-confidence.
But with so much information, it is normal to feel lost and even ask yourself: how to find the ideal shapewear? Or even how to measure shapewear sizes? This post is a true guide to help you find the perfect model that fits your body and your routine, all based on the goals you want to achieve, the event you intend to wear it to, and other essential requirements that should indeed be considered before making your next purchase (or maybe the first of many!).
1 – Size
You may think that buying a smaller size will result in better outcomes, such as a more sculpted and slimmer silhouette. In reality, it is quite the opposite: buying your shapewear in a smaller size will end up restricting your movements, causing circulation issues, and creating an undesirable effect under your clothes by marking lines. Above all, when it comes to comfort, your shapewear must be your exact size: neither too loose nor too tight. On the Shapellx website, you can compare your measurements with the available size guide, use the fit guide, and choose from a wide variety of sizes ranging from S to 6XL.
2 – Goal
Can shapewear reduce waist size? Visually, yes! Especially if you choose the waist trainer model, a piece specifically designed to provide more compression and enhance that area. However, the effects of a bodysuit, for example, are different, and you need to consider your goal when choosing your shapewear. Whether it is enhancing the hips, achieving a more streamlined silhouette, or highlighting the bust area, there is a different piece for each part of the body, and you can even carry out your search on the Shapellx website through the “control area” filter.
3 – Occasion and/or event
Although it is an extremely versatile piece that fits into any routine—whether at home, out and about, busy or relaxed—it is important to pay attention to the type of event. If you are going to work many hours standing, for example, shapewear that also covers the thighs and legs may be the best option to provide more comfort. The same applies to clothing: the shapewear that best matches a party dress will not be the same one you wear daily to sit in front of a computer while working and correcting posture, or the one you wear for physical exercise, for example. Each occasion and each outfit requires a different model, and you can find all of them here.
4 – Compression level
Last but not least, the level of compression is also a decisive factor! The most important thing here is to prioritize your comfort above all else, so if you have never worn shapewear before, do not choose a piece with a very high compression level. This can put your health at risk and even cause serious problems in the future if used for longer than recommended. At Shapellx, the pieces are divided into light support, mid support, strong support, and super strong support. You can apply this filter in the menu located at the top of the website, and by clicking on each category, you can see all the products that belong to it.
With these tips, you can’t go wrong! Not only will you find shapewear in the perfect size, but also the ideal piece that will accompany you in different moments of life and events. Today, shapewear is a true ally for women and an essential item in the female wardrobe. Although its origin dates back to a time of oppression and discomfort, Shapellx’s mission is to revolutionize the market with high-quality pieces, including breathable and sustainable fabrics that feel like a second skin and do not harm the environment, in addition to designs that have won awards for their technology and ingenuity.
