Despite a great deal of confusion and even many negative preconceptions, shapewear has maintained its presence in the lingerie industry as a valued wardrobe inclusion for women. For many years, it was a common belief that shapewear is used only post-surgery or by women who are unhappy with their bodies.

With the progression of fashion trends and the strengthening of global consciousness, those myths have been debunked. Still, a lot of women are having their doubts and second thoughts.

What is it really used for? Is shapewear good for my posture or bad for it? They’re all common questions. Since there is so much to shapewear that is not discussed, we’re going to go into the most asked questions to help you better understand its uses and benefits.

What is shapewear used for? 

A common misconception is that shapewear is only used to shape your body in desired places such as hips, thighs, stomach, and breast areas. But it goes far beyond that. Shapewear not only shapes your body but also helps your posture and prevents humpback. 

Women with large breasts, who often have severe back pain, can significantly benefit from shapewear since it offers a backup and releases tension from the spine. 

But regardless of your breast size, shapewear provides stable support for your back, abdominal muscles, and spine and helps strengthen them.

Is shapewear only for plus-size women?

The answer to this question is relatively straightforward – NO! Shapewear is suitable for all body types, sizes, and genders but is not always recommended for younger audiences. Girls under eighteen should consult with physicians because shapewear can sometimes distort the young body in development. 

Not to mention the psychological effects of young girls with growing bodies using something that changes their shape when their bodies are already changing. When used mindfully, it can become a great self-esteem booster for everyone. 

In the last decade, even men have used shapewear more frequently than before, mainly because the stereotypes about shaping your body as a man are being broken. 

What types of shapewear are there?

There are several different types of shapewear that you can use, depending on the targeted area of your body you’re looking to streamline or support. If you wish to slim your tummy, accentuate your waist and give firm support to your breasts, then camisoles and singlets are an excellent choice. You can highlight your waist, even more, using open-bust bodysuits, too.

On the other hand, if you wish to shape your lower body – glutes, thighs, and legs – then using controlling leggings, shorts, or half slips is a great option. They are adaptable to your outfit length, so they are suitable for both long and short trousers or dresses. 

If you do not have a specific targeted area, but wish to shape your entire body, then using full coverage body shapewear is a great option. 

Whichever type you choose, depending on your goals, body type, or outfit, shapewear will blend perfectly and be unnoticeable when you choose the right clothing to pair with your undergarments.

Do you wear underwear under your shapewear?

Most shapewear does not require wearing underwear, but if you feel more comfortable with it, just go for it. Keep in mind that, since shapewear is tight, breathable, and light, if you do decide to wear underwear, it’s possible that fine undergarment lines will be visible. This might ruin the outfit’s aesthetics for some, while others won’t be bothered. It’s your personal choice, at the end of the day. 

Underwear could also cut into your skin, depending on the shapewear tightness, and could sometimes make you feel restrained or uncomfortable. But in any case, this choice is totally up to you, your needs and desires, no matter the advice you might receive from others.

Can you wear shapewear every day?

Yes, you can wear shapewear every day. Since it is made from a light, stretchy, breathable material, it will allow your skin to breathe and will not make you sweat. The material is light enough to make you feel like you have nothing under your clothes. 

Most experts suggest wearing shapewear moderately or only on special occasions – not all day every day. That means you do not need to wear it to the store or the dentist. 

If you do choose to wear it every day, then experts advise not to wear it for more than 8 hours unless you have had some kind of surgical procedure that requires you to wear it all the time.

Can shapewear cause health issues?

Some people have suggested that wearing shapewear everyday might cause damage to your internal organs, but this is not research-supported information. Still, minor health risks come with wearing shapewear, most of which are related to the skin. 

Since shapewear is tight and in direct contact with the surface of the skin, it can sometimes cause skin irritation, especially if you wear it for extended periods. 

Suppose you have some kind of skin condition, eczema, or dermatitis; in such cases, shapewear could irritate sensitive skin. Be careful when shopping – choose the lightest, most natural materials that allow your skin to breathe and not cause as much irritation. 

What must you keep in mind when shopping for shapewear?

Shopping for shapewear can be done in stores or online. Underoutfit is a leading shapewear brand that offers U.S-wide shipping, and even free returns and exchanges so that you find the right fit for you. 

With the ability to order online and also try it on with free exchanges/returns for a different size or style, you can have confidence in finding the right fit for you. It’s vital that the sizing is correct,  as you could suffer discomfort if it is too tight or loose. 

In both cases, it will not serve its purpose, and you will just waste your money on a product that will not help you achieve your body goals. That is why you should always adjust the shapewear to your body size and type. Wearing smaller shapewear will not shape your body better; it will just cause irritation and discomfort. 

When buying shapewear online or in stores, do your research, explore the options, read reviews, and do not be afraid to ask the store additional questions if you have any. 

How to pick the right size for your shapewear?

Firstly, make sure you know your right clothes sizes, whether medium, large, or extra large; it doesn’t matter. What matters is that you choose shapewear size following the size of the clothes you usually wear. That will be the best starting point. 

From there, you can explore options by trying them on and seeing which sizes fit you better. Sometimes medium fits large much better than the actual large. That is why you always try the shapewear on. 

To adjust the type of shapewear, ensure you know your body type since shapewear will not have the same effect on all bodies. For example, if your hips are naturally accentuated but not your waist, try to choose shapewear that will leave your hips as they are but will slim your waist to the size you are aiming for.

How to wash-and-care your shapewear?

Since most people do not wear underwear beneath the shapewear, which comes in direct contact with the skin, it is essential to change it and wash it regularly. You should not wear the same shapewear for more than two or three days. 

That means you do not have to wash it every time after wearing it, but to reduce possible skin irritation or bacterial infections, try to wash it as frequently as possible, especially lower body garments. 

The way you are supposed to wash it is labeled on the tag. Since it is made from delicate material, shapewear is usually cleaned by hand in cold or warm water. If you decide to wash it in the washing machine, use a soft fabric and cold water program to avoid any possible damage. 

Does wearing shapewear help you lose weight?

It is widely believed that shapewear can help you reduce body fat, but no research supports this idea. What shapewear does is it shapes the body, and after taking it off, it takes time for the body to return to its previous state. 

That is why the illusion of change in size and shape is created after taking the shapewear off. But after a few hours or days, the body will return to its previous state. So, the short answer is no, shapewear does not help you reduce your body weight, but it can help with temporary modifications. 

In conclusion, getting to know as much as possible about the shapewear can save you time and energy. A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you reach your body goals with more permanent results. However, if you just feel comfortable in it or need to slim fast for an event, shapewear is always there for you. Do not be scared to try it out. 
Even tho there is some prejudice about using shapewear, remember that there is nothing wrong with wearing it to feel more comfortable in your skin. Do whatever feels good to help you feel more confident. If you’re ready to find your perfect fit, explore Underoutfit’s wide range of best selling shapewear garments.