Choosing the Right Shapewear for Your Dress Style

When it comes to choosing shapewear, there are many factors to be taken into consideration. Of course, you're going to want to take into account not only your personal body type but also your goals for wearing it and the areas that you plan to target. And then comes the question: what shapewear is best with what outfit? Today, we're going to take a look at that question. But first the basics:

What is shapewear? 

Simply put, shapewear is an undergarment that helps to improve and enhance your shape. While many consider it to be something that completely changes the look of your body, that's not necessarily true. Shapewear comes in a wide variety of styles and compression levels. There are some that do offer more compression and fuller body coverage, and others that offer minimal compression and target only certain areas--- and everything in between. This means there are a ton of different options to consider when choosing the right one for your style. 



What to wear with a pencil skirt? 

I love a good pencil skirt...but they do show a lot of curves, and as such shapewear can be a great option to make them as flattering as possible. You could definitely go with a few different options with a pencil skirt as far as shapewear goes, but for me, a pencil skirt highlights the bottom, so something like butt lifter shapewear can be ideal. If you're concerned about your stomach, go for something high-waisted as well. 

What to wear with an a-line dress?

A-line dresses are one of the most universally flattering styles. Because the skirt flows away from the body, I don't tend to feel like I need shapewear as much with an a-line style. A high-waisted brief or shorts with minimal compression could be an ideal option. 

What to wear with a strapless dress?

I appreciate a good full-body suit at times, but when you're dealing with a strapless dress, you definitely want to find something more appropriate. If you're needing minimal coverage, again something like a high-waisted brief or short would be a great option. These are probably my most worn shapewear options because they do tend to be quite versatile and outfit friendly. However, you can also find full-coverage strapless bodysuits with built-in bras which are great for strapless styles too. 

What to wear with a maxi skirt/dress?

For me, I find the material and flow of the skirt definitely affects my shapewear needs when it comes to maxis. For many, I find I really don't need much if anything at all. (Again, those high-waisted briefs are ALWAYS a great option.) For clingier material, I might go with something with a little more coverage to prevent panty lines and such. You can also find shapewear that covers more of the leg to wear with maxi dresses as well. 



What to wear with a fitted/body con dress?

Body-con dresses leave little to the imagination when it comes to your curves so this is one style where I'd tend to lean on something with a lot more coverage and compression. A full body shaper can be a great option for all-over smoothing. You'll also probably want to look for something seamless, or with minimal seams at least! 

There is a huge variety of shapewear and clothing styles out there. This list doesn't begin to cover them all, but hopefully offers a starting point the next time you look at purchasing shapewear for a special occasion or everyday wear!