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Choosing shapewear isn’t about changing who you are; it’s about celebrating and embracing your body in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. At Shapermint, we believe every woman deserves to feel her best, whether she’s dressing for everyday comfort or a special occasion.
In this guide, we’ll help you find the shapewear that works best for your unique shape. Your preferences come first—this guide is just here to make the choice a little easier. From understanding the right compression level to identifying the best style for your body, we’ve got everything you need to make shapewear shopping a breeze.
What Level of Compression Do You Need?
When choosing shapewear, one of the first things to think about is the level of compression you’re comfortable with. Here’s a simple breakdown of what each level offers:
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Light Compression (Smoothing): Perfect for everyday wear. It gently smooths your tummy and hips, making you feel more comfortable in your clothes.
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Medium Compression (Shaping): Gives you a little more structure and subtly enhances your curves. It’s breathable and stretchy, making it a great option for all-day wear.
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Firm Compression (Sculpting): Ideal for those special occasions when you want that extra something. It’s perfect for formal dresses or outfits that need a little more shaping.
Shapewear should feel like a gentle support system, not something that makes you uncomfortable. For tips on how to wear it the right way to make the most of it, check out our guide: How Are You Supposed to Wear Shapewear?
What Area Do You Want to Target?
When you’re looking for shapewear, think about which areas you want a little extra smoothing or support.
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Tummy and Waist: Try shapewear that focuses on defining and smoothing your midsection, like camis or high-waisted underwear.
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Thighs and Bottom: If you want to shape and lift your thighs and backside, high-waisted shorts or leggings can do wonders.
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Full Body: If you’re looking for overall shaping, a mid-thigh bodysuit is a great option. It smooths everything from back to thighs, and offers that sleek look under dresses and snug outfits.
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The Best Shapewear for Your Body Shape
Everyone’s body is different, and that’s what makes us all unique. The key to finding the right shapewear is understanding your body shape and choosing pieces that enhance your natural curves. Here’s a guide to help you pick the best shapewear for you.
Apple Body Shape
If you carry more weight around your midsection, with narrower hips and shoulders, then you might have an apple body shape.
Apple-shaped bodies tend to have a fuller midsection with less definition around the waist. The goal with shapewear for this body type is to provide smoothing for the tummy and mid-back, and to define the waist, while making sure you don’t feel restricted. Look for pieces that offer gentle control but with breathable, comfortable materials.
Our top picks:
Perfect for smoothing out the waist, tummy, and mid-back while providing full coverage and support.
Helps define your waist and gives you a smooth look without flattening your bust. Plus, you can pair it with your favorite wireless bras.
Pear Body Shape
If you have narrower shoulders, a smaller bust, and fuller hips and thighs, then you might have a pear body shape.
Pear-shaped bodies often feature a well-defined waist and fuller hips and thighs. The goal for pear shapes is to balance out the proportions by enhancing the waist and providing smoothing for the thighs and hips. You’ll want shapewear that supports these areas without adding bulk.
Our top picks:
The must-have leggings: easy to pair with every outfit, and perfect for achieving that sculpted, smooth look from waist to ankle.
These shorts are designed to smooth your hips and thighs while offering targeted tummy control. The high waist ensures they stay in place, so you can move freely without constantly adjusting.
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
If you have broader shoulders, a larger bust, and narrower hips, then you might have an inverted triangle body shape.
For inverted triangle shapes, the key is to create balance by drawing attention to the lower body and providing smoothing support for the waist. Shapewear that supports and enhances the lower half can help soften the more angular lines of this shape, creating a more proportional silhouette.
Our top picks:
Supports and smooths the torso without flattening the bust—perfect for event-ready dresses. This dress creates a defined, sleek silhouette, giving you a more contoured look.
Provides full-body smoothing and shaping from back to thighs. This bodysuit offers the stretchy, breathable comfort you love, with 360° shape-enhancing benefits.
Rectangle Body Shape
If you have a smaller bust and a similar width between your shoulders and hips, then you might have a rectangle body shape.
Rectangle-shaped bodies typically have a straighter silhouette with minimal waist definition. The goal for rectangle shapes is to add curves and create a more defined waist. Look for shapewear that enhances your natural lines, helping to shape the midsection.
Our top picks:
These boyshorts add shaping and definition to your hips while smoothing your tummy. The high-waisted design helps emphasize your waist, giving you that defined silhouette.
Your go-to for special occasions or weekends when you want to add that little extra something to your outfit. It helps define your waist and sculpt your tummy for a visually hourglass, balanced look.
Hourglass Body Shape
If your hips and shoulders are in proportion with a naturally defined waist, then you likely have an hourglass shape.
For hourglass shapes, the focus is on enhancing your natural curves without taking away from your shape. Shapewear should support your body, highlighting your waist and creating a sleek look.
Our top picks:
The most versatile bodysuit you’ll ever wear: works both as an outerwear top and shapewear in one essential! It smooths and shapes your silhouette from back to tummy, enhancing your natural curves.
Perfect for creating a smooth, streamlined look under tighter outfits without leaving visible lines. Bonus: it draws the eye to your most defined feature (your waist!) and enhances your natural shape.
👉 10% OFF your next shapewear purchase. Tap the code below to shop smart!
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Should I Size Up or Down in Shapewear?
It’s a great question, and the answer really depends on your preferences. Here’s how to make sure you get the best fit:
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Check for comfort: If your shapewear is rolling down, digging in, or feeling too tight, it’s likely too small. Try sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
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Move around: Make sure you can bend, sit, and walk comfortably. If the shapewear is shifting or feeling loose, you might need to size down.
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Know your goal:
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For more firm compression and shaping (especially for special occasions), size down.
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For everyday comfort and natural smoothing, stick with your regular size.
If you’re still unsure, check out our guide: Is it Better to Size Up or Down in Shapewear?
Wear Confidence, Celebrate Your Shape
The goal of shapewear is simple: to enhance the body you already love, so you can feel comfortable, confident, and supported in everything you wear. Whether you're looking for smoothing, shaping, or sculpting, Shapermint has something for you.
Empower your confidence and tag us in your Instagram photos when you style our shaping essentials — @shapermint. Let’s connect!
Share this guide with your friends, and don’t forget to refer them to Shapermint and get $25 each!
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