• By Shapermint Team
The Ultimate Guide To Buying Shapewear For The First Time

If you’re new to shapewear, you’re not alone. Shopping for shapewear for the first time can be a little intimidating, but we’re here to help make the experience easy and enjoyable! Whether you're looking for light smoothing or all-over control, this guide will teach you how to choose shapewear that fits your needs and your body type.

Table of contents

Why Shapewear?

Whether you're dressing for a special occasion or simply want to feel more secure in your everyday clothes, shapewear helps smooth, shape, and support your natural silhouette. It’s not about changing your body but enhancing your confidence by providing subtle shaping that works with your curves. The key is finding the right fit and style for your needs, so you can feel comfortable and confident no matter the outfit.

Rethink Shapewear Comfort

Shapewear should never be uncomfortable. Think of it as a supportive hug, not a restriction. The right shapewear fits like a second skin, providing smoothness and support without digging in or pinching. The key to a perfect fit is choosing shapewear that aligns with your body’s natural curves.

Why Comfort Matters: Comfort is the most important factor in shapewear. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t want to wear it, and you certainly won’t feel confident. Look for shapewear with breathable fabrics, adjustable straps, and non-slip designs that stay in place all day.

💡 Pro Tip: A great way to ensure comfort is by choosing shapewear made from soft, stretchy fabrics like nylon or spandex that move with your body.

Do Your Research

Before you buy, take some time to understand what size shapewear you should buy and what styles work best for your body. This will save you frustration and help you find the right fit the first time around.

Look into the different shapewear types—shaping shorts, bodysuits, camis, and shaping panties—and decide which ones fit your needs. For example, shaping shorts are great for smoothing your thighs, while a bodysuit can give you all-over shaping.

🔗 Read up on sizing: You can easily check our Shapewear Sizing Guide for tips on how to measure yourself accurately. Choosing the correct size is essential to feeling comfortable and supported.

Figure Out Your Size 

We can’t stress this enough: measuring yourself is the key to great shapewear. A lot of first-timers think that sizing down will give them more control or compression, but that’s a mistake. You need to wear the right size of shapewear to work effectively.

Here’s how to get it right:

  • Measure your bust, waist, and hips, and refer to the size chart on the product page.

  • Choose the size that fits your measurements—don't guess.

  • If you're in between sizes, always go up rather than down.

🔗 Need help measuring? Check out our Shapewear Sizing Guide to guide you through the process.

Pick Your Style

Shapewear comes in many styles, and the right one for you depends on your outfit and what you’re looking to smooth or shape. Here are some options to consider:

  • Shaping Shorts: Perfect for smoothing the tummy, hips, and thighs. Great for under dresses or pants.

  • Bodysuits: All-over smoothing and shaping, ideal for fitted dresses or jumpsuits.

  • Shaping Camis/Tanks: Lightweight and perfect for layering under tops.

  • Shaping Panties: Light control for a smooth, flattering fit under skirts or pants.

Each piece serves a different purpose, so think about the areas you want to target when selecting your shapewear style.

Read What Others Say About Us

And don’t forget to leave your review!

When you're shopping for shapewear for the first time, customer reviews are a great way to get an idea of what to expect. Hearing from other women about how shapewear fits, feels, and functions can help you make an informed decision.

💬 Real Feedback: Look for reviews that mention comfort, sizing, and support. Reviews can also offer great advice about how to wear shapewear with different outfits.

And, once you’ve tried your new shapewear, don't forget to leave a review! Your experience will help other shoppers feel more confident in their choice.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I choose the right shapewear for my body type?
A: Start by identifying the areas you want to shape or smooth. If you're unsure, we recommend checking out our guide to shapewear for different body types.

Q: What should I consider when shopping for shapewear?
A: Focus on comfort, fit, and functionality. Think about your wardrobe and the type of shapewear that works best with your clothes. For more guidance, check out our How to shop for shapewear.

Q: What size shapewear should I buy?
A: Accuracy is key! Always refer to our Shapewear Sizing Guide for precise measurements, and choose your size based on your bust, waist, and hip measurements. Visit our Fit Studio for sizing tutorials.

Final Thoughts

Shopping for shapewear doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on comfort, knowing your size, and picking the right style for your body and wardrobe, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit. Remember, shapewear is about supporting your body, not restricting it.

Share this guide with your first-timer friends, and don’t forget to refer them to Shapermint so both of you can enjoy $25 each.