Let me preface this by saying you shouldn’t want to find the best shapewear because you feel like you ought to alter the silhouette of your body or squeeze into smaller clothing. It should never be about changing ourselves, rather enhancing what we have and helping us feel more confident.
Solutionwear remains a contentious issue because of societal pressures to look a certain way. Add that to the fact that actually finding something that fits you and performs in the way you want it to is as hard as buying the best jeans for women, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for disaster.
That said, while I’m the first to acknowledge shapewear as being problematic, there are special occasions and times throughout the year when the need for it is warranted – like when you want to create a smooth foundation beneath form-fitting ensembles. And if you feel the same, then you’re in the right place.
SKIP TO: What is the best shapewear that actually works? | Should you size up or down in shapewear? | How to choose the best shapewear | Do you wear normal knickers under shapewear? | How we tested the best shapewear | Shop and see our full reviews.
What is the best shapewear that really works?
Wedding season isn’t so much of a season anymore (it’s all-year-round), but when I have one coming up, that’s when I’ll lean on my favourite shapewear: SKIMS’ Seamless Sculpt High-Waisted Above The Knee Shorts.
Not only do these iron everything out beneath ‘fit – from the best wedding guest dresses to the best party dresses – they also lift and shape exactly where you want them to.
I’ve worn them under a stretchy bodycon dress and silk slip dress recently and they were completely invisible. They didn’t roll down, cause any chafing or bulges, or dig in and bunch up whatsoever. My favourite feature, albeit an odd one, was what the brand calls an ‘open gusset’ – because after a few drinks, let’s face it, no one has the energy to act like a contortionist each time they go to the toilet.
Meet the expert: Silvia Azzali, Chief Commercial Officer at Wolford.
“Shaping products should make you feel good from within,” says Silvia. “We believe that its just as important as your outerwear,” which is why the brand has such an esteemed line-up of different styles.
Yep, far from frumpy or old-fashioned, shapewear encompasses everything from cami tops and thongs to full blown playsuit styles and skirts these days, and they’re all designed to flatter every curve, make you feel confident, and follow your natural figure. As for when you should wear it? Silvia says; “In short, shapewear should be used when you want additional support. It’s always best to look for shapewear after you’ve decided on your outfit, rather than the other way round, as the type of underwear you’ll need will depend on the style you plan on wearing. For example, figure hugging dresses will be elevated by shapewear, while a low-cut neckline may require a specific style of the best bra or shaping body.”
Read more of her tips below.
