How to Choose the Right Shapewear for Your Body Type

How to Choose the Right Shapewear for Your Body Type

, by Nikki Beecroft , 5 min reading time

Guess what, ladies? Despite what you might think, there’s no "ideal" body type for shapewear.

Seriously.

One of the biggest misconceptions about shapewear is that it's only for certain sizes, shapes, or occasions. But the truth is that women of all ages, shapes, and sizes wear shapewear. Not because they want to change their bodies, but because they want their clothes to fit and feel amazing.

Whether you're dressing for a wedding, heading into the office, or simply want a little extra confidence in your favourite ‘fit, the right shapewear can help smooth, support, and enhance your natural shape.

The key is choosing the right style for your body and your outfit.

If you've ever found yourself wondering where to start, don't worry. We got you.

Forget the Rules

Before we dive into different shapewear styles, let's get one thing straight.

You don't need to fit into a specific category to wear shapewear. Anything you think you might know about your body being an ‘apple’ or a ‘pear’ is (pardon our French) largely b*llsh*t. And while we’re banishing outdated ideas, you can also forget the old-fashioned notion that shapewear is about hiding flaws.

Modern shapewear is about comfort, confidence, and helping your clothes sit the way they're designed to.

The goal isn't to change your body. The goal is to help you feel great in it.

If You Want Tummy Smoothing

If your main goal is creating a smoother silhouette through your midsection, look for styles that offer targeted tummy control.

High-waisted shaping briefs and shaping bodysuits are popular choices because they gently smooth the tummy area while remaining comfortable enough for everyday wear.

These styles work beautifully under:

  • Fitted tops
  • Workwear
  • Dresses
  • High-waisted skirts
  • Tailored pants

Remember: the best tummy control shapewear should feel supportive, not restrictive.

If You Want All-Over Smoothing

Sometimes it's not about one specific area. Maybe you just want your outfit to look smooth and streamlined from every angle.

That's where full-body shapewear shines.

A shaping bodysuit can help smooth the waist, hips, back, and tummy while creating a seamless foundation underneath your clothing.

This style is especially popular for:

  • Bodycon dresses
  • Formal wear
  • Special occasions
  • Wedding guest outfits
  • Slim-fitting knitwear

Think of it as creating a smooth canvas for your outfit.

If You Have Curves

Curvy girls often worry that shapewear will flatten their shape.

In reality, good shapewear does the opposite.

The right shapewear smooths and supports while allowing your natural curves to shine. Rather than compressing everything, modern shaping garments are designed to enhance your silhouette and create a balanced look under clothing.

Look for:

  • High-waisted shaping briefs
  • Seamless bodysuits
  • Firm-but-flexible compression fabrics

Remember: shapewear should work with your shape, not against it.

If You're Petite

When you're petite, less is often more.

Heavy compression can sometimes feel overwhelming on a smaller frame, so many petite women prefer lightweight or medium-control shapewear that provides smoothing without feeling bulky.

Seamless styles are often a great choice because they disappear under clothing and provide a natural-looking finish.

Focus on comfort, flexibility, and creating smooth lines rather than maximum compression.

If Comfort Is Your Top Priority

Let's be honest… if shapewear isn't comfortable, you're probably not going to wear it.

Thankfully, shapewear has come a long way, and Glide’s seamless shapewear is designed to move with your body, allowing you to sit, walk, dance, eat dinner, and go about your day without constantly adjusting your outfit.

If comfort is your priority, look for:

  • Seamless construction
  • Soft stretch fabrics
  • Wireless designs
  • Light-to-medium control styles

The best shapewear is the shapewear you forget you're wearing.

Choosing Shapewear Based on Your Outfit

Sometimes the best way to choose shapewear isn't based on your body type at all. It's based on what you're wearing.

  • For Bodycon Dresses, a seamless shaping bodysuit provides smooth, all-over support.
  • For Everyday Workwear, high-waisted shaping briefs offer subtle smoothing without adding bulk. 
  • For Formal Events, full-body shapewear can create a streamlined silhouette under fitted dresses and eveningwear.
  • For Casual Everyday Confidence, light-control shapewear and seamless bras provide comfort and support without feeling restrictive.

Your outfit often determines the best shapewear choice more than your body shape does.

One Common Mistake to Avoid

One of the biggest shapewear mistakes women make is sizing down.

It seems logical. Smaller size equals more shaping, right?

Actually, not so much.

Shapewear that's too small can create bulges, roll down, feel uncomfortable, and show through clothing, so always choose your regular size. Modern shapewear by Glide is engineered to provide support and shaping without needing to squeeze into a smaller size.

Confidence Looks Good on Everybody

At Glide Shapewear, we believe shapewear should help you feel comfortable, supported, and confident. Not restricted.

There is no "right" body type.

There is no "perfect" shape.

There is only the version of you that feels amazing when you look in the mirror and love what you see.

Whether you're looking for a seamless bra, a shaping bodysuit, or everyday smoothing essentials, the best shapewear is the one that helps you feel like your most confident self.

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