Getting shapewear right starts with two measurements and an honest answer about compression. Our complete NZ sizing and compression guide — how to measure, which level to choose, and the mistakes to avoid.

The number one reason women give up on shapewear isn't the shapewear, it's the size.
Too small and it digs, rolls, and creates the very lines it was meant to smooth. Too big and it does nothing at all. This guide covers how to measure yourself properly, how Glide's compression levels work, and how to pick the right combination for your body and your outfit.

Step 1: Measure yourself (properly)

Grab a soft measuring tape and take two measurements over underwear, standing relaxed and don't suck in, because your shapewear certainly won't be worn that way:

Waist: around the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button. Keep the tape snug but not tight.

Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, feet together.

Then match those numbers to the size chart on each product page. One golden rule: if you're between sizes, size up. Quality shapewear does the sculpting through its construction, not through being a size too small.

Step 2: Understand compression levels

Light compression — gentle, all-day smoothing. Think of it as your everyday base layer: it evens things out under jeans, workwear, and casual dresses without you ever noticing it's there. If you're new to shapewear, start here.

Medium compression — the sweet spot. Noticeable shaping through the tummy, waist, and hips with genuine all-day comfort. This is what most women wear most of the time, and where we'd point you for a first Glide purchase.

Firm compression — maximum sculpting for occasions: fitted dresses, weddings, photos, events. Firm pieces define your silhouette dramatically, but they're designed for hours, not all-day-every-day. Wear your true size here especially — firm compression in a too-small size is how shapewear gets its bad reputation.

Step 3: Match the level to the outfit

Structured or thick fabrics (denim, blazers, knits): light does the job. Everyday dresses and workwear: medium. Bodycon, satin, silk, and anything unforgiving: firm, those fabrics show everything, so you want maximum smoothing underneath. And remember our founding principle: some outfits don't need a separate layer at all. Our everyday wear and shaper dresses have the compression built straight into the garment.

Quick answers to the questions we get most

"Should I size down for more control?" No, choose your true size in a firmer compression level instead. That's what the levels are for.

"My measurements span two sizes — which one?" Size by the larger measurement, and prioritise your hip measurement for briefs and your waist for cinchers.

"What if it doesn't fit?" Exchange it, we're NZ-based, so returns don't involve international postage or three-week waits.

Get the fit right, then double up

Once you know your size, the smart play is one everyday piece and one occasion piece — and with buy one, get your second 50% off (auto-applied at checkout), that's exactly how most of the Glide Tribe shops. Free NZ shipping over $150. Start with our best sellers.

Tags

compression guide fit guide size guide

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