Shapewear is no longer just for special occasions. Many people choose to wear these garments every day as a way of enhancing their natural figure or helping them feel more confident. Frequently, consumers ask whether they should wear underwear with their shapewear. This article will explore this topic in depth and will help you better understand how to best wear your shapewear.
What is Shapewear?
Before diving into the specifics of whether you should wear underwear with shapewear, it's important to first understand what shapewear is and what it does for you. Shapewear is a type of undergarment that shapes and smooths the body, giving you a more streamlined silhouette. It is typically made from stretchy, figure-hugging materials like nylon or spandex, which makes the garment anti-chafing and easy to put on and take off. The fabric is also breathable which makes it comfortable to wear all day long, even on hot days. Shapewear comes in an array of different styles including body suits and shaping shorts.
Why Do People Wear Shapewear?
There are many reasons people choose to wear shapewear. For some, it is a way to look and feel better in their clothes. For others, wearing shapewear boosts their self-esteem because they feel more confident and self-assured when wearing shapewear. Some people also wear shapewear as a way of smoothing out any lumps or bumps that may otherwise be visible when wearing a form-fitting dress.
While shapewear is often associated with women, men can also benefit from wearing it. Shapewear for men targets specific areas of the body, such as the stomach or chest, and can help create a more toned and defined look when you haven’t been able to regularly visit the gym.
It’s important to choose shapewear that fits properly and is comfortable to wear, as ill-fitting shapewear can be both uncomfortable and unflattering. Overall, shapewear can be a useful tool for anyone looking to enhance their natural figure or boost their confidence. With a range of styles and materials available, there is sure to be a shapewear option that is right for you.
Different Types of Shapewear
With shapewear you can alter the look and feel of your body in just seconds. Put it on to contour, shape and smooth your body whether you’re headed to the office or for a night out on the town. There are several types of shapewear, each designed to target different areas of the body and provide different levels of compression. Here are some of the most popular types of shapewear:
ALT TXT IMG: Am I Supposed to Wear Underwear with my Shapewear?
Bodysuits
Bodysuits are a type of shapewear that covers the entire torso, from the chest down to the thighs. They are often made of a stretchy, breathable fabric that provides all-over compression and support. Bodysuits can be worn under form-fitting dresses or pants to create a smooth silhouette and prevent any bulges or lumps from showing through. Some bodysuits also come with built-in bras, making them a great option for low-cut or backless dresses.
Control Briefs
Control briefs, also known as high-waisted shapewear, are designed to smooth out the midsection and provide support for the lower stomach. They are often made of a firm, yet stretchy material that helps to flatten the tummy and hide a muffin top. Control briefs can be worn under dresses or skirts and are a great option for those who want to wear sleek clothing without worrying about any unwanted bulges.
Waist Cinchers
Waist cinchers are a type of shapewear that targets the waistline, providing compression and support to create an hourglass figure. They are often made of a firm, yet stretchy material that helps to cinch in the waist and flatten the tummy. Waist cinchers can be worn under dresses or tops that are fitted at the waist and are a great option for those who want to create a more defined waistline.
Overall, shapewear can be a great addition to any wardrobe, providing a quick and easy way to smooth out and contour the body. Whether you’re looking to create a smooth silhouette under a form-fitting dress or want to cinch in your waist for a more defined shape, there’s a type of shapewear out there for you!
To Wear or Not to Wear Underwear with Shapewear
Now that you understand the basics of shapewear, you are ready to learn how to wear shapewear, starting with whether you should wear underwear underneath your shapewear.
Pros of Wearing Underwear with Shapewear
There are several benefits to wearing underwear with shapewear. One of the main benefits is hygiene. Wearing underwear with shapewear can help to prevent any sweat or bacteria from getting trapped against the skin. This can be particularly important for people who are prone to yeast infections or other types of skin irritation.
Wearing underwear with shapewear can also provide an extra layer of support and compression, helping to create an even smoother silhouette which can boost your confidence even more. The added support can also be beneficial for people with lower back pain or other types of discomfort, as it can help to distribute the weight more evenly across the body.
Another benefit of wearing underwear with shapewear is that it can help to prevent any unexpected wardrobe malfunctions. If the shapewear were to shift out of place, having underwear on can help to prevent any embarrassing mishaps.
Cons of Wearing Underwear with Shapewear
While there are some benefits to wearing underwear with shapewear, there are also some potential downsides to consider. One of the main downsides is that underwear can create extra bulk, which may be visible under certain types of clothing. This can be particularly problematic for people who are wearing form-fitting or sheer clothing.
Additionally, wearing underwear with shapewear can be uncomfortable for some people, as it can create extra pressure and potentially dig into the skin in certain areas. This can be more of a problem if the underwear is made from a material that is not breathable or if the shapewear is particularly tight.
Another potential downside to wearing underwear with shapewear is that it can be challenging to find underwear that works well with the shapewear. Some types of underwear may create visible lines or bulges, which can detract from the overall effect and benefits of the shapewear.
Expert Opinions on the Matter
When it comes to whether or not you should wear underwear with shapewear, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some experts recommend wearing underwear with shapewear for hygiene reasons, while others suggest skipping the underwear to create a smoother silhouette.
According to celebrity stylist and fashion expert Brad Goreski, "I think it's a personal preference. I don't always wear underwear with shapewear, but if I'm wearing something particularly tight or if I'm going to be out all day, I'll wear underwear for the sake of hygiene."
Ultimately, whether to wear underwear with shapewear is up to you. Consider your personal comfort level, the type of clothing you will wear, and any hygiene concerns you may have when making your decision.
Choosing the Right Shapewear for You
When it comes to choosing the right shapewear, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the type of garment you are planning to wear the shapewear under. Certain types of shapewear may be more appropriate for different types of clothing.
Factors to Consider When Buying Shapewear
When shopping for shapewear, it's important to consider several factors, including the level of compression, the material and construction of the garment, and the sizing. Getting the right fit for your shapewear is crucial for both comfort and effectiveness. It's important to refer to the Undersummers’ sizing chart and to take accurate measurements of your body to get the right fit. While shapewear is designed to be supportive and figure-enhancing, it can also be uncomfortable if it does not fit properly.
Final Thoughts
Overall, whether you should wear underwear with shapewear ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific situation. With the right fit and type of shapewear, you can achieve a smooth and flattering silhouette with any outfit. A different option when not wearing shapewear is to wear something like Undersummers’ Shortlette. Their patented seamless inner thigh design is super comfortable and easy to wear. Along with different styles, the Shortlette comes in fun colors you can match to your dress, skirt or shorts. The Shortlette is an excellent alternative to shapewear.
