Dressing confidently has never been quite the same after the invention of the shapewear. Whether you’re a curvier lady or you’re on your way to your goal weight, there’s something very uplifting about wearing outfits that can complement your natural figure. We all want to look good in figure-hugging clothes, which is why the wide availability of shapewear is a godsend.

However, since there is so much variety out there now, it can be hard to buy shapewear that works for you. It can seem overwhelming, looking at all the styles and materials available and finding the right products, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Shopping for shapewear becomes less intimidating when you know what your options are and what it is exactly that you’re looking for. Here is a guide to help you:

Go for shaping leggings for your legs.
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to finding shapewear that fits the legs right. Many people tend to assume that stockings and leggings are enough, but this isn’t entirely true. There are plenty of options out there, and brands like No Nonsense offer a wide variety of shapewear styles specifically for the leg area. When shopping online or in a brick and mortar store, it’s best to remember that some shapewear look similar to each other but serve completely different purposes.

Hosiery works great for shaping your torso and giving your legs a smoother look. Moreover, not all leggings have shaping properties. What’s good about shaping leggings is that you don’t need to wear them under your clothes like other kinds of shapewear. You can simply wear a top, slip on your leggings, put on your shoes, and your outfit is complete!

Stick to your size.

Some people tend to buy shapewear a size smaller because they want an extra level of firmness, but doing so can cause more harm than good. Aside from being extremely uncomfortable, wearing the wrong size of shapewear can make you look bulkier and bigger than your actual size. Go for shapewear that will fit best on you, you’ll feel more comfortable and you’ll have a better chance of nailing the look you want.

Are you currently in between sizes? You have two options. Consider what your needs are when it comes to shapewear and go from there. Go a size up for more comfort and a fair amount of smoothing action. If you want a bit more constriction, purchase shapewear that is a size lower. 

Focus on your shaping goals.

Now that you’ve figured out your size, it’s time to decide on the level of compression that you prefer. Do you want something that will give you some extra lift? Do you prefer something that will help cinch your waist instead? Determining what you want the shapewear to do for your figure can help you decide on the compression level that works for you.

Usually, you can gauge the performance level of shapewear by feeling the material. Lightweight fabric that easily slips through your hands is designed to smooth out targeted areas and is best if you’re wearing A-line dresses or a blouse and slacks. Shapewear that is made of heavier material usually has built-in compression zones that will completely transform your figure by tucking everything into shape. These are best for bodycon dresses or pencil skirts.  

Look for reviews.

If you still feel undecided on what to get, try looking for reviews about the pieces that you’re thinking of buying. Look for reviews on YouTube and on blogs to see people’s thoughts on the product and even how it looks on the person reviewing it. Sometimes, the product page itself can also have ratings and reviews displayed on it. Knowing what people are saying about a certain product can assist you in making an informed purchase.

Buy weather-appropriate shapewear.

Fun fact: shapewear can also help keep you toasty during autumn and winter. If you want to show off your figure while keeping yourself warm all day, go for shapewear made of nylon and spandex. Both fabrics are synthetic and will help you retain body heat. Shapewear with a higher nylon count also has a higher level of constriction.

For breathable and cooling comfort during the warmer months, go for cotton-blend shapewear. You can meet your shaping goals without feeling dizzy or uncomfortable in hotter weather. Usually, you can find the fabric type listed on the tag or by looking up the product on the brand’s website. Either way, it’s wise to have both kinds of shapewear in your closet so you can keep yourself comfortable all year round.

If you have yet to discover the fashionable benefits of shapewear, it’s never too late to start! Follow this guide and you’ll have an easier time finding the right shapewear for you and your wardrobe.