How to Choose the Right Shapewear for Your Body Type

Shapewear has come a long way from its restrictive, uncomfortable roots. Today’s shapewear is designed to celebrate your natural shape while providing comfort and confidence under any outfit. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which style is best for your body type?

Whether you're looking to smooth, sculpt, or support, the right shapewear can enhance your look and boost your confidence. Here's how to find your perfect fit based on your body type.

Rectangle body types are very flattered by waist trainers that cinch the waist.

1. Identify Your Body Shape

Before you shop, it’s important to understand your body type. Most women fall into one of these general categories:

• Hourglass: Balanced bust and hips with a defined waist.

• Pear: Hips are wider than the bust.

• Apple: Carries weight around the midsection.

• Rectangle: Bust, waist, and hips have a similar width.

• Inverted Triangle: Broader shoulders or bust with narrower hips.

Each shape benefits from different shapewear solutions.

2. Best Shapewear by Body Type

Hourglass

If you have an hourglass figure, focus on maintaining balance while defining your waist.

Best picks:

• Waist cinchers or corset-style shapewear to emphasize your curves.

• Full-body shapers that smooth the bust, waist, and hips evenly.

Pear

For pear-shaped bodies, the goal is to smooth the lower half and enhance your upper body.

Best picks:

• High-waisted shorts or thigh shapers to contour hips and thighs.

• Shaping camisoles or push-up bras to draw attention upward.

Apple

Apple shapes benefit most from midsection support and overall smoothing.

Best picks:

• Tummy control bodysuits or waist-slimming tanks.

• High-compression shapewear that supports your core without being too restrictive.

Rectangle

With a more straight-lined silhouette, you can use shapewear to create the illusion of curves.

Best picks:

• Waist cinchers to create a defined waistline.

• Padded shapewear or hips-enhancing shorts for added dimension.

Inverted Triangle

To balance a broader upper body, focus on enhancing the hips and defining the waist.

Best picks:

• Butt-lifting shorts or hip pads to add volume to the lower half.

• Bodysuits with control panels to streamline the torso.

3. Choose the Right Compression Level

• Light control: Great for everyday wear; smooths without feeling tight.

• Medium control: Offers shaping and support, ideal for work or casual events.

• Firm control: More structured; best for special occasions or form-fitting outfits.

Make sure it feels snug but still breathable—you should be able to move and sit comfortably.

4. Pay Attention to Fabric and Fit

Shapewear should feel like a second skin. Look for:

• Breathable materials like cotton blends or microfiber.

• Seamless designs for an invisible look under clothing.

• Adjustable straps or hook-and-eye closures for custom comfort.

Always try shapewear on (or check return policies if shopping online), and don’t size down—it won’t make you look slimmer, just uncomfortable.

5. Match Shapewear to Your Outfit

Different outfits call for different styles:

• Backless or strapless dresses: Go for a strapless bodysuit or adhesive shapewear.

• Tight skirts or pants: Choose seamless high-waisted shorts or briefs.

• Sheer fabrics: Nude-colored shapewear is your best bet.

Final Thoughts

Shapewear should support, not squeeze. The right piece will complement your figure, enhance your natural shape, and make you feel confident in whatever you're wearing. By understanding your body type and choosing the right style and compression, you can turn shapewear from a wardrobe burden into a secret weapon.