Finding the right shapewear can feel overwhelming — dozens of styles, confusing size charts, and the lingering worry that it will be uncomfortable. At SMOOTHLY, we believe shapewear should feel like nothing at all: invisible under your clothes, comfortable enough for all-day wear, and designed to celebrate your natural shape rather than change it.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to find your perfect match — from understanding the different types to getting your size right on the first try.
What Is Shapewear, Really?
Shapewear is a garment designed to smooth, sculpt, and support your body under your clothes. Modern shapewear has come a long way from the rigid corsets of the past. Today's pieces use advanced compression fabrics that are breathable, stretchy, and genuinely comfortable.
The goal isn't to squeeze you into a different shape — it's to give you a smooth, seamless silhouette that boosts your confidence. Think of it as the foundation layer that makes everything else look better.
Types of Shapewear: Which One Do You Need?
1. Bodysuits
The all-in-one solution. Bodysuits provide full-torso smoothing from bust to hip, making them ideal for dresses, jumpsuits, and any outfit where you want seamless coverage. They stay in place without rolling and eliminate any visible lines.
Best for: Dresses, formal events, daily wear under fitted tops.
2. Shaping Dresses
Why wear shapewear under a dress when the dress itself can do the work? Shaping dresses have built-in compression panels that sculpt your figure while serving as the outfit itself. Perfect for date nights, events, or any occasion where you want to look polished with minimal effort.
Best for: Events, going out, minimal-effort styling.
3. Shaping Shorts & Briefs
Target your midsection and thighs without full-body coverage. These are the most versatile pieces — they work under skirts, trousers, and looser dresses. High-waisted versions smooth the tummy while mid-thigh lengths prevent chafing.
Best for: Everyday wear, under skirts and trousers, anti-chafing.
4. Sculpting Swimwear
Pool and beach confidence in one piece. Sculpting swimwear uses the same compression technology as shapewear but in water-friendly fabrics. Tummy control panels, bust support, and quick-dry materials mean you look great and feel comfortable from poolside to water.
Best for: Beach holidays, pool days, resort wear.
5. Bras & Bralettes
The foundation of any outfit. Shaping bras offer support and smoothing around the bust and back, eliminating bra bulge and creating a clean line under any top. Wireless options prioritise comfort without sacrificing shape.
Best for: Daily wear, under fitted tops, backless or strapless outfits (sticky bras).
How to Choose the Right Size
Getting the right size is the single most important factor in shapewear comfort. Too small, and it digs in and creates bulges. Too large, and it rolls up and provides no support. Here's how to get it right:
Step 1: Take Your Measurements
You'll need three measurements:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape level.
- Waist: Measure at the narrowest point of your torso, usually just above the belly button.
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks.
Step 2: Use the Size Guide
Every body is different, which is why we provide detailed size guides for each product. Our size charts are based on centimetres and cover EU sizing (XS through 3XL). If you're between sizes, we recommend sizing up for comfort — compression fabric naturally hugs your body.
Step 3: Consider the Compression Level
Not all shapewear compresses equally:
- Light compression: Gentle smoothing, ideal for everyday wear. Feels like a second skin.
- Medium compression: Noticeable sculpting with all-day comfort. Our most popular level.
- Firm compression: Maximum hold for special occasions. Best worn for shorter periods.
Shapewear for Every Occasion
Daily Wear
For everyday comfort, choose light-to-medium compression pieces. A seamless bodysuit under work clothes or a pair of shaping shorts under jeans makes a subtle but noticeable difference. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics that breathe throughout the day.
Special Events
For weddings, galas, or important dinners, a full bodysuit or shaping dress gives you that extra confidence. Medium-to-firm compression creates a polished silhouette under formal wear. Choose a colour that matches your outfit — nude tones work under most fabrics.
Active Days & Travel
Lightweight shaping shorts are perfect for active days. They prevent thigh chafing, provide gentle support, and pack flat in your suitcase. For travel, bodysuits double as a base layer that saves luggage space.
Beach & Pool
Sculpting swimwear eliminates the need to wear shapewear under a regular swimsuit. Built-in panels provide tummy control while the swimwear fabric handles sun, salt, and chlorine.
How to Care for Your Shapewear
Proper care extends the life of your shapewear significantly:
- Wash gently: Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent, or use a mesh laundry bag on a delicate cycle.
- Never tumble dry: Heat breaks down compression fibres. Lay flat or hang to air dry.
- Avoid fabric softener: It coats compression fibres and reduces their effectiveness over time.
- Rotate pieces: Having 2-3 pieces in rotation allows each one to recover its elasticity between wears.
- Store flat: Folding is fine, but avoid balling up your shapewear — it can create permanent creases in the fabric.
Common Shapewear Myths — Debunked
"Shapewear is uncomfortable"
This was true 20 years ago. Modern shapewear uses four-way stretch fabrics, boneless construction, and ergonomic seaming. At SMOOTHLY, our pieces are designed to feel like a second skin — most customers forget they're wearing it.
"Shapewear is only for certain body types"
Shapewear is for every body. Whether you're a size XS or 3XL, the right piece enhances what you already have. It's about feeling confident, not conforming to a standard.
"You should size down for more compression"
This is the most common mistake. Sizing down creates visible lines, discomfort, and the dreaded "roll-up" effect. Always choose your true size — the compression is built into the fabric, not created by squeezing into a smaller garment.
"Shapewear is bad for your health"
Quality shapewear with appropriate compression is perfectly safe for daily wear. The key is choosing the right size and the right compression level for the occasion. If it feels restrictive, size up.
Why SMOOTHLY?
We started SMOOTHLY because we couldn't find shapewear that actually felt good. Every piece we make follows three principles:
- Invisible: No visible lines, no thick seams, no tell-tale edges under your clothes.
- Comfortable: If you have to think about it, it's not good enough. Our shapewear should feel like nothing.
- For every body: Sizes XS to 3XL, with real fit testing on diverse body types.
With free shipping on orders over €79 across Europe and a 14-day return policy, there's no risk in finding your perfect piece.