Putting on shapewear takes a little patience, especially with firmer compression styles. The key is to work the fabric up gradually, using the flat pads of your fingers instead of pulling on seams, straps or delicate edges.

1. Get ready before you start

Make sure your skin is dry and any lotion has fully absorbed. Remove rings or bracelets that could snag the fabric, and take extra care with long nails.

Check which side is the front and open any hooks, zippers or adjustable closures designed to open for dressing.

Tip: Sit down while stepping into the garment to help keep your balance.

Check your measurements

2. Gather the fabric and step in

For shaping shorts, briefs and step-in bodysuits, gently gather the garment into soft folds so you can reach the leg openings.

Step in one foot at a time. For bodysuits, follow the style’s dressing instructions—many can be stepped into, but construction varies.

Avoid pulling the garment up by its waistband, straps, lace or mesh panels.

3. Ease it over your thighs and hips

Hold a broad section of the main fabric with the pads of your fingers. Alternate sides, moving the garment upward a little at a time.

If it gets stuck, pause and redistribute the fabric below that point before continuing. Don’t try to lift the entire garment with one strong pull.

Think: gather, ease upward, smooth—and repeat.

4. Position the crotch and smooth the fabric

Before pulling the top into place, check that the crotch sits comfortably where it belongs. Smooth any bunching around your thighs, hips and bottom.

For shaping shorts, gently arrange the leg openings so they sit evenly without folds or twisted edges.

Fabric left bunched lower down can make the garment feel too short and put extra tension on the seams.

5. Adjust the top and fasten closures

Once the lower half is positioned, ease the fabric over your waist and torso.

For bodysuits, place your arms through the straps and adjust them without using them to lift the garment. Position the bust area comfortably and fasten the gusset if your style has one.

For styles with hooks or zippers, bring the edges together gently before fastening. Don’t use the closure to force the garment into place. Follow any instructions provided for your specific style.

6. Check the fit before getting dressed

Sit, walk and bend gently to check that the garment stays comfortable.

Your shapewear should feel snug and supportive. Check that:

• The fabric lies smoothly without twisting or bunching.

• The waistband and leg openings sit evenly.

• Straps rest comfortably without digging in.

• You can move and breathe comfortably.

If it feels painful, restricts your breathing or causes numbness, take it off and reassess the size or style. Learn how shapewear should fit

What if my shapewear won’t pull up?

Stop rather than forcing it. Check that the garment is facing the right way, any dressing closures are open, and the fabric is distributed evenly.

If you still need to pull hard on the seams or edges to get it on, recheck your measurements against the product’s size guide. A different size or style may be a better fit.

How to take shapewear off gently

Open any closures first, then ease the garment down in small sections. Use your hands to guide the main fabric over your hips and thighs instead of tugging on the top edge or straps.

Sit down to remove it from your feet.

Need help choosing your size or style? Contact BodyFlexx Support—we’re happy to help.