Choosing shapewear starts with how you want to feel in your outfit. Whether you prefer gentle smoothing, more tummy coverage or a style that doubles as clothing, the right piece should support your curves and feel comfortable to wear.
Explore BodyFlexx shapewear to find the coverage and support that suit your outfit. This guide helps you compare styles, choose your size and find features that work for your wardrobe.
How do I choose the right shapewear?
Start with three questions:
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What are you wearing? Consider the outfit’s neckline, back, fabric and hem length.
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Where would you like support? Your tummy, waist, hips, thighs, butt or back?
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How much coverage feels comfortable? Choose between briefs, shorts, bodysuits and shaping tops.
For example, shaping briefs may work well under pants, while shapewear shorts offer more coverage beneath a longer dress. A shapewear bodysuit provides connected torso coverage, with different cuts to suit your outfit.
Shop shapewear by target area
Already know where you want support? Explore styles by your preferred shaping area:
Choose the coverage you prefer, then check each product’s features and size guide to find your fit.
Which shapewear style should I choose?
Shaping briefs and thongs
Shaping briefs and thongs offer tummy and waist coverage without extending down the thighs. They are an option when you want less coverage on your legs.
Check the waistband height and leg openings to make sure the edges sit discreetly beneath your outfit.
Shapewear shorts
Shapewear shorts provide coverage through the hips and thighs, with tummy support depending on the design.
Choose a length that stays above your outfit’s hem, and check it while sitting as well as standing.
Shapewear bodysuits
Shapewear bodysuits connect upper- and lower-torso coverage in one piece. Different necklines, straps and bottom styles help you match the garment to your clothing.
Consider bust fit, torso length and bathroom access before choosing.
Shaping tanks and camis
Shaping tanks and camis offer torso smoothing in a top you can layer beneath shirts, sweaters or jackets.
Check the neckline, straps and length so the piece works with the clothes you wear most often.
Butt-enhancing shapewear
Butt-enhancing shapewear includes styles designed to lift, frame or add volume to your bum.
Choose between a lifting design and padding based on the effect you prefer. Check each product’s description for its construction and padding details.
Shaping clothing
Shaping clothing combines outfit-ready styles with built-in shaping features.
Explore pieces you can wear as part of your outfit, and check the product details for coverage, lining and styling guidance.
Waist trainer leggings
Waist trainer leggings combine leggings with an adjustable corset-style waistband.
Consider the waistband height, fabric and closure comfort when choosing your style. Follow the specific product’s sizing advice rather than assuming every pair fits the same way.
How do I choose my shapewear size?
Start with the BodyFlexx Size Guide, then check the guide assigned to the specific product you want.
Measure your waist and hips, plus your bust when the chart includes it. Keep the measuring tape level and close to your body without pulling it tight.
For bodysuits, consider torso length as well as circumference. A piece can fit around your waist and hips but still feel too short or too long through the body.
If your measurements fall across different sizes, email info@shopbodyflexx.com with your measurements and the product you are considering.
Should I size down for stronger shaping?
Do not automatically choose a smaller size to get more compression. Start with the product’s size chart and follow its specific fit notes.
For more support, look for a design intended to provide firmer shaping. A comfortable fit helps the fabric sit evenly and lets you move more easily.
What is the difference between smoothing and sculpting?
These terms describe the effect a garment is designed to create:
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Smoothing helps clothing sit more evenly over your body.
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Shaping provides more noticeable support in selected areas.
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Sculpting generally describes a firmer, more structured shaping effect.
The feel depends on the fabric, construction and shaping panels. These descriptions are a general guide; read each product’s details rather than assuming every style offers the same compression.
Which shapewear should I choose for tummy control?
Consider how much of your midsection you want covered and what you plan to wear over it.
High-waisted briefs and shorts offer focused coverage through the waist and tummy, depending on the design. Bodysuits provide connected torso coverage, while shaping tanks work as layers beneath tops.
Explore our Tummy Control Shapewear collection to compare options.
If you prefer shaping support in leggings, browse Waist Trainer Leggings and compare the waistband heights and features on each product page.
Which styles offer waist and hip shaping?
Look for coverage and shaping panels positioned around the areas you want supported.
A high-waisted style may suit your preferred waist coverage, while shorts or bodysuits can extend coverage over the hips. The exact effect depends on the garment’s cut and construction.
Browse Waist & Hip Shaping to find styles focused on this area.
What is the difference between butt-lifting and padded shapewear?
Butt-lifting styles use their cut and construction to support or frame your natural shape. Padded styles add volume through built-in or removable padding, depending on the product.
Explore Booty Lift & Enhancement, then check each product’s description to choose the effect you prefer.
What should I choose for back, thigh or leg smoothing?
For back coverage, check how high the garment sits and whether its upper edge works with your neckline and outfit. Explore Back Smoothing Shapewear to compare designs.
For more coverage through the thighs and legs, consider the garment’s length and where its edges will sit beneath your clothing. Browse Thigh & Leg Smoothing for options.
How should shapewear feel?
Your shapewear should feel secure and supportive. Once it is in place, check that you can sit, bend and walk comfortably.
Look for fabric that lies evenly, straps that stay in place and edges that feel comfortable against your skin. If you need to keep pulling or adjusting the garment, check the size, coverage and fit.
Why does my shapewear roll down or ride up?
Rolling or riding can happen when the size, garment length or cut does not suit your body or outfit. It can also happen when the fabric is not pulled into position evenly.
Try these adjustments:
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Pull the garment into place gradually.
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Smooth out folds around the waist, hips and legs.
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Check that straps and closures are adjusted comfortably.
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Recheck the size guide and product fit notes if the problem continues.
A taller waistband or a bodysuit may suit you better if you prefer more connected torso coverage.
Do I wear underwear with shapewear?
Check the product’s design and description. Some styles are intended to replace underwear, while others work as an additional layer.
Look for information about the gusset, lining and intended use. If you prefer underwear underneath, choose a smooth pair and check that the extra layer does not bunch.
How do I keep shapewear discreet under clothing?
Match the shapewear to the outfit before choosing your level of support.
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Under light fabrics, choose a colour close to your skin tone.
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Under fitted clothing, look for smooth edges and minimal seams.
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With shorter skirts, check the shorts’ length while sitting.
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With low necklines or open backs, check that straps and garment edges stay covered.
Try on the complete outfit and check it in natural light.
Can shapewear be part of my outfit?
Absolutely! Explore BodyFlexx Shaping Clothing for styles that combine outfit-ready coverage with shaping features. Check the product description for lining, opacity and styling details.
How do I care for shapewear?
Follow the care label for your specific piece. Different fabrics, padding and closures may need different care.
If machine washing is permitted, a garment bag can help protect delicate details. Fasten hooks before washing and follow the label’s drying instructions. For more detailed instructions about proper shapewear care read How to Wash & Care for Your Shapewear.
Find your comfortable fit
The right shapewear works with your body, your outfit and your preferences. Start with the coverage you want, check your measurements and choose features that make getting dressed easier.
Need help deciding? Email info@shopbodyflexx.com with the style you are considering and your measurements.
