Let’s talk about shapewear. It’s kind of an interesting topic and it’s one that can bring up a bit of controversy. Especially in an era of body positivity, why would a curvy girl want to wear shapewear?
At Love Marlow, we are big believers in wearing clothing that makes you feel good, and doing whatever you need to gain that feeling. We know that if you are comfortable in what you’re wearing, confidence tends to follow! There are some cases where Shapewear makes certain clothing easier to wear and we are absolutely here to support you in making that decision for yourself!
There are many reasons why Plus Size Shapewear, such as the Spanx brand we carry in store and online, can help boost confidence in an outfit. But it isn't as simple as grabbing any type of shapewear and wearing it with any outfit.
Here’s our simple rules:
- Buy the right size, no one should feel squeezed into shapewear
- Pair the right shapewear with the right outfit
- Know when and where shapewear is appropriate
- Understand that shapewear is meant to accentuate your curves, not completely transform them. They aren’t a corset.
Purchasing The Right Shapewear
First things first, not all shapewear is alike. They aren't just something that “sucks” you in. Shapewear ‘shapes’ your natural curves, highlighting those angles and providing support where needed. It should never feel like you are squeezed into them.
That's where the proper sizing comes in. One common mistake women make when selecting shapewear is going too small. Shapewear should NOT be suffocating. If you are uncomfortable wearing Spanx for an extended period of time, then it’s likely too small for you. Shapewear will help to smooth your curves, but it isn’t meant to be a corset.
The same can be said for selecting shape wear that is too large! As plus size women, sometimes we tend to order a size larger just for comfort level and to not feel too constricted. However, shapewear is meant to "shape" your curves, not just cover them. This is why picking the proper type of shapewear is important. The leg length, bodice length and coverage should be considered depending on the type of clothing you are wearing the shapewear with.
There are also so many different kinds of shapewear! There’s shorts, briefs, high rise, mid rise, bodysuits, tanks...you get the picture. So what should you wear and when? Let’s dive into that subject.
Wearing Shapewear
Again, the reason to wear shapewear isn’t just to smooth your curves or hide some sort of imperfection you are self-conscious about. No, shapewear can empower you and bring confidence to wear an outfit you might normally avoid.
One main reason to wear shapewear is to avoid the dreaded thigh rub. Some plus size women, particularly those who have a little more to love through the legs (check out our Identifying Body Shapes article if you’re curious about learning how to dress for your body!), may experience chub rub. Many plus size women avoid dresses and skirts because it is painful to have skin rubbing all day long.
Shapewear to the rescue! Select our Spanx Short options to wear beneath any type of skirt or dress. Not only will it help with the thigh rub, but it will also help you feel more comfortable through the midsection or put away any worries exposing a little too much.
We offer several Spanx Short options. Differences include differing short lengths, high rise or standard rise, a shaper, and even a body suit! We recommend having a few different types of shapewear shorts on hand, afterall, not all dresses are the same so your shapewear shouldn't be either!
Love Marlow’s Shapewear Options Are Perfect For Any Occasion
Browse our current collection of Spanx by reading below or shopping our Spanx Tab on our website. If you have questions, be sure to reach out! We want to put those misconceptions about shapewear to rest and help you find the perfect pair to highlight your natural beauty and help you feel more confident in any outfit!
Spanx© Thinstincts® HIGH-WAISTED MID-THIGH
These high-waisted, mid-thigh length shorts are perfect for longer dresses and skirts! They can even be worn under lighter colored linen pants if you’re worried about that see-through effect.
Thinstincts® is designed with targeted shaping support. We engineered this fan-favorite style to target your lower stomach and added performance features like breathability. Engineered shaping panel provides more lower tummy control. Micro-fiber offers lightweight, breathable feel. Elastic-free – no pinching. Cotton gusset makes panties optional & eliminates VPL (Visible Panty Lines). Support Level 2: Shape - A Firm Hug.
Spanx© Thinstincts® MID-THIGH SHORT
This is a slightly shorter version & perfect for sundresses that high right above the knee. Because they hit at the mid thigh, we don’t recommend wearing under pants as there will be a visible line on the thigh. Try the longer version for those cases!
Thinstincts® is designed with targeted shaping support. We engineered this fan-favorite style to target your lower stomach, and added performance features like breathability. Engineered shaping panel to provide more lower tummy control. Microfiber offers lightweight, breathable feel. Elastic-free – no pinching. Cotton gusset makes panties optional & eliminates VPL (Visible Panty Lines). Support Level 2: Shape - A Firm Hug.
Spanx© ONCORE SHAPER
The Oncore Shaper is for you gals who are looking for some great smoothing and accenting of your curves! Perfect for body-con dresses or anything where you need a little extra shaping.
These shapers are high-waisted and go all the way to the mid-thigh. They are seamless and lightweight. Have targeted sculpting that has bonded tummy and side panels. The butt pockets prevent uni-butt from happening, (you know, where it looks like you only have one cheek!) It comes in a nylon fabric to prevent certain fabrics catching.
Spanx© ONCORE OPEN-BUST MID-THIGH BODYSUIT
Looking for a total transformation? You’re in the right place. This sculpting shaper is lightweight and powerful, featuring fully-bonded front-panels for a tabletop flat stomach, and edge-bonded side panels for comfortable, squeeze-free slimming
Love The Skin You're In
Shapewear isn't for all occasions and it shouldn't be a crutch to making you feel beautiful! At Love Marlow, we believe that the right outfit, with shapewear or without, can help transform that way you think about yourself. We are adamant that all women are beautiful, no matter the size. Not convinced? Stop into our Lake Lorraine location in Sioux Falls South Dakota and we promise to help you find something perfect for you!
