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5 facts and myths about shapewear

How to emphasise your body shape using the right shapewear.

Lim Yian Lu

·Contributor

Updated 29 August 2023 at 2:17 am·3-min read

A woman fastens a corset for figure correction. (Photo: Getty)

Shapewear, or foundation garment, has been around for a long time. In the past, it may be better known as corsets. The foundation garment now has undergone tremendous modifications but its function largely remains the same: to emphasise body shape.

If you’re wondering if getting a suitable shapewear is worth your time and money, here are five facts and myths about this foundation garment to help you decide.

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1. Fact: It makes you more confident.

Using compression to sculpt and smooth target areas, shapewear streamlines your body shape. It helps to create an even and seamless look under your clothes, making you feel more confident in your outfit.

Shapewear also provides posture support by pulling in your tummy or making you sit or stand straight. A better posture not only makes you look more confident, but it also lightens the load on your joints and spine.

Commando Classic Control Shorts (Nude / Caramel)

(lowest price we've seen this year)

S$78.65 at Shopbop

Commando Classic Control Shorts (Nude / Caramel). (Photo: Shopbop)

Commando The Sexy Sheer Tights (Medium Nude / Black)

S$51.53 at Shopbop

2. Myth: It helps you lose weight.

While shapewear may make you appear slimmer or more toned, it does not actually help you slim down or permanently reshape your body. It does, however, motivate you to lose weight as you envision a slimmer figure. Feeling positive is a start to achieving your fitness goals!

Cosabella NSN Sexy Shaper Thong (Black)

S$84.07 at Shopbop

SPANX Higher Power Shorts (Cafe au Lait / Chestnut Brown / Very Black / Soft Nude)

S$51.53 at Shopbop

3. Myth: It is uncomfortable.

The corsets in the past are made of steel, which screams nothing but stiffness and discomfort. But the foundation garment now is designed for everyday wear. With the right size for your body type, just like any other piece of garment, shapewear should not confine your movements or even make it difficult to breathe.

COMMANDO Stretch-microfiber slip dress (Beige / Black)

S$227 at Net-A-Porter

SKIMS Everyday Sculpt High Waist Thong - Clay

S$53 at Net-A-Porter

4. Fact: It promotes sweating.

As shapewear makes use of compression to work its magic, it inadvertently makes you feel warm. Wearing shapewear when you’re exercising thus stimulates perspiration and increases the workout intensity.

SPANX Thinstincts 2.0 bodysuit (Black / Beige / Neutral)

S$139 at Net-A-Porter

Marks & Spencer Body Define Firm Control Shaping Slip

S$79.95 at Marks & Spencer Singapore

Body Define™ Firm Control Shaping Slip. (PHOTO: Marks & Spencer)

5. Myth: It is not body-positive.

Although everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their own skin, shapewear exists to give you more support in your overall confidence. Just like how makeup enhances your look, shapewear improves your figure. It is an accessory that is not to be ashamed of.

STELLA MCCARTNEY Ivy Chatting stretch-cotton bodysuit (Black / White)

S$115 ~~S$231.55~~ at The Outnet

AGENT PROVOCATEUR Florella embroidered stretch-mesh bodysuit (Light Blue)

S$585 ~~US$1,600~~ at The Outnet

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