While traditional women’s underwear provides basic modesty, contemporary shapewear puts in serious work — smoothing, lifting and shaping. Many shoppers are introduced to shapewear in the lead-up to a big event, like a wedding or formal occasion in which shapewear’s smoothing capabilities will best show off a bridal gown or slinky dress.
New mothers may also benefit from shapewear, with corset-like garments commonly referred to as “waist trainers” giving much-needed back support and even encouraging tummies to return to their pre-baby size.
But with more shapewear than ever available to shoppers, experts say that anyone can take advantage of the category’s figure-flattering possibilities. “Shapewear is no longer your grandma’s girdle,” says Nordstrom National Fit Director Liisa Thorson. “It has evolved to include sexy yet functional options for women to wear daily.”
She adds: “Shapewear can give a confidence boost, which is why so many people wear it. It not only gives a secure feeling, but offers a great silhouette and smooths out any lumps and bumps, which overall can make you look slimmer and prevent clothing from clinging in all the wrong places.”
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