Understanding the Different Levels of Compression in Shapewear Fabric

When choosing shapewear, it is important to consider the types of outfits you will wear it with and the level of shaping and support you require. The kind of fabric you choose also makes a difference.

Typically made from soft, breathable fabrics like nylon, light compression shapewear offers subtle body-smoothing control for everyday wear and comfort. It is designed to withstand multiple washes and still maintain its elasticity.

Light Compression

The most common shapewear fabric combines nylon and elastane, creating a firm but flexible fit. The material hugs the body and smooths out lumps and bumps, creating an overall slimming effect. It can also help reduce the appearance of cellulite. The key is to choose a fabric that won’t feel too tight, cut off circulation, or be uncomfortable.

When choosing light-control shapewear, look for options with minimal stitching or construction details to avoid visible lines or bunching under your clothes. Look for seamless possibilities for pieces with laser-cut edges or bonded seams. This can prevent skin irritation and ensure your shapewear is breathable and comfortable for long periods.

While many people use shapewear to lose weight, it’s important to remember that it is not intended for medical purposes. Medical-grade compression garments reduce swelling and aid in recovery from surgeries or injuries. They typically have a number that states the amount of pressure it will exert on your body in millimetres per mercury (mmHg).

If you want to start with a lighter compression level, try a compression fabric for shapewear. They’re a great choice for everyday use and can help you achieve a more sculpted figure under your favourite outfits. It’s important to note that shapewear should be worn only sometimes. You should give your body and skin a break between wearing the garments to allow it to breathe, sit, and move naturally.

Moderate Compression

A little heavier and more structured than light shapewear, medium compression is a good choice for sliming their silhouettes while still feeling comfortable during all-day wear. Typically made from breathable fabrics, like microfiber and stretchy nylon, this shapewear level offers gentle shaping and smoothing without being too tight or restrictive. It’s often designed to withstand repeated washings and wearing, making it an ideal option for everyday use under your favourite dresses or shirts.

While this type of shapewear is also a great solution for women who want to slim down the torso and help improve posture, it’s more commonly used by women experiencing mild to moderate chronic issues that can benefit from graduated compression. This includes swollen ankles, varicose veins and phlebitis (deep vein thrombosis). Medical-grade shapewear, or fajitas as they’re sometimes known, is usually prescribed by doctors to patients suffering from these conditions because of their targeted compression that encourages blood circulation, reduces swelling, decreases pain and promotes healing.

When choosing the right compression level for you, it’s important to consider what kind of dress you’ll be wearing and your body type. The garments may become more uncomfortable as your bump grows, but they won’t cause any harm to you or your baby. If you’re interested in more specifics, she recommends contacting your healthcare professional for a consultation.

As for the best type of shapewear to buy, you’ll want to look for high-quality materials. The fabric should be breathable, OEKO-TEX standard and soft. Additionally, make sure the shapewear is seamless to avoid any irritation. Look for a style that fits you well, and remember to check for waist trainers with built-in support.

Firm Compression

When you think of shapewear, you probably imagine Spanx or similar undergarments that offer smoothing and shaping for a tighter silhouette under certain outfits. But many people need to realise that different types of shapewear are made from varying compression levels, which can make a big difference in how it looks under your clothes.

Light-compression shapewear is usually breathable and designed to be worn all day long. It’s ideal for those who want extra help smoothing their bumps, bulges, and other imperfections to achieve the perfect body silhouette under their clothes.

Medium-compression shapewear offers more intense shaping and contouring but allows you to breathe comfortably. It’s best for those who need extra support to help define their waist, tone their back and hips, lift their butt, and more. It’s also a great choice to wear under dresses and other formal attire.

Firm or high-compression shapewear is more restrictive than the other two types, but it’s still breathable and comfortable to wear under your everyday clothing. It’s also ideal for special occasions like weddings or red-carpet events. It’s also a great option to wear daily if you want a more sculpted, slimming look under your clothing and to help improve posture and reduce back pain.

Medical-grade compression garments are more specialized than shapewear, and they’re typically intended to be worn all the time to assist with the healing process of surgical wounds, aid in recovery from vascular conditions like lymphedema or phlebitis, and improve general circulation. They will also often have a stated compression range that explains how much pressure the garment will exert on your body in millimetres of mercury (mm/Hg).