Shapewear is underwear made from graduated compression fabrics that define the silhouette of the belly, waist, hips, and thighs under clothing, without permanently altering the body. There are different levels of support – light, medium, strong – to choose from based on the occasion and the area to be shaped.
Updated July 2026. In this guide, you’ll find out what it is, how it works, what types exist, how to choose the right size and support level, when to wear it, and how to care for it.
What is shapewear and how does it work?
Shapewear is a technical garment that works through graduated compression: the pressure is not uniform, but more pronounced on the belly and hips and lighter towards the edges, to shape without creating marks or constrictions. The result depends on three technical factors.
- Elastic fabrics: elastane, microfiber, and nylon in balanced percentages ensure both containment and freedom of movement.
- Seamless technology: the absence of side seams eliminates visible marks under tight clothing or light fabrics. The same principle applies to invisible underwear under clothes, where the choice of model also matters.
- Anatomical design: compression panels follow the body's natural lines instead of compressing it uniformly.
Shapewear does not cause weight loss and has no permanent effects: it only works while being worn, improving how clothes look and how one perceives their own silhouette.
What materials make shapewear effective?
The quality of a shaping garment depends on the balance between elasticity and containment, not just the percentage of elastane stated on the label.
- Elastane (or spandex): generally between 8% and 20% of the fabric, it ensures elastic recovery and maintains compression over time.
- Microfiber and nylon: form the base of the fabric, offering softness against the skin and resistance to daily wear.
- OEKO-TEX certified fabrics: exclude harmful substances and are more suitable for prolonged use in direct contact with the skin.
Shapewear differs from traditional underwear precisely because of this combination: it doesn't just cover, but actively works to streamline the silhouette, reduce visible lines under clothes, and offer targeted support for the waist and back, without compromising freedom of movement.
What types of shapewear exist?
Each type is designed for a specific body area and type of clothing. The table summarizes the main categories available.
| Type | Area shaped | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| High-waisted girdle | Belly, waist, hips | Tight dresses, high-waisted trousers, daily wear |
| Push-up girdle | Hips and buttocks | Jeans and trousers, lifting effect |
| High-waisted shaping briefs | Belly and hips | Daily wear, under skirts and light dresses |
| Shaping bodysuit | Torso, waist, belly | Elegant dresses, special occasions |
| Shaping camisole | Torso and waist | Under shirts and tight tops |
| Shaping top | Torso, back, waist | Light support for the upper body |
Among the most popular models are the high-waisted shaping girdle, suitable for uniform containment of the belly and hips, and the push-up girdle, Risalti's bestseller for those also seeking a lifting effect on the buttocks. For a lighter garment to wear daily under skirts and flowing dresses, the high-waisted shaping brief is the most versatile solution.
How to choose the right shapewear size?
The most common mistake is choosing a smaller size, thinking it will provide stronger shaping. In reality, the opposite happens: a size too small creates marks, redness, and discomfort, while a size too large does not provide enough support and slips throughout the day.
The practical rule is to always choose your usual underwear size, comparing it with the brand's size chart, which takes into account waist and hip circumference. If your measurements fall between two sizes, it's better to go for the larger one: a good shaping garment contains through technical fabric, not through constriction.
Girdle or bodysuit: how to choose based on the outfit?
The choice between different models depends primarily on the garment worn over it, rather than personal preference.
- Under a long dress or a form-fitting dress, a shaping bodysuit covers the torso and waist in one piece, avoiding the "double waist" effect typical of separate girdles and bras.
- Under trousers and skirts, a high-waisted girdle contains the belly and hips while remaining invisible under the waistband.
- With tight tops and shirts, a shaping camisole or top defines the bust and waist without interfering with the fit of the upper body.
Those who often wear different outfits can opt for multiple types, to alternate based on the day's clothing, instead of relying on a single model for every occasion.
What support levels to choose based on the occasion?
The compression level should be matched to the context of use, not always chosen at maximum.
- Light: for daily use under trousers, skirts, and work dresses, all day without fatigue.
- Medium: for defining the silhouette under tight clothing, the most common balance between comfort and visual effect.
- Strong: for special occasions, ceremonies, or very form-fitting dresses, when use is limited to a few hours.
Those looking for a garment to wear for a long time, for example in the office, should prioritize light or medium containment: strong compression for prolonged use can be uncomfortable even with the best materials.
When is it advisable to wear shapewear?
Shapewear is useful in various situations, not just for special events.
- Under tight clothing, made of light or semi-transparent fabrics
- During ceremonies, events, or days when an elegant outfit is worn
- In the daily routine, for a cleaner fit under trousers and skirts
- As a more natural alternative to rigid shapewear, when only light support is needed
For those seeking more targeted containment for the abdomen and waist, a control girdle is also an option to consider alongside classic shapewear, depending on the area to be worked on.
How to wash and care for shapewear?
The longevity of elasticity greatly depends on garment care.
- Wash by hand or in a machine at low temperatures, in a delicate laundry bag
- Avoid fabric softener and tumble dryer, which reduce fabric elasticity
- Always air dry, away from direct heat sources
- Replace the garment when it loses elasticity or no longer offers the same containment
Why choose Risalti shapewear?
Risalti produces 100% Made in Italy shapewear in Castel Goffredo (MN), using seamless technology that eliminates side seams and OEKO-TEX certified technical fabrics. The range includes girdles, briefs, bodysuits, camisoles, and shaping tops in various sizes and colors — black, white, natural, powder pink — designed to adapt to different body types and complexions.
In-house production allows direct control over every phase, from yarn selection to seamless manufacturing, reducing the seams that are the primary cause of visible marks under clothes in traditional underwear. This is a different approach compared to many international brands that outsource production: the close proximity between design and production allows for quicker adjustments to fit and materials based on customer feedback.
Those who want a garment with more targeted support for the bust and back can opt for the shaping bodysuit with adjustable straps, while for the upper body under shirts and tight tops, the wide-strap shaping camisole and the wide-strap shaping top are useful. The entire selection can be found in the women's shapewear collection, while those specifically looking for control girdles can start with the women's girdles collection.
For a more in-depth comparison of different shapewear brands and criteria for choosing the most suitable one, read the guide best shapewear brands: how to choose.
Frequently asked questions about shapewear
Is shapewear comfortable to wear all day?
Yes, if you choose the correct size and a light or medium support level. Modern seamless microfiber garments are designed for prolonged wear without marks or constriction.
Does shapewear make you lose weight?
No. It only works while being worn, compressing and defining the silhouette temporarily: it has no permanent effect on the body or weight.
Can shapewear be worn every day?
Yes, provided you choose a light or medium support level and breathable materials. Strong compression should be reserved for specific occasions and limited use.
What is the best shapewear for the tummy?
High-waisted girdles and shaping bodysuits offer the most effective containment for the belly and waist, thanks to graduated compression concentrated precisely in that area.
In summary
Shapewear is not meant to change the body, but to enhance it: the right choice starts with your usual size, the appropriate support level for the occasion, and quality seamless materials. Discover the women's bestsellers collection from Risalti to find the model that suits you best.
