Happy Friday, friends! Today’s post is dedicated to special occasion shapewear. In my opinion, this subject isn’t talked about enough. So, I wanted to give you some parameters when it comes to choosing the best foundations for a special occasion dress, or evening gown.
First of all, as I was trying on gowns for my son’s wedding, I was told to take the shapewear and shoes that I thought I’d be wearing with the dress. That of course, is simply an educated guess, because I hadn’t even chosen a dress yet.
Once you have chosen the exact dress, then you will be able to figure out the appropriate shapewear (if any) you want for the look.
For example, you might need shapewear that is strapless, or has a plunging neckline, or something backless.
Also, the type of material also matters. For example, the satin material that my dress was made of was thin, and even though it was fully lined, I could see the lines of some of the thicker shapewear. Which of course, was what I was trying to avoid! So, back to square one on the shapewear drama.
Following are the shapewear styles that I ended up purchasing and trying on with my dress.
Wacoal Red Carpet Convertible Strapless Bra
This is the BEST strapless bra I’ve ever owned. I’ve worn it all summer long, and love it! It is very comfortable, and stays in place. I had this bra fitted for me in February since I knew I’d be wanting it with the wedding this summer.
Even though I didn’t end up wearing it for the actual wedding, I did take it to try on all the ‘mother of the groom’ dresses. But since the dress I wore was fitted in the back, I wanted some shapewear that smoothed out the silhouette.
I feel like this strapless bra runs true to size. Make sure to read all the details about sizing before ordering.
Spanx’s Suit Your Fancy Bodysuit
This is the piece that I ended up wearing underneath my ‘mother of the groom’ gown. Since my gown had one exposed shoulder, I simply removed one shoulder strap, and left the other in place.
Also, I wanted something that would smooth out the back silhouette, as well as not reveal any panty lines. So, this mid-thigh bodysuit was perfect! Also, it gave some tummy control, and the material wasn’t too thick, so you couldn’t tell I had on the bodysuit.
This bodysuit runs snug, so I sized up to a medium. Also, it does have a flap so that it is easy to use the restroom when needed. It was very comfortable, and it didn’t slide down, nor did I feel the need to pull it up all night.
Furthermore, this style comes with a set of clear straps and a bra strap converter.
Spanx High Waisted Shorts
Originally, I bought these shorts thinking I’d wear them and the strapless bra combo. However, once I tried them on with my gown, I noticed the rolls on my back and realized I needed something to help smooth out that as well.
So, even though I didn’t end up wearing these, I loved the compression and support they gave in the tummy area!
Another concern was if they’d end up rolling down as the night went on. Since I didn’t wear them for an extended period of time, I can’t be sure. However, due to the placement of the waistband, I’m afraid that was a high possibility. Also, the material at the bottom of the legs was thick, and I could see the lines through my dress.
I sized up to a medium in these shorts.
Honey Love LiftWear Cami Bodysuit
This bodysuit looked amazing, and I bought it because I wasn’t sure if the Spanx ‘Suit Your Fancy’ was going to arrive in time. It has tons of tummy support, and was very comfortable. However, it wasn’t strapless, and I was able to see panty lines under my gown.
However, I think this would be an amazing bodysuit if worn with a heavy fabric! (The satin gown I chose was not very forgiving.) If worn with slacks, or less fitted garments, I feel it would be a great supportive option!
I sized up to a medium in this brand as well. I am long in the torso and was afraid it would be too short.
Stylin Tape and Shape (Body) Tape
Finally, I also bought Stylin Tape which is double sided tape you can use on garments and on your own skin. It really does hold thing in place for an extended period of time without ruining the garment or bothering your skin! Highly recommend. We ended up using this tape on groomsmen’s ties, and bridesmaids dresses!
I also purchased Shape Tape which is a type of body shaping tape. It is intended to be used directly on your skin in place of a bra. My daughter never wears a strapless bra because they always fall down. Instead, she uses this tape (it gives instructions on different methods of placement depending on the garment) that lasts all for hours. She highly recommends it, especially for larger bust sizes.
There are so many GREAT options when it comes to shapewear these days! I will admit, they can be pretty pricey, but after purchasing an evening gown, shoes, accessories, etc, it’s important to look and feel confident in your foundations as well!
If you are looking for a mother or the bride or groom dress go check out, 3 Tips for finding a MOB/G Dress.
And, you’ll want to head on over to the Fashion tab for more daily style inspiration!
As always, I hope you’ve found this post valuable! I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions. Also, if you have any ideas for future posts, please drop them in the comments below!
Happy shopping!
XOXO,
Cindyh
