So you’ve dug out your little black dress only to find it’s a little tighter than the last time your wore it and your silhouette is not quite as it once used to be.  That’s where shape wear comes to the rescue working it’s magic underneath your clothing by supporting and smoothing any problem area, creating a smooth surface on which to lay your outfit.

Available in a variety of different styles there are plenty of options to choose from.  Here are some areas of the body that shape wear targets:

• Tummy – helps to smooth and support the tummy
• Waist – helps to smooth and contour curves at the waist
• Hips – smooths and supports the thighs
• Thighs – works by smoothing and slimming the thighs
• Bottom – knickers which enhance the buttocks giving lift and shape
• Arms – arm tights to slim and cover the arms

Below you can find what shape wear type would be the best for you depending on the area you would like to target.

Tummy & Waist

High waisted briefs and body shape wear are great for flattening and smoothing the tummy while corsets are worn to create contours and sinch in the waist.

Miraclesuit – Hi – Waist Slip £34.95 – Victoria’s Little Bra Shop, Dorking

Miraclesuit – Sheer Waist Brief – £39.95 – Victoria’s Little Bra Shop, Dorking

Hourglass Firm Control Back Smoothing Waist Cincher – Black – £35.00 – Pourmoi

Target Area: Hips & Thighs

To transform your hips and slim down your thighs opt for a  a pair of control tights, spanx or a half-slip. These will help to tighten the hip area, which will make you feel confident with your curves. Half-slips are also perfect to wear under a dress or skirt.

Spanx Power Shorts – £30.00 – Selfridges

Miraclesuit – Hi-Waist Slip – £51.95 – Victoria’s Little Bra Shop, Dorking

Target Area: Buttocks

If it’s a bum lift your looking for try a pair of shorts which lift and define the derriere.  Alternatively you can opt for padded knickers which help to shape you buttocks and give them a nice lift.

Miraclesuit – Rear Lifting Short – £35.95 – Victoria’s Little Bra Shop, Dorking

Spanx – Simplicity Butt Boosting Shorts – £36.00 – Figleaves

Target Area: Arms

For those who are self-conscious about their arms, arm shape wear will help define your arms underneath your outfit. Alternatively mesh and lace arm cover up’s are perfect for slipping under sleeveless tops and dresses giving a sheer look and ultimate confidence.

Spanx – Arm Tights

Light Control Lace Armwear – £36.00 – Marks and Spencer

Lastly don’t forget to be comfortable in what you are wearing and always get the right size!