Undergarment Solutions I Love
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Undergarment Solutions I Love
Spring and summer dress seasons are on the horizon, or maybe you’re lucky enough to live somewhere where it’s already in full swing! Either way, special occasions seem to be on top of your mind, according to my DM’s lately, so I thought it’d be a perfect time to revisit some of my favorite undergarment solutions.
In case you missed it, I recently shared your guide to shopping for special occasion dresses. So if you’re searching for a perfect dress/jumpsuit for a wedding, shower, graduation, etc., check out that post for all the inspiration! I’ve also shared your top 15 most asked undergarment questions, inspiration to refresh your underwear drawer, strapless bras/solutions for every occasion, an honest review on SKIMS, and a beginner’s guide to shapewear. These posts are packed with information, so feel free to peruse through!
TOP SHORTS | BOTTOM SHORTS (USE CARALYN10)
RACERBACK BRA STRAP CONVERTER
SILICONE REUSABLE NIPPLE COVERS (USE CODE CARALYN)
shapewear 101
Today, I’d like to revisit a few of my favorite solutions I’ve tried and loved. It may be helpful to revisit that not all shapewear styles (even among brands) are the same. Spanx created a measuring system with levels 0-3 support that I like to use and refer to often when explaining shapewear. As a refresher:
LEVEL 0:
no support/shaping, just worn as a lightweight undergarment or modesty layer to avoid chafing/rubbing
LEVEL 1:
gentle smoothing, consider this a light hug and ideal for everyday wear
LEVEL 2:
shaping, consider this more of a firm hug with more tummy support, concealing of bumps, and more smoothing. Depending on your comfort level and outfit choice, this can be worn every day or for more special occasions.
LEVEL 3:
sculpting, consider this a super firm hug. This is the highest level of support you can get, the maximum amount of compression. I personally only wear these pieces for special occasions.
SCULPTING BRALETTE | SIENNA 2X
SCULPTING SHORT MID THIGH W/ OPEN GUSSET | SIENNA × 2X/3X
STRAPLESS BODYSUIT (XL - USE CARALYN10)
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
When fitted and sized correctly, these pieces will be comfortable and stay in place all day (no rolling). If you’re having issues with rolling, you may need to experiment with different sizes (size up or size down, you know your body best) and perhaps the rise of the garment (mid-rise vs. high rise). Everybody is unique, and undergarments are based on preference, so what I love and what works for me may be different than what works for you. It may require some trial and error, and remember that is okay! I like to try things on at home when I’m cool and dry, and this also allows me to try on with items I own at home.
My code CARALYN10 at Spanx works for free returns, so it may be helpful to buy/try a few different sizes to see what works best. I wear everything from L-1X, depending on the style and how I prefer things to fit.
If you’ve made it this far, kudos to you! Remember that no one needs to wear shapewear, but if you’d like to explore, know you have options, and I’m happy to share my learnings with you!
A FEW OF MY FAVORITE shapewear solution SHORTS + PANTIES
If you’re looking for maximum support (level 3), you’ll want to consider the Oncore line of shapewear solutions. They come in a few different silhouettes and rises so that you can determine the best style for you and your garment of choice, visit the entire collection here.
If you’re looking for more wearable, everyday pieces that still offer great support but not as much (more level 2), I love the Thinstincts collection. They also come in a few different silhouettes and rises so that you can determine the best style for you and your garment of choice, visit the entire collection here! If you caught my previous SKIMS review, I think most of their pieces fall around a 1.5/3 on the support scale.
In my current phase of life (pregnancy), I am not looking for much support and shaping, as it’s not very comfortable for me right now. I recently discovered the Ahhh-llelujah® 'Fit to You' collection, and it’s perfect for level 0 smoothing that is great for super hot climates and everyday wear. I’m comfortably wearing the “OS plus size” right now. If you are a fellow mama-to-be, both Spanx and Skims have fantastic maternity collections. I’ve purchased a few pieces that I have worn and plan on wearing in the coming months.
For more underwear/panty recommendations, check out this previous post.
tank tops, bodysuits + shapewear for jumpsuits/pants
Occasionally, I’m asked for sculpting/shaping tank top options. For level 2 support, I have tried and liked this Thinstincts tank top. For a level 1.5, I’ve tried and linked this new Socialite style!
The bodysuits shown above are just a tiny glimpse in the options that you have! I linked a low plunge option (for low front or back styles) and an open bust style, which I wore something similar for my wedding. I also shared my thoughts on the viral SKIMS one on my previous SKIMS review.
If you’re looking for some smoothing/shaping underneath jumpsuits/pants, I love the Capri-length options that allow you to have a seamless look on your leg.
RETAILERS TO SHOP FOR SHAPEWEAR SOLUTIONS
It’s no secret that I love Spanx and SKIMS, as mentioned several times throughout this post. As I’ve said before, undergarments are based on preference, and I do believe that when fitted properly, you get what you pay for, and they will last you. With that said, there are other options. Here are some of my other preferred retailers for all different price points.
AMAZON | MAIDENFORM | SKIMS | SPANX (use CARALYN10) | TC FINE INITIMATES | WACOAL
SHAPEWEAR SHORT (SIZE X-LARGE - USE CARALYN10)
OUTFIT DETAILS HERE
Ok, now… where to begin?
If your head is spinning with information overload, do not fret! I would encourage you to take a step back and start thinking about what you want shapewear for, and what solution you want to solve. Are you looking for something for every day? Maybe something levels 0-2 would be suitable for your wardrobe. Or perhaps you have a specific dress/style that you’re shopping for, a specialty piece may be more what you’re looking for. You’re always free to leave a comment on the blog or email me (caralyn@caralynmirand.com) with a photo of the solution you’re hoping to solve, and I’d be happy to troubleshoot, but I do encourage you to take another look through the endless resources I have created here! I sincerely hope this is helpful, feel free to leave any questions or requests you have below. Thanks for reading!
xx CMK
