As a retailer in the highly competitive shapewear industry, staying ahead of market trends and understanding consumer preferences is crucial for maximizing sales and keeping your inventory aligned with demand. The European shapewear market has been growing steadily, driven by increasing awareness of body confidence and the demand for comfortable, effective shapewear.

In this guide, we’ll cover the 10 most popular and best-selling shapewear styles in Europe, providing insights into why these styles are in demand and how retailers can choose the right products for their stores.

1. High-Waisted Shapewear Shorts

High-waisted shapewear shorts are one of the most popular styles in the European market, known for their ability to smooth out the stomach and waist area. They also offer control over the hips and thighs, making them a versatile option for many customers.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Offers smooth, seamless shaping for the waist, hips, and thighs.
  • Comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Perfect for pairing with skirts, dresses, and fitted pants.

Retail Tip: Look for styles that offer breathable fabrics and stretch technology for comfort without compromising on control.

2. Full-Body Shapewear Bodysuits

Full-body bodysuits provide all-around shaping, offering support to the tummy, waist, back, and thighs. This style is especially popular in Europe because of its ability to provide a streamlined silhouette under tight clothing.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Ideal for creating a smooth, seamless figure.
  • Available in various compression levels to suit different needs.
  • Perfect for formal occasions or everyday wear under tight dresses.

Retail Tip: Consider stocking bodysuits with adjustable straps and reinforced panels for additional comfort and flexibility.

3. Waist Trainers

Waist trainers have gained immense popularity, especially in Europe’s fitness community. They are designed to provide targeted compression around the waist, helping to create an hourglass shape.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Provides an instantly slimmer waistline.
  • Often made of latex or similar materials for firm compression.
  • Can be worn for waist training or as daily shapewear.

Retail Tip: Focus on waist trainers with adjustable straps for a customizable fit, as well as those made from durable, high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.

4. Control Briefs

Control briefs are another popular choice for European consumers who want targeted shaping in the tummy and hips. These shapewear briefs are often low-waisted, offering light to moderate compression without being too restrictive.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Great for everyday wear.
  • Offers light control for those who want to smooth out problem areas without feeling constricted.
  • Can be worn under most types of clothing.

Retail Tip: Choose seamless or no-show edges for a discreet fit under clothing.

5. Butt-Lifting Shapewear

With the increasing demand for a toned, lifted look, butt-lifting shapewear has become a hot trend in the European market. These shapewear styles are designed to lift and round the bottom while smoothing out the stomach and hips.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Enhances the natural shape of the backside.
  • Comfortable and effective without the need for surgery or extensive workouts.
  • Popular among younger customers seeking a more sculpted look.

Retail Tip: Offer products with built-in padding or lifting panels for a more dramatic effect.

6. Postpartum Shapewear

Postpartum shapewear is specifically designed for women who have recently given birth. This type of shapewear offers light to moderate compression around the abdomen and helps to restore abdominal muscles and improve posture after childbirth.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Provides core support and helps with post-pregnancy recovery.
  • Aids in regaining confidence after childbirth.
  • Often recommended by healthcare professionals.

Retail Tip: Look for soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on sensitive skin, and consider offering styles that feature adjustable compression.

7. Lingerie-Style Shapewear

Lingerie-style shapewear combines functionality with elegance. These pieces are often made from lace, silk, or satin, offering shaping while still feeling luxurious and feminine.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Offers both shaping and a chic aesthetic.
  • Perfect for formal occasions, date nights, or as part of intimate apparel.
  • Popular among European consumers who prefer a mix of comfort and style.

Retail Tip: Choose shapewear with delicate fabrics and discreet shaping panels for a seamless look under clothing.

8. Thigh-High Shapewear

Thigh-high shapewear extends from the waist down to the thighs, providing control over the stomach, hips, and thighs. These are especially popular in warmer months when people prefer lightweight, breathable options.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Helps smooth out thigh bulges and cellulite.
  • Perfect for wearing with skirts, dresses, and shorts.
  • Often designed to stay in place with silicone bands or elastic edging.

Retail Tip: Offer styles with anti-slip technology to keep the shapewear securely in place throughout the day.

9. Arm Shapers

Arm shapewear has seen a rise in popularity, particularly among consumers who want to smooth out the upper arms without resorting to invasive procedures. These can be worn under sleeveless tops or dresses to enhance body confidence.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Smooths out the appearance of upper arms.
  • Great for those who want a more toned appearance without heavy workouts.
  • Light compression helps with circulation.

Retail Tip: Opt for soft, flexible materials that provide shaping without restricting movement.

10. Tummy Control Shapewear

Tummy control shapewear focuses on offering targeted compression for the abdominal area, helping customers achieve a flatter stomach and smooth out their silhouette. This style is one of the most common across Europe.

Why It’s Popular:

  • Provides instant tummy control.
  • Often designed to be discreet and comfortable for everyday wear.
  • Suitable for all body types and clothing choices.

Retail Tip: Focus on offering seamless designs with high-waisted cuts for better comfort and smoother results.

How Retailers Can Choose the Right Shapewear Styles for the European Market

As a retailer, choosing the right shapewear styles for your store can be challenging. To ensure you stock the most popular and best-selling items, consider the following tips:

  1. Understand Local Preferences: European customers tend to prefer comfort and practicality. Make sure your shapewear collections are designed for long-lasting wear and everyday use.

  2. Offer a Range of Sizes: Body inclusivity is key in the European market. Stock a range of sizes, including plus-size options, to cater to a wider customer base.

  3. Focus on Fabric Quality: Customers in Europe are increasingly demanding high-quality, breathable fabrics. Opt for materials that offer compression without sacrificing comfort.

  4. Stay on Trend: Keep an eye on the latest trends in shapewear, such as postpartum support, butt-lifting styles, and waist trainers. Offering the latest products will keep your collection fresh and attractive.

  5. Embrace Sustainability: Eco-conscious consumers are on the rise in Europe. Stock shapewear made from sustainable materials to meet the demand for environmentally friendly products.

Understanding the popular shapewear styles in the European market is crucial for retailers who want to stay competitive and cater to customer needs. By offering the right mix of high-waisted shapewear, full-body bodysuits, waist trainers, and postpartum options, you can ensure your store appeals to a wide range of customers. Focus on comfort, fabric quality, and size inclusivity to stand out in the competitive European market and boost your shapewear sales.