In the ever-evolving fashion industry, shapewear has quickly become a must-have in women’s wardrobes, and the U.S. market is no exception. As a retailer, understanding consumer demand and staying on top of trends is key to ensuring your store carries the right products. With shapewear continuing to gain popularity, choosing the best-selling and most loved designs for your inventory can significantly drive sales and customer satisfaction.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the 10 most popular shapewear styles in the U.S. market, providing you with valuable insights on consumer preferences, key features, and tips for making smart purchasing decisions. Whether you’re looking to update your existing inventory or stock up on new arrivals, this guide will help you understand what sells best and why.

 

1. High-Waisted Shapewear Shorts

High-waisted shapewear shorts have become a staple in many women’s shapewear collections, offering targeted compression around the waist, tummy, and thighs. These shorts are especially popular because they provide an hourglass figure and are versatile enough to be worn under various outfits.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Versatility: These shorts can be worn under dresses, skirts, or pants for an even, smooth shape.
  • Comfort: Made from breathable, stretchy fabrics, high-waisted shapewear is designed for all-day wear without discomfort.
  • Shaping Effect: They offer tummy control, thigh slimming, and waist shaping, making them a top choice for creating a flattering silhouette.

Retail Tip:

When purchasing high-waisted shapewear shorts, look for styles made with breathable fabrics such as cotton blends or moisture-wicking materials. Seamless designs and silicone waistbands help prevent rolling down, ensuring the product stays in place throughout the day.

 

2. Full-Body Shaping Bodysuits

Full-body shaping bodysuits offer comprehensive body shaping from the bust down to the hips. These bodysuits typically come with adjustable straps and varying levels of compression, providing full control and comfort.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Full Coverage: Bodysuits provide a full-body shaping solution that slims and smooths from head to toe.
  • Ideal for Dresses: They work well under form-fitting dresses, giving a sleek, smooth look.
  • Adjustable Fit: Many bodysuits feature adjustable straps, allowing for a customized fit and increased comfort.

Retail Tip:

When selecting full-body bodysuits, opt for designs that offer breathable, stretchy materials like spandex and nylon. Additionally, consider offering bodysuits with removable straps and open-crotch designs to cater to different customer needs.

 

3. Waist Trainers

Waist trainers have surged in popularity, often promoted on social media and by fitness enthusiasts. Made from latex or neoprene, waist trainers provide a high level of compression, helping to shape the waistline and improve posture.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Instant Results: Waist trainers offer an immediate waist-slimming effect, which appeals to many women looking for quick results.
  • Fitness Focused: Many women use waist trainers during workouts to intensify their exercise routine and achieve faster results.
  • Back Support: Besides slimming, waist trainers also provide additional back support, which is beneficial during long hours of standing or sitting.

Retail Tip:

For waist trainers, focus on latex-free options to cater to customers with sensitive skin. Ensure that your selection includes adjustable options for varying waist sizes. Breathable fabrics and flexible boning are essential for comfort during wear.

 

4. Shaping Camisoles and Tanks

Shaping camisoles and tanks are lightweight and perfect for everyday wear. These shapewear options provide light to medium control and are designed to be worn under daily outfits. Many of them feature built-in bras for additional support.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Everyday Wear: These garments are comfortable and can be worn under almost any outfit.
  • Light Shaping: They provide a softer, more natural shaping compared to heavier control garments.
  • All-day Comfort: Made from soft, breathable fabrics, they are perfect for long hours of wear.

Retail Tip:

When choosing camisoles and tanks, focus on seamless designs for a smooth finish under clothes. Adjustable straps and a built-in bra are key features that increase the product’s appeal. Consider offering a range of colors, especially neutral tones like nude, black, and white.

 

5. Shaping Underwear (High-Waisted)

Shaping underwear, particularly high-waisted designs, has become increasingly popular for women seeking tummy control and waist shaping without the full coverage of a bodysuit. Many designs also include butt-lifting features, enhancing the natural curve of the body.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Discreet: Shaping underwear is ideal for women who want a subtle solution for shaping and smoothing their figure.
  • Affordable: These are often more budget-friendly compared to full-body shapewear.
  • Comfortable: High-waisted shapewear provides gentle compression without feeling too restrictive.

Retail Tip:

Look for seamless options that provide a smooth, invisible fit under clothing. Offering a variety of sizes, including plus sizes, ensures you can cater to different body types. Focus on fabrics with spandex and elastane to provide stretch and flexibility.

 

6. Butt-Lifting Shapewear

Butt-lifting shapewear enhances the shape and lift of the buttocks, giving them a rounder, firmer appearance. These products often come with padding or seamless designs that create the illusion of a fuller, shapelier backside.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Enhanced Curves: Women seeking a fuller buttock shape are drawn to these products for the instant transformation.
  • Natural Look: Many styles mimic natural body curves, offering a subtle and comfortable lift.
  • Social Media Influence: With many influencers promoting the “perfect shape,” butt-lifting shapewear has become highly sought after.

Retail Tip:

Look for designs with removable padding for customizable shaping. Breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking blends are ideal for long-term wear. Focus on seamless designs that create a smooth and natural look under clothing.

 

7. Open-Bust Shapewear

Open-bust shapewear allows women to wear their favorite bras while still achieving body shaping. These designs focus on shaping the waist and torso, leaving the bust area free for more customized support.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Customizable Fit: Women can wear their favorite bra and still get the shaping they desire in the torso and waist.
  • Ideal for Larger Busts: These styles are often more comfortable for women with larger busts, offering support without compromising comfort.
  • Seamless Fit: Open-bust designs offer a seamless fit under various outfits.

Retail Tip:

Focus on high-quality fabric that provides both compression and comfort. Offering adjustable straps ensures that the garment fits a range of body types, and including plus-size options is essential for inclusivity.

 

8. Thigh Shaping Shorts

Thigh shaping shorts target the thigh area to smooth cellulite, reduce bulges, and create a leaner appearance. These products are particularly popular during warmer months or when women wear skirts and dresses.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Targeted Shaping: Women can target specific problem areas, such as inner thigh bulges or cellulite.
  • Prevent Chafing: Thigh shapers are perfect for preventing chafing between the thighs, especially in the summer.
  • Comfort: Made from soft, stretchy fabrics, these garments are designed for long-term wear.

Retail Tip:

Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that won’t cause discomfort. Seamless designs are essential to avoid visible lines under clothing. Consider offering a range of sizes to cater to different body shapes and needs.

 

9. Postpartum Recovery Shapewear

Postpartum shapewear is specially designed for new mothers to provide core support, help shrink the waist, and provide relief to the lower back. These garments are comfortable and gentle, making them ideal for the recovery phase after childbirth.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Postpartum Recovery: Provides support for the abdomen and lower back, helping women recover more comfortably.
  • Adjustable Fit: These garments often feature adjustable straps and waistbands to accommodate a woman’s changing body.
  • Confidence Boost: Many women feel more confident and comfortable when wearing postpartum shapewear.

Retail Tip:

Look for soft, stretchy fabrics that won’t irritate sensitive skin. Offering adjustable designs is important to accommodate the fluctuating body shapes that occur during postpartum recovery.

 

10. Arm Shaping Sleeves

Arm shaping sleeves target the arms to provide compression and slimming. These sleeves can be worn alone or paired with other shapewear garments to create a more toned, sculpted appearance.

Why Are They Popular?

  • Targeted Shaping: Women can focus on shaping the upper arms, a common problem area.
  • Comfortable Fit: Many arm shapewear designs are made from soft, stretchy fabrics that provide a comfortable, snug fit.
  • Discreet: Arm shapers can be worn under a variety of tops and dresses for a discreet, smooth look.

Retail Tip:

Opt for lightweight fabrics that offer gentle compression. Ensure your arm shapewear provides a seamless fit for a smoother look under clothing.

Selecting the right shapewear styles for your store involves a keen understanding of the U.S. market trends. Offering a variety of shapewear options—such as high-waisted shorts, full-body bodysuits, and waist trainers—ensures you cater to diverse customer needs. Keep an eye on comfort, adjustability, and fabric quality, as these are the top features customers look for in shapewear.

By stocking the best-selling styles and incorporating these popular designs into your store’s collection, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and drive sales while meeting the evolving demands of your customers.