Image from Perth Now
Shapewear has been around for hundreds of years - the earliest record dates back to 1600 BC in the Mycenaean Greek period where undergarments were created that accentuated female waist, hips and breasts. Its key role throughout history has been to adhere to the societal trend of whatever the desired female form was at the time.
In modern times, with the rise of body confidence in all female forms, shapewear plays a key role as a tool to empower individuals and boost self confidence. With its abilities to enhance and contour, it plays an important role in modern fashion and changes the way we perceive style and body positivity.
Modernising Shapewear
Once the domain of middle-aged women searching for garments to suck and tuck for special occasions, shapewear has become normalised in recent years. Brands like Spanx and Skims have turned an outdated concept on its head, offering up shapewear solutions that can be worn as outerwear, and with modern comfort and styling options.
Many shapewear brands, such as
Figur by Jules Robinson focus on shapewear as a celebration of the female form, regardless of size - its about making people feel more confident in their skin.
Kim Kardashians shapewear business: ‘Skims’ was described by Kardashian as ‘solutionwear’.
Jens Grede, the CEO and co-founder of Skims: “Our goal was to challenge the outdated conventions of wearing shapewear to slim [the body]...it was also with the intention of reinvigorating a tired industry.”
Shapewear as Outerwear
Influenced by celebrities, many people are wearing shapewear as outerwear (the
Kardashian sisters in particular). Once a ‘hidden secret;’, the shaping and contouring powers of shapewear extend to outerwear, instilling confidence in its wearers. Shapewear isn't just about creating a smoother look; it's about helping women feel confident and beautiful everyday. This enables the products to take on a transformative effect, smoothing the lumps and bumps and boosting confidence for its wearers.