How Safe Are Body Shapers?
Creating the look of a sleek silhouette through clothing is desired by both men and women alike. Many do not want to display their bulges or the unsightly "muffin top" in public. Body shapers are a quick fix way to hide these bulges and other perceived figure flaws. Body shapers are generally harmless but if you are not wise with the type, style, and size you purchase, you can do damage to your body. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The fashion history of shapewear began in the early 1500s with the creation of the corset which remained the main form of shapewear for the following three centuries. According to an article by Rachel Dodes in the "Wall Street Journal," panty girdles made in more flexible fabrics emerged in 1935. In 1959 shapewear was revolutionized with the invention of Lycra which provided firm yet flexible control. The end of the 20th century has seen the creation of shapewear that provides the same control as corsets but in lighter, more fashionable styles.
Sizing
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Body shapers are sold in mass retail with the size listed, so no personalized fittings are required. This leaves it up to you to know what your right size is. You may need to know your bust, waist and sometimes hip measurements. Most women know their bust measurement from wearing bras on a daily basis. If you do not know your waist and hip measurement you will need to measure these areas with a tape measure. Another trick to estimate what these measurements are is to look at the body shaper size chart or a size chart from a mail order clothing catalogue, find your clothing size and use the waist and hips measurements listed.
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Potential Health Benefits
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Some body shapers can aid physical health. Plastic surgeons often require patients who have surgery such as breast reduction to wear a compression garment around the chest area during recovery. Compression garments also help control fluid retention in the arms, legs and feet of people who suffer from such health conditions as diabetes and lymphedema. Unlike store bought body shapers, most compression garments are personalized to fit the wearer.
Risks
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While shapewear is generally safe they pose the same risks as any type of apparel if not properly worn. Corsets are infamously known for posing health risks such as shortness of breath and fainting due to the wearer lacing the corset too tightly around the body. Shapewear that covers the abdomen, such as girdles, support pantyhose and control top pantyhose, can cause acid reflux. Tight shapewear can also lead to embarrassing situations such as what happened to Yummie Tummie's 2009 Shapewear Story contest winner Amanda Davis. She wore a Spanx bodysuit that was so tight she had difficulty breathing and using the suit's crotchless feature in the restroom.
Considerations
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Purchasing body shapers in your size can eliminate any risks. Pay attention to how body shapers fit you. If you feel severe discomfort, consider purchasing a larger size.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Bob Bobster
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Comments
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gentaur
Nov 13, 2009
I used to wear those one piece body shapers that had the hook and eye closures at the crotch. Those things used to chaff me terribly!
