Demand for body-contouring garments continues to rise. It offers you a lucrative opportunity to launch a private-label shapewear brand.
However, you need to carefully consider design, material, functionality, and market trends. Seems like a lot of work especially with your lingerie manufacturers. Well, no worries, our experts have crafted this guidebook.
We’ll walk you through the key factors of how to choose shapewear. Every detail plays a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction and brand success. You make informed decisions that align with your brand’s vision and customer needs.
Keep moving to understand the market trends and preferences of shapewear customers.
Table of Contents
Understanding Market Demand and Customer Preferences
That said, make sure you understand the market demand and know your customers well. There is a wide range of audiences with various needs. Shapewear is needed for everyday wear as well as for occasional use.
You should:
Identify Your Target Audience
Shapewear requirements are unique to the consumer segment. For instance: Seamless, breathable, and lightweight styles are favorites.
Customers want postpartum and maternity products that help them recover. It also provides some gentle compression and high-support garments. Shapewear for gym clothing and active users may find a way to link performance benefits.
Since non-essentials can sell out, particularly plus-sizes. Focus on inclusive sizing with compression and stretch material for plus-size customers. Arrange a product line that meets the expectations of customers.
You should gather Customer Feedback and Interact with possible purchasers. To understand their choices, you can conduct surveys, focus groups, or online communities.
The top concerns of customers include:
- Ease of use and breathable material: nobody wants shapewear that is too tight
- Durable and Quality: the products must hold their shape after a few washes.
- Fit and sizing: inclusive and accurate sizing helps cultivate brand confidence.
A better understanding of what customers want to buy will satisfy your audience. It would lead to faster sales and happy customers.
Analyze Market Trends
Analyze what competitors offer. Review social media exchanges to stay up to date with industry trends. Popular trends include:
- Seamless and invisible designs so that the wearer can wear them under any type of clothing.
- Shapewear with biodegradable or recyclable fabrics that are eco-friendly and sustainable.
- Compression levels can be adjusted and customized depending on the type of body.
This is an effective way to entice extra clients to purchase shapewear.
How to Choose Shapewear?
You must be aware of the fabric, construction quality, and correct sizing. These factors will ensure the ultimate comfort and wearer-shaping performance.
This resource will guide you in knowing the best fabrics to use.
1. Choosing the Right Fabric for Shapewear
Thus, the backbone of shapewear is fabric. It dictates breathability, elasticity, compression, and overall performance. Naturally, material is key as customers want shapewear to feel tight with comfortable.
| Fabric Type | Features | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Nylon (Polyamide) & Spandex Blend | High elasticity, smooth finish, excellent compression | Durable, moisture-wicking, strong shaping effect | Feel tight, less breathable if not blended | Everyday shaping |
| Microfiber | Ultra-soft, lightweight, breathable | Comfortable and smooth under clothing, reduces irritation | Less structured compression | Lightweight and seamless shapewear |
| Cotton Blend | Soft, natural fiber, good for sensitive skin | Breathable, comfortable, hypoallergenic, ideal for sensitive skin | Less elasticity Lose shape faster than synthetic fabrics | Postpartum shapewear is ideal when gentle compression needs |
| Power Mesh | Strong, structured, provides targeted compression | Highly durable, enhances shaping, good airflow | Feel stiff and may show under thin clothing | Waist trainers, high-compression garments |
| Lycra/Elastane | Extremely stretchy, shape-retaining, flexible fit | Lightweight, easy to layer, retains shape well | Not as compressive alone | Low to medium-compression shapewear |
| Neoprene | Thick, heat-retaining, sweat-inducing | Enhances thermogenic activity, firm shaping | Not very breathable | Workout shapewear |
Fabric Tip: The fabric should Allow Breathing & moisture to avoid overheating. Choose Smooth fabric to prevent the appearance of lines underneath clothing. Hypoallergenic materials are best for customers with sensitive skin.
Kristin Olson, Vice President of Sales Covington Fabric & Design
2. Quality Considerations in Shapewear Construction
Good shapewear will compress and flex and ultimately feel comfortable to wear. When shapewear is poorly designed, it can roll down and leave dig marks on the skin. Poor quality shapewear can wear out fast, which upsets customers.
To avoid a slip in quality, manufacturers need to focus on seam construction. Also, it must have elasticity, recovery, and breathability.
The most important thing is compression; here is what you should know:
Light Compression: Perfect for combining comfort. It is gentle for everyday smoothing without constricting your movements. Perfect for smooth-fitting shapewear, cami tops, and light body shapers.
Mid Control: Light control shapes the waist, hips, and thighs. Ideal with high-waist briefs, bodysuits, and thigh slimmers.
Structure Compression: Provides the highest level of shaping and support. It is usually used in waist trainers, postpartum recovery shapewear, and sculpting bodysuits.
Expert Tip: Do some wear tests & stretch tests of your own. See if the shapewear will stretch out & keep its performance after wear.
Suggested Reading:
Polyester Mesh Fabric: The Secret Ingredient for Breathable Clothing
Spandex vs Lycra: A Deep Dive into Performance Fabrics3. Selecting the Right Sizing for Shapewear
Sizing is crucial for shapewear-like lingerie sizes. The wrong size will not create the shape the wearer is trying to achieve. Shapewear, unlike other normal clothing, needs to fit your body closely but not too tight.
One of the key Sizing Considerations are:
- True to size: Stop tricking customers by making everything a size too small
- Inclusive size range: Add plus-size options to accommodate all customers.
- Protective & Comfortable: Shapewear must have an optimal fit. It should feature adjustable straps, a hook closure, and elastic stretch waistbands.
You should have a detailed illustrative Size Chart. If possible and practical, offer a try before you buy the policy to gain trust. Make sure to have a Measurement guide to help customers choose the right size.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Shapewear Styles
Choosing the best shapewear styles is essential for your brand’s success. Your styles will be selected to suit varying body shapes and fashion requirements. It must also match different levels of compression, providing ease and functionality. Like shapewear there is a lot to consider in lingerie vs underwear.
You should provide different styles for various body shapes. Add information on how each style works for certain body types.
Shapewear Styles That Appeal In Your Brand
1) Daily Shapewear (For Comfort & Everyday Wear)
High-Waisted Briefs & Shorts: These are the most common styles. It Shapes the tummy, buttocks, hips, and thighs, making for a seamless finish.
Camis and Tanks that Shape: Natural layering elements with light control
Synthetic Bodysuits: Gives head-to-toe sculpting underneath clingy dresses
2) Special Occasion Shapewear (Events & Comes Attire)
Whole-Body Shapers: Provide total shaping and control. It is ideal for bridal, special events, and red-carpet styles
Strapless & Open-Bust Bodysuits: Pairs with Any Deep-Neck Dress or Strapless Gown
3) Performance and Postpartum support need
Waist Trainers & Corsets: For the absolute maximal shape. It gives an aggressive level of compression on your waist
Postpartum Recovery Shapewear: Provides mild compression and support. Ideal for postpartum women
4) Specialty Shapewear
Butt Lifting Shapers: Supports your curves while still being functional
Thigh slimmers & Leg shapers: Target the lower body by toning, smoothing, and tightening
Style Tip: Launch a combination of different collections. It should add everyday, special occasions, and unique shapewear pieces. You would be able to cater to all shapewear needs like lingerie vs bikini.
Emma Selenius, Co-founder BAMBAM Shapewear
Customization Options: Marketing & Branding Strategies for your Brand
Practice strong branding strategies to make your brand stand out. Customization is a simple but effective step to developing customer satisfaction. Furthermore, it results in brand loyalty and a stronger foothold in the market.
Below are a few ways you can customize your shapewear collection.
- Tailored Fit & Size Options
You need to expand the Size Spectrum. Include plus-size and petite options to fit everybody. Try to add Adjustable Elements such as Hook-and-eye closes or hooks at the waist.
Detachable straps or flexible bands also help in a customized fit. Make the Shape according to the Body. The waist, hips, and thighs are some of the Targeted body shaping areas. Check the guide about Top Italian Lingerie Brands.
Design Tip: Provides extra shaping choices for butt-lifting or more breast support
- Customization of Fabric & Material
This is an area where you can shine the most. As per the trends, Eco-Friendly & Breathable Fabrics should be your top choice. Recycled nylon and bamboo fiber are perfect. You can also explore microfiber fabric options for a seamless shape.
Also don’t forget the shapewear should be comfy for intense activities. Moisture wicking and antimicrobial properties in fabric are a plus.
You should Offer various compression levels depending on what the user finds beneficial.
- Customization in Color & Pattern
Provide sheer to nude shades for every skin tone. Also, with time, there is a color variation in fashion. Provide seasonal color choices & offer style buyers. Incorporate lace overlay, floral prints, and simple monochromatic finishes for a fashionable touch.
- Branding Elements
You are building a brand, so your customization should be according to your brand. Here are a few options:
- Logo & labeling: Print the logo of your brand on the waistbands/tags/inner lining. Use custom embroidery for premium labeling.
- Branded Packaging: Take the example of luxury boxes or biodegradable pouches. There is tailored wrapping that enhances the overall unboxing experience
- Custom Engraving & Tagline: You can add any motivational quote to your collection. Plus, add important information like size or washing instructions under your brand name
- Marketing Strategies to Take Your Shapewear Brand to the Next Level
First, Identify and state what your USP (Unique Selling Proposition) is. Your USP could focus on:
- Highlight eco-friendly materials and ethical production processes
- Size inclusivity in models should be reflected in body diversity in your marketing
- Encourage molding that both maintains the fashion and lift you need
Marketing Tip: Utilize Social Media such as Instagram & TikTok. Make reel and customer feedback content or behind-the-scenes. Get in touch with fashion and lifestyle influencers to start promoting your shapewear
How to Choose Shapewear Manufacturers for A Swift Supply chain?
Choosing a good shapewear manufacturer supplier is crucial. Your private label brand should not fail due to supply chain disruptions. A robust supply chain helps you to satisfy customer demand efficiently.
The Important Aspects You Should Look For In A Shapewear Manufacturer are:
Availability of Production Capacity & Lead Times
They need to be able to handle your order volumes whilst still being on time. Consider the following:
Minimum order quantity (MOQ): They must offer flexible MOQs for startups. You also need bulk production for scaling brands, but initially low MOQ is best.
Lead Times: Some manufacturers have options for blown-up (urgent) orders. Yet, they cost money, so need to stick to their average production. See What is the time required for designs to get approved and then produced? Calculate and see whether they align with your timeline or not.
Production insight: You need more inventory to cover for longer production time. 2 to 3 weeks production time is average, but shipping time is extra.
Scalability in Production: You need bulk production once you start to scale. See can their factory can scale the production. There is a sudden spike in orders during peak seasons, so they must be able to match it.
Fabric & Material Sourcing
An efficient supply chain is stable if raw materials are available. Ensure your manufacturer has:
- Good relation with suppliers serves to get materials on short lead time
- Wide Selection of shapewear fabrics. nylon-spandex blends, seamless knits, breathable + moisture-wicking are important options. Learn spandex vs lycra for the right fabric selection.
- Sustainable Fabric Selection (If Eco-Friendliness is a Goal of Your Brand Strategy)
Suggested Reading: Best Sustainable Lingerie Brands
Personalization & Private Label Options
Branding and customization of your clothing packaging should fit your brand. Manufacturers have a variety of options in branding. Look for:
- Custom logo with screen printing, embossed or labeled
- Choose different colors and styles to stand out
There are also some Additional options, but they come at a more advanced level. If you focus on premium products, then you need detailed design customization.
Pro Tip: Incorporate Heat-resistant silicone grips and adjustable straps in your shapewear. It gives a premium design look and feel to the customers.
Quality Control & Compliance
A good manufacturer strictly controls the quality (QC) of their products. You need to make sure they sell the same quality consistently. Ask about foreign certifications such as ISO, OEKO-TEX, or other safety standards.
Their in-house QC checks should the highest standards. Do they let the fabric stretch, let the fabric recover, testing the stitching ability? These are important things to check in their QC process.
Shipping and logistics efficiency
Swift and affordable deliveries guarantee timely deliveries with minimal delays. Your manufacturer should provide Various shipping Methods (Air, sea, express courier).
In the case of overseas manufacturers, they must have International Export experience. Keep the Live tracking of your orders with their trusted logistics partners
Shipping advice: Use air freight for cargo that is time-sensitive or has a high value. Ordering in bulk with sea freight is the cheapest option to save shipping costs.
People Also Ask About How to Choose Shapewear
1. What are the most comfortable and effective shapewear brands for daily wear?
SPANX, SKIMS, Maidenform, and Honeylove are the most comfortable shapewear brands. Even Honeylove has compression zones to prevent rolling. Yummie is another name for breathable shaping and lightweight shapewear.
2. What is the best shapewear brand?
SPANX is the best overall because it’s known for comfort, compression, and durability. SKIMS is a big name coming from Kim Kardashian. It provides ultra-soft, seamless, and comfortable shapewear that molds the user’s body.
3. How do you start your own shapewear business with Shapewear Wholesale?
First, understand what is trending in the market. Collaborate with the shapewear manufacturer for mass production. You need a business identity to conduct your daily business. After that, just source, market, and sell. It’s a simple way but needs a lot more details.
4. I am in the process of starting a fitness apparel brand. What is the best way to let people know my brand?
First, you need to have a strong brand identity to attract targeted customers. In this digital age, you must leverage Social media to let people know your brand. Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook ads are best. Collaborate with fitness influencers to create hype and drop exclusive editions.
What’s Next
You need to pay attention to style, fabric, construction, and pricing. Pricing matters most as If you sell overvalued shapewear, then your sales would drop. To make this happen, you need competitive production pricing with fast delivery times.
JaceApparel provides you the perfect opportunity for mass production at discounted prices. Don’t worry if you want to start smaller. We have a low MOQ to kickstart your business with discounted pricing.
Drop us a message and access our lucrative prices for shapewear production!
Sources:
- chatelaine.com – Everything you need to know about shapewear
- wacoalindia.com – Comprehensive Guide to Shapewear
- victoriassecret.com – Shapewear Styles