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For centuries, women have been using shapewear to help them achieve a better or “ideal” body shape. This is one of those tales that are “as old as time”, and each era and generation dictates the next version or idea of “perfection”. Similar to how perceptions change, shapewear also evolves to match up to these demands.
For example, the Ancient Minoans once used a fabric that bound around their waists, many years before the restrictive corset from the Victorian era. While the girdles and bullet bras from the 50s were focused on achieving the “hourglass figure” well before Spandex was invented.
But you may be wondering what the future holds for shapewear. Here are a few predictions we have when it comes to the ever-evolving industry of shapewear.
At the moment, shapewear is typically made out of lycra and nylon. However, these are both synthetic fibres that are not very breathable. These materials can become uncomfortable when the weather is warm or hot. Due to this common problem, we have started to notice slightly lighter shapewear versions introduced to the market. These include microfibre and cotton, which assist with odour control and moisture absorption. We are anticipating even more textile innovations into the future, which may mean those days of excessive sweating when wearing restrictive synthetic materials may be over.
Influencers That Dictate The Ideal Shape
It makes sense that fashion and art play a big role when it comes to how we view perfection. However, in the last few years, we have started to notice something a lot more revolutionary. We are talking about the significant increase in social-media and celebrities. When we see a particular body shape over and over again, should it be on Instagram, magazine shoots, or in TV shows, we tend to want to imitate it. The latest move towards a curvier body shape is driven by popular celebrities like the Kardashians. In fact, Kim Kardashian has gone as far as creating Skims, her own personal brand that promotes an “ideal” based on her actual body shape.
So pay attention to any upcoming trends, and keep your eye on the celebrity world and the ideals that they are currently toting. At the moment it is focused on a tiny waist, curvy butt, and smaller bust, but this can change at any time.
This gives you an idea of how the world of shapewear has undergone changes over the years. But shapewear is still about tightening or flattening problematic areas while still promoting those curves in the areas that you want to show off. At this stage, we think that the latest shapewear is flaunting a figure that is more bountiful, and this looks like it will continue with the next passing trend.
Shapewear For Men
At last, we are starting to see more items of shapewear geared towards men. After all, many younger men are also faced with having to match certain ideals.
Increasing Popularity Of Body Shaping Fabrics
This is maybe something new, but it will never completely replace shapewear. Body-shaping fabrics are basically a type of tape you can cut and then place on areas where you need more support. This usually involves under the bust to achieve a slight lift, or for butt or thigh contouring. We believe this will continue to increase in popularity over the next few months. Elle Courbee.
The Bright Future For Shapewear
The future seems bright for the sector of shapewear. The industry statistics have predicted that the overall market size was last estimated at US$2.26 billion in 2018. It is predicted to increase at an annual compound growth rate of 7.7% from 2019 to 2025. At the current rate, the revenue is forecasted to reach US$3.81 billion in 2025. Even the Covid-19 pandemic will likely not stop these figures from being achieved. So it is safe to say that shapewear is not going anywhere, and you can expect to see more styles and new fabrics in the coming months.