All the undergarments you need to stay smooth and sweat-free in the sun
Thanks to innovations in material and design, comfortable support and shape wear does exist for summer!
We usually only get three good months of hot weather — and I'm counting September, which is the new June. I'm talking the kind of heat that leads to sweat marks, thigh chafing and the desire to wear less material altogether. But what if you want a smooth line under that skimpy sundress? Or a bit of tummy control under those high-waisted shorts? And if you commute by bike or love to exercise outdoors, things can get a bit sticky. Thanks to innovations in material and design, there are ways to keep shapewear and support going strong through summer. Check out the list below for lightweight, moisture-wicking pieces that will keep you feeling fresh, cool and under control.
This medium-control camisole uses air pocket technology to add volume to the bra cups without adding weight. The "whisper-light" microfibre stretches to hold you in, while the sheer panels allow air circulation. A laser-cut edge promises to lay flat under clothing, and the straps are adjustable. Wear with silky tank tops and sun dresses that lie close to the body.
DKNY Modern Lights Smoothing Cami, $65.22, amazon.ca
If you're looking for a medium-impact sports bra that will keep everything in place without feeling constricted, try this lightweight version from Knixwear. There's no underwire — which may sound strange, but the support is all in the seamless construction. The material has 4-way stretch to mold to your body, plus it's moisture-wicking and anti-odour with removable, breathable cups. Wear it to yoga, cycling to work, or under racerback tanks.
Knixwear Racerback Evolution Bra, $65, knixwear.ca
The word lightweight doesn't usually come to mind when you think of SPANX, but their "Everyday" line has only ten percent Spandex/Elastane, compared to fifty percent for their more heavy-duty products. This thong smooths — not flattens — your tummy, and it's designed to stay put with flat seams and just enough stretch. Wear with high-waisted shorts, pencil skirts and body-con dresses.
SPANX Everyday Shaping Panty Thong, $24, thebay.com
Save your thighs! There's no need for chafing — nor flashing folks when you aren't prepared. Seek out a pair of slip shorts and you'll never look back. These ones from Undersummers are cut a bit higher on the thigh so they go undetected under shorter skirts and dresses. They're made from moisture-wicking material and the gusset is cotton-lined, so you can choose not to wear underwear. There are no seams between the thighs for extra smoothness and their "Stay Put" leg means no need to pull them down. Plus, the lace edge is a cute peekaboo!
Undersummers Lace Shortlette Anti-Chafing Slipshort, $42.71, undersummers.com
Sometimes a gal wants a little extra perk in the posterior department. These boy shorts promise to lift your rear while smoothing thighs and flattening your tummy. The best part? The majority is sheer microfiber, so they won't make you overheat. Laser-cut panels mean no panty lines, and the edges lie flat courtesy of "Wonderful Edge" silicone technology. Wear with body-skimming skirts or dresses, and your best butt-flattering jeans.
Miraclesuit Extra Firm Control Rear-Lifting Boy Short, $58.18, barenecessities.com
Don't be mad — I already added this to my cart. But there are still plenty of super-cute leopard-print sports bras left! Australian activewear brand Lorna Jane uses innovation to improve the quality of their products without sacrificing style. This bra is made for high-impact activities using a mesh design that increases airflow and breathability. It's also moisture-wicking, with adjustable straps. Wear to the gym, then toss a loose, wide-arm tank over top so the leopard print peeks through. It's sexy and practical!
Lorna Jane Street Cat Sports Bra, $69.99, lornajane.ca
This waist-whittling and thigh-slimming piece by George is just begging for a sexy summer dress. It's single-ply, so extra lightweight, and it promises to cool your body as you move. Remember the "Wonderful Edge" silicone tech in the booty-lifting boy shorts above? This has the same innovation so the edges won't curl up. It's ideal for wedding season under a silky column or mermaid silhouette.
George Cooling Hi-Waist Long Leg Shapewear, $24.97, walmart.ca
If you're looking for something longer to prevent thigh chafing, look no further than Thigh Society's best-selling slip shorts. They're made in Canada from breathable, lightweight microfiber that wicks moisture away. Plus, the mesh inner thigh panels are enhanced with extra wicking technology to provide even more cooling comfort. They also have a cotton crotch, so you can go commando. My favourite feature is the "no-squeeze" stretch — so you don't have to wrestle your way in.
Thigh Society Anti-Chafing Slip Shorts, $44, thighsociety.com
If you're wearing sneakers without socks in the summer, your feet are going to smell. There's no way around it. I prefer the look of no socks, so if you're like me, add these ones from New Balance to your cart. They're made using NBA-standard dry moisture management, with mesh panels at key intervals to allow ventilation. And that annoying culprit, slippage, is prevented by a reinforced heel pocket.
New Balance Lifestyle Women's No Show Socks, $17.68, amazon.ca