The flowy kind, the maxi ones with bright colors, even the tight little black dress that’s been hanging in my closet for years.
But here’s the thing—every time I try them on, my belly and my butt (yes, the ones that have grown loyal from all those long hours of painting and doodling) refuse to cooperate. The dress is fine, but my confidence? Gone.
That’s where shapewear comes in. It’s not about hiding who I am, but about giving me a little smoothing magic. Shapewear makes me feel like my body and my outfit are finally on the same team.
And the good news? With the right shapewear sale and a bit of smart shopping, you don’t need to break the bank to feel confident.
Why Shapewear Matters for Women Who Sit All Day
As an artist, I spend most of my time sitting—sometimes for hours without moving. You know what that means: stubborn fat around the tummy, hips, and thighs. Add XXL size to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for insecurities every time you need to dress up!
Shapewear is like my secret armor. I may not have time for daily workouts, but slipping into workout shapewear or a comfy pair of shaping shorts instantly helps my clothes look smoother. It’s like a cheat code for women like me who live more in front of the canvas than on the treadmill.
But let’s be honest—good shapewear isn’t cheap. The ones that actually feel comfortable, last long, and don’t roll down halfway through dinner usually come with a price tag that makes me pause before hitting “checkout.” That’s why I don’t rush into buying shapewear on a random Tuesday. Instead, I wait for the perfect moment—the sales season when my wishlist finally meets my budget.
And that’s where Black Friday shapewear deals come in!
How to Score the Best Black Friday Shapewear Deals
If you’re going to shop for shapewear, timing is everything. The biggest discounts usually drop during events like:
- Black Friday shapewear deals
- 11.11 sale
- 12.12 mega sale
- End-of-season clearances
Here’s my artist’s guide to hunting for the best bargains without draining your wallet:
- Make a wishlist – Know what you want (bodysuit, shaping shorts, seamless panties).
- Check sizes carefully – Every brand has slightly different sizing.
- Stack vouchers & free shipping – Never pay full price if you don’t have to.
- Read reviews – Honest buyers will tell you if it’s breathable or feels like a sausage casing.
The Right Shapewear for XXL Women Like Me
Not all shapewear is created equal, especially when you’re shopping in XXL or larger. Here’s my breakdown:
- Daily wear → Seamless panties, shaping shorts.
- Special events → Bodysuits or full shapers.
Workout shapewear → Leggings with tummy control, sports bodysuits.
Pro tip: If you want something you can wear longer than four hours, go for high-waist shorts or a breathable bodysuit. They’re supportive but not suffocating.
Materials That Don’t Feel Like “Wrapped Lontong”
One of my biggest shapewear mistakes was buying a super-tight corset that felt like I was wrapped in banana leaves—zero breathability, constant sweating, and a serious case of regret.
Now I only look for:
- Breathable fabrics (cotton blends, mesh panels).
- Stretchy materials that move with me.
- Moisture-wicking workout shapewear for the rare times I actually join a yoga class.
Anyway, lontong is an Indonesian rice cake that’s tightly packed and steamed inside banana leaves. When someone says they feel like a ‘wrapped lontong,’ it usually means they feel squeezed, stuffed, or tightly compressed—like being wrapped up with no room to move or breathe.
It’s often used humorously to describe wearing something too tight, like shapewear or skinny jeans.
Price vs. Quality: A Lesson Learned
Here’s the truth: cheap shapewear often ends up costing more. I’ve had shapewear that ripped after one wear, rolled down my belly, or made me itch like crazy.
Now I live by this motto:
“Better one good shapewear piece than five bad ones.”
Invest in something durable, and you’ll be set for years. Plus, if you buy during a shapewear sale or Black Friday shapewear deals, even the premium ones can be affordable.
How to Nail the Right Size When Shopping Online
Sizing is tricky. Here’s my quick measuring guide before hitting checkout:
Waist → Measure the narrowest part.
Hips → Measure the fullest part.
Underbust → Especially if you’re buying bodysuits or workout shapewear.
When in doubt, size up for comfort. Too small, and you’ll feel trapped. Too big, and it won’t do its job.
Shapewear for Lazy Painters Like Me
Let’s face it, I’m not the most active person. But even if my “workout” is just stretching between brush strokes, workout shapewear gives me a nice boost. It shapes while I move (or in my case, sit). And when I do finally put on that floral dress for a family gathering, the shapewear makes me feel like I actually tried.
Outfit Hacks: Mixing & Matching Shapewear
Here are some of my go-to tricks:
- Shaping shorts under maxi dresses → No lines, no rolling.
- Bodysuit under a loose blouse → Smooth tummy, lifted bust.
- High-waist panties with jeans → Instant waistline.
Shapewear isn’t just functional—it’s an art of layering.
Shapewear That Lasts All Day Without Pain
Some shapewear feels great for one hour, then suddenly you want to rip it off. For daily wear, I look for designs with:
- Wider waistbands (no rolling).
- Adjustable straps (for bodysuits).
- Seamless edges (so they don’t dig in).
- If I can sit, doodle, and cook dinner in it—winner.
Sustainable Shapewear: Buy Once, Wear Long
As someone who values creativity and mindful living, I’ve started looking into sustainable shapewear. Choosing high-quality pieces that last through many washes is better for my wallet and the planet. Think of it as eco-friendly confidence.
Self-Love and Shapewear: They Go Together
Let me be clear: shapewear isn’t about hiding. It’s about highlighting. It’s a tool, not a mask. I wear shapewear because I love how it makes me feel—confident, comfortable, and ready to face the world, belly rolls and all.
Funny Moments from My Shapewear Journey
Confession time: my first shapewear was so tight I couldn’t breathe. I sat at a wedding pretending I was fine while secretly praying for dessert so I could loosen it. Another time, I wore a bodysuit that smoothed me so well my husband couldn’t stop staring (and asking if I’d lost weight overnight).
Trial and error, my friend. That’s part of the journey.
Best Time to Shop Shapewear: Timing Is Everything
From experience, these are the golden hours:
- Midnight flash sales (set that alarm).
- Black Friday shapewear deals (biggest savings).
- Seasonal clearance (January & July).
Shapewear Sale Checklist Before Checkout
✅ Correct size measured
✅ Neutral colors (black & nude always win)
✅ Checked honest reviews
✅ Added vouchers & free shipping
If all four are ticked off, you’re good to go!
Final Brushstroke: Shopping Shapewear Is Self-Care
As a mom, a doodler, and a woman who lives in XXL size, I’ve learned that shapewear is not about perfection—it’s about feeling good in your own skin. And with smart shopping, especially during Black Friday shapewear deals and other sales, we can look great, feel confident, and save money.
So next time you see a shapewear sale, don’t hesitate—grab that piece that will make your dress glide smoothly and your heart feel lighter.
Because confidence, my dear, is always in style.
