The fabric decides how shapewear feels, how it compresses and how long it lasts. Most pieces combine two fibers.
The main fibers
| Fiber | What it does |
|---|---|
| Nylon / polyamide | Soft, smooth, durable, gives a clean surface |
| Elastane (spandex) | Stretch and recovery, which create compression |
Nylon and polyamide are the same family of fiber. You will see both names used.
What the blend means
- Higher elastane gives more stretch and stronger recovery.
- Higher nylon gives a smoother, silkier feel.
- Knit construction affects breathability.
For example, our Seamless V-Neck Bodysuit is 85% polyamide and 15% elastane, a blend made for firm, comfortable shaping.
Seamless knit
Seamless garments are knitted in one piece without cut-and-sew seams, so they lie flat under clothes. Read what seamless underwear is.
Caring for elastic fibers
Heat, bleach and softener weaken elastane. Wash cold and dry flat; see how to wash shapewear.
Frequently asked questions
Is polyamide the same as nylon?
Yes. Nylon is a type of polyamide.
Is shapewear fabric breathable?
Seamless knits are designed to breathe, but how warm you feel also depends on the fit and the weather.
