Shapewear vs Chafewear: What’s the Difference?

Undergarments can do a lot more than just cover up — they can serve a real purpose, as is the case with shapewear and chafewear. At first glance, the two may look similar: both are formfitting and functional. However, they serve distinctly different needs. Understanding the difference can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and supported in your daily life.

Let’s break down the main differences.

What Is Shapewear? 

Shapewear is designed to sculpt, contour and smooth your body under clothing. Think of it like a temporary tailor: shapewear offers a refined silhouette by redistributing and compressing body tissue. Whether you’re aiming for a cinched waist, lifted rear or flattened tummy, shapewear is all about aesthetics.

It comes in a variety of styles, including high-waisted shorts, bodysuits, camisoles and full-body suits. Most shapewear is made from spandex or nylon — materials that stretch while offering firm compression. It’s not necessarily known for comfort, but it is known for “sucking you in.”

While some find shapewear empowering and confidence-boosting for special occasions or certain outside, it’s important to remember that shapewear is not meant for long-term wear. Comfort is often sacrificed in favor of control. Shapewear is about temporarily shaping and smoothing under formfitting clothing. 

Does Shapewear Work? 

Yes, shapewear works — but only temporarily and superficially. It doesn’t change your body’s actual shape or composition, but it can help clothes fit more smoothly and reduce the appearance of lines or bulges. Used appropriately, it can subtly enhance your figure under formalwear or fitted outfits.

However, over-compression can restrict movement, airflow and even digestion. That’s why many health experts recommend using shapewear in moderation. A good rule of thumb: if it feels like a relief to take it off, it’s probably too tight or worn for too long.

Do You Wear Underwear with Shapewear?

It depends on the design. Many shapewear pieces are meant to be worn without underwear — especially if they have a built-in cotton gusset. Wearing underwear underneath can lead to bunching or visible lines, which defeats one of shapewear’s core purposes.

That said, if your shapewear lacks a gusset or you simply prefer a base layer, opt for seamless, moisture-wicking underwear to stay comfortable and avoid added bulk.

What Is Chafewear? 

Chafewear, by contrast, is all about comfort and protection. It’s specifically made to prevent chafing — the uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) skin irritation that results from friction, especially between the thighs.

At Thigh Society, we’re proud to champion this category. Our chafewear is lightweight, breathable and built for bodies in motion. Unlike shapewear, it doesn’t compress or restrict. Instead, it creates a soft, friction-free barrier so you can move through your day with ease, whether you’re walking, dancing, commuting or simply enjoying the sunshine in a dress.

What sets chafewear apart is its comfort-first approach. It’s typically made with anti-chafing fabrics like moisture-wicking modal or silky Sensil® Breeze, that feels soft and cool against your skin.

How to Prevent Chafing (With Chafewear) 

If you’ve experienced thigh chafing, you know it’s more than just a minor annoyance. Left unchecked, it can lead to redness, rashes or even open sores. Chafewear helps by eliminating skin-on-skin contact.

Here’s how to use chafewear to prevent chafing:

1. Choose breathable fabric: Soft, moisture-wicking materials help reduce sweat and heat buildup.

2. Find the right fit: Chafewear should hug your body without squeezing. Our smooth fit ensures no ride-up or roll-down.

3. Wear it daily: Chafewear isn’t just for special occasions. It’s made for everyday comfort at work, weddings, workouts and everything in between.

4. Opt for longer inseams: If chafing happens lower on the thigh, choose a style with a longer inseam for more coverage. 

Do You Wear Underwear with Chafewear?

Unlike shapewear, chafewear is typically designed to be worn with or without underwear, depending on your personal preference. Our high-quality chafewear shorties and sheer leggings feature a breathable, hygienic gusset, so they can easily replace underwear altogether.

If you do layer with underwear, go for a style that won’t add extra bulk or seams. The goal of chafewear is to reduce friction and discomfort, so less is often more.

In short, shapewear is for shaping, and chafewear is for protection. Both serve important but very different roles.

Shapewear is best for temporarily smoothing and contouring your figure under certain outfits, but it can be restrictive and isn’t built for everyday wear. Chafewear, on the other hand, is made for freedom — from chafing, discomfort and the pressure to compress. It’s your ideal everyday layer, offering softness, breathability and body-positive design.

At Thigh Society, we’re redefining the standards of intimate apparel. Our chafewear respects your body’s natural shape — no squeezing, no shaping, just supreme comfort and no irritation.