From mat to market: Shapewear looks for winter that work everywhere

Whether you’re gymming, dancing, working out, or just playing the part, shapewear continues to dominate this season’s go-to clobber. But keep it simple, said activewear brand Indelicate’s Marco Vargas.

“This season, classic high-waisted cargo leggings that fold down into a low-rise look cover all the bases,” he said.

“There are presently two schools of trend. Recent runway showings from Miu Miu and Alexander McQueen suggest low-rise, ultra-low-rise and even extreme-low-rise pants are coming back.”

He added that a double-down garment gives people the freedom to toggle between high and low depending on their mood or moment.

Colours are strong, but not as loud as Kanye West

Colours are strong, but not as loud and over the top as a Khanye West concert. Think mauve, emerald green, bubble-gum pink and ivory. “Shades that get on with the business of positive aesthetics,” said Vargas. “The gear is entirely seamless, cutting out bulk and stitch work that often ruins otherwise good leggings and a sleek look. There’s structure, but no unnecessary bits and bobs. It fits like it should.”

Comfort and confidence remain key, and that’s where shapewear really delivers. “People want to feel good, look good, and move freely without having to readjust every five minutes,” Vargas said. Scrunched seams and cargo styles are still everywhere, but Indelicate’s edge is in responsiveness. “We design with movement in mind. The clothes should respond to your body and not the other way around.”

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According to stylist Lynne McMaster, athleisure and shapewear are no longer siloed. “They’ve fused into a hybrid style that’s redefining how we dress,” she said. “What used to be gym-only is now brunch-friendly, errand-appropriate, and Zoom-call-ready. People want pieces that hold shape and show shape.”

That blend of aesthetics and utility is noted in a McKinsey State of Fashion report, which found that sportswear, including shapewear and athleisure, is rapidly eating into traditional clothing’s market share. Shapewear and activewear brands were forecast to generate 57% of the sportswear segment’s profit at the end of 2024 alone​. “It’s clear that sportswear is fully mainstream,” said McMaster. “It’s at the centre of everyday fashion.”

Sportswear is at the centre of everyday fashion

The McKinsey Report also noted a growing consumer tilt toward versatility, with fashion trend setters focusing more on product functionality and cross-use appeal than ever before​. In response, brands are blending form with function, which is exactly what shapewear is built for.

“It’s become an essential kit for people who want to feel held but not hidden,” McMaster said.

Tops stay cropped. Full-sleeve mesh and zipped options are in, especially if they can flash a hint of centre cleavage. “It’s not complicated, and that’s the point,” said Vargas. “It should look just as good lounging at home as it does in a Pilates studio or in a queue at the supermarket.”

Price consciousness plays a big role

The McKinsey report also noted a change in consumer values. Price-consciousness plays a big role. Athleisure, and particularly shapewear, plays well here, said McMaster. It delivers tangible value through garment utility performance, quality and comfort​. “People want flattering, but they also want honest,” she said. “No matter what shape you are, your clothes should show you off, not cover you up. We’ve moved past the age of hiding our bodies into an era of body positivity and celebrating the individual.”

Fit is the dealbreaker. “The high waist needs to hold without cutting in. The fabric needs to stretch without going transparent. And above all, it must make you feel like you,” she added.

That’s what his range intends, said Vargas. There’s no bold branding, no unnecessary flair, just smart and sexy functionality. “It’s clothes you can stretch in, slouch in, and if needed, run errands in. And you must be able to do all of this without a wardrobe change.”

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