Hourglass Faja vs Classic Faja: Which One Fits Your Body?
Last updated: September 2026
Shape Concept's hourglass fajas are cut for women whose hips run about two sizes larger than their waist, and two models add seven boning rods. Classic high-compression fajas like the 342 and 387 add arm sleeves and don't use that split sizing. Your waist-to-hip measurements point you to one or the other; after surgery, your surgeon decides.
What makes a faja an "hourglass" faja?
At Shape Concept, "hourglass" describes the pattern, not a promise about results. Each hourglass product page says the garment is designed for women with one size at the waist and two sizes larger at the hips. In other words, the waist and hip sections are graded differently so they follow a narrower waist and a wider hip line at the same time.
The line has four models. The 330 and 331 rely on the cut, Powernet and three rows of front hooks. The 332 and SCM333 add seven boning rods: four in the front and three in the back.
What counts as a classic Colombian faja?
By "classic" we mean the traditional high-compression bodysuit: a Powernet garment with a hook-and-eye front, full back coverage, mid-thigh legs and arm sleeves. In the Shape Concept catalog, the 342 and the 387 are the reference models.
Their product pages don't describe a waist-versus-hip size split, and they don't list boning. What they add instead is coverage: sleeves on both, a built-in bra on the 342, and a removable, adjustable chest stabilizer on the 387.
How do the hourglass and classic models compare side by side?
Everything below comes from the individual product pages. "Not listed" means the page doesn't mention it.
| Ref | Type | Sizing described | Boning / rods | Upper body | Perineal zipper |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 330 | Hourglass | Waist one size, hips two sizes larger | Not listed | Shoulder fastening system | Not listed |
| 331 | Hourglass | Waist one size, hips two sizes larger | Boning placed for the lumbar area | Adjustable straps, built-in bra | Not listed |
| 332 | Hourglass | Waist one size, hips two sizes larger | 7 steel bones (4 front, 3 back) | Adjustable straps, full back coverage | Yes |
| SCM333 | Hourglass | Waist one size, hips two sizes larger | 7 rods (4 front, 3 back) | Padded straps, built-in bra, full back coverage | Yes |
| 342 | Classic | Single size chart; no waist/hip split listed | Not listed | Arm sleeves, built-in bra, full back coverage | Yes |
| 387 | Classic | Single size chart; no waist/hip split listed | Not listed | Arm sleeves, removable chest stabilizer, full back coverage | Yes |
All six are high-compression Powernet, close with three rows of front hooks and end at mid-thigh with silicone trim at the leg to keep the edge from rolling.
What do the rods in the 332 and SCM333 actually do?
Boning rods are narrow strips (steel, in the case of the 332) sewn vertically into the torso panel, the same idea used in corsets. They give the fabric a frame, so the waist section holds its shape when you sit or bend instead of folding over itself.
What rods don't do is change your body on their own. They're structure. If you're used to fajas without boning, expect the torso to feel stiffer and to need a moment to get used to when you sit down.
Which one fits your body?
Start with a tape measure, not a style preference.
- Measure your waist at its narrowest point and your hips at their widest.
- Open the size chart on the product page you're considering and find the size for each measurement separately.
- If your hips land about two sizes above your waist, that's the proportion the hourglass pattern was drafted for. If both measurements fall in the same size, or one size apart, a classic faja cut from a single chart may follow your shape more closely.
Don't pick a size based on a different brand or a different Shape Concept model. Each product has its own chart, and the hourglass line is graded differently by design.
Straps or sleeves: does the upper body matter?
It matters more than people expect. The hourglass models use shoulder straps, so they're lighter on the arms and easier to wear under sleeveless tops. The classic 342 and 387 have arm sleeves, which add coverage and more fabric on the upper arms.
If you want a built-in bra, look at the 331, SCM333 or 342. The 387 uses a chest stabilizer you can adjust or remove.
Can you wear either style after surgery?
The product pages for both lines list post-surgical use, but the choice isn't yours alone. After liposuction, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons says: "You'll need to wear an elastic bandage, support bra or a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your body as it heals." After a tummy tuck, ASPS notes "you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling."
Your surgeon decides the type of garment, when to start and how long to wear it. Some surgeons have preferences about boning, sleeves or a perineal zipper, so bring the product page to your appointment. For more on this, read our guide to fajas after liposuction, and for general buying tips see how to choose a Colombian faja.
Frequently asked questions
Is an hourglass faja the same as a waist trainer?
No. A waist trainer or cincher covers the midsection only. Shape Concept's hourglass fajas are full bodysuits with mid-thigh legs, shoulder straps and a hook-and-eye front.
Which hourglass models have boning rods?
The 332 has seven steel bones and the SCM333 has seven rods, four in the front and three in the back on both. The 331 lists boning placed for the lumbar area. The 330 page doesn't list boning.
Do the hourglass fajas have a perineal zipper?
The 332 and SCM333 product pages list one. The 330 and 331 pages don't mention it.
Are hourglass fajas harder to put on?
The product pages note that any faja can take some practice at first. Three rows of hooks let you start on the outer row while you get used to it.
What if my measurements fall between two sizes?
Compare both numbers with the chart on that specific product page. If the faja is for post-surgical use, ask your surgeon's office before ordering.
Can I return a faja that doesn't fit?
Yes, within 30 days of receiving it, as long as it's unworn, with tags and original packaging. Return shipping is paid by the customer.
Sources
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Liposuction recovery
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Tummy tuck recovery
- Shape Concept product pages for refs 330, 331, 332, SCM333, 342 and 387
