When purchasing shapewear, here are some factors you should keep in mind: Fromfull body slips to arm tights, today you can find a piece of shapewear for nearly every part of your body.
From shapewear bodysuits to shapewear for dresses to plus-size shapewear, the women's shapewear pieces ahead are either picked by the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, vetted through customer reviews or recommended by professional bridal alterers, fashion experts and plus-sized stylists.
Thanks to its endless strap configurations, you can keep it perfectly hidden no matter if you're wearing a strapless dress or a long-sleeved top.
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Think of them as a layering bottom that you can wear under anything, whether skirts, dresses or pants. 9 The soft bodysuit features a compression lining, adjustable straps, and moisture-wicking capabilities. Learn more about Shop TODAY. Along with seamless leg openings that are undetectable under clothes, it also features adjustable, convertible straps that can be worn five different ways.
Shapewear has an evolving reputation one that no longer serves to hide insecurities or alter your body entirely, but rather smooths and slightly re-shapes your silhouette, says Lauren Messiah, a fashion stylist and the author of Style Therapy: 30 Days to Your Signature Style.
The Spanx Tight-End Tights would also be a great addition to your transitional wardrobe for days that are colder than normal. Skims Solution Short is how. While a wirefree bralette may not always be supportive enough for larger busts, Bali has mastered the balance between comfort and support with this design.
The design really shines as a strapless bra with hidden anchors to support you all around and a silicone strip to stay in place. Whether you go commando or not is ultimately up to you.
It has a 2-ply bonded shaping panel at the tummy for firm compression. Yummie Hidden Curves Firm Shaping High Waist Skirt Slip, Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Briefer, Good American faux leather pants at Nordstrom.
Stick to the classics with this high-rise sculpting thong.
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This design by Pinsy is the ultimate put-on-and-go bodysuit.
Shapeez Shortee
With details like that, it's no wonder why it is one of the brand's most popular items.
Check out this option from NonEcho.
"The compression is soothing.".
This heavy-hitter Brazilian brand offers a more corset-like fit that works best for special occasions and on-camera work, according to personal stylist Messiah.
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It may look like an old-school corset, but the hook-closure up the middle lets you adjust the fit to your liking.
We reviewed this in our Lab and were impressed by its all-over smoothing benefits, plus panels in the midsection that give extra support.
Once you achieve the perfect silhouette with shapewear as your foundation, the rest is easy," said stylist Avo Yermagyan. For flowy dresses or a loose-fitted ensemble, low compression is ideal," says Richards. $38 AT AMAZON This Sliot belly band shaper is great for people looking for midsection shapewear that's not attached to anything else.
Some people think they should size down when shopping for shapewear, but Richards says this is a common undergarment myth.
Bounceback Post Pregnancy Tummy Transformer
This one from Yummie includes adjustable inner panels that can be worn three ways at the front, back or all around.
This style has the stay-in-place benefits of a bodysuit but gives you even more compression than other styles and you can wear your own bra if you prefer.
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best They give varying compression depending on where the panels are placed.
Back-Smoothing Bra As one editor put it, this strapless bra is "life changing" for the bigger breasted. What We Love: The "booty enhancing" pockets add extra lift to your backside.What We Don't Love: The strong compression makes these shorts run small. productslearn more about
In an effort to help you narrow down your search for the best shapewear that's worth the price tag, Shop TODAY chatted with a handful of style experts to get the scoop on the best options in the industry.
Keep reading to learn how we test shapewear and for some helpful shopping tips.
The Original
$21 AT AMAZON
Even if you didn't just have a baby, this panel can give you shaping benefits without needing a full-on contraption. Size Range: S-XL | Colors: 1 | Compression: Light, Shop now: $39-$46; amazon.com, nordstrom.com, bloomingdales.com.
It's also machine washable because who really has time for handwashing underwear? Best Body Shapewear
3 "It is helping me with a shoulder injury," says one Amazon reviewer. The camisole boasts flattering wide straps that will hide your bra, and it's made from a soft material that lays flat underneath clothes. 105+ Amazing Gifts for Any Man In Your Life, How to Read the 'Virgin River' Books in Order, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses.
Reach Arm Slimming Shaper
If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
Spanx
Opt for pieces that focus less on compression and more on smoothing, so that you maintain comfort and keep your shape. From a smoothing bodysuit to shaping shorts to control-top leggings, we've rounded up the best shapewear essentials that are both flattering and comfortable.
What I love about it is it scoops out a little to glide along the natural lines of a woman's ribcage and goes right under the bust. Size Range: XXS/XS-4X/5X | Colors: 9 | Compression: Medium.
To shop this article by category, simply click on each link below: Sometimes shapewear can be so constricting Ive worn shapewear that makes me feel like I might pass out because it is so sausage-casing and tight, but (Spanx) really mastered the textile (for these), said style expert Lindsay Albanese, who was a professional stylist for nearly two decades.
Shapewear ranges from low to high compression. What's more, the bodysuit has a hook and eye closure in the back making it possible to adjust it for a tighter or looser fit.
It's best to use your measurements and the item's size guide as each brand varies in sizing. $24 AT AMAZON
Slips and bodysuits are good when you want to smooth your entire body while shaping shorts and panties focus on your stomach and behind.
Pair With: This silky midi skirt at Amazon is a modern take on your work pencil skirt. Whether you wear it alone like a top or layer a blazer or jacket, this versatile piece will give you that extra boost of confidence.
If youre looking for just shapewear underwear, Commando panties are very supportive, according to Zimmerman. Read More
Items are sold byretailer, not TODAY.
Learn more about our, Jacqueline Saguin, Good Housekeeping Institute, Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief, Bounceback Post Pregnancy Tummy Transformer, Suit Your Fancy Strapless Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit, Executive Director, Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab.
The reason being that the band that goes around your bust is made out of hosiery material, so youre getting that really comfortable fit that molds to your figure without digging into it., The Skims Cotton Bra is extremely comfortable and I love the fact that the armhole is cut higher.
$82 AT MACY'S
Consider shapewear as you would your other intimate apparel pieces, and it will be clear that variation in style makes for easier dressing!
What We Love: This everyday brief has just enough control for everyday smoothing.What We Don't Love: Some may find the thin material not shaping enough.
The Best Strapless Bras for Every Body Type, Kendall Jenner dons a certain pair of leggings for a romantic getaway.
Best Tummy Control Shapewear strapless bra is "life changing" for the bigger breasted.
Buying too small can squish your skin and cause unwanted bulges, advises Zimmerman.
If you purchase something through our links, we may earn a commission. If you are wearing a skirt and want to concentrate on shaping that specific region, you can't go wrong with this slip from Yummie.
In the market for a great plus-size body shaper?
And with a built in bra and thong back, it eliminates unwanted panty and bra lines.
Suit Your Fancy Strapless Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
A favorite piece of O'Connor's, its contours provide an invisible layer of control under any outfit, and the adjustable straps make sure you have a comfy fit.
Nowadays, there are tons of modern options on the market that hug in all the right places and make you feel confident in your own skin.
Fashion stylist Meaghan O'Connor also keeps this shapewear piece in her own repertoire.
$17 AT AMAZON
We also try them in real life to make sure they fit well and feel good.
Lexie joined Good Housekeeping in 2013 and has extensively tested apparel of all kinds, including sports bras, workout leggings, pajamas and more, using specialized lab equipment and with hundreds of consumer testers.
Squeem
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Compression: Medium.
Size Range: XS-3X | Colors: 19 | Compression: Light. Made entirely from hosiery, the lightweight cropped top makes your arms look smooth and toned.
These pantyhose from Commando feature a control-top panel that lifts and smooths your stomach and hips.
Like all of Skims, this short comes in an extensive range of shades, so it stays undetectable on most skin tones.
Still, these tights are comfortable and stay put throughout the day, so there's no annoying digging or rolling.
Our Textiles experts were impressed by the wide coverage that smooths without being uncomfortable, great for new moms who recently had a C-section or for new moms who are recovering from giving birth.
The bounce back feels so good on my stomach."
What We Love: They look like your everyday leggings with slightly more sculpting and breathability.What We Don't Love: It is only available in black.
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Thigh Society The Maidenform Shapewear Firm Control High-Waist Briefs are really, really great, McDonald told us. It really focuses on that hip-to-waist ratio and really achieving the thinnest waist, McDonald said.
The shorts come in four different neutral shades, as well as black.
You won't want to wear your pencil skirt without it.
$21 AT AMAZON
Now as a commerce editor, Emily combines her knowledge of retail and styling expertise when covering new trends and offering readers advice on how to shop for and style themselves.
Jacqueline Saguin keeps her finger on the pulse of fashion, from testing viral social media products to anticipating buying trends.
When Kendall Jenner dons a certain pair of leggings for a romantic getaway, you know they are special.
Richards says you can always wear a seamless undie under a bodysuit or slip if you'd like or you can forgo it altogether. It's thin enough that it'll fit under layers and is designed to help with sagging skin and reduce that annoying jiggling.
For a piece of shapewear that's designed specifically for your arms, check out Spanx Arm Tights. "Im able to find undergarments and shapewear that are the perfect 'nude' for me which a lot of companies don't offer."
Best Plunging Bodysuit: Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Bodysuit, Best Thong Bodysuit: Pinsy Scoop Tank Shapewear Bodysuit, Best Shorts: Spanx OnCore Mid-Thigh Shorts, Best Asymmetrical Short: Skims Solution Short, Best Brief: Commando Classic Control Brief, Best Slip: Commando Two-Faced Tech Control Slip, Best Skirt Slip: Yummie Hidden Curves Firm Shaping High Waist Skirt Slip, Best Plus-Size Shapewear: NonEcho Plus-Size Body Shaper, Best Strapless Bodysuit: Maidenform Flexees Women's Shapewear Briefer, Best Convertible Bra: Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Full Busted Underwire Bra, Best Bra: Bali Comfort Revolution Wirefree Bra, Best Tights: Commando Ultimate Opaque Control Top Tights, Best Leggings: Commando Control-Top Leggings, Best Tank: Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Cami. It's available in both beige and black, making it easy to pair with any outfit in your wardrobe.
The seamless four-way stretch fabric makes the bra comfortable enough to wear all day, and the thick straps should stay in place no matter how much you move around. 6
Plus, they gave us a little insight into why shapewear is worth investing in! $38 AT AMAZON
"Ultimately your comfort is key when selecting your compression level.". Size Range: XS-3X | Colors: 1 | Compression: Light, Shop now: $80-$108; amazon.com, nordstrom.com, commando.com.
So you'll need a good pair of tights to wear for all those cute flowy dresses.
If you're looking to find your new go-to pair, Albanese highly recommends the Hanes Girl-Short Tummy-Control Pantyhose.
What We Love: With a plunging neckline and low back, this bodysuit is perfect for revealing occasionwear.What We Don't Love: This suit may be too small for C cups and above.
Best of all, the matte finish is pill resistant because leggings that look this good are meant to last a while.
Plus, with the bottom closure, you can use the restroom without dressing down to your birthday suit. The microfiber fabric is raw cut for thin edges that don't create panty lines or bulges. (You're welcome.)
What We Love: This slip offers enough support when wearing a dress without making you feel like you squeezed into a corset.What We Don't Love: It's too long to wear with mini dresses and skirts. Whether you are channeling Haley Bieber on your wedding day or adding some drama to your work uniform, you can show some extra leg while still covering all your bases.
Size Range: M-6X | Colors: 2 | Compression: Medium.
They already have some type of shape to them and your body really just cores into that shape..
What We Love: They are the ultimate black tights comfortable yet supportive.What We Don't Love: It is only available in black.
McDonald loves the Skims Sculpting Bodysuit because it promotes women's natural shape instead of flattening it.
Size Range: XS-3X | Colors: 4 | Compression: Light-Medium, Shop now: $48; bloomingdales.com, saksfifthavenue.com, commando.com.
This shaping bra is specially designed to smooth out your back while supporting your bust. Maidenform
Miraclesuit
The gusset is 100% cotton for breathability. "If you are wearing a bodycon dress or something more fitted, mid to high compression can give you a more sculpted look.
Try this compression garment for smoothing under long-sleeve tops and dresses.
Start building your shapewear collection with the perfect starter short.
Some shapewear takes a struggle to throw on but not this one: It's so easy to slip on and take off.
If you're anything like me, the thought of wearing shapewear probably doesn't bring you much joy.
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Its a snug, smooth fit in a very satiny material, so when you layer it under a tank or shirt, it doesnt cling to anything," Albanese said.
This celebrity-owned brand is a staple among both Messiah and O'Connor and our very own Product & Reviews Updates Editor Raena Loper, who loves the color and size range.
$148 AT SPANX
She loves how breathable the pieces are, and that this the sculpting mid-waist thong "provides tummy control but doesn't give the annoying panty line under your garment.".
It's also a style and brand coveted by O'Connor: "I have a number of different styles, different brands, all with different purposes in my shapewear arsenal," which includes Thigh Society. Light to medium compression in a high rise accentuates your curves without squeezing you too tight. I live in these Hanes tights, Albanese said.
And because you're likely wearing strapless styles on warm days, the fabric wicks away moisture to keep you cool and dry.
It's designed to smooth bulges and create the illusion of hourglass curves.
If your size and shade is currently sold out, here's a little hack you can try: Take Skims Sculpting Short and cut off the left or right side.
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 2 | Compression: Strong, Shop now: $26-$65; amazon.com, yummie.com, saksfifthavenue.com.
Pair this seamless thigh shaper with your favorite bra.
Read More While we haven't Lab-tested this pick, reviewers love its stay-in-place fit: "I LOVE the slightly rubbery threads around the top," says one Amazon reviewer. This is an open-bust slip, so its great for versatility, Albanese said. It smooths both your front and back without flattening your bust.
Read More
This one-piece holds everything in comfortably and stays in place better than sectional shapewear. This list was put together with the help of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Executive Director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Lexie Sachs.
Shapewear usually calls for a lot of squeezing, tugging and struggling, but it doesn't have to be that way.
"The Maidenform Open-Bust Bodysuit gives full-back technology that really conforms and holds the back in so there's no bra indents and no spillage, which is really nice, McDonald said. This do-it-all style shapes your thighs, butt and hips with extra emphasis on the tummy. Best Shapewear Corset
If you typically wear an everyday layering tank, this one's for you.
Shape Away Extra Firm Control Torsette
"There is something special about feeling secure in your undergarments and knowing that it is there working for you to smooth out any trouble areas.". "When wearing pants or denim, the shaper panty and cami work well because they can smooth your waist while adding comfortable support.". Perfect Waist Contouring Cincher
With over 15 years of experience in the textiles industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University, Lexie Sachs researches, tests and reports on all fabric-based products ranging from sheets, mattresses and towels to bras, fitness apparel and other clothing. To avoid constantly having to adjust your shapewear, look for pieces that have special waist bands or silicone strips that help to keep it in place. $148 AT SPANX
These feel athletic but are still comfortable.".
The Spanx Thinstincts 2.0 High-Waisted Shorts come in four different shades, including beige, tan, brown and black.
Ahead, you'll find our favorite shapewear pieces, perfect for sculpting and accentuating your body.
What We Love: It's like your favorite cami only better with light smoothing in a breathable fabric.What We Don't Love: It doesn't offer much support in the chest area, so you may still need to wear a bra. Pair With: Tuck this bodysuit into these Good American faux leather pants at Nordstrom for an easy date night outfit. Not only does it smooth and lift your stomach, hips, and rear, but it also boasts molded cups to create a nice bust shape.
It's specially designed to wear as a layering piece under your favorite sleeveless clothing and features a soft compression band around your midsection, so it won't ride up or get bulky underneath your clothes.
If you prefer briefs over thongs, look no further than Commando's shaping brief.
Powermesh panels around your tummy and back sculpt and define your waist.
"I believe that shapewear is an investment because it just makes any piece of clothing that looks good then look great," added stylist Micah McDonald, who has worked alongside his styling partner Wayman Bannerman for almost a decade.