Best Shapewear of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
<p>If you think shapewear is constrictive, uncomfortable and tough to breathe in, you’re wearing the wrong shapewear. Shapewear has a long history including corsets and waist trainers that pinch and prod, but today’s garments are much more innovative to sculpt and smooth the body without feeling claustrophobic or painful. </p><p>”Shapewear should enhance your figure, and if it fits well, it should really feel like your own skin,” says Tina Zimmerman, <a href=”https://www.kleinfeldbridal.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Kleinfeld Bridal</a>’s director of alterations. Gone are the days of hyper-restrictive styles: “You should be able to bend and move, and if you can’t breathe, it’s not the right fit for you.” </p><p>To find the best options, the <a href=”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/institute/about-the-institute/a19748212/good-housekeeping-institute-product-reviews/” target=”_blank”>Good Housekeeping Institute</a> Textiles Lab recently tested 27 different styles of shapewear (including shorts, bodysuits, underwear and more) in our Lab and had 80 women with different body shapes give us feedback. We also worked with personal stylist<strong> </strong><a href=”https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://laurenmessiah.com/__;!!Ivohdkk!0Y2ppmCABM9AvL4YDNR17AIx-63nSUY7xXKJeIBQCyOdS9F-DpT_6ETt-9-oFb2YS_m8Pw$” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer” data-auth=”NotApplicable” data-linkindex=”0″>Lauren Messiah</a> and fashion stylist <a href=”https://www.instagram.com/meaghanpoconnor/?hl=en” target=”_blank”>Meaghan O’Connor</a> to learn everything about how to buy the best shapewear for every occasion. <br></p><p>You can find more information about how we test shapewear along with shopping tips from our experts at the end of this article, but first, here’s everything you need to know about the best shapewear. And if you’re looking for extended sizing, check out our review of the <a href=”https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/clothing/best-shapewear/g40427728/best-plus-size-shapewear/” target=”_blank”>best plus-size shapewear</a>. <br></p>”/>
Pros
- Shapes thighs, butt, hips and tummy
- No-slip waistband
- Medium compression
Cons
- Some petite online reviewers noted the waistband rolled down
Spanx is credited with popularizing modern shapewear. This do-it-all style shapes your thighs, butt and hips with extra emphasis on the tummy. Tested by our Textiles Lab experts, the higher rise is designed to minimize any “muffin top,” and its no-slip waistband helps it stay in place.
The best part is you can wear it all day. The lightweight, seamless fabric offers a medium firmness, so it’ll smooth without feeling like you can’t breathe, say our clothing pros. “I always wear these shorts to weddings as they stay hidden while smoothing any lumps,” noted one GH editor. Fashion stylist Meaghan O’Connor also keeps this shapewear piece in her repertoire. Because these have a super high-waisted fit, some petite online reviewers noted they tend to roll down a bit.
Best for: Many occasions thanks to a versatile design
Sizes: S–3X | Colors: 6 | Materials: 100% Nylon
Pros
- Over 30,000 reviews on Amazon
- No panty lines, according to testers
- High marks for comfort and tummy control
Cons
- Some testers reported damaged packages
Starting at just $25, this affordable shapewear from Shapermint impressed our textiles pros and consumer testers. Fitting like high-waisted briefs, this style offers snug compression with minimal seams — no more panty lines! In our Lab, the shapewear maintained its shape in our stretch recovery tests.
This style of shapewear was a game-changer for many of our testers. One reported, “It was incredibly simple, comfortable and honestly I forgot I was wearing it, which has never been the case before.” After wearing it during her everyday routine and to a wedding, she said, “It worked great under multiple articles of clothing.” Another tester added that the “fabric was buttery soft and seamless.” All testers agreed that this style is great for tummy control and said it’s easy to take on and off without feeling overly constrictive.
Best for: Slimming effects at an affordable price
Sizes: S–4X | Colors: 5 | Materials: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
3
Best for Lower Belly Pooch
Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief
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Pros
- High compression around the tummy
- Silicone waistband
- On sale for $20
Cons
- Minimal color options
If you’re looking for tummy control but don’t need thigh coverage, this high-rise Maidenform brief has firm control around the tummy and a silicone waistband to help keep it in place. It’s designed to smooth bulges and create hourglass curves. We appreciate that it features a cotton gusset (a piece of fabric sewn into the crotch of underwear) because cotton is a natural material that’s soft and breathable.
Online reviewers love its stay-in-place fit: “I LOVE the slightly rubbery threads around the top,” says one Amazon reviewer. “This does not roll over even if you slouch.” Plus, this style is currently on sale, starting at just $20!
Best for: Lower belly slimming with a comfortable fit
Sizes: S–3X | Colors: 3 | Materials: 70% Nylon, 30% Elastane
Pros
- Waistline slimming
- Built-in cotton gusset and adjustable straps
- 13 color options, including 10 nude options
Cons
- Lighter colors are a bit see-through
Viral on TikTok for good reason, this best-selling bodysuit from Skims can be worn as shapewear under clothes or on its own as a top. With slimming compression along the waist, this bodysuit has a thong design to stay hidden under clothes and adjustable straps for a proper fit. The built-in cotton gusset makes this bodysuit comfy to wear without underwear.
Testers appreciated the bodysuit’s slimming capabilities with one saying she noticed a “smoother waistline and flatter tummy” while wearing this bodysuit. Liking this bodysuit’s targeted compression, one tester said, “It didn’t make me look flat like other shapewear bodysuits I’ve tried.” Although it looks small out of the packaging, testers reported that it ran true to size with some opting to size up if they had a larger bust. It’s available in 13 shades, including 10 nude color options, but the lighter colors are a bit see-through if you plan to go bra-less.
Best for: Wearing on its own
Sizes: XXS–4X | Colors: 13 | Body materials: 78% Nylon, 22% Spandex
RELATED: Skims Review: We Tried the Viral Brand to See What’s Worth Buying
Pros
- Built-in wire-free bra
- Lightweight materials
- Cotton gusset and adjustable straps
Cons
- Lower appearance scores
With tummy shaping and a built-in wire-free bra, this full-coverage shapewear from Wacoal is surprisingly lightweight. It features bonded edges (no bulky seams!) for a sleek, hidden look under clothes. Combining comfort with shapewear capabilities, this bodysuit smooths the waist and tummy with a breathable feel. We appreciate that it has a cotton gusset lining and adjustable straps.
“It was extremely comfortable — more comfortable than any shapewear I’ve ever worn,” reported one satisfied tester. “I even fell asleep wearing it one night after a long day!” Testers gave it perfect scores for fit, reporting that this style runs true to size. The hook-and-eye closure in the crotch made it easy to go to the bathroom, according to testers. Calling the fabric “smooth” and “cool to the touch,” testers loved this bodysuit’s feel and found it comfy enough to wear on hot summer days. It received lower appearance scores from testers, and one remarked, “It’s not the sexiest style.”
Best for: Lightweight, full-coverage support
Sizes: 34–40 band sizes and C–DDD cup sizes | Colors: 2 | Body materials: 65% Nylon, 35% Spandex/Elastane
Pros
- Targeted compression panels
- Variety of fun colors in addition to nude shades
- Longer inseam prevents chafing
Cons
- Less tummy control compared to other picks
Yitty shapewear doesn’t forget the booty! These shorts feature targeted compression panels for butt shaping and lifting. The snug, ribbed waistband panel offers some compression for a bit of tummy control too. Silicone grips along the waistband prevent slipping or rolling down, keeping them secure. The brand also offers a matching bra top too.
Wearing them everywhere from the office to formal events, testers praised these shorts’ comfy fit with one saying the shorts “felt very comfortable for all day and night wear.” Testers appreciated the longer inseam that prevents chafing, making them great to wear under dresses and in summer months. “I liked that it went a bit higher than my natural waist, so it didn’t squeeze the fat just above my waist and make a shelf,” reported one tester.
Best for: Booty shaping and lift
Sizes: XS–5X | Colors: 18 | Body materials: 52% Recycled Nylon, 34% Nylon, 14% Elastane
Pros
- Snug tummy compression
- Online reviewers liked the smoothing effect for no bra lines
- Great for people with large busts as you can wear your own bra
Cons
- Challenging to use the pee slot because of snug fit, according to testers
Combining firm compression with stay-in-place benefits, this Miraclesuit style has adjustable straps and full coverage throughout the torso, hips, butt and thighs. We were impressed by its all-over smoothing capabilities thanks to panels at the midsection that give extra support for the tummy. Though the straps may be limiting for certain outfits, the design allows you to wear your own bra and is cut low enough to wear under a variety of tops and dresses.
Because you can wear your own bra with this shapewear, it’s a great option for wearers with large busts. One online reviewer reported she had “no side boob bulge,” when wearing this bodysuit. Online reviewers appreciated the pee slot, but a few commented that it was tough to use because of the snug fit. “I love the smoothing effect it has all the way up the back,” said another reviewer. “No bra lines!”
Best for: Full body slimming effects, and you can wear your own bra
Sizes: S–3X | Colors: 2 | Body materials: 82% Nylon, 18% Elastane
Pros
- Variety of nude shades and fun color options
- Creates a flattering silhouette, according to testers
- Stays put without rolling up
Cons
- Challenging to get on at first, according to testers
Offering smoothing capabilities without feeling like you’re wearing constricting shapewear, this Shapermint cami is a great everyday staple. It’s Amazon’s best-selling shapewear top with over 21,000 online reviews — and after testing this top in our Lab, we agree that it’s a worthwhile buy.
All testers reported that they would continue wearing this cami since it was comfortable and stayed in place without rolling or shifting. “This [top] created a very flattering silhouette,” reported one tester who said she wore this top regularly to the office. “Even though it was snug, it was pretty comfortable.” Some testers found it challenging to get on at first because of its snug fit. Calling it “extremely comfortable,” one tester reported that it “held my stomach area in well.”
Best for: Everyday slimming that you can wear on its own
Sizes: S–4X | Colors: 11 shades | Materials: 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
Pros
- Breathable, lightweight material
- Designed to wear without underwear to stay hidden under clothes
- Very comfortable fit, according to testers
Cons
- Minimal compression
Made with a super lightweight material, these thin, breathable shorts are ideal to wear every day. With a seamless design, they’re totally invisible under dresses, skirts and pants. They have a cotton gusset built-in so they can be worn sans underwear. The brand also sells leakproof shapewear to wear during your cycle.
Testers reported that wearing these shorts as underwear was a comfortable way to have a bit of slimming and shaping while preventing panty lines. “I like the thin material and light support it provided,” said one tester. “I also liked that it stayed in place, unlike many others I tried.” One tester loved wearing these shorts under a silk dress, saying they smoothed her midsection and stayed hidden even with unforgiving fabric. Another tester added, “It provided light support that did not rise on my thighs or roll down my belly.” When asked what her favorite thing about this shapewear was, one tester said, “They don’t roll down, they don’t roll up and they’re invisible.”
Best for: Smoothing effects with lightweight coverage
Sizes: XXS–XXXXL | Colors: 6 | Body materials: 77% Nylon, 23% Lycra Xtra Life
Pros
- Eight different nude shades
- Sculpting compression designed for all day wear
- Thong stays hidden under tight garments
Cons
- Some online reviewers wish the gusset was wider
For a versatile piece that you can wear under any type of garment, this sculpting thong has a high-rise fit to smooth the tummy, and the high rise of the leg holes helps avoid panty lines. The Skims brand is a staple for both Messiah and O’Connor, and GH editors love the color and size ranges. “I’m able to find undergarments and shapewear that are the perfect ‘nude’ for me, which a lot of companies don’t offer,” noted one staffer. We also found the pieces to be breathable, making them suitable for all-day wear. Some online reviewers wish the cotton gusset was wider.
Best for: Comfortable compression that stays hidden
Sizes: XXS–4X | Colors: 9 | Body materials: 78% Nylon, 22% Spandex
Pros
- Lightly lined cups
- Smoothing without feeling too restrictive, according to online reviewers
- Sexy design
Cons
- Minimal sizing options
While most shapewear can feel drab and unattractive, this sexy bodysuit from Bali is made entirely of lace. It comfortably smoothes and stays in place better than sectional shapewear. We were impressed by the light lining around the cups, which means you won’t need a separate bra. The lace is not only more attractive than traditional shapewear materials but also more breathable. Note that this style is available in more minimal sizing compared to other shapewear picks.
Bali bras were top performers in our latest bra test. Although we haven’t tested this style yet, it has thousands of positive online reviews. One online reviewer said, “It is perfect to smooth out the lumps and bumps, highlighting the curves and giving me a very nice shape.” Another reviewer commented, “I wear it when I want to look my best.”
Best for: A sexy look with smoothing capabilities
Sizes: 34–40 band sizes and B–DD cup sizes | Colors: 3 | Body materials: 72% Nylon, 28% Spandex
Pros
- Back smoothing fabric to prevent bulges
- Looks great under clothing
- Prevents straps from digging in
Cons
- Some testers reported that the underwire dug in a bit
Some bras create unwanted lines and bulges, but this style from Shapeez has back-smoothing fabric that minimizes this effect. With a full coverage back, you can easily adjust the straps in the front. It features light foam padding and an underwire for natural shaping.
When we evaluated this bra in our Textiles Lab, consumer testers said it was comfortable, supportive and looked great under clothing. “I really liked the smoothing material on the back: no more straps digging into me,” reported one tester. One D-cup tester even said, “This is the best fitting and most comfortable bra I have ever worn.” Loving its smoothing effect, one tester noted, “[I] did not see a bra line or any bulges in the back area.” Some testers found the underwire to dig in a little.
Best for: A smooth back with no bra bulges
Sizes: 34–40 band sizes and B–DD cup sizes | Colors: 3 | Body materials: 72% Nylon, 28% Spandex
Pros
- Built-in bra
- Easier to take-off than other shapewear in our tests
- Easy-access open gusset
Cons
- Only two color options
Not only does this Spanx style smooth everything from your bust to your thighs, but it’s also surprisingly versatile. For starters, it’s easy to slip on and take off, unlike other shapewear that can be more of a struggle. It also has removable straps that are both adjustable and convertible so you can wear it under almost any outfit. One GH staffer added, “I love that you don’t have to worry about clips or anything when you need to use the loo, thanks to the ‘easy access gusset.'”
Best for: Pairing with strapless dresses
Sizes: XS–XL | Colors: 2 | Body materials: 51% Elastane, 49% Nylon
Pros
- Mesh panels for breathability
- Open-bust design
- Firm control through midsection and thigh
Cons
- Only two color options
Designed specifically for plus sizes, this Lane Bryant seamless style has firm control throughout the torso and thighs. Its open-bust design means it has straps for stay-in-place power while allowing you to wear your preferred bra. This pick has sheer mesh panels for added breathability.
A favorite piece of O’Connor’s, its contours provide an invisible layer of control under any outfit, and the adjustable straps make for a comfy fit. One online reviewer found it “great for shaping and smoothing.” Another added that it’s “easy to put on and take off and very comfortable.”
Best for: Plus size wearers who want thigh control without overheating
Sizes: 12–36 | Colors: 2 | Body materials: Nylon/spandex
Pros
- High scores for support from testers
- Easy bathroom access
- Lightly padded built-in bra
Cons
- Some testers wish it had more tummy control
Mid-thigh shapewear bodysuits provide ultimate coverage and shaping to enhance your figure from top and bottom. This pick from Honeylove has targeted compression panels to smooth your waistline while offering lift up top and support for your legs. An open gusset means you don’t have to take off the whole bodysuit to use the bathroom. It’s available in two colors, beige and black.
Testers gave this bodysuit a perfect score for support: They said that it held them in and felt comfortable without feeling sweaty. “I felt very shaped and supported in this shapewear,” reported one tester. She even said it “made a notable difference in how my body appeared in some dresses.” Because of the low-cut back and lower neckline, testers liked that even though this shapewear offered a lot of coverage, it still stayed hidden under a variety of different outfits. Some testers wish it offered more tummy compression while being less snug in the bust and hips.
Best for: Full body coverage, including thighs, while staying hidden under clothes
Sizes: XS–3X | Colors: 2 | Body materials: 64% Nylon, 36% Spandex
How we test shapewear
The fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab have been testing shapewear for the past 15 years. We test each style in our Lab and send it to consumer testers with a range of body shapes to get real-life wear feedback. Here are the main considerations we took into account when testing shapewear:
✔️ Stretch recovery: We stretch the shapewear a set amount and then see if it will return to its original shape. Because shapewear is made with stretchy materials, it must maintain its shape after you wear it over and over.
✔️ Comfortable fit: To ensure you’re not counting down the seconds until you can take it off, we prioritized our testers’ feedback on comfort and fit to find the most comfortable styles.
✔️ Shaping, slimming and smoothing effects: Testers gave extensive feedback on noticeable effects when wearing the shapewear to determine which styles are best suited for different purposes.
We also consulted additional style and clothing experts, including personal stylist Lauren Messiah, fashion stylist Meaghan O’Connor and Kleinfeld Bridal Director of Alterations Tina Zimmerman.
How to choose the best shapewear for you
These days, shapewear comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and cuts, so whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or an everyday staple, there’s something out there for you, and some can even replace your favorite bra and/or underwear. Here’s what we look for in good shapewear for women:
✔️ Comfort: Some shapewear has higher compression levels, so be sure to select the material and thickness based on your wants, says stylist and podcast host O’Connor. Her advice: “Keep a lookout for pieces that are designed to stay in place.” Ideally, shapewear shouldn’t roll down or limit your circulation — you should be able to breathe, sit and eat comfortably!
✔️ Type: If you want extreme tummy control and contour, look for shapewear with mid- to high-level compression, she says. Looking for some control but mostly to just smooth your silhouette and enhance your outfit? Opt for pieces that focus less on compression and more on smoothing, so that you maintain comfort and keep your shape. Or if you’re looking for shapewear as a modesty piece like a skirt slip, find lightweight fabrics with minimal compression and features that work for your personal style.
✔️ Sizing: Never size down. Buying too small can squish your skin and cause unwanted bulges, advises Zimmerman. Most of us don’t wear the same clothes all the time, and that should go for shapewear as well, says O’Connor. Consider shapewear as you would your other intimate apparel pieces, and it will be clear that variation in style makes for easier dressing!
FAQs
•Which shapewear brand is best?
In our tests, we have found Spanx and Skims to be the most popular brands that performed well in our tests. For more affordable options, we were impressed by the offerings from Maidenform and Shapermint.
•Is it better to size up or size down in shapewear?
You should go with your regular apparel size when buying shapewear. If you usually wear a size Medium in underwear and a Large in bodysuits, you should choose the same sizes for underwear and bodysuit shapewear pieces. Like any piece of apparel, sizing varies from brand to brand, so make sure to look at the size chart closely. Many shapewear styles are designed to be very compressive, so some testers preferred to size up for a more comfortable fit that was a bit less slimming.
•How do you keep shapewear from rolling down?
If your shapewear tends to roll down, you may be wearing the wrong size. Shapewear that’s too tight or too big will roll down more than styles that fit properly. You can also look for styles with silicone grips that can help it stay in place. Bodysuits are another great option for shapewear that won’t roll down.
•Which shapewear is best for slimming, especially the lower belly?
For lower belly pooch slimming, look for shapewear that has targeted compression around the tummy. Shapewear shorts and underwear tend to be the best at smoothing the waistline and tummy area. While you won’t want to wear it for too long, higher compression styles will create a more noticeable difference in appearance.
Why you can trust Good Housekeeping
Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she has been overseeing the testing of apparel for over a decade. Lexie has extensively tested dozens of shapewear styles both in the Lab and in real-life settings and regularly evaluates similar categories including the best bras, best slimming swimsuits and more.
Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst at Good Housekeeping where she has led testing for all types of intimates products, including shapewear, bras and underwear. Since 2018, she has been a leading fit expert, writing articles about how to measure yourself at home and finding your best bra size.
Aidan Collins and Rachael Chen conducted our most recent shapewear test in the Textiles Lab to update this story.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute‘s Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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