An Honest List of the Best Shapewear to Buy Right Now
After trying hundreds of bodysuits, briefs, and bras, the results are in.
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Every time I reach into the minuscule corner of my intimates drawer reserved for shapewear, I have the same reaction: utter disappointment. I was recently inspired to cull through my paltry collection and do some damage control so that I might no longer be stuck with unflattering bodysuits and uncomfortable high-rise briefs. From here on out, I’m only interested in the best shapewear for women.
For me, shapewear has always been something that I dismiss until the last minute when I’m getting dressed and suddenly realize I have no reliable options. (Normally, this results in me wearing one of the tragic bodysuits or briefs I mentioned earlier.) To end this madness, I set out to research and test the finest and most effective shapewear options on the market. I went so far as to consult with Anne Gorke, creative director at Item M-6, but more on her later.
Some shoppers only turn to intimates when wearing something sheer or especially fitted; others like to incorporate compressive or structuring pieces into their everyday outfits. There’s no right or wrong, as long as you feel your best. After several try-ons and Q&As with Gorke, my friends, and even my mom, here is my honest opinion on the 12 best shapewear pieces to add to your dresser.
My number one requirement for shapewear is that it feels good on my skin. I want to feel sexy without being pinched or contorted, which is a surprisingly tall order. With Wolford, however, you’ll feel like you’re wearing nothing at all. With this particular suit, your hips, waist, tummy, and chest are all gracefully supported.
Size: XS/B-L/D
Colors: Black, Powder, White
Material: Polyamide, elastane
Customer review: “I decided to splurge, and no regrets here. It’s hard to find a comfortable bodysuit that doesn’t have the visible panty line and offers support that you can wear during the whole day. This piece is all of it and more.”
Italian brand Intimissimi may be known for its intimates and cashmere, but the truth is its shapewear is just as good. The price point and quality of each delicate piece exceeded my expectations. I don’t know how I lived without this shaping slip. This is a solve for almost every fashion dilemma moving forward.
Size: XS-L
Colors: Black, Honey Soft Beige
Material: Elastane, polyamide
Customer review: “Needed this to smooth out my figure, define my waist, and flatten my pooch. This was a squeeze to get into but perfect once on. The nude is just right (not too pale nude like most shapewear) to wear under sheer dresses. Does not bulk under silk slip dresses, too.”
This brand is new to me, but Item M-6 blew me away. Every piece is made sustainably, and the quality is that of a luxury house. Next time you need only partial coverage, ditch the bodysuit and reach for this little number. The silky mesh tank could even work as a standalone piece, or as an everyday undergarment for a little extra shaping.
Size: S-XL
Colors: White, Apricot, Milk Chocolate, Black
Material: Polyamide, elastane
Customer review: “I waited to see how it held up before I reviewed because some other brands have NOT despite being handwashed. Good to report this one is very well made! Stays put like new with good compression after many wears/washes. The princess seams work well and the ways you can change the straps is a great feature. Very high quality.”
Skims Seamless Sculpt Thong Bodysuit
To no one’s surprise, this Skims bodysuit is at the top of my list—and intimates drawer. There’s real merit behind this viral body-hugging suit. With adjustable straps, a buttoned thong, and stitching for bust definition, this is functional shapewear at its finest.
Size: XXS-4X
Colors: 10 options
Material: Nylon, elastane
Customer review: “I was nervous when I first took the bodysuit out of the packaging because I was afraid it would be too small, but the it ended up fitting perfectly!! It sculpts my body so nicely. I wore it out recently and received so many compliments!”
In a poll of my inner circle, Commando’s control thongs came up again and again. I had no idea what I was missing out on until I snagged myself a pair. With raw cut hems, this control thong feels like second skin.
Size: XS-XL
Colors: Black, Beige
Material: Nylon, spandex, cotton
Customer review: “Love these! Great fabric and hold. Just what I was looking for!”
When you want to be completely covered yet feel completely naked, reach for Negative. The brand has been on my radar for quite some time now, so I used this assignment as an excuse to treat myself. Build your own set for $77 and wear it any time for comfortable contouring.
Size: XS-XXL
Colors: 8 options
Material: Nylon, spandex, cotton
Customer review: “Fits great and the material feels amazing. Stays in place.”
Maidenform Cover Your Bases Smoothing Short
I chatted with my mother—an unofficial shapewear expert and obsessive collector—to find out which brands she relies on. She swears by these Maidenform smoothing shorts from Amazon and claims they never roll or ride up.
Size: S-XXL
Colors: Black, Transparent, Nude 1, Nude 2, Nude 3
Material: Nylon, spandex, cotton
Customer review: “High quality and simple. The elegant design gently hugs the contours of the body.”
Leonisa Unlined Wireless Posture Corrector Bra
This wireless brassiere with a front closure doubles as a posture corrector. For those of us sitting at our desks all day, this bra is a game changer.
Size: 32B-42DD/E
Colors: Nude, White, Golden Beige, Black, Brown
Material: Polyamide, elastane
Customer review: “Perfectly comfortable and true to size. I love how it slims the back and is lifting without feeling like I’m wearing a push-up bra!"
The founder behind Honeylove, vocalist Betsie Larkin, sought out shapewear that could support her while on stage. Disappointed with the results of options on the market, she created her own label to get the job done right. This particular hourglass smoothing piece offers strong support and compression and is ideal for those who want to accentuate their curves.
Size: XS-3XL
Colors: Sand, Vamp
Material: Nylon, lyrca, cotton
Customer review: “Finally, a smoothing shapewear that is totally line-less in front with boning on the side. I’m wearing this for my wedding, and I can’t wait!"
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
I consistently find myself trying on low-cut dresses and tops and having to return to my closet to pick another option because I don’t have any plunging bras. No more second choices with this bodysuit from Spanx, a longtime leader in the shapewear space.
Size: XS-XL
Colors: Very Black, Cafe Au Lait, Linen, Champagne Beige
Material: Elastane, nylon
Customer review: “Makes everything look better on, and it’s so versatile!”
Bumpsuit The Maternity Support Brief
Bumpsuit provides a little extra support for moms-to-be. Designed to grow with your tummy, this brief is there for you during each stage of pregnancy.
Size: XXS-XL
Colors: Black, Beige
Material: Nylon, spandex
Review: “Comfy! Got this as a present during my second trimester, and it’s great!”
If you are even the slightest bit indecisive, Amazon is not the place to browse. With thousands upon thousands of bestsellers, 5-star reviews, and Prime options, trying to pick and choose the best ones was quite a feat. Luckily, I’m confident I found the one. Embrace your body with this bodysuit that lifts and shapes.
Size: XXS-5XL
Colors: 11 options
Materials: Nylon, spandex
Customer review: “I’m not a shapewear person, but I bought this for a specific outfit, and now I think I might wear it with everything. It holds you in perfectly. It is so comfortable and makes you look amazing. I’ll be buying more in every color.”
How To Shop For Shapewear
- According to Gorke, you should look for items that meet three specific criteria: function, aesthetic, and comfort. You—and your needs—are complex. “Women today switch between different worlds, often within a single day,” she says. To put it plainly, be unapologetic about what does or does not work for you. Don’t settle for items that aren’t up to par.
- As with many things, the more you try, the more you discover your own preferences. You might learn that you hate strapless bras, but can make do with clear straps. Expect a lot of trial and error.
- Read reviews. Your fellow shoppers have so much insight to shared.
Meet the Expert
- Anne Gorke is the creative director at bodywear brand Item M-6.
Why Trust ELLE
Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
Shop More from ELLE Fashion
- 9 Best Boob Tapes to Lift You Up (and Keep You There)
- ELLE Editors Share Their Favorite Heels for the Dog Days of Summer
- These Airy Linen Dresses Will Make You Feel Like You’re Wearing Nothing at All
- 16 Best Raffia Tote Bags to Bring the Summer Vibes Everywhere
- 18 Universally-Flattering Bermuda Shorts to Stay Cool (and Chic) This Summer
Watch Next
Why Is Everyone Hosting a Closet Sale Right Now?
Selena Gomez’s $139 Sneakers Are Perfect for Fall
These Fitness Gifts Are Next Level
These Stylish Nike Shoes Were Made for Walking
