Spanx helped launch the shapewear industry, but today, brands are making more options that speak to every woman’s curves. The best shapewear works the same way that the best lingerie does: By smoothing your silhouette and enhancing your natural shape, it helps you look great under any outfit.
When shopping for shapewear, it’s important to find a piece that’s comfortable, as this will help you wear it all day and night. It’s also a good idea to choose a style that won’t be too tight.
Bodysuits
If you love the tucked-in look but struggle to make it work with pants or skirts, a bodysuit can be the answer. These skin-tight tops stay tucked in without bunching or shifting, and are often made with comfortable materials like spandex or elastane that don’t ride up.
Some of these styles even fasten with poppers at the bottom so you can get it on and off easily.
Whether you want one for work or partying, there are plenty of options to choose from. From lace-inspired base layers that look great underneath loose tops to cutout styles that are perfect for night-out dressing, there’s something for every woman.
Thongs
Thongs have a reputation for being uncomfortable, but the truth is they can be stylish and sophisticated. They frame up any backside – whether it’s bouncy, flat, muscly, big or small – and they are one of the most flattering underwear styles you can own.
They don’t show panty lines and they don’t dig in or compress your skin. That means you won’t have to worry about clogged pores or acne breakouts.
There are a number of variations on the basic thong style, including G-strings and C-strings, which provide more front and back coverage. There are also tangas, which combine the bikini front with a wider thong back to provide more cheek coverage.
Briefs
Whether you’re looking for something that’s supportive, comfortable, or just looks great under your clothes, briefs are the way to go. They provide a close fit that’s perfect for those with square, hourglass, or even oblong body shapes.
These breathable cotton briefs from POKARLA work with high-waisted leggings, jeans, and skirts, so you can look good while getting active. They’re soft next to the skin and feature a thick upper band that keeps them from looking frumpy.
Aside from the classic elastic waistband and regular rise, these boxer briefs are bonded to both the waistband and legs, so they’re more secure than other options. That makes them a great choice for everyday wear, especially if you’re self-professed “granny-panty stan.” The fully attached gusset is another plus.
Shorts
With a wide range of styles to fit a variety of body types, shapewear is no longer suffocating or limiting. Newer brands like Spanx, Skims and Dodiee blur the lines between ready-to-wear and lingerie with compression designs that target targeted areas (like the stomach and hips) instead of pulling everything in.
According to Sapna Palep, CEO of lingerie brand Journelle, the best shapewear should “hold you in, add coverage and support or smooth you out.” It should be comfortable, not cut off circulation or feel too tight.
Unlike bodysuits, shorts hit at your natural waist for seamless sculpting that eliminates the panty line and makes you look slimmer without adding bulk. These high-waisted ones from Honeylove are also breathable and won’t roll down or cause discomfort thanks to their X-shaped design.
Leggings
Leggings are one of the most versatile shapewears to have in your closet. They can be worn with a variety of tops, and they also look great on their own as pants or shorts.
However, like all shapewear, they should be well-fitted. If they’re too loose, they will look saggy around the thighs.
To make sure you have the best fit, measure yourself and then choose a pair of leggings that fits your measurements. This will prevent you from having ill-fitted legs and will make you feel comfortable wearing them for long periods of time.
If you want to buy a pair of leggings, it’s important to find a brand that sells them in multiple sizes so you can get the perfect fit. Some brands even have a size chart that will help you pick the right size for your body.
