Let's be honest, the best shapewear has very much been a thing since, well, forever. Aside from that, who can forget the scene where Daniel Cleaver (AKA Hugh Grant) discovers Bridget Jones' tummy control shapewear? Alas, not all underwear is created equal, so if you want the best shapewear for your next show-stopping outfit, you've come to the right place.
While Bridget might have been wearing her trusty M&S briefs as early as 2001, some of the giants of the shapewear world didn't grace our UK browsers until 2012 (hey, Spanx). And, of course, the queen of cinching, Kim K, only released her fashionable shapewear brand, SKIMS, back in 2018. Thanks to SKIMS, wearing shapewear as outerwear is also very much a thing.
The best shapewear 2024, at a glance
But, do you need shapewear? Of course, nobody needs shapewear to look, or feel, their best. As long as you're the one wearing your outfit, it's already complete. Gone are the days when we have to squish into something that is made for an unrealistic body type. Sometimes, all we're looking for is a shapewear dress to gently sculpt the shape that we already have.
If shapewear is something you want to wear - although you should never feel like you have to - here's our picks of the best as tried and tested by us. Whether you're looking for a shapewear bodysuit or a pair of shapewear shorts (yes to anti-chafing) you name it, we've got it.
How did we test the best shapewear?
Here at Closer, we used our fashion experts (and fellow shapewear lovers) to determine some of the best shapewear on the market. We've highlighted pieces that we think deserve a shout out for their style, comfort, value and control that we wear in the day to day and, of course, genuinely recommend. Check out some of our tried and tested favourites, below.
SHOP: The best shapewear 2024
The best shapewear bodysuits
Starting with perhaps the most effective piece of shapewear available on the market, the shapewear bodysuit can target your chest, tummy and bum all at once.
Best shapewear overall
www.marksandspencer.com
Marks & Spencer has some of the best shapewear on the market, so it's no wonder that this Body Define™ Firm Control Bodysuit is our top choice. We love that you can keep your go-to bra, and tuck in your tummy and hips all in one. Hundreds of reviews state that this bodysuit is comfortable, versatile and durable - with one reviewer even claiming it was a 'godsend'. So, it's really no surprise that this has been rated our favourite choice.
Pros
- Offers a firm level of control
- V-shaped back for lower-backed dresses
- Has a range of inclusive sizing
Cons
- The 'nude' shade isn't suitable for all skin tones
Sizes available | 8 - 24 |
Colours available | Black and rose quartz |
Materials | 61% polyamide, 39% elastane, 100% cotton |
How to wash | Wash at 40°C |
Best tummy control shapewear
With over 40,000 (!) ratings, over half of which are five-star reviews, the SHAPERX Shapewear for Women Tummy Control bodysuit is a well-loved option as the best tummy control shapewear. This body shaper includes hooks and zips that pull in the tummy and waist. Best of all, reviewers state that it's also comfortable to wear while offering a good amount of compression.
Pros
- Highly rated and reviewed
- Has a flattering thong-cut
- Can still wear your own bra
Cons
- Level of compression may be uncomfortable for some
Sizes available | XS - 6XL |
Colours available | Black and beige |
Materials | 69% poliam/nylon, 31% elastano/spandex |
How to wash | Hand wash only |
Best seamless shapewear
skims.com
Hearing so much about SKIMS, we decided to put its Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit to the test. Boy, if SKIMS does anything right, it's shapewear. Kim's got it sussed. It sucked in my belly the perfect amount, smoothing out my figure without it being uncomfortable. It feels super plush against the skin, and works so well stand-alone as a bodysuit on a night out. If you're looking for a shapewear bodysuit, this really is the best on the market, that does the job whilst actually looking good.
Pros
- Seamless underneath clothing
- Offers a strong level of compression
- Comes with gusset and snap closure
Cons
- Buttons on gusset may snap open easily
Sizes available | XXS - 4X |
Colours available | Sand, mica, clay, ochre, sienna, bronze, jasper, cocoa, onyx |
Materials | 82% nylon, 18% elastane |
How to wash | Machine wash cold |
The best shapewear dresses
Shapewear slips are more effective than regular slips worn under clothing, because as well as providing coverage and smoothing underneath a garment, the shapewear element can contour your curves in all the right places.
Best shapewear dress
www.johnlewis.com
Not everyone wants super firm control - we get it. So here's the John Lewis Tessa Light Control Slip as a comfortable, smoothing alternative. This is the best shapewear dress that contours to your curves and offers some support underneath your dresses. And hey, we don't hate the black option as a LBD, either. After all, it comes with a built-in bra and flattering v-neckline, so why not, right? An incredibly versatile option that's made it the best shapewear dress on our list, reviewers love that 'it smooths out lumps and bumps'.
Pros
- Comes with a built-in bra
- Available in 'nude' or black
- Offers a light level of control
Cons
- The 'nude' shade isn't suited to all skin tones
Sizes available | 8 - 16 |
Colours available | Black and 'nude' |
Materials | 80% polyamide, 20% elastane |
How to wash | Machine washable |
Best stylish shapewear
skims.com
Donning shapewear as a standalone outfit for a night out has been made trendy by the Kardashians, making it fitting to feature the renowned SKIMS Soft Lounge Slip Dress. This stylish shapewear piece is offered in six chic colours and a size range from XXS to 4X, so it's not only a fashionable wardrobe staple - but incredibly comfortable (and with loads of choice, too). This shapewear dress can truly do it all, and thousands of fans of this dress say it's the most flattering thing they own.
Pros
- Has a range of inclusive sizing
- Can be worn on its own
- Available in multiple colours
Cons
- Lighter colours are a little bit see-through
Sizes available | XXS - 4X |
Colours available | Camel, celeste, cherry blossom, marble, navy, sugar plum, heather grey, onyx |
Materials | 91% modal, 9% spandex |
How to wash | Machine wash cold with like colours |
Best firm control shapewear
www.pourmoi.co.uk
When we tested out the Firm Control Wear Your Own Slip Bra from Pour Moi, we came to the following conclusion: it definitely does the job. Closer writer, Sam, found that despite fearing it would be too tight to wear that 'it smoothed out everything underneath her bodycon dress and is not at all uncomfortable to wear, even with it being a form-fitting, firm control slip.' If you're looking for high compression to smooth out your tummy, waist and hips, look no further.
Pros
- Offers a firm level of control
- Can wear your own bra
- Available in black and caramel
Cons
- Recommended that you size up
Sizes available | 10 - 20 |
Colours available | Black and caramel |
Materials | 84% polyamide 16% elastane |
How to wash | N/A |
The best shapewear tops
Focusing on your chest and arm areas, shapewear tops, whether short or long-sleeved, can cinch in some areas whilst celebrating your curves in other areas. It all works together in harmony to create your perfect silhouette.
Best shapewear top
www.harrods.com
Oh, Spanx - What would we do without you? Our top pick for the best shapewear top is of course their Thinstincts Camisole Top. Perfect under vests and blouses for a smooth feel, this sculpting camisole from Spanx is lightweight enough for every day with the same effective results every time. One reviewer dubbed it a 'confidence booster', and finds it supportive without being restrictive.
Pros
- Has super soft fabric
- Bonded material stretches around the midsection
- Does not constrict the chest
Cons
- May be too thin for some
Sizes available | XS - 2X |
Colours available | Champagne beige |
Materials | 55% nylon, 45% lycra |
How to wash | Machine wash |
Best everyday shapewear
shapermint.com
We were delighted to try Shapermint's All Day Every Day Scoop Neck Cami and it comes recommended by our tester, Jodie. She states that it's 'easy to pull on, has breathable compressive fabric that pulls in your tummy, and can be worn with or without a bra.' Speaking as someone with a 38D bust, she says she 'didn't feel uncomfortable without a bra on and that makes wearing clothes so much more comfortable' for me'. All in all, it is a highly recommended top that makes a great choice for the everyday.
Pros
- Can be worn as a base layer on on its own
- Has soft, breathable fabric
- Smoothing control around the tummy
Cons
- May roll up during the day
Sizes available | S - 4XL |
Colours available | Beige, white, black, chocolate, navy, light heather grey, rose tan, dark pink, atlantic blue, lavender, forest, mulberry |
Materials | 90% nylon and 10% spandex |
How to wash | N/A |
The best shapewear underwear
Why opt for regular, boring ol' underwear when you have a variety of smoothing, compressing and lifting shapewear thong underwear options at your disposal? The choice is clear, folks.
Best value shapewear
www2.hm.com
So you've got your shapewear, but suddenly you're now faced with the dreaded VPL. You need a shapewear thong. Lucky for you, H&M has found the perfect solution with these ingenious 2-Pack Shaping Thongs. With the price this low for a two-pack, this is a no-brainer, best value purchase. Customers have commented on this popular pick, saying they have a great fit with a good amount of tummy support. We're sold.
Pros
- Available in five colours
- No visible panty line under clothes
- Great value for money
Cons
- Some reviews claimed it may be best to size down
Sizes available | XS - XL |
Colours available | Black, light beige, old rose, beige, dark beige |
Materials | 94% polyamide, 6% elastane |
How to wash | Machine wash at 40° |
Best durable shapewear
Looking for a quick shapewear fix on Amazon? Shapermint, a brand celebrated on the platform for its shapewear wonders, offers tummy control knickers that seamlessly smooth from tummy to waist. Known for their durability and longevity, these knickers are also hassle-free when it comes to putting them on and taking them off according to reviewers.
Pros
- Has a range of inclusive sizing
- Easy to put on and remove
- Compression on the waist, back, hips, and tummy
Cons
- Anti-slip silicone strip not suitable for sensitive skin
Sizes available | S plus - XXL |
Colours available | Nude, latte, sand |
Materials | 90% nylon, 10% elastane |
How to wash | Machine wash |
The best shapewear shorts
Whether you want to wear shapewear shorts under your dresses or wear them on their own as a bike shorts a lá Princess Diana moment (finished with an oversized graphic tee), shapewear shorts are your new best friend.
Best shapewear shorts
www.asos.com
As 'shapewear's biggest fan', our shopping editor Aimee, confessed her love for the Spanx Everyday Seamless Shaping Shorts. 'This Spanx pair is one I reach for time and time again - my non-negotiable for any evening dress', she says. 'Not only do they accentuate your waist and flatten your tummy (especially ideal for those not-quite-tight-enough frocks), they are also surprisingly comfortable and help me feel secure as I dance the night away. ' It's easy to see why this popular pair have been dubbed our favourite pair of shapewear shorts, then.
Pros
- Targeted control around the waist and tummy
- Comfortable to wear
- Has a range of inclusive sizing
Cons
- Only one shade available
Sizes available | XS - XL |
Colours available | Beige |
Materials | Machine wash according to instructions on care label |
How to wash | 55% Nylon, 45% Elastane. |
Best shapewear with range
www.honeylove.com
When Honeylove labels its shapewear shorts as "SuperPower," they aren't exaggerating. These highly-rated shapewear shorts combine targeted tummy control shapewear technology with flexible boning to prevent any roll-down issues. Possibly the best shapewear for the tummy, waist and back, this pair of shorts has range. Not just that, but in its offering of colours and sizes, too. Reviewers love its ability to shape the body under an evening gown, perfect for an occasion.
Pros
- Has targeted compression on waist, tummy, hips and back
- Available in brief or thong alternative
- Available in a variety of colours and inclusive sizes
Cons
- Comes up higher on the torso than some may like
Sizes available | XS - 3X |
Colours available | Runway, sand, vamp, rose tan, mocha |
Materials | 75% nylon, 25% spandex, 100% cotton |
How to wash | N/A |
Best plus size shapewear
Not only is the Delimira Women's Tummy Control Shapewear available in a variety of 'nude' shade options, but its sizing runs to a 28, making it a brill option for ladies after the best plus size shapewear - and also comes in sizes 10-16, as well. Made of ultra-stretch, lightweight and breathable material it provides all-day smoothing and sweat-free comfort, which reviewers absolutely loved.
Pros
- Available in a variety of colours and inclusive sizes
- Double-layered fabric offers control
- Features non-slip silicone to stop it from rolling down
Cons
- Has a 'no returns' policy
Sizes available | 10 - 28 |
Colours available | Beige, black, taupe, warm beige, natural |
Materials | 68% polyamide, 32% elastane |
How to wash | Hand wash only |
The best shapewear leggings
What would we do without leggings, eh? Upgrade your normal lounging leggings with shapewear leggings. They function the exact same way - with the same comfort guaranteed - but with extra smoothing and contouring abilities. Your thighs will be looking snatched.
Best shapewear leggings
www.marksandspencer.com
Check out our pick of the best shapewear leggings from M&S. These Magic Shaping High Waisted Leggings are just that - magic. The stretch fabric pulls you in while clever stitching lifts your bottom for a sculpted silhouette. Hooray for pert bums! The substantial waistband also ensures firm support for your waist and tummy, offering a light level of control, all while being a versatile piece in your wardrobe. These really are some of the best shapewear leggings about, with fans of the leggings in agreement.
Pros
- Available in short, regular or long lengths
- Offers a light level of tummy control
- Not see-through
Cons
- Thicker material than some may like
Sizes available | 6 - 22 / short, regular and long |
Colours available | Black, midnight navy |
Materials | 70% viscose, 26% polyamide and 4% elastane |
How to wash | Wash at 40°C delicate |
Best versatile shapewear
These budget-friendly JOYSPELS High-Waisted Leggings are crafted to ensure you look effortlessly snatched during your gym sessions or running errands in the day to day. Yep, they're that versatile. In addition to the reliable tummy control waist, these leggings feature a Y-line design, providing the illusion of longer legs and allowing for enhanced flexibility in your movements. One happy customer commented that they're 'really comfy with great tummy control'. Need we say more?
Pros
- Ideal for the gym with quick-drying fabric
- Features deep pockets for everyday essentials
- Endless amounts of colour choices
Cons
- May come up short on taller women
Sizes available | 6 - 20 |
Colours available | Black, sage, charcoal, tea, army green, coral, wine red, navy blue, sapphire, sky, coffee, tiramisu, dark olive, seaweed, blue lake |
Materials | 75% polyester, 25% spandex |
How to wash | Machine wash |
Best sculpting shapewear
skims.com
A proud member of the official SKIMS Shapewear collection, these Seamless Sculpt High-Waisted Leggings are the G.O.A.T. Offering targeted compression for shaping and sculpting, they not only lift your butt but also provide effective thigh control and compression at the waist too. These popular leggings have pulled in the reviews, with one stating that they really 'snatch your waist'.
Pros
- High-waist to compress waist
- Has a range of inclusive sizing
- Seamless, so invisible under clothing
Cons
- Could have more choice of colours
Sizes available | XXS - XXXL |
Colours available | Black, sand |
Materials | 82% nylon, 18% elastane |
How to wash | Machine wash cold |
The best shapewear swimwear
Who can forget when SKIMS launched their first swimwear collection in 2022, with a whopping 500K+ customer waitlist? As well as SKIMS, a bunch of other amazing brands have released killer shapewear swimsuits which are a must on your next holiday.
Best shapewear swimwear
skims.com
Much like every SKIMS collection, the swimwear line offers pieces that complement every body and shape. We love this zip front sleeveless one piece, and so do the reviews - stating that it smooths and shapes the body, whilst allowing for a tasteful amount of boob-ige, which is always important. It's only wise, then, that this swimsuit - that 'holds everything in' and offers a sculpted fit - has made it to top spot.
Pros
- Zip front allows customised cleavage
- Available in a wide range of colours
- Supportive without being constrictive
Cons
- May run small
Sizes available | XXS - 4X |
Colours available | Black, cocoa, almond, chrome, desert, desert snake print, neon orchid, ruby, snow |
Materials | 76% recycled nylon, 24% spandex |
How to wash | Rinse with cold water after wearing, hand wash cold |
Best tummy control shapewear swimwear
www.marksandspencer.com
A tummy control swimsuit from Marks and Spencer finds a new owner every two minutes, attesting to its exceptional quality. The brand has introduced its own groundbreaking Magic 360° Tummy Control technology, ensuring these swimsuits are remarkably flattering around the tummy, making it the best tummy control shapewear swimsuit on our list. Reviewers can only agree, saying that this swimsuit feels 'secure' and looks 'flattering'.
Pros
- Magic 360° Tummy Control technology
- Can be worn with straps or strapless
- Complete with padded cups for support
Cons
- Thigh cut style may be too high for some
Sizes available | 10 - 24 / regular or long |
Colours available | Sunshine, navy, onyx |
Materials | 83% polyamide, 17% elastane |
How to wash | Wash at 40°C delicate |
Best shapewear with bust support
www2.hm.com
Explore H&M's collection of shaping swimsuits designed to snugly embrace the waist, providing a secure and pulled-in feel. It features chest inserts that shape and support the bust, although these are fully removable if need be. Therefore, it's a great option for those with a bigger bust who are looking for some support. These swimsuits are available in two adorable stripe patterns (a majority of the colours are currently sold out!). On the popular swimsuit, a customer said, 'it holds you in in all the right places', so we're adding it to our basket immediately.
Pros
- Has a tummy control waist
- Removable inserts for chest support
- Fully lined and adjustable straps
Cons
- May be difficult to get on
Sizes available | 6 - 22 |
Colours available | Light green and white striped, black |
Materials | 20% recycled polyester, 12% recycled polyamide |
How to wash | Remove padding before wash, wash with similar colours, machine wash at 40° |
FAQs
What is the best shapewear that actually works?
If, after reading our list, you're still wondering 'What is the best body shaper on the market?', not to worry. We know the struggle all too well. With so many options, it's hard to know what's the best. However, always take to reading customer reviews to see whether the shapewear you have in mind suits your needs.
Firm control shapewear tends to be the type that makes a significant difference. But, if all else fails, stick to well-known brands you can always rely on, such as Spanx and Skims. They might be on the 'spenny side, but they're favourites that we return to again and again for a reason.
Should you size up or down when buying shapewear?
While some shapewear will run tight, some might need sizing down to see a noticeable difference. Thankfully, there are some websites and retailers that will tell you whether their shapewear should be tight or loose - or is true to size.
Underwear experts, Bravissimo suggest going for your 'regular size to avoid your shapewear rolling down or digging in'. To see how it might fit your clothing size, customer reviews can help. Find a reviewer who wears your size and see what they suggest about the fit.
Can shapewear flatten the stomach?
The best tummy control shapewear offers support in all the right places, meaning it can help to give your tummy a more streamlined appearance. If you're wanting shapewear for this reason, the best shapewear for your tummy can include the best shapewear briefs, best control underwear or best shapewear shorts.
Remember though, that your stomach does not need to be flat if it makes you uncomfortable, or it feels like you're hiding your body shape. Shapewear shouldn't be about hiding your body, only enhancing its natural curves and shapes. We encourage you to rock your belly, whatever size, always.
Why does shapewear always roll down?
Given that the material is usually made from spandex or elastic, shapewear briefs can tend to roll down. Sometimes this is an indication that the size you've chosen is too small. Wondering how to keep shapewear from rolling down?
First off, look for shapewear with a silicone waistband to help the fabric cling to your body, especially when it comes to strapless shapewear. Failing that, some veterans of the shapewear world (thank you, ladies) have suggested pulling the waistband up under your bra and using the bra's underwire to keep it in place, if the length of the piece allows, of course.
Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for Closer Online, specialising in fashion and beauty. The team has nicknamed her “dupe queen”, as there’s not a product in the world she can’t find a cheaper alternative for.