We’ve found the 18 best shapewear pieces to define your curves

These are the best pieces to help you feel confident in any outfit.

best-shapewear-uk

by Samantha Price and Christina Geggus |
Updated on

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 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 such as Spanx didn't grace our UK browsers until 2012. 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.

But do you need shapewear? Of course, nobody needs shapewear to look or feel their best. Gone are the days when we had to squish into something made for an unrealistic body type. Sometimes, all we're looking for is a comfortable shapewear dress to gently sculpt the figure that we already have.

Closer's best shapewear 2025, at a glance

If shapewear is something you want to wear - although you should never feel like you have to - here are our top picks of the best incredibly comfy shapewear pieces, with some tried and tested by us. Whether you're looking for a shapewear bodysuit or a pair of shapewear shorts, you name it, we've got it.

How did we test the best shapewear?

Here at Closer, we used our fashion experts 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.

SHOP: The best shapewear UK 2025

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 bodysuit

Expert rating:
4.0

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
  • Marks and Spencer rating
    4.2
Sizes available8 - 24
Colours availableBlack and rose quartz
Materials61% polyamide, 39% elastane, 100% cotton
How to washWash at 40°C

Best tummy control shapewear

Expert rating:
4.0
Amazon SHAPERX Shapewear for Women Tummy Controlamazon
Price: $47.11

With over 50,000 (!) 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
  • Amazon rating
    4.1
Sizes availableXS - XXL
Colours availableBeige
Materials69% poliam/nylon, 31% elastano/spandex
How to washHand wash only

Best seamless shapewear

Expert rating:
4.5
SKIMS Seamless Sculpt Brief BodysuitSKIMS

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. Closer writer, Ruby Barry said, 'It pulled me in 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, and it 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
  • SKIMS rating
    4.6
Sizes availableXXS - 4X
Colours availableSand, mica, clay, ochre, sienna, bronze, jasper, cocoa, onyx
Materials82% nylon, 18% elastane
How to washMachine 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

Expert rating:
4.5
SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dressskims

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
  • SKIMS rating
    4.8
Sizes availableXXS - 4X
Colours availableOnyx, heather grey, bubble gum and cielo
Materials91% modal, 9% spandex
How to washMachine wash cold with like colours

Best discreet shapewear

Expert rating:
4.0

Highly popular at Marks & Spencer, this lightweight shaping slip offers medium to firm control under your clothing. Made up of inovative ultra-light microfiber fabric with added stretch and Cool Comfort™ technology, it's super comfortable to wear and discreet under clothes. Reviewers can only agree, commenting that it's a must in any wardrobe while offering a firm, comfortable level of support. The only thing is, most would recommend to size up as sizes can run small.

Pros

  • Offers medium to firm control while being discreet under clothing
  • Features added stretch using innovative ultra-light microfiber fabric
  • Cool Comfort™ technology keeps you cool all day long

Cons

  • Some customers said sizes may run small
  • Marks & Spencer rating
    4.0
Sizes available8 - 24
Colours availableBlack, roe quartz
Materials63% polyamide, 37% elastane
How to washWash at 40°C

Best shapewear with bust support

Expert rating:
4.0
Price: $39.60 (was £44)

www.jdwilliams.co.uk

With added support, Figleaves Shaping Slip comes with built-in underwired cups that fit sizes 32B - 48D and removable, multiway straps so that you can wear your strapless shapewear with an occasion dress. While it doesn't have any ratings as of yet, we love how versatile this slip is and the only cons we can think of is that it may have the potential to roll up - and that we wish it was available in more colourways. All in all? A fabulous shapewear slip if you're looking for support around the bust.

Pros

  • Adjustable straps to cater for shape
  • Versatile wear with removable multiway straps
  • Features built-in underwired cups for support

Cons

  • May roll up if the fit isn't correct
Sizes available32B - 48D
Colours availableLatte
Materials76% polyamide, 21% elastane, 3% polyester
How to washHand wash only

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

Expert rating:
4.5
Shapermint Essentials All Day Every Day Scoop Neck CamiShapermint
Price: $22.99 (was £39)

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." 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
  • Shapermint rating
    4.6
Sizes availableS - 4XL
Colours availableBlack, beige, white, rose tan, mulberry, forest, navy, light heather grey, dark pink, atlantic blue, chocolate, lavender
Materials90% nylon and 10% spandex
How to washN/A

Best lightweight shapewear

Expert rating:
4.5

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 as 'the perfect hug' that fits them just right and gives them the smoothest look.

Pros

  • Has super soft fabric
  • Micro-fiber offers a lightweight, breathable feel
  • Does not constrict the chest

Cons

  • We wish there were more inclusive shades of nude available
  • Next rating
    4.5
Sizes availableXS - 2X
Colours availableBlack, beige
Materials64% polyester, 24% elastane, 12% cotton
How to washMachine wash cold, gentle cycle with like colours

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 shapewear underwear

Expert rating:
4.0
Amazon Shapermint Body Shaper Tummy Control Pantyamazon
Price: $31.99

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
  • Amazon rating
    4.0
Sizes availableS - 4XL
Colours availableBlack, chocolate, latte, sand, nude
Materials90% nylon, 10% elastane
How to washMachine wash

Best value shapewear

Expert rating:
4.5
H&M 2-Pack Shaping Thongsh&m

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
  • H&M rating
    4.4
Sizes availableXS - XL
Colours availableBlack, light beige, dark beige, dark brown
Materials94% polyamide, 6% elastane
How to washMachine wash at 40°

The best shapewear shorts

Whether you want to wear shapewear shorts under your dresses or wear them on their own as bike shorts, shapewear shorts are your new best friend.

Best shapewear shorts

Expert rating:
4.5
honeylove

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 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 alternative
  • Available in a variety of inclusive sizes

Cons

  • Comes up higher on the torso than some may like
  • Honeylove rating
    4.6
Sizes availableXS - 3X
Colours availableRunway, sand
Materials 75% nylon, 25% spandex, 100% cotton
How to washN/A

Best popular shapewear

Expert rating:
4.0
SPANXsculpt™ Seamless Power High-Waisted Mid-Thigh ShortSPANX
Price: $40
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=c84bfba7fb9057c609599595b4f5e218&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=C0xAEhVYThgRFU4eWFYAT0MXVlZUGkpdDURJRRddVRZbQE0VEgBZHk9OX1hSDUUdUVxeURhOVAtHElABH1wKXBkWDgsGX0sRUVFFXg1RHUpdVktBShhTBFUMXUAOKnwJU1FRVgVeUAs%3D&x=v1&prdId=9887426450&barcode=UwgFW1BbWAVWUA8CDAQ%3D
Alternative retailers
Bloomingdale's$38.00View offer
Spanx$38.00View offer
Nordstrom$38.00View offer
ASOS$61.00View offer

SPANX are some of the most sought-after shapewear products, and these seamless shorts target the core and thighs for extra support and sculpting. A silicone waistband stops these high-waised shorts from rolling down for a secure fit - and the shorts come in a range of inclusive sizes and colours to choose from. One reviewer praised the pair's oustanding quality, while another went on to say the fit looked 'super snatched'.

Pros

  • Silicone-enhanced waistband prevents shifting for a secure fit
  • Has targeted core-sculpting and bum-lifting zones
  • Features an open gusset which makes bathroom trips easy

Cons

  • May be difficult to put on
  • SPANX rating
    3.8
Sizes availableS - 3X
Colours availableVery black, soft nude, chestnut brown, cafe au lait
Materials55% nylon, 45% elastane
How to wash Wash cold, gentle cycle

Best plus size shapewear

Expert rating:
4.0
Delimira Women's Tummy Control ShapewearAmazon
Price: $22.99

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
  • Amazon rating
    4.0
Sizes available10 - 28
Colours availableBeige, black, taupe, warm beige, natural
Materials68% polyamide, 32% elastane
How to washHand 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.

Best shapewear leggings

Expert rating:
4.5

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. 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
  • M&S rating
    4.3
Sizes available6 - 22 / short, regular and long
Colours availableBlack, midnight navy
Materials70% viscose, 26% polyamide and 4% elastane
How to wash Wash at 40°C delicate

Best versatile shapewear

Expert rating:
4.5
Amazon JOYSPELS Women's High-Waisted Gym Leggingsamazon
Price: $21.95

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
  • Amazon rating
    4.5
Sizes available6 - 20
Colours availableBlack, sage, charcoal, tea, army green, coral, wine red, navy blue, sapphire, sky, coffee, tiramisu, dark olive, seaweed, blue lake
Materials75% polyester, 25% spandex
How to washMachine wash

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 shapewear swimsuits which are a must on your next holiday.

Best shapewear swimsuit

Expert rating:
4.5

Made to celebrate your curves, this chic swimsuit is the ultimate all-round very shapewear swimsuit. Made with firm support to flatten the stomach and feminine ruching around the bust and tummy area, this flattering swimsuit will make you look and feel amazing - whether around the pool or on the beach on holiday. Reviewers say it's comfortable and hugs the curves in all of the right places.

Pros

  • Nearly 100 positive reviews
  • Supports bust while still comfortably holding the stomach in
  • Affordable price point for the quality

Cons

  • Some reviewers commented on the neckline being lower than expected
  • Next rating
    4.5
Sizes available6-26 in regular, tall, petite
Colours availableBlack
Materials85% nylon, 15% LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ elastane. Lining 92% polyester, 8% elastane. Mesh 88% nylon, 12% elastane.
How to washAlways rinse in fresh water after each use

Best bandeau shapewear swimsuit

Expert rating:
4.5
bandeau swimsuitPour Moi

If you prefer a bandeau swimsuit then you'll meet your match with this gorgeous black and white strapless swimsuit from Pour Moi. Available in specific cup sizes, this swimsuit is designed with all the tummy support you would ever want from your swimsuit, and you'll never tire of its stylish black and white colourway. Reviewers say the chic colourway looks very classy, and nips you in at the waist.

Pros

  • Timeless colourway
  • Detachable straps
  • High-quality tummy control pannelling

Cons

  • Some reviewers suggested the sizes came up a tad smaller
  • Pour Moi rating
    4.5
Sizes available32B - 38F
Colours availableBlack/white
Materials80% recycled polyamide 20% elastane
How to washN/A

Best shapewear swimsuit for larger busts

Expert rating:
4.5

Want your boobs to feel lifted and supported? This vibrant swimsuit from Panache comes with underwiring and adjustable straps for a personalised fit. The swimsuit is also designed in a smoothing material, making you feel your most confident self wherever you are. One customer even remarked that it supports their large bust in the front, side and middle - as well as giving a flattering shape.

Pros

  • Specifically designed for those with bigger busts
  • Smoothing material
  • Sizes range from 30DD to 40K

Cons

  • Some reviewers said it came up on short on the body
  • Marks & Spencer rating
    4.4
Sizes available30DD - 40K
Colours availableGingham
Materials80% polyamide, 20% elastane
How to washHand wash

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.

Samantha Price is a Senior Commercial Content Writer for Closer. During her time at Bauer, she has worked on writing expertly crafted buying guides on beauty, fashion and lifestyle.

Christina Geggus is a Commercial Content Writer at Closer. She covers fashion, beauty, homes and anything trending. When not writing, she can be found at her favourite Blaze gym class or on long walks with her loved ones with an overpriced coffee.

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