You might think the best shapewear garments (AKA Bridget Jones pants) are something to be ashamed of, but we insist you wear your suck-it-all-in tummy control shapewear with pride. There are loads of great options with heaps of benefits, from smoothing out VPL to improving your posture. Seriously, there will be shapewear to cater to any and all of your needs.
We've pulled together some pieces that can be worn under anything and everything. Think school runs to glam evening looks. Plus, there's no need for your smoothing pants or shapewear leggings to break the bank as we've found super affordable options. Why not take a look at the best ones that we found below?
Closer's best tummy control shapewear at a glance
From butt-lifting shapewear to tummy-flattening shapewear, you can create a Kardashian-like SKIMS silhouette using the real deal or even with some cheeky SKIMS dupes.
Or to simply feel your best in a slinky LBD, you could wear a shapewear dress as your outer layer (yes, that's a thing!) as well as your undergarment. Not to worry, we've even included some backless and strapless shapewear options for those fiddly dresses with teeny straps. Take a look at our edit of the best tummy control shapewear on the high street right now.
SHOP: The best tummy control shapewear UK 2024
Best tummy control shapewear for all sizes
amazonThis bargain shapewear bodysuit from Amazon looks and feels like pretty lingerie while also providing great support and smoothing power. We think Amazon is a great place to shop for shapewear that delivers.
Pros
- A great price point at under £50
- Over 2,500 five-star reviews
- Some reviews even say it makes them look like they've lost a stone
Cons
- Some reviews say to size down as it comes up larger than normal
| Material composition | 76% Polyamide, 24% Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Machine Wash |
Best budget tummy control shapewear
amazonThese support shorts are the cheapest option on our shapewear roundup but don't be deceived by their price. Not only does it hold in the tummy, but shapes the waist and lifts the butt. Be wary that some reviews say the legs come down a bit too far to wear with short dress styles.
Pros
- Again, an affordable price point in comparison to other shorts
- We love its all-day-wear comfort
- Reviews love how it smooths out lumps and bumps
Cons
- Length might not be suited to mini-dresses
| Material Composition | 92% Polyamide, 8% Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Machine Wash In Bag & Hand Wash |
Best tummy control shapewear for backless dresses
harrodswww.harrods.com
If you're going for a slinky backless dress but still want the power of some tummy-tucking shapewear, we think this bodysuit is the one for you. It comes with adjustable straps that can be placed in a variety of ways.
Pros
- We praise its seam-free silhouette - it has that invisible look under dresses
- Tackles plunge neck and backless dresses
- Machine washable which is always a bonus
Cons
- It's an investment piece but very versatile
| Material Composition | 51% Elastane, 49% Nylon |
| Care Instructions | Machine wash |
Best tummy control shapewear for a figure-hugging dress
Verywww.very.co.uk
Where would we be in the world without SPANX? These shorts are a much more affordable alternative to the full SPANX bodysuit at £86. Plus, in the summer, their anti-chafing abilities are a lifesaver. Trust us when we say, this is showstopper-shapewear.
Pros
- Reviews say it has a super-smooth finish under clothing
- The design prevents the dreaded 'muffin top'
- We love the extra ruching detail for your best-looking bottom
Cons
- Careful when purchasing if you're petite, as the top can roll down when sitting down
| Material Composition | 54% Nylon, 46% Spandex/Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
Best tummy control shapewear for colour options
skimsskims.com
We could hardly create a list of the best shapewear without including Kim Kardashian's SKIMS, which has taken the shapewear industry by storm. The sculpting high-rise shorts are unbelievably comfy, seamless and with full coverage at the back.
Pros
- Inclusive sizing, from XXS to 4X
- We love the variety of colour and skin tone options
- Double-ply no-dig compression at the thighs
Cons
- A few reviewers complained about rolling down at the top with movement
| Material Composition | 78% Polyamide, 22% Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Cold |
Best invisible tummy control shapewear
H&Mwww2.hm.com
H&M offers a great range of really affordable shapewear, including shapewear underwear. These shapewear thong briefs are the perfect solution if you're after shapewear that'll hide a VPL, and you can choose from five different shades: dark beige, black, light beige, old rose and beige.
Pros
- The set of two means you are only paying £7.50 per shapewear brief
- We can't resist a classic high-waisted design
- The lined gusset adds extra comfort and security
Cons
- Some reviews say they can become a bit sweaty in very hot weather
| Material Composition | Polyamide 82%, Elastane 18%, Crotch Lining 100% Cotton |
| Care Instructions | Machine wash at 40° |
Best tummy control shapewear that supports your back
john lewiswww.johnlewis.com
This all-in-one shaper smooths away lumps and bumps on your back, midriff and tummy, making it a great everyday option. We particularly love the Wonderful Edge® design at the backs of the leg openings means no lines and no ride.
Pros
- Reviews say it's a piece that'll last you a lifetime
- Powerful control abilities on the stomach and bottom
- You can even wear your favourite bra as it doesn't have one built-in
Cons
- Very few, but some reviews say the stitching can get a little uncomfortable after a while
| Material Composition | Body: 64% Nylon, 36% Elastane. Mesh: 68% Nylon, 32% Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
Best tummy control shapewear for maternity
Nike
Nike maternity shapewear is fantastic for accommodating your new curves. We think you'll love the elasticated waistband and bodycon fit combo. Because who wants to wear proper trousers when they're pregnant?
Pros
- Comfortable and stretchy enough for bump and mumma
- Smoothens your silhouette for a thigh-slimming effect
- We especially love that it's designed to fit throughout pregnancy
Cons
- Looser than regular shapewear due to accommodating a pregnant belly
| Material Composition | Body: 78–79% Polyester / 21–22% Elastane. Waistband: 88% Polyester / 12% Elastane. Waist Lining: 88% Polyester / 12% Elastane |
| Care Instructions | Machine wash |
How do I choose tummy control pants?
What tummy control pants you choose totally depends on the look you want to achieve. If you want to smooth out your hips, thighs, or tummy, it's best to go for a cycling shorts style. But if you just want to suck in a muffin top, then go for a more classic knicker style. Brands such as SPANX (a favourite of Holly Willoughby) or John Lewis are guaranteed success.
Should I go a size down?
You should buy shapewear in your regular size but always check the reviews - as some people will recommend sizing up or down. Consider ordering multiple sizes if you're ordering online.
Where to buy shapewear swimwear?
There are plenty of online stores to buy slimming and smoothing swimwear, so you can feel a little more confident this summer. For example, Kim K has released a SKIMS swimwear collection, and we're slightly obsessed. This includes swimsuits, bikinis and coverups.
Louella Berryman is the audience development executive at Bauer Media, where she works in all things digital for Grazia, heat, Closer, Yours & Mother&Baby.