Best Shapewear 2023

If you’ve spent any time searching for the best shapewear, you’re not alone: The popularity of sculpting bodysuits, tank tops, boyshorts and leggings is on the rise (so much so that, by 2028, shapewear is expected to be a $4 billion industry). The category has skyrocketed, in part, because the designs are less restrictive than the girdles of the past, and now speak more broadly to different body shapes and sizes. Women-owned brands, such as Kim Kardashian’s Skims, are part of this shift into the modern era and the best shapewear doesn’t even have to hide under your clothes—many of the versatile pieces can be worn as separates for day and night, too.

The best shapewear is being redefined by a new generation of modern brands.

Whether you’re considering your first piece of shapewear or you already have a drawer full of options, we found the best items in the category—from curve-enhancing bodysuits to tummy-controlling briefs. Here are the essentials to consider below. (When you’re done here, we also researched the best bras and underwear for women).

SKIMS

Kim Kardashian’s extremely popular line of shapewear is thoughtfully designed to shape a variety of body types. These sculpting shorts, made of nylon and spandex, are seamless so they won’t roll up or create folds. With nine color options available, Skims speaks to a wider range of “nude” skin tones than many other brands. This all-in-one bodysuit is great for its lightweight compression and curve-defining sculpting.

Spanx

If you’re looking for a higher-rise through the stomach, Spanx has styles that reach all the way to sit just below the bra, smoothing over much of your midsection. The single layer fabric is breathable but still functional so you’ll feel supported, too.

Yizzy by Lizzo

Grammy Award-winning Lizzo’s size-inclusive shapewear brand Yitty is specifically for plus-sized women. Sizes range from 6X to XS, and the line of tops, bottoms, bras and bodysuits have innovative fabrics, stylish shapes and bold colors and prints. Designed to smooth and hug your curves thanks to light compression, this thong bodysuit has reinforced shoulder straps for comfort, three-way stitching to support your bust and adjustable snap closures for convenience when taking it on and off.

Shapellx

On your wedding day you’ll want to layer something under your gown that can not only smooth and shape, but makes you feel beautiful. This lace design from Shapellx has racked up more than 500 positive reviews for its compression properties that don’t sacrifice style. On your wedding day, opt for a nude or white iteration, although you may want to have one for everyday wear, too.

Bloomingdale's

The best bodysuit is one that is minimal, comfortable and unfussy. You don’t want to fidget with any part of your shapewear all night long. This all-in-one option offers a moderate amount of compression and has a built-in bra and adjustable straps so you can switch up the length depending on your outfit needs.

Nordstrom

For layering tanks that offers support and control, Yummie has a variety of versatile options. This camisole, for example, has adjustable straps that convert from straight to racerback style so you can pair it with different dresses. Plus, Yummie works with materials that are temperature-regulating but stretchy with light control so you can wear them comfortably alone or under other layers.

Maidenform

When you’re seeking a style that hits at the belly button and offers ample coverage of your tummy, opt for Maidenform’s boyshorts. Mesh paneling helps to smooth and cinch through the midsection while the longer leg offers extra control for your thighs as well.

Spanx

Spanx is the brand that helped launch the shapewear space, and remains a favorite for its simple, smart designs. If you want your shapewear to extend through mid-thigh, try these shorts. The double layer fabric offers extra smoothing, and if you want an extra lift through the butt, you can wear them with pads.

Heist Studios

A pair of high-waist briefs may not have been on your shopping list before, but this style from Heist offers both a firm fit and the adaptability to work with whatever outfit you may need it for. The clothing edges are also seam free, so you won’t have to worry about lines when wearing tight clothes.

Ashley Stewart

Some shapewear focuses specially on the lower stomach area, helping to sculpt and control without being restricting. Ashley Stewart specializes in seamless, plus-size styles that hug your body comfortably without rolling or cutting into your skin.

Amazon

Whether for workouts or just everyday, these sculpting leggings from popular brand Shapermint are designed to enhance your form, from your waist to your ankles, helping to lift the butt and comfortably hug your waist without cutting in.

LIVELY

If you want something that’s not quite as tight-fitting as traditional shapewear but still offers a bit of smoothing, consider Lively’s bodysuit, which can double as a night-out top too. Try styling with dark jeans and blazer, for example.

Shapewear should smooth out lumps and bumps, make your clothes hang better and also provide lift and support, says Brown. “Some shapewear pieces are designed to help lift the bust and butt and smooth and control certain areas to create a flattering silhouette,” she says. “It works best under clingy clothes and to create smoothness when wearing silks, sheer fabrics and knits.”

It really depends on the outfit, the season and your body type. “If you want to control, compress and contour your tummy area, go for sculpting shorts or tummy-control briefs,” says Klein. “If you want to support and lift your butt, consider a high-waist shaping thong.” For those who want tummy and butt coverage along with lift for the bust, an all-day bodysuit or tank with adjustable straps and in-built bra cups are versatile options.

There are so many great shapewear brands now, the best advice is to seek out those that specialize in new silhouettes, high-tech materials and diverse shades and sizing. While Skims is out to make shapewear more inclusive for all, Spanx has long been a tried-and-true favorite for their ultra-supportive and comprehensive styles. Yummie is changing the game with their temperature-regulating technology and Lively has mastered simple, stylish shapewear that’s almost too good to hide under your clothes—their bodysuits can double as tops to pair with jeans. Beyond the brands that top our list, Brown also likes Cupid Intimates. “Their shapewear is luxurious and still has a romantic appeal,” she says. “The styles are thinner and breathable so they don’t feel constricting.” For those with a smaller bust, Klein loves Wear Pepper, a brand that specializes in shapewear for AA to B cup sizes.