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The Best Shapewear of 2023

Fashion stylist favorites and expert-approved picks that are smoothing and comfortable.

By Lexie Sachs and Jacqueline Saguin
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Though shapewear is certainly not necessary, it can still provide smoothing capabilities under clothing and help you feel more comfortable. "Shapewear should enhance your figure, and if it fits well, it should really feel like your own skin," says Tina Zimmerman, Kleinfeld Bridal's director of alterations. Gone are the days of hyper-restrictive styles: "You should be able to bend and move, and if you can’t breathe, it’s not the right fit for you."

The apparel experts and fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab regularly test undergarments of all kinds, including bras, pantyhose, swimwear and even period underwear. When it comes to shapewear, we consider the fabrics, styles and special features, then try them in real life to make sure they fit well and feel good. The picks ahead are either top-tested styles or recommendations from professional bridal alterers and fashion stylists.

Our top picks:

  • 1
    Higher Power Shorts

    Best Overall Shapewear

    Spanx Higher Power Shorts

    $35 at Amazon
    Read more
  • 2
    Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief

    Best Value Shapewear

    Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief

    Read more
  • 3
    Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Briefs

    Best Shapewear for Lower Belly Pooch

    Maidenform Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Briefs

    Read more
  • 4
    OnCore Mid-Thigh Short

    Best Shapewear for Dresses

    SPANX OnCore Mid-Thigh Short

    Read more
  • 5
    Back Magic Extra Firm Torsette Thigh Slimmer

    Best Tummy Control Shapewear

    Miraclesuit Back Magic Extra Firm Torsette Thigh Slimmer

    Read more


You can find more information about how we test shapewear along with shopping tips from our experts at the end of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about the best shapewear for any occasion. And if you're looking for extended sizing, check out our picks for the best plus-size shapewear.

1
Best Overall Shapewear

Spanx Higher Power Shorts

Higher Power Shorts
1
Best Overall Shapewear

Spanx Higher Power Shorts

$35 at Amazon$38 at Nordstrom$37 at Zappos
Credit: SPANX

This do-it-all style shapes your thighs, butt and hips with extra emphasis on the tummy. Tested by our Textiles Lab experts, the higher rise is designed to minimize any "muffin top," and its no-slip waistband helps it stay in place. The best part is you can wear it all day. The lightweight, seamless fabric offers a medium firmness, so it'll smooth without feeling like you can't breathe, according to our clothing pros. Fashion stylist Meaghan O'Connor also keeps this shapewear piece in her own repertoire.

Sizes: S-3X | Colors: 4 shades

2
Best Value Shapewear

Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief

On Sale
Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief
2
Best Value Shapewear

Maidenform Flexees Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief

Now 38% Off
Credit: Maidenform

If you're looking for tummy control but don't need thigh coverage, this high-rise brief has firm control around the tummy and a silicone waistband to help keep it in place. It's designed to smooth bulges and create hourglass curves. Online reviewers love its stay-in-place fit: "I LOVE the slightly rubbery threads around the top," says one Amazon reviewer. "This does not roll over even if you slouch. "

Sizes: S-XXL | Colors: 3 shades

3
Best Shapewear for Lower Belly Pooch

Maidenform Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Briefs

Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Briefs
3
Best Shapewear for Lower Belly Pooch

Maidenform Tame Your Tummy Shaping Lace Briefs

Credit: Maidenform

These briefs are more subtle than most shapewear; in fact, they're like regular underwear with a higher rise to specifically target the butt, waist and tummy. Though the design is more minimal than other shapewear, it still offers firm compression for smoothing capabilities. It also uses moisture-wicking fabric, making it ideal for summer or anyone that's prone to sweating in shapewear.

Sizes: S-XXL | Colors: 13 shades

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4
Best Shapewear for Dresses

SPANX OnCore Mid-Thigh Short

OnCore Mid-Thigh Short
4
Best Shapewear for Dresses

SPANX OnCore Mid-Thigh Short

Credit: Spanx

Whether it's for a special occasion or everyday wear, shapewear worn under dresses should be able to smooth without being visible. We found that these shorts in particular are the perfect balance of lightweight and sculpting, finding that they were slimming without feeling too constricting. They also provide great coverage without being too high at the torso or too long on the thighs. A GH editor who owns them noted that they're also great for layering under skirts and pants.

Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 5 shades

5
Best Tummy Control Shapewear

Miraclesuit Back Magic Extra Firm Torsette Thigh Slimmer

Back Magic Extra Firm Torsette Thigh Slimmer
5
Best Tummy Control Shapewear

Miraclesuit Back Magic Extra Firm Torsette Thigh Slimmer

Credit: Amazon

Combining firm compression with stay-in-place benefits, this style has adjustable straps and full coverage throughout the torso, hips, butt and thighs. We were impressed by its all-over smoothing capabilities thanks to panels at the midsection that give extra support for the tummy. Though the straps may be limiting for certain outfits, the design allows you to wear your own bra and is cut low enough to wear under a variety of tops and dresses.

Sizes: S-3X | Colors: Black or nude

6
Best Thong Bodysuit Shapewear

SHAPERX Sculpting Thong Bodysuit

On Sale
Sculpting Thong Bodysuit
6
Best Thong Bodysuit Shapewear

SHAPERX Sculpting Thong Bodysuit

Now 25% Off
Credit: Shaperx

With the shaping benefits of a bodysuit — and without annoying panty lines — this thong style is Amazon's bestselling shapewear bodysuit. The fabric is lightweight and stretchy yet has firm compression to smooth around the midsection. It also helps lift your bust and its thin straps are discreet enough to wear under most clothing. One online reviewer described it as "buttery soft," while another said, "This bodysuit doesn't ride up."

Sizes: XXS-5XL | Colors: 5 shades

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7
Best Bodysuit Shapewear

Bali Lace 'N Smooth Body Briefer

On Sale
Lace 'N Smooth Body Briefer
7
Best Bodysuit Shapewear

Bali Lace 'N Smooth Body Briefer

Now 56% Off
Credit: Amazon

This one-piece comfortably smoothes and stays in place better than sectional shapewear. We were impressed by the light lining around the cups, which means you won't need a separate bra. The lace pattern looks nice, but the brand also claims it makes the style more breathable. Plus, with the bottom closure, you can use the restroom without dressing down to your birthday suit.

Sizes: 34B-40DD | Colors: 4 shades

8
Best Shapewear Top

Shapermint Scoop Neck Compression Cami

Scoop Neck Compression Cami
8
Best Shapewear Top

Shapermint Scoop Neck Compression Cami

Credit: Shapermint

A discreet top that easily layers under everyday clothing, this cami offers smoothing capabilities without feeling like you're wearing constricting shapewear. It's Amazon's bestselling shapewear top, and online reviewers consistently call it flattering, with one saying, "I hardly wear any shapewear but this is something I could see myself wearing every day for support." We also love that it's not too pricey and comes in plus sizes.

Sizes: S-4X | Colors: 4 shades

9
Best Everyday Shapewear

SKIMS Sculpt Mid-Waist Thong

Sculpt Mid-Waist Thong
9
Best Everyday Shapewear

SKIMS Sculpt Mid-Waist Thong

Credit: Skims

For a versatile piece that you can wear under any type of garment, this sculpting thong has a high-rise fit to smooth the tummy along with high leg rises to avoid panty lines. The SKIMS brand is a staple for both Messiah and O'Connor along with GH editors who love the color and size ranges. "I’m able to find undergarments and shapewear that are the perfect 'nude' for me, which a lot of companies don't offer," noted one staffer. We also found the pieces to be breathable, making them suitable for all-day wear.

Sizes: XXS-4X | Colors: 10 shades

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10
Best Shapewear Bra

Shapeez Shortee Back-Smoothing Bra

Shortee Back-Smoothing Bra
10
Best Shapewear Bra

Shapeez Shortee Back-Smoothing Bra

Credit: Shapeez

Some bras create unwanted lines and bulges, but this style has back-smoothing fabric that minimizes this effect. When we evaluated this bra in our Textiles Lab, consumer testers said it was comfortable, supportive and looked great under clothing. One D-cup tester even says it was the best-fitting bra she's ever owned!

Sizes: XS-1X, with cup sizes AA-E | Colors: Black or nude

11
Best Body Shapewear

SPANX Suit Your Fancy Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

On Sale
Suit Your Fancy Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
11
Best Body Shapewear

SPANX Suit Your Fancy Cupped Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

Now 41% Off
Credit: Spanx

Not only does this style smooth everything from your bust to your thighs, but it's also surprisingly versatile. For starters, it's easy to slip on and take off, unlike other shapewear that can be more of a struggle. It also has removable straps that are both adjustable and convertible so you can wear it under almost any outfit. One GH staffer added, "I love that you don't have to worry about clips or anything when you need to use the loo, thanks to the 'easy access gusset.'"

Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: Black or beige

12
Best Plus-Size Body Shapewear

Lane Bryant Cacique Open-Bust Thigh Shaper

Cacique Open-Bust Thigh Shaper
12
Best Plus-Size Body Shapewear

Lane Bryant Cacique Open-Bust Thigh Shaper

Credit: Lane Bryant

Designed specifically for plus sizes, this seamless style has firm control throughout the torso and thighs. Its open-bust design means it has straps for stay-in-place power while allowing you to wear your preferred bra. A favorite piece of O'Connor's, its contours provide an invisible layer of control under any outfit, and the adjustable straps make sure you have a comfy fit.

Sizes: 14-36 | Colors: Black or Café

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13
Best Butt-Lifting Shapewear

SKIMS Butt Enhancing Shaper Shorts

Butt Enhancing Shaper Shorts
13
Best Butt-Lifting Shapewear

SKIMS Butt Enhancing Shaper Shorts

Credit: Skims

If you're looking to target your backside, these shorts are specifically designed to lift and accentuate your butt. There's a ruched seam in the back that helps define the shape, while firm compression at the thighs helps smooth. Online reviewers were blown away, saying they fit just like bike shorts yet actually live up to their claims.

Sizes: XXS-4X | Colors: 4 shades

14
Best Plus-Size Shapewear

Thigh Society The Original

The Original
14
Best Plus-Size Shapewear

Thigh Society The Original

Credit: Thigh Society

We love that Thigh Society has proven its commitment to size inclusivity, offering styles in sizes up to 6X. These shorts in particular are comfy and soft, plus they come in three lengths with options for sheer and opaque coverage, and they can even be worn on their own. Besides smoothing under clothing, the brand notes that they can help prevent chafing.

Sizes: XS-6X | Colors: 4 shades

15
Best Shapewear for Strapless Dresses

Commando Two-Faced Tech Control Strapless Slip

On Sale
Two-Faced Tech Control Strapless Slip
15
Best Shapewear for Strapless Dresses

Commando Two-Faced Tech Control Strapless Slip

Now 25% Off
Credit: Commando

Featuring a bandeau-style top and a smooth microfiber material for the slip, this style is perfect for layering under strapless dresses without feeling constricted. Though the fabric itself is firm, it's not as compressive as other shapewear. Just keep in mind that it may not work as well under low-cut tops.

Sizes: S-L | Colors: Black or nude

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16
Best Shapewear Sleeves

SlimMe Arm Slimming Shaper

On Sale
Arm Slimming Shaper
16
Best Shapewear Sleeves

SlimMe Arm Slimming Shaper

Now 19% Off
Credit: SlimMe

Shapewear doesn't have to be just for your mid-section and bottom. This compression garment is smoothing under long-sleeve tops and dresses. It's thin enough that it'll fit under layers, and it's designed to help with sagging skin and reducing unwanted jiggling. The style is one piece and goes on just like a bolero, so you don't have to worry about the sleeves rolling down. "It is helping me with a shoulder injury," noted one Amazon reviewer. "The compression is soothing."

Sizes: S-Q2 (equivalent to dress sizes 4-20) | Colors: Black or nude

How we chose the best shapewear

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The fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab have been testing shapewear for the past 15 years. Analysts consider the materials, coverage and any special features, plus we try out styles in real life to see which ones feel comfortable and have the best appearance on a variety of body types.

We also consulted additional style and clothing experts, including personal stylist Lauren Messiah, fashion stylist Meaghan O'Connor and Kleinfeld Bridal Director of Alterations Tina Zimmerman.

How to choose the best shapewear for you

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These days, shapewear comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and cuts, so whether you're shopping for your wedding or an everyday staple, there's something out there for you that can even replace your favorite bra and/or underwear. Here's what we look for in good shapewear for women:

✔️ Comfort: Not all shapewear is created equal: Some shapewear has higher compression levels, so be sure to select the material and thickness based on your wants, says stylist and podcast host O'Connor. Her advice: "Keep a lookout for pieces that are designed to stay in place." Ideally, shapewear shouldn't roll down or limit your circulation — you should be able to breathe, sit and eat comfortably!

✔️ Type: If you want extreme tummy control and contour, look for shapewear with mid- to high-level compression, she says. Looking for some control but mostly to just smooth your silhouette and enhance your outfit? Opt for pieces that focus less on compression and more on smoothing, so that you maintain comfort and keep your shape. Or if you're looking for shapewear as a modesty piece like a skirt slip, find lightweight fabrics with minimal compression and features that work for your personal style.

✔️ Sizing: Never size down. Buying too small can squish your skin and cause unwanted bulges, advises Zimmerman. Most of us don't wear the same clothes all the time, and that should go for shapewear as well, says O'Connor. Consider shapewear as you would your other intimate apparel pieces, and it will be clear that variation in style makes for easier dressing!

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Lexie Sachs is the Executive Director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she has been overseeing the testing of all apparel for over a decade. Lexie has extensively tested dozens of shapewear styles both in the Lab and in real-life settings and regularly evaluates similar categories including the best bras, best slimming swimsuits and more.

Jacqueline Saguin keeps her finger on the pulse of fashion, from testing viral social media products to anticipating buying trends. She began her career in the style and beauty reviews realm and writes about products through a personal lens. She regularly collaborates with the GH Textiles Lab to put together product reviews on the very best clothing and accessories out there, according to consumer and Lab testing.

Headshot of Lexie Sachs
Lexie Sachs
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Executive Director

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she researches, tests and reports on fabric-based products ranging from sheets, mattresses and towels to bras, fitness apparel and other clothing. She also evaluates luggage, rain gear, disposable paper goods and baby products. Lexie has more than 15 years of experience in the textiles industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Prior to joining GH in 2013, she worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

Headshot of Jacqueline Saguin
Commerce Editor

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute. Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

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