The Best Shapewear We’ve Ever Tried That Actually Works (And Won’t Make You Uncomfortable)

It's not about 'control', it's about functional underwear that makes you feel good.

best shapewear that actually works

by Hannah Banks-Walker |
Updated on

Shapewear has long been a divisive topic, largely because it has often been marketed as a 'solution' to women, suggesting that they must restrict, restrain or compress their body. Gone, however, are the days of uncomfortable underwear designed to try and change your body in some way. Now, there are a host of smart shapewear brands that are creating truly functional pieces that simply provide a brilliant foundation for your clothes.

Hopefully, it goes without saying that shapewear should be entirely optional; nobody should feel like they have to wear anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. Sometimes, though, great shapewear can genuinely make you feel confident, especially if you're just looking for a smoother surface under silk dresses or more form-fitting styles.

Best shapewear at a glance:

Best all-round shapewear

Heist Contour Seamless Body

Best shapewear shorts

SKIMS High-Waisted Above The Knee Shorts

Best shapewear for waist and tummy

Miraclesuit Extra Firm Control Shaping & Slimming Waist Cincher

Best shapewear bodysuit

Spanx Thinstincts® 2.0 Open-Bust Stretch-Woven Body

What is the best shapewear that actually works?

Rebecca Corbin-Murray, celebrity stylist, swears by Spanx. 'I buy Spanx, Spanx and more Spanx,' said the 37-year-old, who styles A-listers such as Florence Pugh, Gemma Chan and Lily James. 'I buy everyone I work with a range of pieces of different lengths and heights. It's not about being smaller, it just makes for better lines and it makes a dress look so much better.'

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Saltzman, who styles the likes of Sandra Oh and Saoirse Ronan, swears by a few brands. 'Commando does an excellent body suit and I love their thongs. We use Wolford for tights and then there are times when you need Spanx. They’ve got really, really fine high-waisted pants that I love.'

There's been a lot of innovation in the shapewear market in the last few years. Gone are the days of a one-size-fits-all approach, replaced instead with a host of brands – many of them crucially led by women – helping to redefine body-shaping underwear for the modern woman. As Kiana Miree, chief merchandising officer at Spanx says: 'We obsess over comfort and ensure you look as good as you feel. Our goal with designing shapewear is to provide a smooth canvas so that the individual feels empowered from the inside out. We prototype and iterate with a diverse group of body types until we feel that the technology is serving its purpose. We believe you don’t have to sacrifice comfort. And that goes for all body types – we serve customers with sizes from XS to 3X.'

Today's biggest names in shapewear are helping to create a base for any outfit for all occasions, wants and needs, creating clever solution-wear designed to suit every eventuality. If you're looking for inclusive sizing, SKIMS is your go-to. The brand, famously founded by Kim Kardashian, was created when she felt frustrated at the lack of versatility in the shapewear market. So, she started cutting existing pieces and making her own versions to suit various clothes, such as dresses with slits up one leg. Now, the brand offers every kind of shapewear you could imagine, all available in a range of shades and in sizes which cover UK2-30. No wonder it's spawned so many dupes.

Another name which has changed the game in many ways is Heist, the British brand which developed innovative technical garments that put comfort before anything else. Of course, since new brands have emerged, creating an entirely new take on shapewear, the existing labels have had to up the ante to stay competitive. This is why you'll now see brands like Spanx offering many different products, not just the traditional all-in-one or those infamous big pants.

For us, shapewear is not about 'control', it's just about providing functional underwear that makes you feel good. You definitely shouldn't feel like your movement is restricted in any way, so make sure you read our guide to buying the best shapewear below.

How did Grazia test the best shapewear?

As a team of fashion experts who are mostly women, between us we have tried just about every brand making shapewear. Whether we've discovered it on photoshoots, working with models or A-list stars, or been lucky enough to try new much-hyped products as they launch, we have tested everything from SKIMS shorts to Heist's all-in-one. Here, we've hunted down the very best products based on comfort, efficacy, material and price, offering you what is hopefully the ultimate edit of the best shapewear for all body shapes and sizes, as well as different needs. Whether you want a dress you're wearing to a friend's wedding to feel that bit better on your body over a long day of celebrations, or you've just had a baby and want underwear to make you feel more supported under your clothes, we've rifled through the best the shops have to offer to ensure we're recommending shapewear that's worth your money.

Tried And Tested: The Best Shapewear Brands To Shop Now

Best all-round shapewear

I have tried lots of shapewear but I really actively enjoy wearing Heist. This body is really comfortable, breathable and in no way restricts my movement when I'm wearing it. I've worn it while being a bridesmaid, as well as underneath more form-fitting dresses when I want to feel like I have stronger support. It really enhances my silhouette without making me feel like I'm trying to restrict or change my body in some way.

Pros

  • Seamless design to give a smooth silhouette
  • Adjustable Straps
  • Snapped gusset
  • Comfortable and breathable

Cons

  • Only two colours available
Materials82% Polyamide, 18% Lycra Elastane
Size range8-22
ColoursBlack and almond
Washing instructionsHand wash or machine wash on gentle 30C setting

Best shapewear shorts

A constant best-seller for the brand, the reason these shorts are so good is that, not only are they available in a great range of colours but also levels of support, meaning you can pick from ultra light (best for everyday use) to strong support. They're seamless and sit right below your bust, offering strong compression for your tummy, waist and thighs. These shorts really will lift your bottom, too, and you'll basically just look even better in your clothes than ever. What is really good about them is that the underband has interior silicone to prevent rolling – and it really works. You can wear them under anything and never have to worry about the top folding over to create unsightly lines. Even better? There's an open gusset so you can go to the loo with ease, too.

Pros

  • Variety of colours representing a diverse range of skin tones
  • Inclusive sizing
  • Comfortable and really do stay in place

Cons

  • If you buy true to size, the compression is quite intense. Definitely size up if you want them for every day use.
Materials41% Recycled Nylon, 41% Nylon, 18% Elastane
Size rangeXXS-4X (equivalent to UK 4-32)
Colours10 different shades covering a range of skin tones
Washing instructionsMachine wash cold

Best shapewear for waist and tummy

While most waist cinchers can be a bit uncomfortable, this one actually offers great support without feeling restrictive. It has hook and eye closures down the front, making it fairly east to take on and off – there's no struggling with fiddly catches. You can wear it under anything but we've found it works particularly well with trousers and tops. This is a great option if you don't want to wear a full body or shorts under your outfits.

Pros

  • Helps improve posture
  • Gives great shape to tummy and waist area
  • More comfortable than most waist cinchers

Cons

  • Hand wash only
  • Limited colour options
Materials 77% Nylon, 23% Elastane (Spandex)
Size rangeS-2X (equivalent to UK 8-20)
ColoursBlack and beige
Washing instructions Hand wash

Best shapewear bodysuit

Most bodysuits cover the bust, which can be an issue in terms of fit. I find that some are cut to proportions which don't quite work – either the bust is too big or too small while the rest of it fits just right. That's what makes this all-in-one so good – you can wear a bra with it but it still offers great support. It's super-stretchy, comfortable and doesn't lose its shape no matter how many times you wear it. I've found it's a really great foundation under so many different outfits, from tailoring to silk slip dresses.

Pros

  • Able to wear a bra with it
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Stretchy for extra comfort but doesn't lose its shape over time
  • Seamless

Cons

  • Can be difficult to find the right bra to wear with it without ruining the seamless quality
  • Can shrink in the wash if you don't ensure it's on a cold setting
Materials55% Nylon, 45% Elastane; Lining 80% Nylon, 20% Elastane
Size rangeXS-3XL (equivalent to UK 6-20)
ColoursDifferent retailers stock various shades. At Selfridges, where there's currently most stock, only black and beige are available.
Washing instructionsMachine wash cold.

Best shapewear for every day

Don't think shapewear just has to be for special occasions. If you're looking for extra support every day, these M&S briefs are some of the best on the market. They offer full coverage and give a flattering silhouette but they're more flexible and lightweight than most shapewear that you might only choose for one-off events. That makes them super comfortable, meaning I can wear them all day long. There's a great size range and three different shades available, plus you get two pairs for £10, which is excellent value for money. I now wear these most days, they're that good.

Pros

  • Discreet support
  • Flattering shape
  • Full coverage
  • Easy to wash
  • Great for every day use

Cons

  • Not as much support as shapewear with higher compression
Materials88% Cotton, 12% Elastane (exclusive of trimmings), Gusset (of underwear) - 100% Cotton
Size range UK 8-24
ColoursBlack, white and beige
Washing instructionsMachine wash at 40C

Best shapewear skirt to wear under dresses

If you're looking for some extra support underneath your favourite midi or a dress you've picked to wear for a special occasion but don't want to wear a body or shorts, Figur's shapewear skirt is your answer. I tried this underneath a figure-hugging dress and it was nothing short of amazing. It has gentle boning in the front and back so that it gives support without feeling uncomfortable. It also smoothes really well and, to my surprise, didn't roll up or down. The only thing I'd say is that it's designed for women 5"5 and over to wear with midi or knee length dresses, so if you're petite, choose the shorter style of skirt.

Pros

  • Gentle boning for great support without discomfort
  • Smoothing effect
  • Changeable compression
  • Doesn't roll up or down as you move around

Cons

  • Limited choice of shades – there's black or 'nude' which is a pale beige
Materials85% Polyamide, 15% Spandex
Size rangeUK 6-24
ColoursBlack or light beige
Washing instructions Machine wash warm, no bleach and no ironing

Best maternity and postpartum shapewear

This recommendation comes from my sister-in-law, Sophie, who told me she bought these leggings while still pregnant and found that they were really comfortable and offered great support. But they're especially good for postpartum, according to her, as they are supportive without being tight or putting pressure on your tummy. They're also seamless and opaque, so you don't need to worry about being able to see your underwear underneath.

Pros

  • Slight compression to support stomach muscles post-pregnancy
  • Fully opaque
  • Super soft
  • Great stretch and breathable fabric

Cons

  • Can become misshapen in the wash, so be sure to wash on 30C and re-shape when wet.
Materials96% Nylon, 4% Elastane
Size rangeXS-XXL
ColoursBlack and brown
Washing instructionsMachine wash 30C

Best shapewear for backless dresses

If you have a dress with a low back or, for that matter, no back at all, SKIMS has thought of a solution (of course it has). These shorts will give you all the support you're looking for but won't compromise your outfit – they smooth and sculpt thighs and hips and they have soft boning at the hips to prevent rolling.

Pros

  • You can wear them with anything backless without worrying
  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Inclusive size range
  • Wide range of colours available

Cons

  • Only offer light support, so may not be suitable for those looking for maximum compression
Materials81% Nylon, 19% Spandex
Size range XXS-4X (equivalent to UK 4-32)
Colours9 different shades ranging from sand (light beige) to onyx (black)
Washing instructionsMachine Wash Cold, Do Not Bleach, Tumble Dry Low

Best bridal all-in-one shapewear

If you're looking for an all-in-one to wear under your wedding dress, you won't find anything better than this. Crucially, it's really comfortable, which should be your absolute priority when picking underwear or shapewear to wear on your wedding day – you don't want to be worried about anything that doesn't fit properly or feels uncomfortable. This all-in-one will make you feel supported, giving you that extra bit of confidence on your big day.

Pros

  • Slips on
  • Has adjustable straps for the perfect fit
  • Comfortable enough to wear all day and night
  • Fits true to size

Cons

  • May not be compatible with some styles of dress due to the neckline, straps etc
  • More limited size range
Materials55% Nylon, 45% Lycra
Size rangeXS-2X
ColoursLinen (off-white)
Washing instructions Machine wash cold

Best shapewear thong bodysuit

SKIMS really is great if you need shapewear to suit tricky outfits. Whether it's a backless dress or a gown with one thigh-high split, the Kardashian brand really has thought of everything. This thong bodysuit is great if you're wearing something super-fitted or if you just prefer this fit to briefs with fuller coverage. The compression fabric targets your core and waist, while it has piqué stitches to outline the bust and a seamless thong at the back. Also, all SKIMS come in super inclusive size and colour ranges so you'll definitely find something that suits your body.

Pros

  • Inclusive size range
  • Good compression without feeling restrictive or uncomfortable
  • Feels supportive and improves posture
  • Adjustable straps

Cons

  • Minimal brief coverage, so not suitable for those looking for fuller style
Materials41% Recycled Nylon, 41% Nylon,18% Elastane
Size range XXS-4XL (equivalent to a UK 2-30)
Colours Chocolate, sand and light brown
Washing instructions Machine wash cold

Best shapewear bralette

Specifically designed for all-day comfort, Savage x Fenty's bralette has a scoop neckline and wide seamless underband. It manages to be so comfy you'll forget you're wearing it, while still offering great support – even if you have a larger bust. The soft, seam-free material stretches over your curves and holds you in all the right places and, as with all Savage x Fenty products, there's a brilliant range of sizes.

Pros

  • Inclusive size range
  • Seamless but supportive
  • Built-up straps for maximum comfort and support

Cons

  • Not suitable for those who want underwired styles or any sort of compression
Materials Body: 93% Nylon, 7% Spandex; Lining: 93% Nylon, 7% Spandex; Bottom Band: 79% Nylon, 20% Spandex, 1% Polyester
Size range XS-4X (equivalent to UK 30A-46DD)
ColoursBrown, beige and black
Washing instructions Machine wash cold water with like colours, wash inside out, lay flat to dry

Is it better to size up or down in shapewear?

Shapewear is designed to feel like a snug fit that doesn't restrict your movement but, equally, isn't baggy or too loose. Many brands publish measurements in their size guides so, if in doubt, check these and measure yourself before you select your size.

Miree says: 'Finding the right size shapewear can be tough, especially when hip and waist measurements fall into different sizing categories. If you're between sizes (ex: size medium waist and size large hips) we recommend choosing your regular size and a seamless product, such as our Thinstincts 2.0 collection.'

Which shapewear is best for tummy control?

Spanx remains a market leader and you might be pleased to know that it has evolved beyond the breath-restricting girdles of the past to create shapewear that neither looks, nor feels, like shapewear yet still does the trick. As Miree says: 'We innovatively combine fit, fabric, and function. Our shapewear is shoppable by compression level, style and solution area, allowing our customers to find the desired style for all of her shapewear needs.'

In general – from our collective experience at Grazia – shapewear shorts or briefs tend to be a good choice if you're specifically looking to smooth your stomach area. Some brands, however, will offer shapewear specific to certain areas of the body. Miraclesuit, for example, lets you shop from an entire 'tummy control' section, where you can choose from all-in-one styles, briefs, waist cinchers and even slips.

What shapewear do the Kardashians wear?

In 2019, Kim Kardashian founded SKIMS after she became frustrated with the lack of shapewear options that she liked. She struggled to find anything that offered the right support, coverage or shade. This led her to cut up and dye pieces at home, sewing them together to get the solutions and results she wanted - even wearing multiple pairs at once for red carpet events. Since then, the brand has gone where most other shapewear brands had never gone before. Think sculpting bodysuits, adaptive fits-everybody briefs and bras and waist trainers, as well as a size range that goes from XXS to 5X.

We have to hand it to her, SKIMS really is a great lingerie destination for every undergarment thinkable. Plus, more importantly, it's inclusive of size and skin colour. At the 2020 Golden Globe Awards, Saoirse Ronan and Priyanka Chopra were among the stars wearing SKIMS. Celebrity stylist Mimi Cuttrell even revealed on her Instagram Stories that she relied on SKIMS's shapewear in the ‘umber’ shade when she dressed Chopra for the annual event. And, of course, all of Kim K's sisters have expressed their love of the brand over the last few years.

Do you wear knickers under shapewear?

Clearly, this is down to personal preference, however you might find that wearing underwear underneath your shapewear is uncomfortable and causes bunching under your clothes. Most shapewear has either an open gusset or one with poppers to make it easy to go to the loo without having to remove anything. I would recommend treating your shapewear like normal underwear and therefore wash it after each use.

Hannah Banks-Walker is Grazia's head of fashion commerce. She has previously written for the likes of Harper's Bazaar, The Financial Times, Glamour, Stylist, The Telegraph, Red, i-D and The Pool on everything from fashion to curly hair (hi!) to the patriarchy. Not necessarily in that order. Find her on Instagram and Twitter. But please don't look for her MySpace profile, which until now was the last time she wrote about herself in the third person.

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