Shapewear is available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, compression level, colors and styles. This means that whether you’re looking for something for a specific event like a wedding or formal, or simply want to smooth your midsection for daily wear, there’s a suitable option for you. These are the criteria we consider when evaluating good shapewear for women:
Comfort: Be sure to choose the fabric and thickness of shapewear based on your preferences, as some shapewear offers higher compression levels, as advised by some of our reviewers. Keep an eye out for pieces that are specifically designed to remain in place.
Type: If you’re aiming for a strong tummy control and shaping effect, opt for shapewear with medium to high-level compression. If you prefer to simply smooth your silhouette, choose shapewear that prioritizes comfort and a natural shape. For shapewear used as a modesty piece, such as a slip, seek out lightweight fabrics with minimal compression that suit your style.
Sizing: “You should wear your normal size for shapewear. This will ensure that your shapewear fits correctly,” Lopez says. “If the shapewear is too small—yes, you might feel like you’re more snatched, but it will roll down in the waist, up on the thighs and can create additional lumps and bumps by squeezing you in. If you size up—yes it will potentially be more comfortable. But, it’s not doing the shapewear job of smoothing things out under your garment because the additional material might bunch up.”
