After having four kids, it feels like shapewear is the only way I can really get that snatched mid-section look I like. But tracking down the best shapewear isn’t the easiest undertaking. To help you, I tested more than two dozen pieces from popular lingerie brands (including highly-rated Amazon shapewear) over the course of four weeks. I tried perennial favorites like Spanx to emerging options like Pinsy, to see how well each performed under various shirts and dresses, and on both casual and formal occasions. I also tapped my network of women with different body types to share their reviews. And now—just in time for the Christmas party circuit—I’m ready to share the results.
Pinsy makes some of the best shapewear out there. Their sculpting bodysuit is made of high-quality, breathable fabrics but has compressive panels that expertly contour your midsection. And they’re so discreet that you can even wear them on their own. (Truly!) But if you’re on the hunt for something else, we discovered some incredible options that stay in place and are comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time, including shorts that may as well have superpowers.
Product on Amazon: Pinsy Shapewear Shaping Lace Shapewear Bodysuit
Price: $94.00
Rating: 4.3 with 17 ratings
Brand: Pinsy
Our favorite shapewear pieces came down to criteria such as size availability, material quality, comfort, and how well they maintain their shape and support over time. The fabric used is crucial for comfort and functionality, so each piece we selected was made from high-quality materials offering both support and flexibility. Breathable, stretchy fabrics were a must as they maintain their shape after washing, providing a snug fit that moves with you throughout the day.
Comfort is key when it comes to shapewear. We tested for pieces that offer firm support without compromising on comfort, ensuring that they can be worn for extended periods without discomfort. This includes evaluating breathability and moisture-wicking properties, which are essential for long hours of wear. Ease of putting on and taking off was another critical factor. Shapewear should be straightforward to put on and remove, and we considered the ease with which each piece could be worn and taken off, which is an important factor for everyday practicality.
When it comes to functionality, each piece of shapewear was assessed for its intended function—whether it’s a smoothing effect, shaping, lifting, or providing extra support. We looked for items that effectively fulfill their purpose without restricting movement. Our testers engaged in various activities while wearing the shapewear to simulate real-life usage, including walking around, climbing stairs, sitting for extended periods, and performing light exercises. The aim was to check the shapewear’s performance during movement and at rest, ensuring it remains supportive and comfortable or if it starts to sag or pinch as the hours passed.
By focusing on these elements, we aimed to recommend shapewear that not only looks good but feels great to wear, no matter the occasion. In our search for the best shapewear, we prioritized several key aspects to ensure that each item fits well and meets the needs of diverse body types and preferences.
When it comes to shapewear, real-world testing and genuine reviews are key in finding the perfect fit for our diverse bodies and dynamic lifestyles. Our exploration of the best shapewear pieces isn’t just about listing items; it’s about sharing the experiences and insights that help the modern individual make informed choices. Whether you’re attending a glamorous event or just want to feel more confident in your everyday wear, our top picks have something for everyone.
One standout option is the Pinsy Butter Sculpt Tee Seamless Shapewear Bodysuit, which has taken the shapewear world by storm with its “buttery-soft material” and “built-in chest support.” This bodysuit transcends typical shapewear functionality by being fashionably versatile enough to “be worn on its own.” Our tester found it to be a favorite due to its “nearly invisible compressive details at the waist.” However, the one shortfall is that the compressive fabric might “flatten the chest a bit,” making it less ideal for those seeking a more pronounced bust line.
For those seeking value, the Shapermint High-Waisted Shaper Shorts stand out with their affordability and inclusive sizing. Available in sizes up to 4XL, these shorts offer gentle contouring without intense compression, making them a “great postpartum option.” The design ensures they “stay in place through a three-hour event,” as noted by our tester, who appreciated the “anti-slip design.” While the thicker fabric might be a bit of a giveaway under tighter jeans, it’s perfect for skirts and dresses.
Product on Amazon: SHAPERMINT High Waisted Body Shaper Shorts Shapewear for Women Tummy Control Thigh Slimming Technology
Price: $28.99
Rating: 4.0 with 71,428 ratings
Brand: SHAPERMINT
Maidenform’s Firm Control Tummy Shaping Multiway Thong Bodysuit makes our list for its versatility and luxurious feel. With “molded cups with concealed underwire” and “adjustable straps,” it’s tailored for both comfort and function. While ideal for dresses, the bodysuit’s stitching might “show through form-fitting garments,” so it’s best paired with styles that can accommodate some seam lines. Feedback from our tester highlights its “buttery soft” fabric, and how “it was almost as if I had nothing on underneath” when worn with a silk skirt.
Product on Amazon: Maidenform Women’s Shapewear Tummy Control Thong Bodysuit, Built-in Balconette Underwire Bra Converts to Strapless
Price: $69.00
Rating: 3.7 with 29 ratings
Brand: MAIDENFORM
For Amazon aficionados, the Wacoal Red Carpet Bodysuit delivers with its convertible design, offering “supportive cups” and “removable straps.” This bodysuit is a go-to for larger busts, offering sizes up to 40DDD. Our size 34C tester found the “full-coverage underwire cups” enhanced her silhouette, deeming it “ideal for larger busts.” While it’s not the most convenient for smaller busts, its reliability for strapless dresses and tops makes it a worthy contender in the shapewear arena.
Product on Amazon: Wacoal Women’s Perfect Primer Underwire Bra
Price: $70.00
Rating: 4.4 with 2,772 ratings
Brand: Wacoal
Shapermint Essentials High-Waisted Shaping Leggings are the epitome of comfort and versatility. These leggings provide “medium compression,” which is ideal for a variety of activities, from “running errands” to “light workouts.” Our tester praised how the “stretchy fabric” fit snugly and added warmth on “chillier days,” making it an excellent all-season choice.
Yitty Nearly Naked Ulta High Waist Booty Lift Short is another fantastic option for those looking to add a little lift. With “silicone grippers” to prevent rolling, and “dedicated shaping panels” for the back, it delivers subtle enhancement and support. Although they can be slightly challenging to put on, these shorts are “very comfortable” for prolonged wear. Our tester appreciated the “interlocking fabric at the gusset,” which simplifies bathroom breaks compared to other shorts.
Product on Amazon: YITTY Women’s Nearly Naked Shapewear High Waist Short, Medium Compression
Price: $15.99
Rating: 4.0 with 21 ratings
Brand: YITTY
The Honeylove Liftwear Cami Bodysuit rounds out our selection with its “smooth, soft fabric” and “criss-cross panel design” that cinches the waist. It’s perfect for those seeking a bodysuit that provides both support and a sleek silhouette. While no garment is perfect, the Honeylove bodysuit comes close with its combination of comfort, style, and functionality, making it a top pick for many.
In choosing the best shapewear, it’s crucial to focus on what you need—be it firm support, ease of movement, or just a little extra lift. The right piece can transform not just your silhouette, but your confidence too. Our meticulously curated list aims to offer options that cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring you feel empowered and beautiful in every piece you wear. From our testing, we have seen how the right shapewear can make a world of difference, adding a touch of confidence no matter the occasion.
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