Shapewear

Shapewear works best as a complement to a properly fitted bra rather than a substitute for one. An open-bust bodysuit or control brief smooths the torso and hips while leaving the bust support to a well-fitted underwired bra. This combination — fitted bra plus targeted shapewear — typically provides a better result than any-in-one shapewear garment, which tends to compromise either the bust support or the body shaping to achieve both in one piece.

Shapewear types and what they do

Control briefs (standard rise): Smooth the abdomen, hips, and lower torso. The most versatile option — works under most dress and trouser styles. High-waist briefs and shorts: Extended coverage from the waist down. Good under pencil skirts and fitted trousers. Open-bust bodysuits: Full-torso shaping from the underbust to the hip in a single garment, worn with a separate bra on top. Waist cinchers / longlines: Focus on the torso specifically, useful under strapless garments.

For bridal wear specifically, see bridal shapewear for the styles suited to extended wear under a wedding dress. The key practical consideration for any occasion-wear shapewear: test bathroom access before the event.

Sizing note

Shapewear sizing varies significantly between brands. Most shapewear is sized in standard dress sizing (8, 10, 12, etc.) and sized to provide compression — which means unlike bras, where the correct fit is snug but not constrictive, shapewear is designed to be slightly firmer than a standard garment. If you're between sizes in a shapewear brand, sizing up provides more comfort; sizing down increases compression. Browse all lingerie bottoms for a full picture of what's available in the bottoms category.