Skims Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit
- What’s notable: Versatile bodysuit with great sculpting and adjustable straps.
- What could be better: It’s best to hand wash this piece to preserve its quality.
- Fit and returns rating: Fair. Fits true to size; free shipping over $75, free 30-day free returns for store credit, or $6 return shipping fee for full refund (via Skims).
Skim’s bestselling bodysuit is a good choice if you’re looking for a high level of overall compression with extra support in the waist and tummy area. The straps are adjustable and it comes in an impressive range of neutral colors. Also great: it looks beautiful underneath dresses but can be worn on its own as a top with a pair of jeans or trousers, too. “Just keep in mind that some buyers comments on the seams fraying so I’d recommend hand washing this bodysuit or using the delicate cycle,” says Molvar.
Sizes: XXS to 4X | Colors: 10 total, including Sand and Clay | Closure type: Snap closure at gusset | Compression level (o to 5): 4; high | Positive reviews say: It “cinches your waist and back appropriately while still remaining comfortable,” and “looked great under my sheer dress.” | Negative reviews say: “The buttons on bottom don’t stay buttoned” and after one wash the “seams shredded and trim fell off.”
Best Plus-Size Shapewear For Tummy Control
Lightweight, Breathable And Flattering
Spanx Higher Power Shorts
- What’s notable: Targets the hips, tummy and legs for all-over shaping, with subtle compression.
- What could be better: Some say the top can roll down.
- Fit and returns rating: Good. Fits slightly small; free shipping and 30-day returns (via Amazon).
Spanx is synonymous with shapewear, thanks to the brand’s wide range of comfortable-yet-compression designs. The Higher Power Shorts are no exception, with a lightweight and breathable material that smoothes your body. The top waistband has a gel strip to keep it from rolling down, which works moderately well. “The trick is to put your bra over the top seam, so it provides extra security,” says Molvar. Like most shapewear, the compressive fabric of these shorts might take some time to put on, so reviewers recommend gently pulling the fabric up, one leg at a time.
Sizes: S to 3X | Colors: 4 colors total, including Soft Nude and Very Black | Closure type: Pull on | Compression level (0 to 5): 2; light | Positive reviews say: When wearing these shorts “I have no bulges or lines showing under my clothes,” and “ like other “control wear” it takes some effort to get on, but once on, it does stay in place.” | Negative reviews say: “This garment is supposed to be seamless. It is on the waist but not on the legs. Therefore it leaves an impression on the skin where the seam is causing you not to be able to wear it for long periods of time.”
Best Plus-Size Tummy Control Leggings
High-Waisted Design And Buttery Soft Fabric
Shapermint Essentials High Waisted Shaping Leggings
- What’s notable: High rise fit gives you an extra tuck in the tummy area and the fabric is opaque to prevent any transparency.
- What could be better: Size up for the best fit.
- Fit and returns rating: Good. Runs slightly small; free shipping and 30-day returns (via Amazon)
For a smoothing effect that extends from waist to ankle, Shapermint’s bestselling High Waisted Shaping Leggings are a good option. They’re cut from a breathable, comfortable fabric that won’t roll down and has enough overall compression to smooth and lift. This pair is also thick and opaque, so you don’t have to worry about show-through. “As for the styling possibilities, these leggings are great to wear casually with an oversized sweater and boots or dressed up with heels and a blazer,” says Molvar.
Sizes: S to 4XL | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Navy | Closure type: Pull on | Compression level (0 to 5): 3; moderate | Positive reviews say: “It’s different from other body-shaping clothes because it doesn’t push all of my extra chub up—it evenly disperses it and I feel more comfortable with the skin I’m in.” | Negative reviews say: “They run small so order two sizes bigger than you need just so it will fit the first time you order.”
Best Plus-Size Waist Trainer
Designed For A Custom Fit With Two Straps
Shapellx NeoSweat Double Power Waist Trainer
- What’s notable: Three levels of hook-and-eye closures, so you can adjust the fit over time.
- What could be better: You have to align the two straps to prevent any bulge; only comes in 1 color.
- Fit and returns rating: Fair. Fits true to size; free shipping over $80; 30-day returns, shipping charges deducted from refund.
Made from stretchy, flexible latex with steel inserts for support, this waist trainer is ideal for those who want to accentuate their waist or need posture or lower back support. The progressive tightening allows you to adjust the fit based on your needs and comfort level, and the zipper closure makes it a cinch to remove.
Sizes: S to 5X | Colors: Black | Closure type: Hook-and-eye | Compression level (0 to 5): 4; high | Positive reviews say: Does “wonders for the tummy but it’s also a good back support,” and “has extra support with the double straps. Comfortable enough for me to wear it the entire day.” | Negative reviews say: “It’s tighter where the straps overlap so it doesn’t smooth you out, it has indentation in those areas.”
Best Plus-Size Shapewear For Lower Stomach
Targeted Tummy Control That Lifts The Butt
Shapellx AirSlim Tummy Control Body Shaper
- What’s notable: Full coverage for high level of support and adjustable, detachable straps.
- What could be better: Some might find it difficult to put on.
- Fit and returns rating: Fair. Fits true to size; free shipping over $80; 30-day returns, shipping charges deducted from refund.
The Shapellx AirSlim Tummy Control Body Shaper provides targeted control for the lower stomach and hips while remaining virtually undetectable underneath clothing. It also has an open bust with removable, adjustable shoulder straps for added security and an accessible front zipper. Bonus points for its open gusset for easy bathroom access—a sometimes forgotten detail that not every piece of shapewear features.
Sizes: S to 6X | Colors: 3 total, including Beige and Black | Closure type: Front zipper and internal hook and eye | Compression level (o to 5): 5; very high | Positive reviews say: The front zipper “leaves a smooth front finish where other shapewear leaves a noticeable line” and it “smooth[s] out my imperfections.” | Negative reviews say: It “was a little snug trying to get on and off.”
Best Plus-Size Strapless Shapewear
Sleek, Strapless Design That Can Be Worn Alone
Wacoal Women’s Red Carpet Bodysuit
- What’s notable: Convertible, removable straps fit many dress styles.
- What could be better: Not very stretchy or compressive.
- Fit and returns rating: Fair. Runs small; shipping and return policies vary by size and color (via Amazon).
This bodysuit from Wacoal is a good solution if you’re looking for a strapless design to wear on its own or underneath sleeveless clothing. It’s sized by bra cup to provide a supportive fit and the adjustable, removable straps can be worn in a variety of ways to accommodate everything from criss-cross to one-shoulder styles. A seamless front panel smooths while giving moderate compression in the tummy area for a sleek, slimming look.
Sizes: 34C to 40DDD | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Sand | Closure type: Keyhole back with hook-and-eye closure | Compression level (0 to 5): 2; moderate | Positive reviews say: The bodysuit has a “great fit in the bust” and “there is enough band support to keep it in place while still providing coverage and smoothing to the back.” | Negative reviews say: “The torso of the bodysuit was too short, so the underwire of the cups fell 2 to 3 inches short.”
Best Plus-Size Shapewear On Amazon
Barely-There Feel And Moderate Compression
Shapermint High Waisted Body Shaper Shorts
- What’s notable: Smooths from waist to above the knee.
- What could be better: Waistband can roll down for some.
- Fit and returns rating: Fair. Runs small; shipping and return policies vary by size and color (via Amazon).
This popular option from Shapermint covers a lot of ground for a medium compression short. The high waist design smooths not only the tummy area, but also the lower back and thighs while still being comfortable enough to wear all day. The silky-soft breathable fabric has a “barely-there” feel while still providing support and control, according to reviewers. It’s available in a range of neutral shades which makes matching skin tones and outfits easy, plus the shorts are machine washable. Just be sure to use cold water and a gentle cycle to protect the stretchy fabric.
Sizes: S to 4X | Colors: 5 total, including Black and Chocolate | Closure type: Pull on | Compression level (0 to 5): 2; moderate | Positive reviews say: “You can wear them all day and forget you’re even wearing shapewear” and “it definitely gave me some more confidence.” | Negative reviews say: “It is sized terribly wrong” and the “boning at the waistband pokes/stabs me.”
Best Plus-Size Shapewear For Large Bust
Lifts, Supports And Defines Larger Chests
Yitty Nearly Naked Shaping Midi Bra
- What’s notable: Silicone grip minimizing rolling and slipping; invisible under clothing.
- What could be better: Support might be inadequate for large busts.
- Fit and returns rating: Good. Runs small; free shipping over $50, free 90-day returns.
Yitty’s Nearly Naked Shaping Midi Bra is designed with larger busts in mind thanks to a moisture-wicking fabric that’s zoned to lift and define in all the right places. The thick straps won’t dig into your shoulders, and it comes in a wide range of available colors, from neutrals to bolder colors. FYI, you’ll want to size up for the most comfortable fit as this bra runs small.
Sizes: XS to 5X | Colors: 17 total, including Iconic Black and Crisp Pine | Closure type: Pull on | Compression level (0 to 5): 3; moderate | Positive reviews say: This bra is “so comfortable and has enough stretch that it doesn’t cause any body rolls or folds” and it provides “good support and shaping without sacrificing comfort.” | Negative reviews say: “It was difficult to get on” and “the band rolls up and doesn’t stay in place.”
Best Plus-Size Control Top Underwear
Stretchy, Comfortable And Invisible Under Clothing
Honeylove Silhouette Brief
- What’s notable: Comfortable brief with no visible panty lines and matching bra styles are available.
- What could be better: Light compression might be not be enough for those looking for tummy-tucking compression.
- Fit and returns rating: Good. Runs slightly large; free shipping and 30-day returns.
Honeylove’s Silhouette Brief has a high waist design with very slight compression and a bounce-back stretch fabric that’s designed to move with you and retain its shape. A 3D-printed velvet piping detail not only adds visual interest, but also has a touch of extra support with its strategic zoned placement in areas like the lower abdomen and hips.
Sizes: XS to 3X | Colors: 10 total, including Rose Tan and Peony | Closure type: Pull on | Compression level (0 to 5): 1; low | Positive reviews say: The brief “really made me feel beautiful” and it’s “so soft and absolutely no pantyline.” | Negative reviews say: “These wedged up my butt and rolled down every time I bent over.”
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Here at Forbes Vetted, we approach all of our product recommendations with transparency and a critical eye. Readers trust us to provide the most accurate information available, so we consider our own experiences in the field and weigh that against testimonials from customers who’ve actually tried the best plus-size shapewear themselves.
As a team, we’ve tried on, evaluated and put a lot of clothing and accessories through the wringer to rate the performance, quality and value for your money. Our fashion coverage includes recommendations for the best plus-size clothing, as well as other topics, such as the best plus-size leggings and the best plus-size clothing for men. To make sure you get the most accurate information possible, we regularly update this list with relevant details. This story was last updated in December 2023.
How We Chose The Best Plus-Size Shapewear
To determine the best plus-size shapewear, the author of this piece, Katherine Louie, read hundreds of product reviews and evaluated options from both established and newer-to-market brands. Ultimately, we chose the best plus-size shapewear by determining which garments were consistently top-rated by customers, fit comfortably and received excellent marks for support, comfort, compression and durability. We also considered if the pieces were available in a wide range of sizes and prices. Finally, this piece was edited by Forbes Vetted senior fashion editor, Kari Molvar, who has been covering fashion and lifestyle topics for more than 20 years. The final products on this list reflect several weeks’ worth of in-depth research and personal vetting.
How We Rated And Compared Our Picks
When considering the top picks for our list, we looked a variety of shopping specs and design criteria to determine the final winners. Here’s a look at what we reviewed:
Comfort And Fabric Types: Shapewear sits on your skin, so it should be especially comfortable and non-irritating. In narrowing down the options, we paid attention to the advice of Preeti Arya, assistant professor of textile development and marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, who we interviewed for our tested review of the best strapless bras. She emphasized that if a fabric is itchy, scratchy or otherwise uncomfortable when you try it on, then it’s probably not going to feel good after wearing it for hours. It’s a personal choice but “some people prefer petroleum fiber in combination with spandex, and some may look for natural fibers,” she says. Petroleum fiber has sweat-wicking properties, which is helpful for minimizing dampness. Other materials like cotton have moisture-absorbing capabilities while microfiber is helpful in controlling odor.
Sizes And Colors: All of the shapewear on our list had to be size inclusive and fit a variety of body types. We prioritized brands that offered pieces in sizes that extended up to 3X at a minimum. Shapewear is often meant to be invisible so it was also important that pieces came in colors that would match diverse skin tones.
Closures: The type of closure can really make or break shapewear, whether it snaps at the crotch or gusset, hook-and-eye closures at the back or pull-on styles for shorts. It’s important to know what you’re getting into, so to speak, in order to figure out if this type of design will be comfortable for you to wear all day.
Compression: Shapewear comes in fabric that ranges in compression level from light (0) to very high (5). We rated each of the pieces on this scale so you can determine which is best for your needs.
Fit: Do this piece run true to size and fit according to the brand’s size chart? Or do most people find it runs small or large? We took this aspect into account, since having a great fit is absolutely essential for shapewear to perform well.
Ease Of Ordering And Returns: Like all undergarments, you really have to try on shapewear in order to know if it works for you. That’s why we considered the return policies of brands and retailers, and rated them on a scale from poor (0), if returns had the potential to cause a hassle, to excellent (5) for easy and flexible returns, often with zero costs incurred for both shipping and returns.
Shapewear Guide: What Each Type Does And What To Wear It With
Shapewear comes in all styles and fits, each designed to target specific areas of the body and provide different levels of support and shaping. Here’s a guide to the most common types.
- Shaping Bodysuits: These are similar to leotards or one-piece bathing suits. They’re designed to support your chest and smooth your midsection and bottom, and are typically worn under dresses, skirts, pants and jumpsuits. They range from light to high support with built-in bra cups and many styles come with adjustable shoulder straps.
- Shaping Slips And Half-Slips. Full-length slips offer coverage for the whole torso while half-slips focus on the stomach and waist area. Both can provide an opaque layer for sheer or semi-sheer skirts and dresses.
- Shaping Shorts: Ideal for avoiding visible panty lines, shaping shorts sculpt your midriff and waist. They also protect against thigh chafing and come in various rises.
- Shaping Briefs And Thongs: Ideal for shorter hemlines, these can smooth your bottom and lightly compress your waistline, depending on the rise. They usually offer moderate compression for a seamless look.
- Control Tights: These contour and smooth out your legs and can also provide coverage for your midsection and bottom. They’re best layered under skirts and dresses.
- Shaping Tank: This type of shapewear provides targeted compression around the midsection and back, offering support to the lower back and a smoothing effect under other fitted tops and bodices.
- Waist Trainer: Designed to support and shape the core, waist trainers provide compression in the midsection to enhance an hourglass figure and can also offer back support and posture alignment.
- Arm Shapers: These focus on slimming the arms and designed for wearing under long-sleeved shirts or dresses. They help in toning the arms and reducing the appearance of sagging.
Non-Shapewear Alternatives
If shapewear is too constricting, expensive or just not your thing, lingerie expert Cora Harrington recommends other options in her book, In Intimate Detail: How To Choose, Wear And Love Lingerie. These “regular” garments offer a smoothing effect and some light support, so they’re often more comfortable—yet not as sculpting—as shapewear. These pieces are often more affordable, though.
Bike shorts: Regular bike shorts cut from spandex or fabrics with elastane stretch can create a smooth silhouette under skirts and dresses.
Full cut briefs: Seamless high-rise briefs extend up over the midsection, hips and your bottom to help prevent panty lines.
Slips: Full- and half-length slips have been around for quite some time and still work great at removing any creases and bumps under your clothing so skirts and dresses lay flat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plus-Size Shapewear
“Shapewear is, at its most basic, a type of lingerie meant to sculpt, smooth, transform or otherwise mold the figure,” writes Harrington in In Intimate Detail. While it was originally meant to constrict your figure, shapewear can enhance your curves and accentuate your form. Harrington flatly “rejects the notion that anybody has to wear it.” The kind of shapewear you choose depends on your personal comfort level and the outfit. “Different pieces—and different degrees of shaping—are best for different kinds of clothing,” she writes. Harrington also points out that shapewear can be a fashionable way to experiment with transformation, and play with proportions and silhouettes, depending on what you’re wearing on top.
Harrington emphasizes “don’t buy shapewear that’s too small.” Many people buy a size down, thinking it will provide a slimming effect, but that just leads to an improper fit. Shapewear is already compressive, and the fits are designed to work best based on your usual size, not a size down or up. Honestly, you’ll most likely end up returning the undergarment if you don’t follow this advice.
The most common reason for shapewear rolling down is that you’re wearing the wrong size. Shapewear that’s too tight or too loose won’t fit properly and is likely to slide down. Make sure you consult the size chart of the brand you’re buying from and take accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips to find the right fit. Also, look for gel-lined waistbands, which provide more “stick” to the skin, and in the case of a control brief that extends up to under the rib cage, you can layer a bra under it, for extra hold at the top of the waistband.
Our advice is to go for high-waisted control briefs or a waist trainer. Harrington finds that it’s best to focus on shapewear specifically designed for certain body parts, rather than getting an all-in-one bodysuit, which she writes is “not as effective as shapewear that focuses on one specific area of the body.” Prioritize the areas you want to shape, she advises, and then buy pieces made for those exact places.
