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Kim Kardashian knows a thing or two about the best shapewear for dresses. She imparted all of her wisdom into Skims, her line of undergarments that pull and cinch in all the right places. These mid-waist briefs are perfect under a business casual pencil skirt, where they create the illusion of a smaller waist and tighter bum.
Pros
- Sculpts the natural contours of the tummy
- Easily worn with pants
- Available in 11 colors
- Sizes range from XXS/XS to 4X/5X
Cons
- Not best for hip or thigh coverage
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When it comes to showing some leg, the last thing you want to do is accidentally show some shapewear. The Thinstincts mid-thigh short from Spanx hits a few inches above the knee, making it some of the best shapewear for dresses or skirts of shorter lengths.
The high-waisted band offers support to the natural curves of the waist while the shorts are chafe-resistant. It practically blurs panty lines, too. As the brand puts it, these high-waisted shorts feel like “a firm hug.”
Pros
- High-waisted and high legs prevent slippage
- Chafe-resistant shorts
- Breathable, lightweight fabric
- Prevents underwear lines
- Available in four colors
- Sizes range from XS to 3X
Cons
- Some colors aren’t available in select sizes
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While not a classic dress per se, a sophisticated two-piece ensemble often stands in for a dress. A high-waisted skirt slip, like the Yummie High Waist Skirt Slip, is a slimming essential. It smooths the upper hips, thighs, tush and belly while providing the flexibility to wear whatever style on top.
Pros
- High waisted
- Non-slip grip tape keeps the waistband from rolling
- Compresses tummy and hips
- Sizes range from XS to XL
Cons
- One color available
- Not machine washable
What to look for when buying the best shapewear for dresses
When buying the best shapewear for dresses, there are several factors one should consider, such as:
- Comfort: Look for shapewear that feels comfortable when worn for extended periods of time. The material should be soft and breathable while still providing support and compression.
- Fit: Choose shapewear that fits well, without being too tight or too loose. It should be the right size for your body type. Look at the brand’s sizing guide to ensure you receive shapewear that fits.
- Coverage: Consider the type of dress you’ll be wearing and choose shapewear that not only provides coverage where wanted the most but also won’t peek through.
- Style: Various styles of shapewear are available, including bodysuits, high-waisted shorts and shaping camisoles. Choose a style that complements the dress and provides the support and coverage needed.
- Price: Brands offer shapewear that pairs well with any budget. Calculate how much you’re willing to spend on high-quality shapewear before shopping.
How we found the best shapewear for dresses
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
How do you keep shapewear from rolling up?
Wearing shapewear that fits your body will not only make it more comfortable to wear but will prevent it from rolling up or down. You run the risk of an ill-fitting undergarment that won’t stay in place if it’s too tight. Don’t forget to check the brand’s size guide and read reviews regarding any notes on sizing up or down to ensure a properly fitted shapewear.
How do you go to the bathroom with shapewear on?
Most shapewear has a gusset design that allows for easy opening at the bottom of the undergarment. Some are snaps, hooks and even velcro. Additionally, some brands, like Skims, offer an “open gusset” design, which makes it a breeze to use the bathroom with the shapewear on. If a gusset isn’t available, consider using the restroom before you put on the shapewear. Otherwise, take it off the same way it was put on.
With additional reporting by Madi Koetting.
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