Shapewear has long been the not-so-secret wardrobe weapon of women everywhere.
And yet, the very term has been shrouded in negativity, eliciting images of Bridget Jones-style knickers and nanna undies.
A quick pick-me-up, perfecting and smoothing over our natural lumps and bumps we are (unnecessarily) self-conscious of, shapewear or spanx as they’re often referred, are a staple we believe are deserving of a better reputation.
It’s not just us mere mortals who call on shapewear for those fitted and slinky pieces; Beyoncé, Kaley Cuoco and Chrissy Teigen are top of the list of celebrity fans.
Then there are the Kardashians, who transformed waist trainers and shapewear into garments to be worn independently and flaunted on our feeds.
The undergarment is far from one size and shape suits all, below we round up the styles to shop for every need.
Which Shapewear Brand Is Best?
From celebrity-founded (yes, we’re looking at you, SKIMS) to long-time, trusted labels, these are the best shapewear brands you need to know about.
The Best Shapewear For Each Concern
If you’re after a shapewear piece for a particular concern, whether it be tummy control or thigh smoothing, scroll on for our top picks.
For All Over Smoothing
SHOP: AP Seamless High-Waist Shaper, $70 at Asia Penelope Collection
For Waist Control
Shop: Nancy Ganz Body ID Cincher, $79.95 from Myer
The No-Show Thong
Shop: SKIMS Core Control Thong, $54 at SKIMS.
The Slip Dress
Shop: Nancy Ganz Body Architect Slip Dress, $118 (usually $169.95) from Amazon
The Bodysuit
Shop: Simone Perele Subtile Shapewear Bodysuit, $159.95 from THE ICONIC
The Under-Bra Slip
Shop: Nancy Ganz Power Play High Waisted Short Brief, $89.95 from MYER
For Plunging & Low-Back Outfits
Shop: SPANX Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit, $240 from Farfetch
Should You Buy Shapewear One Size Smaller?
There’s no need to buy your shapewear a size smaller (or larger, for that matter) than what you would normally purchase in clothing.
Shapewear is designed to smooth and sculpt, not to make you lose weight, and buying a size smaller than you usually would, can result in discomfort, buldging and cutting into your figure at the seams.
