Shapewear is great for smoothing and providing support under clothing, often boosting confidence in the process. However, it shouldn’t be so restrictive that it feels overly tight or suffocating. The best tummy-control shapewear—like our top pick Skims’ Seamless Sculpt Bodysuit—streamlines your midsection, doesn’t bunch or roll, and feels comfortable enough for all-day wear.
The best tummy-control shapewear not only offers targeted compression around your midsection, but it's also comfortable to wear.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
To determine what makes the best shapewear, we consulted personal stylist Gab Saper, founder of Wardrobe Editor, as well as Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung. From full-coverage bodysuits to compressive briefs, we found eight tummy sculpting garments cut from breathable fabric, with features like invisible seaming, targeted compression panels, and adjustable, uncomplicated closures. For more shapewear stories, see our stories on the best plus-size shapewear and the best bodysuits.
Sizes: XXS to 4X | Colors: 7 total, including Clay and Cocoa | Closure type: Snap crotch
What’s notable: This comes in a variety of sizes and colors, so it works for lots of body types and skin tones.
What could be better: Some say this runs slightly small, and the snaps can come undone.
Skims masterfully incorporates innovative fabrics into their designs, and this bodysuit—cut from a strong yet soft nylon elastane blend—holds you in, smooths you out and keeps you comfortable for hours. It has targeted compression at the stomach and waist, lines that flatter and enhance the natural shape of your chest and rounded pockets that lift your butt. Also nice: It features adjustable straps, ensuring a secure fit without digging in at the shoulders, and a wide crotch that provides coverage and comfort for extended wear.
Want to save this story for later?
No need to bookmark—get it straight to your inbox.
Defining Compression Short For Your Waist And Thighs
Honeylove
Honeylove SuperPower Short
Sizes: XS to 3X | Colors: 5 total, including Sand and Vamp | Closure type: Pull-on
What’s notable: The innovative design features flexible boning to prevent the shorts from rolling down.
What could be better: Some taller users wish these were available in even longer lengths.
This multi-focus compression garment targets a rounded tummy, muffin topping at the waist or unwanted bulging around your hips. Double-knit paneling at the stomach, thighs, and back smooths your midsection, and a 6 ¾ inch inseam offers significant thigh coverage. Another bonus: There’s an opening at the gusset so you can go to the bathroom without having to peel these off. The Honeylove SuperPower Short is a popular garment for wearing under wedding gowns and mother-of-the-bride dresses.
Best Affordable Tummy-Control Shapewear
An Inexpensive And Effective Body Smoothing Undergarment
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Shaperx Tummy Control Bodysuit
Sizes: XXS to 3XL | Colors: 8 total, including Black and Beige | Closure type: Hook and eye
What’s notable: This has a no-compression bra design, so you’ll get targeted contouring without flattening out your chest. Plus, it costs meaningfully less than other, similar options.
What could be better: It can be challenging to put this bodysuit on, and some reviewers note that it may not accommodate extremely large chests without spillage.
This best-selling suit has four-way stretch, which means it holds you in at the stomach, waist and back while still maintaining your curves. The moisture-wicking fabric provides compression without making you feel suffocated or sweaty, which can be an issue with some shapewear. It also features a thong design for eliminating panty lines, and the seamless edging is virtually invisible underneath clothing. Finally, adjustable straps relieve pressure on your shoulders for comfortable wear.
Best Tummy-Control Shapewear Slip
Strategically-Placed Sculpting That’s Undetectable Under Clothes
Spanx
Spanx SpanxShape Invisible Cami Slip
Sizes: XS to 3X | Colors: 3 total, including Very Black and Champagne Beige | Closure type: Pull-on
What’s notable: Users rave about the comfort of this slip, and it has adjustable straps for a customizable fit.
What could be better: Some reviewers note that you may need to size up.
The best slips offer compression and breathability, and nobody knows you’re wearing them. Since its inception in 2000, Spanx has been a leader in shapewear innovation, so it’s no surprise that this style boasts 360-degree control, and it does so with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. The bonded edges are dig-free—so no awkward bulging or lines—and the snug fit prevents the fabric from rolling or shimmying upward.
Best Tummy-Control Shapewear Corset
Waist-Defining Undergarment That Creates An Hourglass Shape
Shapermint
Miraclesuit Inches Off Waist Cincher
Sizes: S to 2XL | Colors: 2 colors, including Black and Nude | Closure type: Hook and eye
What’s notable: This style offers maximum compression and shaping at the waist.
What could be better: It can take some time to latch all the hook and eye closures, and this undergarment may be too long for those with short torsos.
While dated versions of corsets had uncomfortable boning and restrictive lacing, Miraclesuit’s style features firm control, with flexible stays that bend to move with you. Its mesh inserts promote breathability and help keep you cool, while the seamless outer panel is smooth under most clothing. Plus, many users say this provides nice posture and back support.
Best Tummy-Control Shapewear Briefs
Discreet Smoothing Style That Stays In Place
Amazon
Maidenform Firm Control Briefs
Sizes: S to 3X | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Latte Lift | Closure type: Pull-on
What’s notable: The shaping band at the abdomen provides a like-glove sculpting effect, and reviewers rave that it helps clothes fit better. Plus, these briefs come at a good price.
What could be better: These are hand-wash only, so they require more care than just throwing them in the machine, and they only come in two colors.
If you’ve recently had a baby or want extra contouring at your waist and lower abdomen, Maidenform’s high-waisted shapewear brief provides a contoured look and a supportive feel. The fabric is soft, wicks away moisture, and the two-ply construction, along with strong belly panels, offers firm control. Still, it’s flexible enough that you don’t feel as if you’re unable to breathe or move. Strategic, wide silicone at the waistband prevents these briefs from annoyingly rolling down when you move or sit.
Best Tummy-Control Thong Bodysuit
Curve-Enhancing Support Without Panty Lines
Shapellx
Shapellx Bare Essentials AirSlim Strapless Thong Bodysuit
Sizes: S to 3X | Colors: 3 total, including Brown and Black | Closure type: Hook and eye
What’s notable: This bodysuit features adjustable straps and comes with a matching transparent set.
What could be better: If you have a large chest, some say you may have to go up a size.
This bodysuit has a host of thoughtful features. The dual-layered compression fabric creates an hourglass shape, while the thong design leaves no visible creases under the clothes. The straps are adjustable, convertible, and removable, allowing this multi-tasking bodysuit to work under a variety of silhouettes or on its own. The top has underwire and molded cups that provide support and shaping, and it also dips sufficiently to work under low-cut tops. Another benefit? The customizable hook and eye closure at the crotch stays securely in place, whereas some snap designs can come loose.
Best Plus-Size Tummy-Control Shapewear
Waist-Cinching Bodysuit in Inclusive Sizing
YItty
Yitty Nearly Naked Bodysuit
Sizes: XS to 5X | Colors: 13 total, including Iconic Black and Bossed Up Brown | Closure type: Pull-on
What’s notable: Reviewers love that the straps are wide, which makes them both comfortable and supportive.
What could be better: This style tends to run small, so consider sizing up.
This medium compression bodysuit from Yitty—a brand founded by Lizzo—is the ideal blend of supportive and contouring. While some shapewear can cause overheating, Yitty’s bodysuit is designed to be moisture-wicking and features antimicrobial technology, keeping you dry and odor-free. It also features targeted zoning that helps to define your bust, rather than squishing your chest into an uncomfortable uni-boob. To note: Some say the lighter colors can be sheer, so this may be better suited as an underlayer rather than a standalone piece.
This story was overseen by deputy editor Jane Sung, who oversees the fashion, beauty and travel verticals for the site.
For expert insights on tummy-control shapewear fabric and fit, we consulted personal stylist Gab Saper, founder of Wardrobe Editor.
How We Chose The Best Tummy-Control Shapewear
When considering the best shapewear for women, we began with a broad search before meticulously narrowing our picks based on a variety of factors.
We first sought out best-selling styles from reputable brands, including both well-known pieces and newer-to-market picks.
We incorporated our firsthand experience with many of these brands and their unique fabrics.
We consulted an expert for her take on the best shapewear, including insights on fabric and fit as well as styling tips.
We extensively evaluated specs for each shapewear piece, including available styles and colors, closure type and compression level.
We read through hundreds of user reviews and included only top-rated styles.
What To Consider When Choosing Tummy-Control Shapewear
Shapewear works best when you find the right fit, length and compression level. It’s also important to keep adjustability and care requirements in mind.
Sizing And Height
Shapewear is designed to have a snug fit, so it’s essential to select the right size to achieve the sculpting benefits. “Shapewear should always be worn true to size,” says Saper. “Going a size down will not make you look smoother—it will make your shapewear fit poorly, which may even result in a less smooth look than you’d have without it.” Before purchasing, review the size charts and select your usual size for the best results.
Also, consider your torso length if you’re opting for a full bodysuit. “Torsos come in all different lengths, so find shapewear that hits at a comfortable spot,” says Saper. If you wear something that can’t accommodate your length, you’ll face uncomfortable digging at your shoulders, or worse, at your crotch.
Compression Level And Paneling
Every brand has its own terminology for compression, and it generally comes in multiple levels per brand, according to Saper. “For example, Skims has light, mid, strong and extra strong, and Spanx has regular and super,” she says. Her recommendation: Wear the lowest compression level that meets your needs.
Some shapewear offers all-over compression, while others feature strategically placed panels to target specific areas, such as the tummy or thighs. But how can you tell if the compression level is appropriate? “If shapewear fits correctly, it will feel tight but not miserable, and you should be able to move normally while wearing it,” says Saper. “If after 20 minutes, you are very uncomfortable or can't fathom wearing it for hours, it's not right for you.” Some red flags: If it feels painful or impedes your breathing, take it off immediately.
What You’ll Be Wearing It With
It sounds obvious, but consider the length of the garment you’ll be wearing with your shapewear. “Make sure it doesn’t stick out beyond a hem or slit,” says Saper. “If you're wearing shapewear under a clingier fabric, shorts will give you a smoother line than briefs.” Also, if you’re buying shapewear for more frequent use, think about what garments you'll likely be wearing it with. “For example, if it's mostly mini skirts and dresses, you'll want a microshort or a brief,” says Saper. “If it's long slinky dresses, a short will be better as there won't be a panty line.”
Adjustability
There are typically two areas of shapewear that allow for customization. Many bodysuits feature adjustable straps at the shoulders, which can help achieve a supportive fit at the chest while accommodating different torso lengths. While some bodysuits are pull-on styles, others have an adjustable crotch with snaps or a hook-and-eye closure. This can help make the bodysuit slightly tighter or looser in its overall length.
Care
Tummy-control fabrics, often made from nylon and elastane, offer medium to firm control. But despite being strong fabrics, they can also require special care. Always check the care label before washing; most tummy-control shapewear requires hand washing or machine washing on a cold setting, followed by hanging or laying flat to dry. You never want to put shapewear in the dryer as the high heat can compromise the stretch in the fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many shapewear options can be effective at slimming, but it’s essential to consider the area you’re most focused on contouring and the clothes you’ll be wearing with it. When it comes to smoothing your stomach area, our pick for the best tummy-control shapewear overall is Skims’ Seamless Sculpt Bodysuit, thanks to its extensive size and color range, targeted compression and soft feel. For an affordable option, we recommend Shaperx’s Tummy Control Bodysuit, which is moisture-wicking and features a thong design for a seamless appearance with no panty lines.
There are different tummy-control shapewear styles, from corsets to pieces with targeted paneling at the waist. If you’re looking for tummy-control shapewear that can also streamline your thighs, we recommend Honeylove’s SuperPower Short. For a tummy-control bodysuit with a thong-style design, opt for the Shapellx Bare Essentials AirSlim Strapless Thong Bodysuit.
While the effects of shapewear aren’t permanent, tummy-control styles can smooth belly bulges, loose skin, and muffin tops for an overall sleeker silhouette and the illusion of a flat stomach. The best tummy-control shapewear styles have strategically placed panels that contour the stomach without flattening your chest or butt. A bonus is that many pieces also offer a supportive feeling for your back. Our pick for the best tummy-control shapewear overall is Skims’ Seamless Sculpt Bodysuit, but we also like styles from Yitty, Spanx, Miraclesuit and more.
Want to save this story for later?
No need to bookmark—get it straight to your inbox.