16 Best Shapewear for a Sculpted Body: Skims, Spanx & More
Get all the support and control you need with our round-up of the best shapewear pieces - including the popular 2-in-1 Skims bra praised as the 'perfect bra'.
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No one’s body needs to be shaped, distorted, slenderised or confined in any way because all bodies are perfectly beautiful the way they are.
However, there’s also nothing wrong with investing in certain undergarments known as shapewear, perfect for delivering an instant smoothing effect and helping you feel your very best in your clothes.
Shapewear has long been a wardrobe essential for women (and men!) of all shapes, sizes and ages. After all, when you feel confident, this positive energy transfers across all aspects of your life.
It’s also had a seriously sexy makeover in the last few years thanks to Kim Kardashian’s billion-dollar brand Skims.
Navigating the mountain of shapewear options on the market to find your ideal fit can feel overwhelming. So we've done the hard work for you. From Skims to the globally popular Spanx, we’ve rounded up the very best picks from all the leading brands you need to shop - including the viral Custom Fit Push-Up Bra from Skims.
Shoppers were left "blown away" by this bra and say it's the "perfect bra to take with you on trips" as it's easily customisable. Some even described its effectiveness as a "boob job in a bra", further declaring it the "solution for the girl on the go".
Interested in more? Scroll on for all of our recommendations.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST SHAPING BRA
Custom Fit Push-Up Bra, $124 at Skims
Why we love it: Customisable - removable cups; great reviews; comfortable.
What to consider: Expensive.
Material: Polyamide and spandex | Colour: Black and Beige | Size: 30A to 44F | Care: Hand wash cold
What You Need To Know
Get you a bra that can do both. Designed as a 2-in-1 that can be worn with the removable cups for a push-up effect or without the cups for a light lift. Made from a polyamide-elastane blend, this popular bra from Skims appears seamless under clothing and features a cushioned underwire for comfort, adjustable straps and a hook and eye closure on the back.
TikTok user @mananamariee is a fan of the bra and posted a video showing the difference when wearing the bra with the cup versus without which has garnered over 20.9k likes.
"I have never seen nothing like this before... my mind is blown," she says in the video.
"It's the perfect bra to take with you on trips" and "the solution for the girl on the go".
It currently has a five-star rating with reviewers leaving rave reviews.
"BOOB JOB IN A BRA, Absolutely blown away. It’s a push-up out of this world but at the same time very comfortable & super easy to wear all day without any adjustments. Late to the party but I am (only now) obsessed with Skims products!" one wrote.
"I’ve had some challenges finding the right cup size with other Skims bras, but this one is perfect! Very comfortable, love that it has removable pads for versatility based on what I’m wearing. Virtually invisible under even a form-fitted shirt," another wrote.
Playtex Ultimate Lift & Support Wirefree Bra Beige, $44.96 (down from $59.95) at Myer
Why we love it: Wirefree; comfortable; supportive; multiple colourways.
What to consider: No padding; some reviewers say it's too thin.
Material: Nylon, polyester, cotton and elastane | Colour: Beige, Black, White, Sandshell, Pearl, Blue Velvet and Mystic Blue | Size: 12A to 24E | Care: See garment
What You Need To Know
Unlike many bras that dig into your skin and restrict movement, this one comfortably sits against the skin and is super smooth so clothes will literally drape across it. It also features adjustable straps so you’ll never have to be without your trusty, new favourite undergarment.
It has over 830 five-star reviews on the Myer website with shoppers raving about its “comfort”.
One review titled “most comfortable bra ever,” writes, “Extremely comfortable bra. Great value and long-lasting.”
Another said, “Finally a comfortable wire-free bra that supports and shapes.”
BEST BUDGET, AFFORDABLE SHAPEWEAR
Ambra Cotton Rich Shaping Full Briefs, $18 at Target Australia
Why we love it: Affordable; full back coverage; cotton-rich makes for all-day comfort.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they're too thin.
Material: Cotton and elastane | Colour: Black | Size: 10 to 20 | Care: Warm gentle machine wash
What You Need To Know
When looking for quality on a budget, Target is always our go-to retailer. And once again, it hasn’t disappointed. These full-shaping briefs are made from breathable cotton that is designed to smooth and flatten the tummy.
Five-star reviewers love how “comfortable” the briefs are while still providing “excellent light shaping”.
“These are a great fit, comfortable, and provide a reasonable level of control for the tummy and the waist,” wrote one five-star review.
Another remarked, “Perfect Fit! These are so supportive as I use these when I’m jumping around in fitness classes and they don’t make your belly giggle. Beautiful extra tummy panel, so good I love them!”
BEST SHAPING SLIP DRESS
Ambra Powerlite Full Slip, $49.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Affordable; seamfree; smoothing.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it rides up slightly; tricky to put on.
Material: Nylon and elastane | Colour: Black and Rose Beige | Size: AU 8 to 16 | Care: Warm machine wash in a wash bag
What You Need To Know
If you're after shapewear that will snatch your figure at an affordable price, this one from Ambra is perfect. Made from a nylon-elastane blend, this slip provides seam-free comfort and light yet powerful tummy, hip and thigh control. It's perfect for smoothing out your figure and is ideal to wear under dresses or skirts.
One five-star reviewer called it "The best body shaper I ever got from Myer. I will buy more."
"Best smoothing slip ever! Hides absolutely every lump and bump. It Doesn’t ride up your legs. Sits nicely. Tricky to get into, additional help required," another wrote.
B Free Intimate Apparel Underbust Shaping Slip, $89.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Multiple sizes available; removable straps
What to consider: Some reviewers say it rides up and they have to keep pulling it down
Material: Nylon and Elastane | Colour: Nude and Black | Size: AU 6 to 20 | Care: Warm machine wash
What You Need To Know
Perfect for strapless dresses, this shaping slip from B Free Intimate Apparel is specifically designed for maximum compression around the tummy area as well as your hips and bottom.
Sizes range from S – XL which is said to fit an AU 6 – 20. It also comes with adjustable and detachable straps for when the need arises.
"Sensational. Fantastic product! Very comfy and holds you in without feeling like you can't breathe! Makes you feel so good," one reviewer wrote.
"Best tummy support! This slip is great. Wore it all night under a body-hugging dress. It didn't slip down and sucked everything in without any discomfort at all!" another wrote.
BEST SHAPEWEAR BODYSUIT
Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit, $128 at Skims
Why we love it: Multiple sizes and colourways available; great reviews; strong level of support.
What to consider: Expensive; sizing up recommended for added comfort and all-day wear; some reviewers say they've had trouble with the buttons popping open.
Material: Nylon and elastane | Colour: Sand, Mica, Clay, Ochre, Sienna, Bronze, Jasper, Cocoa, Espresso and Onyx | Size: XXS to 4XL | Care: Machine wash cold
What You Need To Know
Of the entire Skims range, this humble bodysuit is one of the standout bestsellers. Why?
Not only does it hold in and smooth out your entire torso and hips but it lifts your buttocks, supports your bust and sculpts your core. Plus, it’s crafted from an ultrasoft material that beautifully enhances your body’s natural body shape. Out of the box and it looks like it’s only big enough to fit a loaf of bread but, like magic, it somehow stretches to fit your body comfortably. It won’t dig in, doesn’t feel restricting and is still comfortable even after a long day of wear.
But one factor that makes this bodysuit superior to other shapewear bodysuits on the market is its celebration of diversity — one of the main reasons behind the success of Skims. This undergarment comes in nine different skin hues including a deep Cocoa and light Sand, and sizes range from 2XS to 5XL, making it the most accommodating piece you’ll find out there. Be warned – this is so popular it constantly sells out but stock is replenished often.
"God's creation. Guys when I tell you you need this in your life I’m not even joking. This is such a good product I own 3 of these body sculpting pieces. They snatch your waist and make you look smooth. My back rolls have never been snatched before. I totally recommend it. Definitely watch out in the leg pantie area because if you pull too hard you will break the threads and it kinda just undoes itself. Always size up if it’s an everyday wear. Size down or get your actual size for a special occasion. Amazing job Kim. You have earned my respect," one wrote.
"Best shapewear I've ever bought. This body suit is worth every single penny. I’ve bought several after having babies and this is the first one I’ve ever felt completely confident in. It holds everything in, smooths and shapes perfectly. I can’t recommend it enough!" another wrote.
Bendon Medium Control Jumpsuit in Black, $79.95 at Bendon Lingerie
Why we love it: Seamfree; convertible straps for versatility; comfortable.
What to consider: Low-cut back; jumpsuit style - may be difficult when you need to go to the bathroom.
Material: Recycled polyamide | Colour: Black and Caramel | Size: XS to XL | Care: Cold gentle machine wash
What You Need To Know
Unlike the bodysuit above, this one is made in a shorts style so if you’re after shaping around your bottom and thighs, this is a great option. It also has a low-cut back and convertible straps for multipurpose options including halterneck styles. A great option if you don't want your bra line to show.
And, one of our favourite features in shapewear, a gusset opening is also included here.
Reviews on the Bendon website say it is surprisingly “comfortable”.
“Very comfy, I was worried I would overheat wearing it in the summer, but I barely noticed it,” wrote one five-star review.
BEST SHAPEWEAR SHORTS FOR TUMMY AND THIGHS
Shaper Long Undershort, $64.95 at Boody
Why we love it: Super comfortable to wear all day; doesn't roll
What to consider: Not overly tight if you're after more serious shaping
Material: 73 per cent viscose, 22 per cent nylon, 5 per cent spandex. Viscose fibre made from bamboo | Colour: Black and shell | Size: XS to 2XL | Care: Warm machine wash with like colours
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Finding comfortable shapewear is an almost impossible task but Boody's new shaper undershots may just fit the ticket. Personally, I normally wear shapewear under things like silk dresses because I don't love the look of an undie line so that's normally the most important aspect of any shapewear piece for me. In saying that, while these Boody shorts definitely achieved that they didn't really do any shaping or compression around my tummy that I know others appreciate. This wasn't a huge issue for me because as I said the undie line is really my main goal but if you want some more shaping then I would keep that in mind.
In terms of comfort though, I have never worn a more comfortable piece of shapewear. There was no rolling either down from the waist or up from the legs and I was able to wear all day at work with no problems.
Even though they only were released recently, there are already some five-star reviews online.
"Really comfortable and soft, not too restrictive, helps feel secure and the best part is that the legs don’t roll up!" wrote one five-star review.
Another said, "Soft, very comfortable, a nice fit which stays in place and feels supportive. I would definitely purchase again."
Junlan Tummy Control Body Shaper Briefs, $27.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Affordable; shapes and lifts; moisture-wicking.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it's quite thick.
Material: Polyamide and spandex | Colour: Black and Beige | Size: XS to 4XL | Care: Hand wash only
What You Need To Know
Shapewear that specifically supports the tummy is the most sought-after type, which probably explains why this piece is an Amazon bestseller. The Junlan Tummy Control Body Shaper Briefs have a 4.2 out of five-star global rating and are especially loved for their high-quality firm control, fit, hold and affordability. It's also perfect if you don't want to show panty lines.
One person summed it up, saying: “The price does not equate or even come close to the quality of the fabric, very soft and comfortable on the skin that you even forget you are wearing anything. Then the actual test was putting a dress over it. All I could say is wow. I’m a very satisfied customer. I forgot to say that I’ve been wearing it in the last hour and it hasn’t rolled.”
BEST SHAPING MINI SHORTS
Skims Fits Everybody Boy Shorts, $40 at Skims
Why we love it: Multiple sizes and colourways available; great reviews; doesn't ride up.
What to consider: Some reviewers say they're thin and worry they'll rip; not high-waisted.
Material: Polyamide and elastane | Colour: Sand, Mica, Clay, Ochre, Sienna, Jasper, Cocoa, Espresso and Onyx | Size: XXS to 4XL | Care: Machine wash cold
What You Need To Know
These boy shorts are made for "everybody" and have earned some stellar reviews. They have a mid-rise waist, zero seams and offer an unbelievable amount of support and full coverage that is unmatchable by any other mini-shaping shorts on the market. Thousands of reviewers have admitted they’re so lightweight that it “feels like you’re wearing nothing at all” and yet somehow keep everything tucked in. Because they’re so popular, they do tend to sell out almost instantly so if you see your colour and size, run, don’t … actually, sprint, don’t run.
"Most comfortable underwear I’ve had. Leaving the cult of Victoria's Secret and now solely purchasing skims," one wrote.
"I cannot say enough good things about the fits everyone boyshort. It feels amazing, almost like you’re wearing nothing, as close to seamless as you can get & it doesn’t ride up & give me wedgies all day. Winning! I have 4 pairs & will get more. Replacing all my undies with skims! Worth the hype & worth every penny!" another wrote.
BEST SHAPEWEAR THONG
Spanx Everyday Shaping Ecocare Thong, $54.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: High-waisted; seamless; multiple sizes available.
What to consider: Expensive.
Material: Nylon, elastane and cotton | Colour: Cafe Au Lait | Size: XS to 3XL | Care: Machine wash cold
What You Need To Know
The problem with ordinary thongs is that they’re made with minimal material making them very unsupportive. So, for those who want the invisible look from behind with the support of all-over briefs, the Spanx Everyday Shaping Thong is an absolute game-changer. Crafted from the trademark shaping Spanx material, this thong offers breathability and seamless comfort with a waistband that will stay in place from your early morning HIIT workout till after-work drinks with the gals.
BEST HIGH-WAISTED CONTROL BRIEFS
Simone Perele Subtile High Waisted Shapewear Brief, $109.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Super high-waisted; comfy knitted fabric; sculpting; full coverage; great reviews.
What to consider: Sheer at the back.
Material: Nylon, elastane and cotton | Colour: Beige and Black | Size: 10 to 20 | Care: Hand wash
What You Need To Know
Simone Perele is known to fuse function with an elegant aesthetic, highly evident in the Subtile Highwaisted Briefs. It’s made from responsive knitted fabric and sculpting technology to celebrate your figure as well as anti-slip technology and silicone inner-stripping, which allows you to move with confidence all day and night long. The lace detailing even has a purpose — it’s made from control mesh to seamlessly smooth curves and define your figure.
BEST SHAPEWEAR TANK
Flexees Women’s Shapewear Comfort Devotion Cami, $43.92 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Form-fitting and shaping; breathable; bust support; can be worn on its own.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it runs small; and can be really tight in the bust area.
Material: Polyester and spandex | Colour: Black and white | Size: Small to XXL | Care: Hand wash only
What You Need To Know
This tank is a simple alternative to the more complicated bodysuits and slip dresses that offer upper-body support. Because it has thick shoulder straps and a high neckline from both the front and back, you won’t be able to wear it under more skin-bearing tops. However, what it does is provide excellent support to your entire upper body, which over 3.8k five-star reviewers have noted.
“They are comfortable to use daily, yet good enough to flatter your body when worn under anything,” one person wrote.
Another person commented: “It smooths out bra lines … I can breathe and it holds me in with no jiggle!”
BEST MATERNITY SHAPEWEAR
B Free Intimate Apparel Shaping Maternity V-Tank Slip, $82.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Maternity friendly; great reviews; comfortable; seamfree
What to consider: Limited sizing; short length
Material: Nylon and elastane | Colour: Nude | Size: 6 to 16 | Care: Warm machine wash
What You Need To Know
Here to support you and your ever-changing belly is B Free Intimate Apparel’s V-Tank Slip. Crafted from high-density and lightweight stretchy fabric that will grow with you, this discreet top will smooth out any bumps and most importantly, provide supportive compression to relieve some back strain of your heavy pregnant belly.
"Slip arrived quick and as described, Very comfortable on the baby bump. I ordered this as I am heavily tattooed and this covers them perfectly and I am able to wear light-coloured tight-fitting dresses. Highly recommend," one wrote.
"Absolutely perfect. Not tight at all but oh so smoothing. I'm in LOVE!" another wrote.
BEST PLUS-SIZE SHAPEWEAR
Why we love it: Multiple sizes available; comfortable; great reviews
What to consider: Jumpsuit style - may be difficult when you need to go to the bathroom; some reviewers say it's see-through.
Material: Nylon and spandex | Colour: Black, Chai and White | Size: S to 4XL | Care: XX
What You Need To Know
Ranging from S through to 4XL, this shapewear is made from a breathable nylon-spandex blend and has been designed seamlessly for a 360-degree smoothing effect. It provides 24/7 comfort and sculpts your tummy, waist, thighs and booty effortlessly. Not to mention, the straps are adjustable and provide chest support too - so you can wear it alone or layered under any outfit and with or without a bra.
"I love the versatility of this mid-thigh bodysuit, I can wear it to work, out with friends, or even to the gym," one wrote.
"What’s not to like? Fits perfectly. Super soft. Holds you in but you can still breathe. Holds its shape. Washes well. Creates a great line under figure-hugging clothes. Will definitely buy again," another wrote.
BEST BRIDAL SHAPEWEAR
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Strapless Cupped Mid Thigh Bodysuit, $279.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Convertible straps for versatility; adjustable back closure; comfortable; great reviews.
What to consider: Expensive; limited sizes available; some reviewers say the cups are small, especially for larger chests.
Material: Nylon and elastane | Colour: Champagne Beige and Black | Size: S to XL | Care: Warm machine wash
What You Need To Know
If you don’t mind spending a bit of cash on an exceptional bodysuit, you really can’t go wrong with the Suit Your Fancy from OG shapewear brand Spanx. This is perfect for strapless wedding dresses but also great for other styles including backless dresses, off-the-shoulder tops, and evening wear with a deep plunge — really, the possibilities are endless. And even though it does allow you to show off a lot of skin, rest assured, it provides optimal support with its thigh huggers and padded cups. Unfortunately, you’re unable to select your cup size and it sadly only goes up to an XL, which might be a major deal-breaker for you.
BEST BACKLESS SHAPEWEAR
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit, $279.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Convertible straps for versatility; great for low back or plunge neck clothing.
What to consider: Expensive; slightly sheer under light.
Material: Nylon and elastane | Colour: Champagne Beige and Black | Size: XS to XL | Care: Cold hand wash
What You Need To Know
For many of us wearing shapewear with formal attire has become the norm but when it comes to dresses with low backs, it tends to get a bit harder to find the proper underwear. We present the Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit. This bodysuit has been designed with a plunging U-neckline, five-way convertible straps and of course, a low back making it ideal for formal occasions.
Plus, it also has easy access to the crotch and is made from the brand’s signature cling-free shaping fabric.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SHAPEWEAR
Size: When it comes to shapewear, more often than not, people will think sizing down is the right choice for a super firm and 'suck-you-in' fit. However, shapewear should fit you firmly and comfortably without being restrictive, and sizing down can do more harm than good. So, it's best to stick to your regular size or refer to the size guides for more help. Make sure to also take into account different bra sizes for bodysuits.
Style: Shapewear comes in different styles from shorts, tops and bras to jumpsuits and dresses – so the style you choose definitely depends on whether you want lower body, upper body or full body support and what exactly you plan on wearing with your shapewear. I'd recommend picking up a versatile style of shapewear that you can wear with almost anything like a jumpsuit.
Fabrication: Shapewear is generally made from a nylon or polyester fabric combined with elastane. These synthetic materials are great at providing support and 'sucking' you in, plus they provide some stretch, however, they may not be as breathable as you'd like. So you could also look into cotton shapewear for a more breathable option.
Control/Support: As mentioned above, there are different styles of shapewear for women and not all styles offer the same amount of control or level of support. There's light compression which is for if you need a little support or some slimming and smoothing – these are great for everyday and if you're new to shapewear. We also have medium-firm compression which is considered the perfect compression level if you want more support and comfort - these will smooth the unwanted lines, bumps and lumps, slim and contour your body and keep you feeling firm but not restricted. Then we have extra-firm compression which is a lot more firm and sturdy than medium-firm and may be less comfortable – if you have a special occasion like a wedding, formal or cocktail event, this type of shapewear works well under dresses and gowns. Extra-firm shapewear is ideal for slimming, sculpting and toning.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHICH BRAND OF SHAPEWEAR IS THE BEST?
There are many shapewear brands on the market, each accommodating a huge range of body shapes and skin colours. However, there are a few that reign supreme in Australia such as Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS, Spanx, Nancy Ganz and Ambra. All of these are shoppable at online outlets like The Iconic, Net-A-Porter, Myer and Amazon.
WHAT IS THE BEST SHAPEWEAR FOR TUMMY SMOOTHING?
If your focus is on shaping your midsection, there are plenty of other shapewear pieces that have been specifically designed to gently hug this specific area of your body.
Control briefs: A simple and easy-to-wear option that comes in a range of compressions ranging from more flexible lightweight ones you can comfortably wear every day to tighter styles designed for a more structured look. You can also find control briefs in a larger range of skin tones and bright colours.
High-waisted control briefs: Basically control briefs but with more coverage added to create an overall smoothness from the torso down.
Shorts: A great option if you want to shape your tummy and provide support for your buttocks, thighs and hips. You can get shorts in different lengths to accommodate a variety of skirts, dresses, shorts and pants.
Corsets and waist trainers: This option creates the most dramatic hourglass shape. It uses high-stretch fabric and either panelling or boning.
SHOULD YOU GO A SIZE SMALLER FOR SHAPEWEAR?
Although it might sound more logical to opt for a smaller size when shopping for shapewear, they’re actually designed to compliment your silhouette according to your true size. So, treat shapewear the same as your regular clothes and purchase your normal size.
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