If you're attending a formal occasion such as a wedding or party, figuring out what to wear underneath your dresses should be the least of your worries. But if you prefer to have a little extra support for those occasions, know that there's a type of shapewear designed for every style of dress. We asked fashion stylist Alyssa Sutter, who has dressed multitudes of celebrity clients (including Lucy Hale), for her go-to undergarments for any style of dress she's working with. See what she recommends below.
Top Shapewear for Every Type of Dress
1. Best for A-Line and Fit-and-Flare Dresses: Commando Control High Waist Shaping Briefs
2. Best for Body-Con Dresses: Spanx Thinstincts 2.0 Open Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
3. Best for Maxi Dresses: Spanx Luxe Leg Shaping Tights
4. Best for Plunging Neckline Dresses: H&M Stretchy and Sculpting Firm Shape Thong Bodysuit
5. Best for Semi-Sheer Dresses: Commando Control Half Slip
6. Best for Strapless Dresses: Wacoal Red Carpet Strapless Shaping Bodysuit
Shop the Best Shapewear for Every Type of Dress
1. Best Shapewear for A-Line and Fit-and-Flare Dresses
"An A-line or fit-and-flare dress is actually very flattering," Sutter says. "This silhouette would require minimal shapewear. Depending on your shape or size, you can try classic high-waisted shorts, briefs, or a waist cincher." — Nordstrom Reviewer
These are perfect to wear underneath a dark color.
"Absolutely the most comfortable control brief! Never rolled or kept me feeling squished, soft with just enough support!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: No too restricting
Cons: Run small
The most seamless shapewear to add to your collection.
"Obsessed! Wear these under everything and anything. They're super lightweight and make me feel covered and comfortable without adding too much bulk or heat." — H&M Reviewer
Size range: XS to 4XL
Colors: 3
Pros: Inclusive size range
Cons: Run small
You'll feel supported in these.
"This product has worked for me over the years. I have continued to buy this for support. It's comfortable. It's made well, and it shapes very well. It's very comfortable and easy to wear. I will continue to be a loyal customer. Thank you so much. I would not try anything else. I am very satisfied." — Macy's Reviewer
Size range: S to 3XL
Colors: 3
Pros: Supportive
Cons: Pricey
Mothers-to-be, these will be your go-to shapewear shorts.
"The perfect smooth layer I was looking for under dresses to help eliminate thigh chafing in the summer!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: S to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: Comfortable and true to size
Cons: Long for petite women
If you're wearing something shorter, this shaping thong will be perfect.
"It takes some effort to get this on, but boy, does it provide support and smooth you out. Love the thong as there are no panty lines. Silky material hides well under clothes and doesn’t 'snag' or pull your clothes." — Spanx Reviewer
Size range: XS to 3X
Colors: 4
Pros: Smoothes you out
Cons: Pricey
You'll turn to this shapewear time and again.
"Finally! A product that actually stays put and doesn't roll down. Truly, this is the best high-wasted brief out there!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: S to XXL
Colors: 2
Pros: Stays put and doesn’t roll down
Cons: Can feel too tight
2. Best Shapewear for Body-Con Dresses
"[For a body-con dress], I would recommend a full slip or bodysuit with a built-in bra," Sutter says. "This is the best way to ensure no lines or creases will be shown. … Another option would be a thin control-top thong if you just want to slim the tummy a bit."
You'll have a smooth look all night long with this.
"Bought this to wear under a chiffon dress and a dressy knit cocktail dress. I am very curvy and big. The feel of the material is excellent and this body shaper is as comfortable as a piece like this could be. I will never be sleek but at least I am held in. Does the trick! I kept it." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to 3X
Colors: 4
Pros: Soft and sleek
Cons: Pricey
These come in nine great colors to ensure you find a match.
"It fits perfectly, does not stretch or shrink after washing, is invisible, and it's so comfortable." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 9
Pros: Comfortable and lightweight
Cons: Doesn't shape the body well
Give yourself all the support you need in this bodysuit with a built-in bra.
"This shaper is very comfortable. It's more of an everyday one that smooths you out for a less 'lumpy' look. I wore it all day yesterday, and it gave my dress a more polished and sleek look. I would definitely recommend it if you're looking for a shaper you can actually breathe and eat in." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: 34C to 40DDD
Colors: 2
Pros: Fits comfortably under clothes
Cons: No sizes below a C
If you don't want to wear a bodysuit, this will give you some tummy control without leaving a panty line.
Size range: S to 2X
Colors: 2
Pros: Nonslip rubber binding at the waistband to prevent rolling
Cons: Not the best for those with short torsos
These are a fan favorite among our editors.
"This was my first time trying Skims so I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I was so pleasantly surprised! The material is breathable and comfortable and you couldn’t see the shapewear under my wedding dress. It held in my tummy perfectly and couldn’t be seen under my low-back dress." — Skims Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 12
Pros: Perfect for low-back dresses
Cons: Can feel tight on the thighs
Who said shapewear can't be sultry?
"Wow, this is even more impressive when you see it in person. It has a beautiful fit, is so comfortable, and looks sexy but classy. I wish it came in more colors. I highly recommend it; you won't regret it." — Revolve Reviewer
Size range: XS to 1X
Colors: 1
Pros: Thin and fits well under clothes
Cons: Pricey
3. Best Shapewear for Maxi Dresses
"Shapewear with extended pantyhose or a catsuit is perfect for under a maxi dress," Sutter says. "This is the best way to keep your figure looking smooth from top to bottom."
These will be practically invisible underneath your dress.
"Works great under pants to smooth unwanted bumps. No lines. I’m a small-medium and got the large." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to 3X
Colors: 3
Pros: Lightweight and durable
Cons: No contoured waistband
Not only will these leggings support your legs, but they will also give you a boost in the behind.
"I got this to wear underneath my bridesmaid dress for my sister‘s wedding, and it hid every single blemish that I have. So now I wear it under everything and I even ordered it in black." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 4
Pros: Amazing compression
Cons: Hard to put on and take off
You'll have seamless coverage from head to toe.
"Finally, comfortable [panty]hose! They're beautifully sheer and look great, but the best part is no binding at the waist. Buy these hose!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: S to XL
Colors: 3
Pros: Comfortable
Cons: Not long-lasting
Surprisingly comfortable.
"This item was recommended to me to wear under a very tight-fitting gown. It shaped me so that I felt very confident, and there were no lines at the waist or thigh areas due to the 'invisible' edges of the garment." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 4
Pros: Comfortable compression
Cons: Runs small
For maxi dresses with high slits, this slip dress will work perfectly underneath.
"Great fabric, lays smooth works with dresses and skirts. Worth every penny!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: So buttery soft
Cons: Pricey
You'll feel fabulous in these.
"I've never worn a shaper before or with any of my other pregnancies. In my 3rd pregnancy, everything is going much faster, and at 5 months, my back has been hurting when I do too much during the day. I ordered one to "try," and I LOVE it! Not being used to anything other than bikini or thong low-rise panties, this takes some getting used to, and I was worried about the "compression" being too tight. But as soon as I put this on, my back felt immediately better, and my legs and bump felt supported yet surprisingly comfortable." —Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: A to D
Colors: 2
Pros: Nice smoothing effect
Cons: Run small and tight
4. Best Shapewear for Plunging Neckline and Low-Back Dresses
"There are great undergarments specifically for plunging necklines and low backs," Sutter says. "Plunging slips and convertible bras will keep you covered for the trickiest necklines. Adhesive bras can be worn with open-back and plunging necklines."
This will definitely stay in place.
"Great sculpting bodysuit for that snatched waist!" — H&M reviewer
Size range: S to L
Colors: 4
Pros: Affordable
Cons: Not supportive in the chest area
Even the lowest necklines will be no match for this Spanx bodysuit.
"When I saw this, I wanted it immediately but was having a hard time swallowing the cost. I ended up getting it in the nude in small to wear underneath dresses, and I don't regret it for one minute! It's very comfy to wear and washes well (hand wash). Love that there's a bra built in and it has a plunging neckline, so you can practically wear it underneath everything." — Shopbop Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: Great quality
Cons: Runs small
Adjust the straps on these to accommodate any type of neckline you have.
Size range: 32B to 40D
Colors: 4
Pros: Supportive
Cons: Bulky
This bodysuit by Skims will do the trick.
"I purchased this bodysuit in Oxide and immediately bought it in Onyx after trying it on. It's a very stretchy fabric, and the neckline is beautiful. A great layering piece too! I will say that I wonder how much support bigger-chested girls will feel wearing this without a bra, but I am a 36C and feel very confident wearing both colors without a bra. The snap bottom is super helpful, too!" — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 9
Pros: Soft
Cons: Light compression
Wear this with all your plunging dresses when you need a seamless finish.
Size range: 34B to 38D
Colors: 1
Pros: Creates cleavage, lifts, and shapes
Cons: Runs small
This one has rave reviews on Nordstrom's website.
"When I'm wearing a V-cut top or dress, I throw on this Cotton Plunge Bralette. I love how the ribbed material feels lightweight and soft against my skin and that the medium-width band holds up my chest. Size up if you want it to be full coverage." — Nikki Chwatt, associate fashion editor
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 9
Pros: So comfortable and soft on the skin
Cons: Not supportive for those with large busts
5. Best Shapewear for Semi-Sheer Dresses
"[A slip skirt] is a great shapewear item if you are wearing anything semi-sheer," Sutter says.
So sleek.
"This skirt is very helpful for transparent skirts! [I] like it [so] much!" — Shopbop Reviewer
Size range: XS to L
Colors: 3
Pros: Lightweight
Cons: No compression
This will be sure to create a smooth line under the skirt of your dress.
"Usually, I buy these kinds of shapewear and end up pulling at them to keep them in place. This has a built-in short, so it doesn't roll up. It's very comfortable and disappears under clothing. Would recommend." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: Has built-in shorts
Cons: Runs large
This lace is so pretty.
"Love this Babydoll! It's quality material and beautiful. Very happy with this purchase!" — Intimissimi Reviewer
Size range: S to L
Colors: 5
Pros: Made with high-quality materials
Cons: Not great for tight-fitting dresses
Planning to wear something semi-sheer? You can't go wrong with this slip skirt.
"This provides a sleek look when wearing a clingy dress or skirt. Hard to find in stores recently, but Target has them! I wear a size … 6, but the [medium] fits perfectly." — Target Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 3
Pros: Affordable
Cons: Runs large
A wardrobe essential.
"This is so nice, not too snug. Quality material and perfect to sleep in on a warm evening. I love the comfort, [and it] washes nice." — Intimissimi Reviewer
Size range: S to L
Colors: 2
Pros: Quality cotton fabric
Cons: Straps aren't adjustable
This is actually cute enough to wear on its own.
"Love this slip. It’s buttery and comfy. True to size." — Intimissimi Reviewer
Size range: S to L
Colors: 3
Pros: Buttery soft
Cons: Straps aren't adjustable
6. Best Shapewear for Strapless Dresses
"If you're wearing a strapless dress, I'd suggest a strapless slip or bodysuit," Sutter says. "You can find many options with different necklines to mimic the neckline of your dress."
This bodysuit will stay in place.
"I ordered this undergarment for two evening gowns and a dressy dress for an upcoming cruise. Though a challenge to initially put on, I found it surprisingly comfortable once it was in place, and it provided good bust support (I'm top-heavy). I'm really pleased with this. It looks great under my beautiful dresses. It's smooth, supportive, and gets the job done. I definitely recommend this support garment." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: 34C to 40DDD
Colors: 2
Pros: Excellent support
Cons: Can be too long for those with short torsos
This might be one of the most comfortable pieces of shapewear ever.
"I was wary of the cost since [it's] so much more [money] than other brands. At this point, I had tried on about six others and ordered this one-piece Spanx as a last resort. It fits like a glove. Yes, a little wiggling was required to get it on, but once I tried my evening dress over it—magic! All bumps were smooth and no underarm bulge like I got with the ones that you wear up to bra line." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: Supports the chest well
Cons: Runs small
Wearing a strapless tube dress just got easier.
"I wore this body suit all day as a bridesmaid under my dress. I was able to be comfortable all day and didn’t have any issues with lines showing or falling down. I was able to sit, eat, go to the bathroom, and dance around with ease. I did not even need to wear a bra, everything kept in place." — Skims Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 10
Pros: Strong support level
Cons: Some reviewers note it fits very tight
Trust me when I say this slip is a game-changer.
"Great for under a strapless gown and very comfortable." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: XS to XL
Colors: 1
Pros: Smoothing without creating bulges
Cons: Pricey
When in doubt, shaping briefs always work.
"This is a great everyday shapewear piece that is perfect for these warmer months. I wear shapewear almost every day, and this high-waisted panty goes great under jeans, dresses, and leggings. It's light and still gives plenty of shaping." — Nordstrom Reviewer
Size range: M to XL
Colors: 2
Pros: Smoothes out the stomach
Cons: Runs slightly small
While this has a hefty price tag, you will most definitely get a lot of wear out of it.
"10/10 fits like a glove. I would buy again 100 times over." — Skims Reviewer
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colors: 7
Pros: Adjustable straps
Cons: Pricey
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated.
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