The best plus size shapewear in 2024, to create a smooth canvas under clothing

The best plus size shapewear helps to create a seamless look under clothing, smoothing your silhouette and flattering your natural shape. Giving a streamlined finish, particularly under fitted garments, the best plus size shapewear should enhance your curves, rather than hide them.

The best shapewear pieces are there to create a strong and contoured shape for the outfit you're going to wear on top. In the same way you wouldn't build a house without laying the correct foundations to support it, to get the most stylish of finishes to your look, you need to make sure you've selected the correct undergarments. From the best shapewear to the best bras and briefs, these items will ensure your curves are supported and essentially in the 'correct place', as the appropriate uplift will make your clothes sit properly against your body. Over the years shapewear has received a bad rap, often associated with the idea of 'dropping a dress size', but that's not what shapewear is there for at all. Think of the best plus size shapewear as a natural curve enhancer rather than something there to alter your physicality. 

When it comes to how to wear shapewear, getting the correct item for the right outfit can be tricky. The market has boomed since Spanx first hit the scene and there are now many shapewear brands on offer, ensuring undergarments are available at all price points, with pieces that lift and contour different parts of your silhouette, depending on what you need. Getting the right piece of shapewear is integral, so you might find you'll need to invest in a range of pieces to suit different items in your wardrobe. 

The best plus size shapewear: our top 5

The best plus size shapewear as chosen by our experts

While prominent brands like SPANX are obvious choices for the list, there are plenty of other exciting shapewear brands, catering to curves, that are looking to empower women to feel their best, with shapewear pieces that are breathable, soft, and move with you throughout your day. Our guide offers pieces for different body types and concerns and differing lingerie tastes. And, once you've figured out which is the best plus size shapewear for you, take a look at our guide to the best plus size clothing brands for some outfit inspiration. 

Best plus-size briefs

Plus size briefs needn’t be uncomfortable and plain - they can actually be rather comfy, attractive, and sometimes even sexy, too. From high-waisted shaping briefs to cinching briefs - there is a brief out there for every woman. High-waisted briefs are great for wearing with your favorite outfits and depending on the level of shaping you choose, they can be worn more regularly. 

For every day wear, you can’t beat Marks and Spencer's light shaping control brief with no VPL. With a high waist for a smooth finish, this nifty and cost effective design comes in a pack of two. With a 100% cotton gusset, these briefs are breathable. With only light control, these are aimed at giving a light contour rather than anything too heavily manipulated. Ideal under most fabrics, you may want to up the level of contour for highly fitted clothing to get the most streamlined look. As these briefs finish at the upper part of your leg, if you want more thigh contouring, look to longer length shorts for thigh compression. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "British clothing brand M&S are well known for the quality of its lingerie and these briefs did not disappoint. I've long been a fan of M&S shaping briefs and as these are light control they're ideal on those days that you just feel like you need a little extra support. They fitted just as well as regular M&S briefs without feeling constricting."

Quality of materials: "With a lovely soft handle, I love that they have ensured the gusset of the briefs is 100% cotton for breathability. It's these little details of form, function and cost that set M&S apart from its rivals."

Style and attractiveness: "With a sheer trim, these pretty pants don't just smooth, they look good too."

When it comes to the best underwear, Shapermint is one of the newer, size inclusive lingerie brands that has taken the lingerie industry by storm. This high waisted shaper brief is one of the brand's best sellers and is available in four neutral colorways. With a high-waisted finish for maximum contouring effect, the brand demonstrates the effect of the lingerie in several 'before' and 'after' shots on site, showing the smoothing effect it can have under fitted clothing. The consumer comments give the product five stars, with plenty of shoppers big fans of both the brand and these All Day-Every Day briefs.

What our tester said:

Fit: "One of the best plus size shapewear brands on the market, the non-slip silicone band is a game changer on these briefs, ensuring that there is no need for that awkward wriggle to shimmy your lingerie back up during a night out. With no slipping and rolling, this pair of mid-weight shaping briefs are so light I forgot I was wearing them - a far cry from how shapewear used to be back in the day."

Quality of materials: "Despite the lack of natural fabrics, the briefs are still breathable making them a comfortable wear. I really like the subtle panel style detailing over the stomach to give your middle maximum support. Ideal for shaping your silhouette, they're the perfect partner to the most stylish dresses to hide a tummy, as teamed together you'll have a super streamlined silhouette."

Style and attractiveness: "They're not going to win any awards for being the sexiest briefs you own, but they will help to make your clothes slip effortlessly and contour your shape beautifully and when it comes to longer-line shapewear that's often all that matters."

Yours Clothing is one of our favorite plus size clothing brands, offering the best plus size dresses, alongside a host of other categories. With some of the best bras for back fat, Yours Clothing lingerie shouldn't be ignored either though and it has introduced a range of shapewear to enhance its offering and make its clothing even more flattering

This silky smooth, high waisted shape offers all round support across midriffs sides and back, coming up high, under the bust line. Boasting a firm level of control, expect this piece to smooth out hips and offer a contoured shape. 

Note it has dual sizing that can make finding the ideal fit a little more tricky, but don't be tempted just to size down, as wearing the wrong size shapewear can have the opposite to the desired effect.

What our tester said:

Fit: "While these briefs sit high up on the silhouette, they can unfortunately roll down slightly, so they’re best worn with trousers, fitted skirts, or tights to help secure them in place. They did however offer a good level of sculpt, smoothing hips, stomachs and lower to middle back."

Quality of materials: "Heavier than some of the other briefs I tried, these are made from nylon and elastane so while they sculpted I felt they lacked a bit of breathability. The fact they rolled down a little, although not always, making them good but not quite perfect."

Style and attractiveness: "I do like the shiny central panel for an extra bit of a luxe look to proceedings. Again, they're very much function over form, particularly as they come up to your bra line, but the central panel does add a little shimmer."

Best plus-size shorts

Doubling up as the best anti-chafing shorts, if you want a mixture of midriff, hip, bum and thigh shaping, then a pair of shorts is the way to go. Great under dresses, skirts and trousers, a pair of shapewear shorts are super versatile and thanks to the cycling short trend coming back into fashion, so even if you accidentally flash your shorts on your commute, it's no big deal. Once again, the level of shaping and support you choose depends entirely on your needs. From lightweight pairs that give a gentle hug, to firm pieces that lift and contour, we’ve rounded up the best plus-size shaping shorts that tick all the right boxes.

For complete shapewear novices looking for the best overall, everyday support, SPANX’s Power Series Higher Power Short is a winner. SPANX as a brand brought shapewear to the masses, and really changed how we saw and thought about shapewear in the modern era. SPANX has paid its dues when it comes to developing outstanding shapewear that smooths and shapes and they have even carried this no how through into creating jeans and leggings too. 

Comfort is the order of the day here. With a lightweight compression, this design smooths rather than slims the body (a key difference), enhancing your very best silhouette - from waist to thighs - under your clothes. Design-wise, a no-slip strip at the waistband keeps the shorts from rolling down, while ruching at the rear subtly lifts and flatters your bum and the high waist eliminates over-spill fears. The shorts part of the shapewear helps to contour upper thigh and save your thighs if they rub together, making this ideal for slipping on under your best midi dresses.

What our tester said:

Fit: "Designed for everyday wear I was pleasantly surprised that these shorts smoothed my shape rather than skimmed it. Already a fan of the brand's trousers and leggings, SPANX has really developed their product offering and continued to strive to create new pieces to enhance a women's shape. Smoothing out waist to thighs, a no-slip strip at the waist stops these shorts from rolling down, while some clever ruching at the rear discreetly lifts bums. The high waistband creates a shapely middle too, great for those looking to create an hourglass silhouette."

Quality of materials: "The seamless, lightweight yarn moves with your body rather than working against it and offers a super comfortable fit. Although a word of warning - the material (similar weight to high-denier tights) can prove a ripping hazard if not treated delicately."

Style and attractiveness: "A clean and basic design, you're unlikely to want to show these off to everyone, however they do act as a brilliant foundation".

Available in seven different colors and in sizes XS to 5XL, Kim Kardashian's SKIMS brand is one of the most inclusive shapewear and lingerie brands on the market and one of the best plus size shapewear brands thanks to its extensive size range, that fits up to a size 26. Hot on technological fabrics, the brand manipulates fabric with a tights-like aesthetic for shapewear with great stretch that will still contour your shape. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "I generally opt for shapewear that smooths my midriff as for me that's the area I often look for added support, however I did like the thigh smoothing and butt lifting abilities of these shorts. A great replacement for my usual anti-chafing shorts, I found these worked particularly well under close fitting items such as pencil skirts, or under trousers when I felt I wanted extra contour."

Quality of materials: "Crafted with a seamless construction for the smoothest possible silhouette, these shorts have a great level of stretch for a comfortable, all day wear. 

Style and attractiveness: "Nicer than tights but not as sassy as a pair of lacy cycling shorts, these deliver on fit and lift if not on style". 

M&S are already known for being masters in the lingerie department and its range of affordable shapewear styles is testament to that. While many specialist labels can cost quite a bit, the M&S range helps with price accessibility without compromising on quality. With a high waisted style to contour you from thigh to bum and through the waist, up to the underbust line, this is a great piece to have in your shapewear arsenal and will work under so many different styles. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "One of the best plus size shapewear pieces we tried, these shorts feature a high waist to skim, smooth and sculpt your silhouette. Ideal for slipping on under your best dresses, the thigh area can be too wide for some, particularly if you find you have a particular weight distribution difference. However in terms of the front panels that smooth out your shape, these are great."

Quality of materials: "Using the brand's moisture-wicking fabric technology to keep you cool, this pair of shorts might be more expensive than some other straight-to-market retailers, but they bring it home in terms of comfortability and wearability. With specialist contouring panels across the front to smooth out your middle, these shorts are great at flattering a tummy, ideal under tight fitting clothing."

Style and attractiveness: "Despite the shapewear market vastly improving in terms of style, when it comes to the best plus size shapewear, we'll take function over form every time. These shorts do what they need to do, even if they lack va-va-voom."

Best plus-size body

Great for defining your figure, a plus-size shaping bodysuit is great for smoothing and contouring your figure from thigh to bust line. Either crafted with or without a built in bra. If you usually wear the best bras for larger busts, you may prefer to go with a body without a built in bra as they don't always offer enough support to heavier busts.

A body is ideal for wearing under dresses, t-shirts, blouses, or sweaters. Although of course consider the logistics of nipping to the bathroom during the day too - although many feature hooks or poppers in the gusset area to make this easier. And as bodies have grown in popularity, becoming a trend all of their own, styles with built in bras can be worn to be seen, making this shapewear both functional and fashionable - so look for lacier designs if you're wanting to show yours off. Wondering how to wear a body as clothing? Layer with jeans and a blazer, or under a tuxedo for when you’re heading out for cocktails for a look that feels supportive and looks sexy too.

Available up to an K cup this is ideal for bigger busted shoppers. A really sexy design, thanks to the lace panelling, Bravissimo have managed to create a piece that looks and feels great. With three popper settings at the crotch to help you improve the fit and adjustable shoulder straps, the body also features a built in bra that benefits from Bravissimo's engineering know-how. Available in three colorways - red, black and white, whether you want this for under clothes, to wear with clothes or to revamp your lingerie drawer, this is the stylish but practical body everyone is talking about.

What our tester said:

Fit: "The cleverly positioned lace panels are super flattering and the power mesh body gives light tummy control (perfect when you wear the body to be seen with jeans). Wearable under dresses too, the only bit I wasn't keen on was the keyhole cut out back, not ideal if you usually prefer to smooth out your back too. There is slight stretch in the cups of the bra part for a better fit and of course it's great to see such gorgeous options for larger busts."

Quality of materials: "The slightly stretchy lace and power mesh are a top duo when it comes to this shapewear body. Creating the seemingly impossible, shapewear that looks and feels fantastic, it gets great customer reviews too."

Style and attractiveness: "One of the best plus size shapewear pieces in this list when it comes to sexy lingerie, this look really excelled all expectations. The lace panels in a V-shape also create a flattering fit."

Heist is one of the newer shapewear brands on the market. Describing themselves as foundationwear rather than shapewear, the brand focuses on creating intelligent undergarments that look and feel good. There to streamline and support your shape, rather than old fashion 'drop a dress size' ideas, the result is underwear that enhances your silhouettes and makes you feel comfortable, not constricted. When it comes to bodysuits, Heist’s The Outer Body is the shapewear bodysuit taking the fashion industry by storm and has everything you could possibly need from an everyday bodysuit. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "I can totally see why everyone is raving about this one. It's underwear that's also outerwear as you can certainly have it on show and the fit is great. Seam-free bonded edges for a smooth finish, and clever, sculpted HeroPanels™ that target the breast, lower back, waist, and tummy with strong, for even compression, it really is a joy to wear."

Quality of materials: "There's lightweight microfiber fabric that feels like a second skin. If that wasn't enough, the perforated material lets the body breathe, while thermally molded cups shape and support, so you can wear the suit with or without a bra."

Style and attractiveness: "While it’ll remain undetectable under your clothes, the sleek, minimalist design makes The Outer Body as stylish as it is practical. In fact, as its name hints, when styled right this is a piece that can work as outerwear as much as shapewear. We wore ours with high-waisted jeans and a blazer for a date night and didn’t feel overly exposed." 

Shapewear bodysuits can sometimes provoke restrictive choices, especially if you need a different size bra or level of compression for your breast area. That’s why we love wear-your-own-bra (or WYOB) shapewear pieces, such as Maidenform’s Wear Your Own Bra Black BodyBriefer. This means that whatever kind of bust shape you're looking to create - full coverage, plunge or push up, you can get your desired curve, and still have supportive shapewear on too. This is also ideal if you need extra up lift for your bust. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "While the firm-control compression body gets to work smoothing and supporting your waist, tummy, and back, the high-back design smooths bra lines and comfort cuffs under the arms to ensure comfortable wear (and stops underarm bulges). Meanwhile, obviously, you’re free to wear whichever bra you wish alongside it. Our only issue with the WYOB BodyBriefer is that the gusset fastening is like a bra fastening rather than a popper, which takes some time to get accustomed to."

Quality of materials: "With a firm compression, the fabric is supportive and firm but still comfortable. This is certainly a piece for those that want a full smoothing effect." 

Style and attractiveness: "The panel style detailing gives this piece a delightfully retro feel that is reminiscent of corsetry. As it is a WYOB it isn't a piece you'd show off as such but it is attractive." 

Best plus-size tank

Smoothing tanks and vests are perfect for everyday wear. The great thing about tanks and vests is that they can be worn alongside jeans, to create a chic and versatile look that can be worn in a multitude of ways. If you don't want your tank to be seen, simply wear beneath a blouse, under a sweater, or beneath a dress to create a gorgeous silhouette that is invisible to the naked eye.

Tank tops are already a wardrobe essential, so why not choose one with extra support? While most tank tops will set you back a few dollars or pounds, the Spanx iteration, comes with added support, that might be useful if you just want a little extra smoothing that cotton versions don't deliver on. A super simple shape, this can be slipped on under dresses, blazers or your best sweaters and can be worn as an undergarment, or on show. 

The straps on this tank top are rather thick, so it should be noted that there is now a cami version available too with thinner straps but the same compression throughout the body.

What our tester said:

Fit: "If you’re looking for more ‘hold’ then SPANX Thinstincts™ Tank isn’t the right option for you. Rather, this is simply a step up from the typical stretch jersey cami top. It's super lightweight (SPANX rates its compression level as ‘smooth’, like ‘a light hug’). Designed with a non-compression bust, you won’t feel uncomfortably squashed in the bust area."

Quality of materials: "As one might expect from Spanx, the quality of the fabric is gorgeous, made of breathable microfibre fabric, the tank has bonded armholes and hem for extra comfort and a seamless wear, and is elastic-free, which means no annoying pinching. It slips on smoothly and does the job it's meant to."

Style and attractiveness: "At £52, it is a costly alternative to your usual vests. But if you’re looking for a simple and easy everyday shapewear piece, then we love its versatility." 

Yours Clothing has a great range of plus size shapewear and really understands fuller figures, as it is are dedicated to serving this size market. Available up to a size 28, this control vest is a particularly accessible option, as it has a great price point. With a simple, round neck silhouette, at first glance you'd never know this is shapewear, making it a great layering piece and wearable with multiple items. Available in three neutral colorways, these are a brilliant base layer for those looking to pad out their minimalist capsule wardrobe with everyday basics.

What our tester said:

Fit: "A flattering sleeveless design, it is smooth enough under clothing to offer a contouring fit that gently smoothed my silhouette without heavy constricting. It's not the firmest of shapewear pieces, but if you simply want a streamlined look, reducing lumps and bumps, it's a great choice - and price friendly too."

Quality of materials: "Seamless, this tank is ideal for everyday wear and can be worn as an undergarment, hidden beneath clothes or as a top alone or slotted under a cardigan. It's breathable and comfortable, making it a joy to wear."

Style and attractiveness: "With a scoop neckline this vest is easy to slip under everything from round and crew necks sweaters to V-necklines. A pretty classic and basic design, I liked this as it could slot easily into my existing wardrobe with multiple garments making it really useful."

SKIMS shapewear, is as you've probably guest is some of our favorite, particularly when it comes to the best plus size shapewear as it has such a selection of sizing. Available up to a 4X, this tank offers light smoothing, so it's essentially a more supportive, everyday layering piece for gentle sculpting as opposed to full on compression. With matching briefs and boy-shorts available, this isn't the sexiest of underwear choices, but if you want a complete set, or something for lounging in, the Skims collection is ideal.

What our tester said:

Fit: "Crafted with a second skin fit, this top is an ideal piece for slipping under sweaters, blouses and dresses, but due to the density of the fabric, it can also be worn alone, for a tank that offers a little more in terms of curve support. At £38 a pop, these tanks are more expensive than your average layering tee but its sturdy fabric, that washes well and feels lovely against the skin, does make SKIMS worth it. The wider straps are also great for keeping bra straps covered!" 

Quality of materials: "With a good amount of stretch, this tank does cling but delivers on a lightly sculpting fit. Though there was no heavy compression I could see and feel the gentle smoothing it offered, which is ideal for everyday, although for formal occasions, or particularly bodycon items you may want to opt for a firm shapewear option."

Style and attractiveness: "SKIMS is shapewear with a fashion twist and this tank top looks and feels great, easily passing as a tank top for everyday wear."

Best plus-size slips

Perfect for wearing beneath tightly fitted dresses, plus-size shaping slips aim to please. Smoothing every dip and curve, slips contour and define your figure. Slips can come in a variety of different styles - whether it be with a built-in bra or room to wear your own, there will be a slip to suit whatever you’re after. The key to finding a great slip is to look for one that won’t ride up, ruche up, or leave you with bulging areas, and that’s why we’ve rounded up the very best plus-size shapewear slips.

In a neutral beige hue, this curve control slip from Yours Clothing features adjustable straps, a smoothing tummy control panel, comfortable jersey fabric, and no built-in bra so you can wear your own - for ultimate versatility, comfort and of course, the best bra uplift. Smoothing and sculpting, this slip dress has a super firm hold which is perfect for wearing with body contouring dresses, skirts, and fitted tops. The skirt part of the slip is a little shorter, which may not be suitable if you want upper thigh support or compression, but is brilliant if you're wearing a shorter hemline.

What our tester said: 

Fit: "Shapewear slip dresses can be difficult, particularly if you have a larger bust, however thanks to the lack of built in bra here, you can weave this piece into your own lingerie wardrobe for a finish that sculpts stomachs, backs and thighs, without compromising on bust support. The adjustable straps ensures a more personalized fit, while the control panel helps to contour the middle part of your torso. Smoothing and sculpting this slip dress has a light to medium hold and its ideal for wearing under bodycon outfits."

Quality of materials: "The control panel offers a supportive  fit under tight fitting clothes. The adjustable straps are just another nod to quality and thoughtful design."

Style and attractiveness: "I've never thought shapewear slip dresses are particularly attractive, but this design is cute and highly functional. I love that I can wear my own bra with it too."

Magisculpt is plus size shapewear collection that houses a large array of shapewear pieces, from shorts and slip dresses, to bodies, both with and without thigh contouring. Offering medium compression, the slip dress requires you to wear your own bra, and while that does mean layering your lingerie, you can rest assured that your bust line will get the uplift it needs. 

What our tester said:

Fit: "The fit on this design was great and it can be worn with any bra. With medium control, it did a good job of contouring my shape under dresses and clothing, but despite the medium compression, it still felt comfortable. It does require some wriggling to get on, but it is worth the end result, although it does come up a little small, so you may want to order two sizes - especially as it is sized with dual sizing to start with. With adjustable straps, you can adapt the fit, which is useful for those with longer or shorter torsos."

Quality of materials: "It feels good once it's on, despite the effort needed to get into it. The fabric is nice, although it could be a little thicker for a bit more sculpting. I found it smoothed out my silhouette, which meant it met the brief."

Style and attractiveness: "A bit more of a slip style, I liked the silhouette of this design and again, as it is meant to be worn under clothing, I was largely concerned with performance over the visuals. Wearing your own bra is definitely a plus in my book though."

M&S have done it again, delivering great shapewear at a cost effective price. Available up to a size 24, this slip control dress can be paired with other pieces from the brand's range for a more contoured finish, but it is also effective worn alone. Available in two neutral colorways for a discreet wear, the back comes up high enough to also smooth out the bra area around your back strap.

What our tester said:

Fit: "As you might have suspected, this M&S number was a true star. With medium control, and great stretch, this slip dress smooths, without being difficult to get into, and it's breathable too. It's not going to make you drop a dress size, but if you want to have a smoother silhouette under an outfit, this does the job well. The slim shoulder straps will also work under a lot of sleeveless dress too for added versatility."

Quality of materials: "Using innovative microfiber fabric, this slip dress was light and comfortable to wear for a long period of time. With a relatively light smoothing, you could team this with shapewear knickers for a more contoured look, however I found this did make a difference under dresses."

Style and attractiveness: "For me, this is the shapewear slip that had the most style appeal and had a bit of a sexy slip dress feel to it, with the seamed panels for the bust and skirt area."

How we tested the best plus size shapewear

To test the best plus size shapewear we focused on three main areas: Fit, Quality of Materials and Style. While style was least important - after all, the best plus size shapewear is about functionality, we still wanted items that will look good, as you have to feel great in them. The quality of materials directly plays into the shapewears functionality and we looked for softness against the skin, the ability to sculpt with being uncomfortable and how breathability plays into that. And finally and most importantly fit. While the plus size market has come along way in recent years, there is still not a huge range of choice when it comes to the best plus size lingerie and this is true within the realms of shapewear. We tried to ensure there was something for a range of plus sizes, and that the fit given was considered and the pieces up to the task of enhancing your curves and sculpting your silhouette as needed. 

Choosing the right plus-size shapewear

We understand your trepidation - shopping for the best plus-size shapewear can be a minefield. As no two plus size bodies are the same, and lots of sizing doesn't necessarily take into account how weight is distributed across the body. And whether you're looking for shapewear to smooth out your midriff, lift your bum or contour curves, there is unfortunately no one hero product that will tick all your shapewear boxes. 

A simple way to work out which shapewear is right for you is to first think about why you're looking for shapewear. Is it for everyday wear? If so, which parts are you looking to sculpt. If it's for under a particular outfit, you'll need to think about the specific requirements of that garment, how it sits on your body and where you feel you require extra support. 

• Do you want support around your middle? If its a more contoured waistline you're after, look for pieces that come up high, past your waist line. This could be shaping shorts or briefs, but it also could take the form of a body that will support the whole of your middle and help to create an hourglass silhouette.
• Want to smooth cellulite or lift your bum? There are plenty of shapewear options for your lower half, whether you fancy a streamlining brief, seamless leggings, or shorts. Many of these pieces will be made of super smoothing fabric that will gently contour you and offer great support to your shape.
• Are you looking to streamline your shape? An all-in-one bodysuit will create a smoother silhouette while still maintaining your natural shape. Because the best plus size shapewear is there to support your natural curves.

Key types of compression

After deciding which type of shapewear piece you need, consider what type of support you want. All shapewear is made from stretchy, supple fabrics such as nylon and Spandex, but there are three, key types of compression to choose between:

• Light compression (light control): This is the right option for you if you’re shopping for shapewear to wear under your work clothes or have specific body parts that you want to smooth out regularly. 
• Medium compression (medium control): This is the right option for you if your priority is accentuating your curves, as shapewear with medium compression is designed to hug your body and move with you. These pieces will offer you hours of comfort. 
• Firm and extra-firm compression (high control): This type of shapewear is more about contouring your body than just smoothing it. It's important to pick the correct size, and don't be tempted to size down, this will not make you drop a dress size, however the incorrect fit will leave you feeling uncomfortable and constricted. Firm and extra firm compression pieces are usually worn under formal, structured outfits, such as wedding and prom dresses, evening gowns, and cocktail dresses, when you might feel like you want the highest level of contouring. 

Should I size up in plus size shapewear?

It's vital to make sure you know your size and to buy accordingly. Many women tend to buy shapewear in a smaller size, thinking that this will make them appear slimmer. In fact, it's uncomfortable and can have the opposite effect, as it won't be able to give a smooth finish. It's about sculpting and contouring, so for the most seamless look, you need to buy shapewear in your size or the one above. 

Likewise, don’t assume that you’ll be buying shapewear in the same size as you do your regular lingerie. Shapewear sizes don’t strictly correlate to underwear or dress sizes, rather your measurements: bust, waist, and hips. To find your correct fit, it’s important that you measure yourself carefully and check each brand’s sizing charts and FAQ pages (many have detailed advice on their websites). This is because the fabric used won't always have as much give as regular underwear.