Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and companies are starting to realize how important it is to accommodate curvier figures. Foundation garments are the secret to looking your best, whether you’re getting ready for work or a special occasion. After all, you want to wear the outfit, not have the outfit wear you!
To save your precious time, our editorial team have picked the best plus size shapewear available online.
Best Shapewear For Plus Size Apple Shape of 2023
1. Shapewear Slip by Joyshaper
This little slip with curve-defining seams and spaghetti straps is sure to accentuate your natural shape and emphasize your assets. Its fabric is soft and breathable while still offering compression for optimal support. The bust area is designed to mimic a push-up bra, and the hem falls to about mid-thigh.
The neckline is designed with a deep V-shape, so you don’t need to worry about any shapewear peeking out from your outfit. The size range varies from a small for 4-6 US to a 5XL for 20W-22W, so there are options to fit all types of beauties!
2. Oncore Shapesuit by SPANX
Spanx is no stranger to the shapewear game. This suit has vertical and horizontal control panels in addition to edge-bonded side panels for squeeze-free slimming. Spanx rates it as a support level three – aka a super firm hug. The bonded neckline and underarms won’t rub or irritate your delicate skin, so you won’t have any of those skin burns we’ve all had from chafing on too-tight shapewear.
The best part? Booty-enhancing pockets prevent uni-butt, and a non-compression bust offers a smoosh-free fit, making sure you look AND feel great in whatever you’re wearing!
3. Women’s Seamless Body Shaper by Lover-Beauty
If you’re looking for options, look no further. This bodysuit comes in 13 different combinations of closures and colors to pick from. The three-color selections are beige, black, and cocoa, although cocoa is a little more grey than brown. The closure options include zipper, hook and eye, and a row of hooks.
There are also a few choices of shorts or just the briefs. The straps are removable, which means you can wear them with almost anything, and the sizes range from small to 5XL, although they were rated only 56% on the “fits as expected” scale, so keep that in mind when ordering.
4. Perfectly Curvy, Women’s Firm Control Strapless Waist Cincher by Squeem
Squeem’s strapless waist cincher offers great waist shaping and tummy control while still being a comfortable shapewear item. As a bonus, this cincher helps with your posture and supports your back because of its boned stainless steel structure.
If you’re unfamiliar with cinchers, think of a corset and take away the bust part – that’s it. You can wear it under pretty much anything, and its double row hook and eye enclosures offer adjustable compression levels so you can make it fit your preference.
5. Full Body Shapewear by NonEcho
NonEcho’s shapewear has an innovative wrap design that we have not seen before. This suit’s claim to fame is that it slims the tummy shape and lifts the booty shape in addition to being easy to take on and off. We’ve all done the impossible shimmy to get the physics-defying shapewear shorts on before, so easy on and off sounds like a godsend!
Some complaints noted that the material is not very stretchy, so that sizing might be an issue with this product, especially in the bra area.
6. Oncore High-Waisted Tummy Control Mid-Thigh Short by Spanx
These sculpting shorts are lightweight, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t powerful! They feature fully-bonded front panels and edge-bonded side panels for a slimming effect without the squeezing feeling. Like the Oncore suit, these are rated a level 3, or a super firm hug, on the Spanx scale. These shorts also come with the highly-coveted booty enhancing pockets, saving us all from the dreaded uni-butt.
Users did claim that the shorts didn’t roll up, which is a common concern with shapewear shorts. Another great note is that the fabric didn’t cause dresses to cling to them; dresses moved on top of the shorts normally and didn’t create any riding or static. That sounds like winning!
7. Full Body Shaper Bodysuit by NonEcho
Though this is another suit by NonEcho, it’s actually more similar to the zipper model by Lover-Beauty. Interestingly, they employ several types of closures in this one suit: hook and eye closures under a zipper, with a button at the top to prevent the zipper from slipping. The suit especially targets the midsection with firm tummy control. This model runs under the bust line with moderately thick straps to avoid digging into your skin and falls at the mid-thigh level.
Most reviews indicate that this suit runs small, so it may be best to size up. Their size range varies from Small to 6XL.
8. Women’s Boyshorts by FEDNON
These boy shorts are made of nylon and spandex with a high waist ending right below the bust line. These seamless shorts are designed to lift your booty and tighten your waistline.
Unfortunately, as is familiar with many shorts in this style, the top waistline does roll down into an uncomfortable, tight band of elastic. It will stretch out with time, and the silicone lining helps minimize the rolling, but if this is an issue for you, you may want to consider a different style or a larger size.
9. Unbelievable Comfort Plus Step in Torsette by Naomi & Nicole
This camisole is more than meets the eye. It smoothes back rolls – someone tell Alyssa Edwards! – and promises to flatten the tummy and smooth hips without rolling up. The top line runs just under the bust line, so you can wear your own bra and not have to worry about your breasts being smooshed, either.
This model comes in black and light nude, so you should be able to wear it under almost anything without getting called out for it. Naomi & Nicole’s size range unfortunately only goes up to a 3X, or the equivalent of about 18/20 dress size. Do better, Naomi & Nicole.
10. Shapewear Body Shaper by PlusFit
Holy size range, Batman! This shaper goes up to 10XL, and this is the kind of support we stan. Apparently, this company has the most extensive range of sizes on the market, and they’re putting their money where their mouth is. Their mission is to make women of all sizes feel confident in their skin. *Insert Alana gif mouthing YAS QUEEN*
This suit’s lining is made from cotton and spandex, while the latex core enables the suit to hug your figure perfectly. It has an open bust and a corset design and a unique lace trim on the thighs for a little extra something, plus adjustable wide straps to avoid uncomfortable digging at the shoulders. Sizing does seem to be a little off with their chart, so recommendations have been to size one up with their table.
11. Steel Boned Interlacement Waist Trainer by Weichens
If you’re looking for a highly affordable option on this list, here it is. This waist trainer is made of spandex and polyester with three front hooks and spiral steel bones for the closure mechanism. The size range varies from an extra small to 7XL.
The pros of this item are that it ships quickly, feels nice, wears comfortably, and does fit true to size. The cons, however, have more to do with how it fits on certain body types than the quality of the item itself. The trainer doesn’t seem to cover the entire abdominal area, which then creates a ‘love-handle’ or a ‘muffin-top’ for larger ladies.
12Plus size Bodysuit by IN’VOLAND
This suit is less shapewear and more ‘show off your shape,’ if you know what we mean. The bodysuit comes in a sleeveless or long sleeve style, with the visible upper half made of an elastic lace expected to conform to your curves. The back is unlined to give you that extra-sexy oomph, though you might need to figure out your bra situation if you want to keep it invisible. It’s made out of soft lace, so you won’t spend the night itching and squirming in your outfit.
Something to consider before buying, however: plastic snaps instead of metal for the closures make this feel a bit flimsy. Also, the leg openings ride a bit high, a-la 80’s look, but it is meant to be worn under a skirt or pants, so it shouldn’t be a significant drawback.
13. Full Body Slimming Shaper by NonEcho
We’ve already seen a few options from NonEcho, so you know they offer a sizeable selection. This model comes in different strap thicknesses, which is an excellent support option we do not often see in the shapewear market. This suit is also on the shorter side, making it a great choice to wear with mini-skirts or shorter dresses. The company does note that the sizes in this specific suit model run small and recommends that you should size up.
The main features of this suit are its zipper closure with inner hooks along with its open bust design and targeted tummy control to enhance natural curves.
14. Curvy Firm Foundations BodyBriefer by Flexees
This open bust, back smoothing suit – aka BodyBriefer – has closures on the bottom so you won’t have to pull it on and do the little shapewear dance we all know so dearly. Once it is on, you’ll benefit from its firm control power mesh lining around the tummy and the extra bonus of wicking fabric, so you don’t sweat while you’re tearing up the dance floor.
Size selections only went up to 4X in this model, and the reviews seem to be mixed on how accurate the sizing chart is, so buyer beware.
15. Oncore Open Bust Mid Thigh Compression Bodysuit by SPANX
Spanx’s sculpting shaper is a little pricier than some of the pieces we’ve seen on the list so far, but you get what you pay for, right? Avoid the bulk with this suit’s bonded tummy panels and open bust design.
Users said the legs didn’t roll up – a total win in our book. Other advantages to this piece were that it had good back coverage, though it was a bit difficult to get into, especially after using the restroom.
16. Bodysuit Shapewear Seamless Tummy Control by Eesim
What are three words you hope for when looking for shapewear? If you said elastic, durable, and breathable, then this is the suit for you. Its zipper extends from the bustline to the bottom of the tummy panels for maximum control. The straps are adjustable and removable, and the booty panels are designed to lift the cheeks as much as possible.
The size range varies from XS to 5XL, though reviews seem to indicate that the sizing isn’t entirely accurate when it comes to the size chart provided.
17. Wear Your Own Bra Torsette by Flexees
Equipped with thick straps and an open bust, this torsette is no light-duty shapewear piece. It’s designed to give its wearer an hourglass shape like no other with the added benefit of a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool as a cucumber. Its mesh lining targets the tummy and sides to give you an ultra-sleek look while keeping you comfortable.
Their sizing is a bit different than other suits; though they only go up to 2XL, their suits cover up to size 22W, so make sure to measure accurately before buying.
18. Open Bust Tummy Control Shapewear by FeelinGirl
This adjustable hook and eye closure suit can be loosened or tightened depending on your needs while still offering the compression around your waist, tummy, hips, and thighs. The shorts are on the longer side, falling just above your knees, so don’t plan to wear a mini-anything with this suit. The bust also comes up with a relatively high neckline so you could skip the bra altogether.
Users indicate that the sizing is off, and they’ve needed to size up one or even two sizes, but they were happy with the product once they found the right size for them.
19. Corset Slimming Body Shaper by TOPMELON
This may be another open bust, mid-thigh shaper with zipper closure, but it’s not just any shaper. This suit is designed to lift and support your bust, draw in your waist, flatten your tummy, AND help with your posture. The company recommends choosing a size based on your waistline, not your bust, which makes sense considering the bust is open and doesn’t factor into the garment’s measurements.
Some complaints about the suit have been that the sizing runs too small, so you may need to go up one or two sizes to find the best fit for you if you decide to try this model.
20. Tummy Control Shapewear Bodysuit by FeelinGirl
We all want shapewear that makes us feel sexy, even without the clothes covering the suit, right? This bodysuit should do the trick. With removable and adjustable straps for different looks like a halter top, criss-cross straps, deep V necks, backless dresses, and anything else you can come up with, this is one versatile bodysuit.
It also comes in different models: One-piece, zipper closures – the designers definitely got creative with this one. The most, um, divisive, aspect: it’s a thong suit. You’ll either hate it or love it!
21. Firm Foundations Curvy Hi Waist Brief by Maidenform
Many will try to mimic it, but there can only be one Maidenform. This high waisted brief with power-mesh lining around the tummy and hips minimizes lumps and bumps without constricting or cutting into your skin. Its plus waistband avoids the dreaded “rolling” factor – helped only by the silicone back – and its wicking fabric keeps you nice and fresh.
This is an ideal piece if you’re looking for a brief shaper suit with a light hold instead of something with firm compression.
Things to Consider While Buying the Best Plus Size Shapewear
There are so many things to consider when you’re looking for the perfect shapewear piece. While our list may not be comprehensive, it will give you some of the basic things to keep in mind when looking for “the one.”
Level of Control
How squeezed do you want to be in your shaper? Do you want to be able to breathe, or is that something you’re willing to forego to look precisely how you imagined? Is comfort important to you? If you’re only going to be in the suit for a short amount of time – say for a quick photoshoot – then a tighter squeeze might be tolerable. If you are going to wear the shaping suit for an entire evening or a whole day, then maybe you ease off the compression and go for something a little more manageable.
Choosing the Right Size
As we have seen throughout the list, each company and suit has its own sizing chart to follow. Sometimes, even the tables are not entirely accurate. It is essential to follow the company’s recommendations and the posted reviews to make sure you find the best fit for you. If you are torn between two sizes, see if you have the option of buying both and returning the one that didn’t work for you. Most companies are happy to accommodate their customers and want to guarantee your satisfaction.
Targeting Areas of Body
What is your main reason for buying shapewear? Is it overall smoothing and slimming, or do you want to target a specific body part? If you are targeting specific areas like your tummy, butt, hips, or thighs, it’s a good idea to look for a shaper that is designed for that area.
We should never forget that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, though it is hard to look beyond our personal insecurities sometimes.
Know your Occasion
Not all shapewear is created equally. Are you going to be wearing this suit once for an event and then throwing it into the deep recesses of your underwear drawer, or will you be reaching for it frequently to wear under your business casual workwear?
The frequency with which you’ll wear your shapewear impacts what you pick, how much you spend on it, and maybe who sees you in it. *Wink, wink.*
Know your Wardrobe
Your wardrobe should dictate what kind of shapewear you buy – you don’t need shapewear if you’re wearing mumus all day. Here’s a quick rundown of what shapewear goes with all kinds of clothes:
- Tummy control underwear goes with jeans, dress pants, and pencil skirts.
- Body shaper panties go with slimline dresses.
- Shaper shorts go with any dresses.
- Cami Shapers (aka torsettes) go with tops, shirts, and dresses.
Think about Material
When considering a shaper, don’t just look at its ability to squeeze your belly. Consider the material it is made out of – cotton and cotton blends are best for breathability and odor control. Polyester and nylon can make you sweaty, and who wants that? If you live in hotter areas, think about summer shapewear (thankfully, that’s a real thing).
FAQ
Does shapewear flatten stomach?
Shapewear works by sewing together elastic or rigid fabrics that are designed into a pattern that catches the body’s curves in the right places and enhances them.
How do you pick a shapewear size?
It is essential to stick to the company’s sizing chart and listen to their recommendations when it comes to picking shapewear sizing. Read reviews and measure yourself to make sure that whatever you buy will fit you – manufacturing doesn’t always go according to standardized charts.
Is it OK to wear shapewear every day?
When shapewear is worn the right way, there should be no issue with wearing it daily. With the technology that goes into designing the fabric and stitching of each piece, shapewear can even be a health benefit by stimulating circulation and providing support for your muscles and back.
Should you buy shapewear a size smaller?
It’s not recommended that you buy shapewear in any size other than the size that fits your measurements. Shapewear is made to stretch only so far, and you want to make sure it adjusts to your body exactly how the designers planned.
Do you wear stockings over or under shapewear?
When wearing stockings and shapewear together, the proper layering sequence is pantyhose first, then shapewear. If you reverse it, the pantyhose will slide down the shapewear, and shapewear could bunch up under the pantyhose. The shapewear could also cause a run in the pantyhose.
Conclusion
Shapewear is all about providing a foundation to show off your best asset – your confidence. Whether you’re looking for an extra tight booty lifter or a soft brief, keep in mind that there’s a perfect piece out there for you.
