Plus-Size Shapewear to Enhance Your Curves

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When it comes to shapewear, we’re all about celebrating curves—not concealing them. Just like a fabulous swimsuit does, shapewear should enhance your natural figure. Of course, some days (and outfits) may call for a little more support than usual. And there’s no shame in that. But just like with shopping for a comfortable bra or cozy robe, the number of shapewear options out there is pretty overwhelming. That’s why we rounded up 10 of the best items, from full-out bodysuits to shaping tights.

Our Top Picks:

When starting to look for shapewear, we recommend first focusing on the area of your body you’d like to target, then considering what outfit you’ll be wearing. For example: High-waisted underwear with smoothing panels is a no-frills, easy-to-wear option that offers light tummy control—perfect for keeping you supported under everyday outfits. On the other hand, mid-thigh bodysuits made from compression fabric will provide firm control, smoothed lines, and defined curves—ideal for special occasions when you want to look sleek and smooth under a nice dress or jumpsuit. As for fit, be sure to check the size guidelines for each individual brand, but in general, the undergarment should feel snug without being too uncomfortable or restrictive.

Below, we offer the 10 best shapewear pieces for plus-size bodies—including underwear, camis, shorts, and bodysuits—from quality brands such as Spanx, Yitty, and Honeylove to affordable Amazon finds.

OnCore Open-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

Why It’s Great: This one-piece wonder and Spanx bestseller serves multiple purposes: The bonded front panel tucks in the tummy while side panels slim and smooth and a strategic back seaming defines the butt. With the open front, you can also wear your preferred bra to further enhance your curves.

Who Should Buy It: This bodysuit is ideal for those looking for total control across hips, thighs, butt, stomach, and sides. But it’s especially great for bodies that might not fit into the designated bra cups of other full bodysuits, or for those who want to have more cleavage and/or a better bust shape than regular bodysuits provide. Otherwise, it’s the perfect smoothing foundation to wear under tight dresses. Available in sizes XS - 3X.

Level 3 Open-Bust Bodysuit

Why It’s Great: This bodysuit works like shaping underwear, but with one additional trick up its sleeve: The attached straps help keep it from rolling down (a common problem with many bottoms-only shapewear pieces). It is also much prettier than most thanks to the crisscross design, is made with breathable mesh, and has a gusset for easy bathroom access.

Who Should Buy It: Those with larger thighs and/or butts, as well as those only looking for stomach and side smoothing, will appreciate the shape on this bodysuit. It’s also ideal for those wanting to wear their own bra or looking for more chest support. Available in sizes 14 - 36.

Nearly Naked Shaping Thong Bodysuit

Why It’s Great: Lizzo dropped her shapewear line, in partnership with Fabletics, in early 2022 (read our entire guide here). This piece quickly became a top seller thanks to its hourglass-shaping capabilities and high-quality, breathable fabric. It’s also more fun than the usual shapewear—the yellow, red, purple, and orange shades look great as a standalone shirt.

Who Should Buy It: The thong bottom may not be comfortable for everyone, but it’s helpful for those with larger backsides or wider hips who might not always be able to squeeze into the compressive legs of full bodysuits. This one is mainly ideal for stomach and hip smoothing or wearing as an extra layer under tops. Available in sizes XS - 5X..

High-Waist Thigh Slimmer Shorts

Why It’s Great: This pair of anti-static compression shorts has targeted panels to shape the stomach and thighs, as well as silicone grippers at the openings to prevent rolling or slippage. The seamless edges are also designed to disappear under clothing.

Who Should Buy It: Those who want shaping in the stomach, butt, thighs, and hips—but don’t want to deal with potentially tight or digging-in straps—will appreciate this shapewear. The ultra-high waist and mid-thigh silhouette are also optimal for tight dresses and high-rise bottoms. Available in sizes S - 3X.

High-Waisted Body Shaper Shorts

Why It’s Great: This high-compression yet breathable pair of shorts is designed to keep everything from tummy to thighs to back smoothed.

Who Should Buy It: Reviewers note that the shorts are particularly great for bodies that have recently given birth—the high-rise, compressive stomach panel does a great job at smoothing out and holding in a changing shape. This piece is less ideal for those looking to form an hourglass figure, as it mainly smooths rolls.

Available in black and four skin tone shades, as well as sizes S - 4XL.

SuperPower Brief

Honeylove's serious compression sculpts your midsection while interior flexible boning guides your shape.Plus, we love the mesh overlay that prevents any visible lines.

Available in black and five skin tone shades, as well as sizes XS - 3X.

LuxeLift V-Neck Tank

Knix's best-selling shapewear tank features lightweight, wireless built-in support for larger busts. Available in four colors and up to 4X, cup sizes44E, 44F, and 44G.

High-Rise Shaper Brief

Why It’s Great: With comfortably light compression, this super-high-rise brief helps smooth the stomach and back. Plus, it has seamless bonded edges to prevent digging or panty lines.

Who Should Buy It: Those looking for a light level of support and smoothing, particularly for everyday wear (rather than for the occasional formalwear) will appreciate this shapewear. It’s also ideal for postpartum bodies.

Available in black and five skin tone shades, as well as sizes S - 3X.

LuxeLift Tank

Why It’s Great: The wireless, compressive fabric on this top is designed to hold and lift the bust while also smoothing the stomach. It can be worn instead of a bra, as an extra smoothing layer under shirts, or as a top all on its own. Plus, it has removable cups so the wearer can adjust as needed.

Who Should Buy It: Those who hate wearing bras will see this as a life changer. It’s also ideal for those looking for minimal stomach smoothing—especially in the lower belly area—but don’t want the full compression of a bodysuit.

Sculpting Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

Why It’s Great: Regardless of your Kim K opinions, it’s safe to say that she knows shapewear. One of Skims’ top sellers is this mid-thigh option that’s made of a seamless nylon and spandex blend designed to hold in your stomach and thighs (while also lifting your butt). The one downside to its popularity is that it’s nearly always sold out. If that’s the case, Skims’ sculpting bodysuit with snaps, low back bodysuit, and open bust bodysuit are great alternatives.

Who Should Buy It: People looking for that classic hourglass shape will love the compression this bodysuit gives, especially if the bust support is less important. This one is also a great option for all-day, everyday wear because it’s more comfortable than most. Available in sizes XXS - 4X.

Shaping Semi-Sheer Rip-Resist Tights

Why It’s Great: These nearly indestructible tights (seriously—they’re designed with an innovative rip-resistant material) have a smoothing top that helps with stomach control and provides light shaping.

Who Should Buy It: For those not really into bodysuits or shapewear and/or who want something smoothing but not restrictive, these tights might bridge the gap. They’re also ideal for low-maintenance people who don’t want to buy a whole separate piece of shapewear.

Available in sizes XS - 3XL.

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