The right shapewear style depends on where you want smoothing, what you’re wearing and how much coverage feels comfortable. Use this guide to choose between a bodysuit, shaping shorts and shaping briefs.
At a Glance

| Style | Best suited to | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Bodysuit | Smoothing through the torso under dresses and fitted outfits | Torso, with bust, back and thigh coverage depending on the design |
| Shaping shorts | Smoothing the tummy, hips and thighs under longer outfits | Waist to upper or mid-thigh, depending on the style |
| Shaping briefs | Targeted tummy coverage under shorter outfits or everyday clothing | Tummy and seat, with coverage depending on the cut |
Choose a Bodysuit for Torso Smoothing
A shapewear bodysuit provides connected coverage through your middle, helping create a smooth foundation under fitted clothing.
Choose a bodysuit if you:
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Want smoothing through your waist and tummy.
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Prefer a one-piece foundation under dresses or jumpsuits.
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Want additional back coverage, depending on the design.
Check the neckline, back height and straps against your outfit. Some bodysuits include bust coverage, while open-bust styles let you wear your own bra. Thong, brief and shorts-style bottoms also offer different levels of coverage.
Fit tip: Torso length matters. The straps and gusset should sit comfortably without pulling.
Choose Shaping Shorts for Thigh Coverage
Shaping shorts extend down the legs, making them a useful choice when you want coverage through the tummy, hips and thighs. The fabric can also help reduce direct skin-to-skin rubbing where it covers the inner thighs.
Choose shaping shorts if you:
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Want smoothing through your hips and upper thighs.
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Prefer extra coverage under skirts and dresses.
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Want a longer leg opening instead of a brief cut.
Match the shorts’ length to your outfit’s hemline and any side slits. A longer style may work well beneath a midi dress but show beneath a shorter skirt.
Fit tip: The leg openings should lie smoothly without digging in or rolling. Adjust the fabric evenly along each thigh after putting them on.
Choose Shaping Briefs for Targeted Tummy Coverage
Shaping briefs offer coverage through the tummy without extending down the thighs. They’re a practical option when you want a shorter foundation under everyday outfits.
Choose shaping briefs if you:
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Want tummy smoothing without thigh coverage.
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Wear shorter skirts or dresses.
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Prefer a style closer to your usual underwear.
High-waisted designs provide more coverage through the middle. The amount of seat coverage and the visibility of seams will vary by style.
You can explore these shorter styles in our shapewear shorts and briefs collection.
Fit tip: Check where the waistband and leg openings sit beneath your clothing, especially with thin or close-fitting fabrics.
Match Your Shapewear to Your Outfit
Before choosing a style, check these four details:
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Hemline: Will the bottom edge stay hidden when you sit or walk?
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Neckline and back: Will straps or upper edges show?
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Fabric: Does your outfit reveal seams or shapewear edges?
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Coverage: Does the shapewear cover the area you want to smooth?
Try the shapewear on with the complete outfit. Sit down, walk around and bend gently to check the fit and comfort.
Does More Coverage Mean More Compression?
No. Coverage describes how much of your body the garment covers. Compression describes how firmly it fits.
A shaping brief can feel firmer than a bodysuit, depending on its fabric and construction. Check the individual product description for its compression level and shaping features.
How Should You Choose Your Size?
Use your current measurements and the size chart for the specific product. Depending on the style, you may need your waist, hip and bust measurements. Visit our Size Guide for sizing information.
Do not size down for extra compression. A smaller size can cause digging, rolling and discomfort. If you fall between sizes, follow the product’s fit notes or contact us for help.
Your shapewear should feel snug and supportive while allowing you to breathe, sit and move comfortably.
Still Unsure Which Style to Choose?
Start with the coverage you want:
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Torso smoothing: Choose a bodysuit.
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Tummy, hip and thigh coverage: Choose shaping shorts.
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Tummy coverage with a shorter cut: Choose shaping briefs.
Then check the product’s compression level, size guide and design details to find the best match for your outfit.
Explore all shapewear to compare styles and coverage.