The best shapewear is the kind nobody notices. Lines at the thigh, a visible edge under a thin dress or the wrong shade under white fabric give it away. Here's how to choose a piece that stays invisible.
1. Choose seamless edges
Look for bonded or laser-cut edges with no thick elastic. Seamless knit pieces lie flat against the skin, so they don't create a ridge at the thigh, waist or back.
2. Match the coverage to the outfit
- Bodycon or knit dress: a full shaping bodysuit smooths from bust to thigh with no waistband line.
- Jeans and skirts: a high-waist shaper or thong smooths the tummy without anything showing above the waistband.
- Backless or low-cut styles: pick a design with a low back or adjustable straps.
3. Pick the right shade
Under light or sheer fabric, a nude shade close to your skin tone disappears better than white. Under dark clothes, black is the safest choice.
4. Get the size right
Too small and it rolls or digs in, which is exactly what shows under clothes. Shaping pieces fit snug and many run small, so if you're between sizes, choose the larger one.
Shop the edit: invisible shapewear made to disappear under dresses, skirts and jeans.