Putting together the perfect ‘fit for a night out can be instantly ruined with the simple issue of an obvious panty line or out of place bra strap – which is why we can thank the underwear gods for shapewear.
Shapewear has existed since 1600 BC, and the tech and thinking behind it is constantly being developed to help women feel our very best and most confident selves.
From the girdles worn by the ancient Greek to the corsets of the Victorian Era, the padded bras of post-war times to the silky smooth Spanx we know and love today, women have long been on the hunt for that perfect piece that smooths, snatches and supports us.
Shapewear has since become so mainstream that it no longer is reserved for under our clothes, and industry mavens like the one and only Kim Kardashian has helped popularise wearing shapewear as outerwear with her own brand Skims.
As such, navigating the world of shapewear is no easy feat, especially for beginners. Which is why below we are taking a look at some of our favourite pieces to avoid wardrobe malfunctions and feel our very best in our favourite looks.
2024’s TOP SHAPEWEAR
- The Cargo in Black, $59, Thigh Society (here’s why)
- Seamfree Undershort in Black, $24.95, Boody (here’s why)
- Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit in Onyx, $128, Skims (here’s why)
The best shapewear in Australia 2024
01
The Cargo in Black
$59 at Thigh Society
Unlike traditional shapewear, The Cargo shorts in black don’t compress you or suck you in. Instead, they’re lightweight, sweat-wicking and designed as an anti-chafe full coverage base layer. Talk about a summer time staple!
Sizes: XS to 5XL | Colours: Black, Almond, Raisin, Taupe, Sage and Lapis | Materials: 50 per cent Sensil Breeze nylon, 37 per cent elastane, and 1 per cent cotton
Key features:
- Available in 5″, 7″ and 9″
- Knit-in cotton crotch
- No riding or rolling
- Pockets
02
Seamfree Undershort in Black
$24.95 at Boody
These super soft and supportive shorts offer coverage and smoothing abilities. The soft-hem prevents rolling (the worst) and they are seamless which means they’ll go undetected under clothing. Not to mention they’re made sustainably from organic bamboo.
Sizes: XS to XL | Colours: Black, Nude and White | Materials: 79 per cent viscose, 15 per cent nylon, and 6 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Stretchy and soft to the touch
- All-over coverage
- 6″ inseam sits comfortably on the leg
- Wide soft hem at waist
03
Seamless Sculpt Brief Bodysuit in Onyx
$128 at Skims
The cult item from Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand, this bodysuit has a strong level of support and will cinch in your waist and belly to create a seamless look under whatever you’re wearing. Or pair with jeans for a casual look.
Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Colours: Sand, Mica, Clay, Ochre, Sienna, Bronze, Jasper, Cocoa, Espresso, and Onyx | Materials: 82 per cent nylon and 18 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Scoop front neckline
- Adjustable straps
- Wide gusset for added coverage
04
Spanx Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Thong Bodysuit in Very Black
$188.96 (usually $269.95) at The Iconic
If you’re looking for a suit for an event in which you’ve got a low back or plunging neckline then this is the one. It will shape and smooth and has targeted tummy control around the midsection and you can convert the straps to work for your look.
Sizes: XS to XL | Colours: Very Black and Champagne Beige | Materials: 51 per cent elastane and 49 per cent nylon
Key features:
- Lightweight fabric with shaping panel
- Targeted tummy control
- Four-way convertible straps
05
Spanx Oncore High Waisted Mid Thigh Short in Black
$159.95 at Myer
These mid length shorts are perfect under longer skirts or pants to smooth your lines and create a seamless look. They shape your waste and are super comfortable so no more squeezing and pinching.
Sizes: XS to XL | Colours: Very Black and Soft Nude | Materials: 80 per cent nylon and 20 per cent spandex
Key features:
- Bonded tummy panel
- Side panels
- Hook & eye closure
06
Seamless Sculpt Bralette in Onyx
$ at Skims
People often forget about bras when it comes to shapewear. This lightweight bralette creates a smooth silhouette while supporting you where you need it.
Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Colours: Sand, Mica, Clay, Ochre, Sienna, Bronze, Jasper, Cocoa, Espresso, and Onyx | Materials: 82 per cent nylon and 18 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Adjustable straps
- Scoop front neckline
- Pull over design
07
Spanx Ecocare Everyday Shaping Boyshorts
$34.96 (usually $49.95) at The Iconic
If you want to try out shaping shorts but don’t want too much coverage, these boyshorts suck in around the waist and are comfortable to wear thanks to the shaping technology.
Sizes: XS to 3XL | Colours: Toasted Oatmeal and Very Black | Materials: 89 per cent nylon, 10 per cent elastane and 1 per cent cotton
Key features:
- Super stretchy fabrication; opaque
- Fitted with shaping technology
- Targeted waistband stays in place
08
Nancy Ganz Body ID Waist Cincher Corset in Black
$79.95 at Myer
Focus on the tummy area with this comfortable corset from Nancy Ganz that will help create that hourglass shape and can be worn under most garments.
Sizes: 10 to 16 | Colours: Black and Beige | Materials: 66 per cent nylon and 34 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Ultra firm control
- Free cut performance fabric for smooth lines
- Body ID shaping to accentuate waist
- Three rows of hook and eyes
09
Simone Perele Subtile Shapewear Bodysuit in Peau Rose
$159.95 at The Iconic
This comfortable bodysuit will contour and support your curves using control mesh and French lace to emphasis your favourite areas and smooth others.
Sizes: 10 to 18 | Colours: Black and Peau Rose | Materials: 71 per cent polyamide, 26 per cent elastane, and 3 per cent cotton
Key features:
- Modern bodysuit
- Full coverage with sheer material
- Responsive French lace
10
Nancy Ganz Revive Smooth Low Back Slip Shapewear in Black
$89.95 at Myer
Wear this under minis or maxis to get a smooth silhouette without having to compromise and wear an unflattering bra that doesn’t work with a low back. You can adjust the straps to a halter or cross back.
Sizes: 10 to 16 | Colours: Black and Beige | Materials: 22 per cent spandex, 78 per cent recycled nylon
Key features:
- Low back and detachable back straps
- Discreet zoned bonding provides
- Uses recycled nylon fibres
Is It Better To Size Up Or Down In Shapewear?
We recommend that you neither size up or down in shapewear, and instead go for your regular size. Ultimately, this will avoid any uncomfortable digging in or rolling down situations from occurring,
Related article:
- The Best Bras For Any Occasion: Big Bust Girls Rejoice
- 6 Of The Best No-Show Underwear Brands In Australia
- These Crop Tops Should Be Added To Your Activewear Wardrobe
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