Your Shapewear Questions, Answered

You sent us your pressing questions about all things shapewear, and we have the answers. If you’ve been curious about how shapewear should feel, what size to order, or want the best shapewear options for your individual sculpting needs, read on to become a shapewear expert.

Is it better to size down in shapewear?

It’s best to follow your true size in shapewear. Shapewear should fit snugly based on your original size; it should hug you and compress you without feeling uncomfortable.

For maximum compression, don’t size down, but rather choose shapewear that has a higher level of compression and order it in your normal size.

For a more comfortable feel, try sizing up if that’s the effect you’re looking for. For lighter compression, choose shapewear that’s ultra-light or light compression. (See our Shapewear Guide for more guidance.)

How should shapewear fit?

Shapewear should tightly hug your body, similar to the feeling of fine hosiery. It will require some stretching to put it on, but once it’s on, it should feel like a natural second skin, supporting you and holding everything together.

Which shapewear offers the most compression?

We offer a wide variety of shapewear in various levels of compression. We recommend our Core Control and Seamless Sculpt shapewear solutions for the firmest, tightening cinch, as well as the Core Sculpt solutions within the SKIMS Body Collection. All of these collections offer various silhouette options like bodysuits, butt-lifting shorts, and sculpting briefs, and they won’t show under clothing. Check out all of the options that offer Strong Support.

Our most structured compression is found in our ultra-strong waist trainers. These modern-day answers to the corset provide powerful, next-level support, not only compressing you but actively shaping you.

Do you wash shapewear?

Absolutely, you can and should wash your shapewear. We recommend hand washing your shapewear regularly to keep it in its best and cleanest condition. Avoid the dryer, since heat can damage elastane and loosen the compression capabilities.

Is it okay to wear shapewear every day?

When it fits right, it is okay to wear shapewear every day. Think of shapewear as underwear that hugs you in, so all your curves are smoothed and compressed. It should not feel too tight or uncomfortable.

Is it uncomfortable to wear shapewear?

Shapewear is not meant to be uncomfortable. If you are feeling too tight or compressed, try sizing up, and make sure your chosen silhouette is compatible with your body’s needs.

What are SKIMS' high-waisted shapewear offerings?

Our high-waisted shapewear options are perfect for accentuating your hourglass shape and snatching in your waistline.

Waist trainers provide powerful, next-level structure and support for your waist, not only holding everything in, but actively giving your waist its most flattering shape.
The High-Waisted Mid-Thigh Short is a go-to for midsection control and bum lifting. For extra core support, it comes in a Core Sculpt version as well.
When you want to smooth out your legs, our High-Waisted Above-The-Knee Short offers additional thigh coverage and compression
For everyday waist-snatching in high-waisted underwear, try the High-Waisted Thong (which comes in Seamless Sculpt and Core Sculpt varieties) or the High-Waisted Brief—which also comes in a Core Sculpt version.

Does SKIMS have seamless shapewear?

Turn to our Seamless Sculpt collection for the smooth curve-enhancement. All SKIMS stitch-free undergarments are invisible even under the tightest, figure-flattering clothing. For next-level seamless smoothing, our Sheer Seamless options come in a light compression, with delicate sheer fabric that will never show through.

Which shapewear is best for lifting your butt?

SKIMS has the butt-lifting shapewear solutions for you: check out our go-to sculpting shorts with butt enhancement pockets to lift that bum and smooth your torso. The Butt-Lifting Open-Bust Bodysuit enhances all over while leaving the bust open for your bra of choice to accommodate lower cut dresses.

What's the best shapewear under a tight dress?

We’ve got all the tricks for finding the right shapewear for specific items in your wardrobe.

Our strapless shortie bodysuit is perfect for strapless dresses and tube tops, as it pulls in everything from your bust to your upper thigh.
For plunge necklines, we suggest the Deep Plunge Shapewear Bodysuit, which has straps that can be adjusted to be worn as strapless (as well as halter, shoulder straps, or cross back).
For strong support at your core while wearing a strapless number, turn to the Seamless Sculpt Strapless Thong Bodysuit.
For mermaid or trumpet silhouettes—like a strapless evening gown or wedding dress—try our Seamless Sculpt Strapless Shortie Bodysuit for a bit more coverage down to mid-thigh. Both of these bodysuits come with removable adjustable straps, which can be worn with outfits that have sleeves or straps as well.
There is also the more versatile option to wear your favorite trusty strapless bra with a pair of shapewear briefs. We recommend the Ultra Fine Mesh Strapless Bra, paired with your selection of shapewear underwear or shorts. For the most compression up to mid-waist, get the Core Control Brief.

Which shapewear is best for tummy control?

Our Core Control Collection and the Core Sculpt options from the SKIMS Body collection are your best bet. These tummy-control shapewear pieces offer the strongest hold for your midsection, featuring double ply, reinforced waistbands, and engineered stitching.

For shaping the tummy with the comfort of a bodysuit, SKIMS shapewear bodysuits are designed to fit your entire midsection—and your back—like a glove. Ultra-supportive, in either mid to strong compression, these bodysuits can be worn under any outfit, from business casual vibes to special occasion dresses..

In addition, our waist trainers are made of ultra-strong and stretchy neoprene, designed to guarantee strong structure and shape for your waist—compressing your curves while actively giving your waist a defined shape.