This slip dress is a true staple slip - it is thin but soft and smooth. It helps to smooth the body lightly but is definitely not "shape wear" and isn't compression or thick. I have a small waist but wide hips and usually wear size 6 and the small fits perfectly. This is a great basic to layer under dresses, pants or skirts but I personally wouldn't wear it on its own. Really happy with it as I bought it to layer and will likely buy more! But wouldn't recommend for someone who is looking to wear as a dress on its own (like the soft lounge dresses which I haven't tried but seem a bit thicker and more realistic for solo use)