The 11 Best Bridal Shapewear Pieces for Wedding Dresses, Tested by BRIDES Editors

To avoid a visible panty line with a form-fitting wedding dress, consider a thong like this one from Spanx, which offers high-level compression with a light feel and an undetectable design. The flat, silicone-enhanced waistband comes all the way up to the bra line to smooth and shape the entire torso, while the material provides a four-way stretch that makes this piece impressively comfortable despite its coverage and staying power. 

Size Range: S–3X | Shades: 4 | Compression Level: Firm | Materials: Nylon, elastane

We love the X-shaped spandex panel on these Honeylove shorts, which provides a comfortable compression level to shape and sculpt the midsection, rear, and thighs. Nylon panels and a cotton gusset allow airflow for breathability, so you won't overheat. The flexible boning prevents roll-down without restricting movement, though it took some adjusting to avoid the feeling of being poked in the abdomen. The best part of these flattering shorts is the pull-aside fabric that makes it possible to use the restroom without taking them off.

Size Range: XS–3X | Shades: 5 | Compression Level: Firm | Materials: Nylon, spandex

Unlike some full-body shapers, this one features bra cups with an underwire and a deep plunge that enhance your curves rather than compress them, as well as a tummy panel that smooths the thighs while shaping the rear, and a zippered gusset that makes restroom visits a breeze. Because the style is convertible, this bodysuit works for anyone wearing a halter or backless gown. Be aware that the adjustable back strap (a must if you’re wearing this piece without the shoulder straps) is a little bulky and may be visible under more delicate fabrics. 

Size Range: XS–3X | Shades: Black, beige | Compression Level: Firm | Materials: Nylon, spandex

You may think you have no shapewear options if you've chosen a backless gown with a deep plunge, but this unique shaper helps smooth the tummy and thighs even when wearing the lowest-cut gowns. The style offers waist coverage on the front and sides, then dips down to a deep V in the back. Whether seated for dinner or on the dance floor, it’s completely undetectable in a more revealing wedding dress. 

Size Range: S–2X | Shades: 2 | Compression Level: Moderate | Materials: Polyamide, elastane

If you are looking for a cinched waist and maximum shaping and lifting, this new-to-market sculpting suit delivers superior performance. It took a lot of shimmying to get into, but the results were well worth it. Although the boning streamlines your curves into an hourglass shape, it doesn’t poke or jab at your figure at all, thanks to its flexibility. We love the open top, so you can wear your choice of bra and adjust your arm straps to prevent any rolling. This is a remarkable reimagining of a corset utilizing innovative shapewear technology.

Size Range: XS-3X | Shades: Natural bronze, black | Compression Level: Firm | Materials: Built-in boning and LYCRA® FitSense Print™ Technology

If you prefer to wear your favorite bra, the open-bust design on this thigh shaper is ideal. Lane Bryant offers several favorable shapewear options, featuring the most extensive size range we've seen (this style ranges from size 14 to 36). We love this option the most because of its barely there, seamless feel that still creates a feeling of firm compression. Wear this style with several wedding dress silhouettes, though we think it's best suited for those planning to adorn a strapless gown on their big day.

Size Range: 14/16–34/36 | Shades: Black, Cafe Mocha | Compression Level: Firm | Materials: Polyamide, elastane

If you want to show some leg without flashing your shapewear, the SKIMS Solution Short has you (un)covered. These shorts are designed with an asymmetrical crop to let you work a thigh-high slit. They also offer targeted compression to smooth your midsection and upper thighs and lift your backside.

Size Range: XXS–5X | Shades: 9 | Compression Level: Strong | Materials: Nylon, spandex

Though this gorgeous lace shaper is pretty enough to wear on its own on a night out, we love this thong style primarily for its functionality. With convertible straps and a hook-and-eye closure gusset, this light-to-moderate compression bodysuit provides ample support thanks to underwire cups and boning, as well as a double-layer mesh that helps keep everything in place. The stretchy lace at the high-cut leg adds a delicate touch while simulating a smoothing effect sans visible lines. 

Size Range: S–6X | Shades: 10 | Compression Level: Light to moderate  | Materials: Nylon, spandex

If you’d prefer to wear your own bra on your wedding day but want the security of a bodysuit, this open-bust design from Shaperx is an excellent option. Available in a wide range of sizes in both thong and shorts styles, this option beautifully smooths and cinches with moderate to firm compression that feels supportive, not suffocating. The thong style features a snap closure on the gusset, while the shorts style has an open gusset, allowing you to make a pit stop at the restroom without needing help from your maid of honor to wriggle in and out of your shapewear.

Size Range: XXS–4X | Shades: 2 | Compression Level: Moderate to firm | Materials: Nylon, spandex

Available in both high- and mid-rise options, these Commando shorts provide targeted compression panels for stronger support of the waist, tummy, and inner thighs while creating a gentler smoothing effect across the rest of the garment for a sleek, seamless fit. The buttery-soft fabric is breathable and super-stretchy, and the thighs have a raw-cut edge that won’t roll up but will keep you extra comfortable on the dance floor. 

Size Range: XS-XL | Shades: 4 | Compression Level: Moderate | Materials: Nylon, elastane

Once you get over the shock of how small Skims look out of the package, you'll find these easy to slip on and be surprised at how well they stay in place. The core control brief offers compression and gives your butt a lift—this is Kim Kardashian's shapewear line, after all. This piece is an excellent choice if you want a contoured effect on your natural shape, but you can also size down if you're looking for a more snug fit.

Size Range: XXS–4X | Shades: 10 | Compression Level: Strong | Materials: Nylon, spandex

FAQ

• Definitely not! Wearing shapewear under your wedding dress is a personal choice and completely optional. If you have time to test ahead of time, try wearing several bridal shapewear options under your dress when you go to fittings. See what it feels like to walk, sit, and dance—and whether there's any riding up, rolling down, or discomfort. Also, practice going to the bathroom to make sure you won't struggle to refasten tricky clasps or closures. 

• Typically, you want your wedding shapewear to be invisible underneath your dress, so it's best to go with a shade that blends into your skin. Look for styles that come in several colors to try out different options. If your dress is especially sheer, you might want to opt for white and let the shapewear serve as a foundational piece.

• Contrary to common belief, you shouldn't size down in shapewear. Wearing a piece that's too small can be uncomfortable, but it can also cause it to ride up or roll down. Instead, go with your true size, based on the brand's size guide, as shapewear is already made to be tighter.

• With the rise of new brands like Skims, you can find quality shapewear under $50, while luxury brands go for upwards of $300. Smaller pieces, like shorts and underwear, tend to be cheaper than bodysuits and full-body slips. Think about your budget and whether you see yourself wearing the shapewear beyond your wedding day. If you often reach for shapewear when dressing for events, it may be worth investing in a luxury style that you can wear again and again. Ultimately, you should base your purchase on what makes you feel and look your best in your wedding dress.