Suck it in — I used to say to myself as I’d pose for a picture. But, not anymore since tummy-control pants were invented. Jeans have never been my cup of tea, but since trying the denim from Judy Blue, I knew my outfit fate was about to change.
Since then, I’ve included more tummy-control pants in my wardrobe repertoire — from denim to slacks, there is a variety of designs that slim down the midsection, without extra effort or discomfort. Not only are tummy-control pants my favorite invention, but they are also a great alternative that helps to accentuate your curves sans the added layer of shapewear.
To ensure the best fit and silhouette, we tapped fashion stylists who shared the best fabrics, designs and features to look for. Whether you are looking to slim down a few inches or love the figure-hugging design, these are the styles that won’t suffocate you by the end of the day.
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Tips for shopping tummy-control pants
According to the lead stylist at the Watson Style Group, Madeline Manning, you want to pay attention to your natural waist. “If you are long-waisted, you want a higher rise that sits at your natural waist to accentuate your waist. If you are short-waisted, a mid-rise style will suit you best. Identifying whether you have a long or short waist is key in securing the best pants for tummy-control,” she explains.
Other things to consider are the type of fabric and construction. According to stylist Sandra Okerulu, you want to shop for tummy-control pants that feature a wide waistband, built-in panels, high-rise silhouettes and pull-on designs.
*Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions section for more details.
Editor-favorite tummy-control jeans
Judy Blue is the brand that convinced me there is a better way to wear denim. At first, I wasn’t sold on the idea of sizing down due to other trials with different jeans and trousers. However, after receiving them, I was suprised at how mistaken I was about the size chart. Currently, I wear a size 5, but universally, I am a size medium. These jeans are the most comfortable pair I own, and I have packed them for every trip since.
They feature tummy-control technology that hugs your curves without gapping in the back. The material is a combination of cotton and polyester, with the perfect dose of elastane. I call it the perfect mixture of indigo and stretch. They’re roomy at the bottom, with a wide-leg silhouette that allows you to wear your Tecovas without compromising the overall design. These are truly my favorite ones to wear every season. Even when I sit down, the jeans won’t bother my belly button. I even wore them on a four-hour flight to Miami and was impressed by how comfortable they kept me. Whether you wear them at nighttime or in the office, these jeans are meant to keep you ready for any adventure. They are luxurious without the hefty price tag, comfortable without leaning into the legging category and remain in the denim space thanks to their material composition. Truly the best!
Expert-approved tummy-control pants
This design offers a hybrid style that mixes slacks and tummy-control pants without compromising elegance. “I know flare pants can scare most people, but these specifically target the tummy area, offering a slimming fit. They feature breathable four-way stretch for easy, comfortable movement, making them perfect for someone with an active lifestyle,” shares fashion stylist Sandra Okerulu.
“Wrinkle-resistant stretch fabric makes the difference with these built-in tummy-control pants. The signature built-in panel slims and smooths without the feeling of wearing restrictive shape-wear undergarments,” says Okerulu. Plus, you can pull them on with ease without feeling constricted.
“These are made with lift and tuck to help sculpt while giving a sleek look — also built to help you slim within,” says Okerulu. The hidden criss-cross panel is designed to flatten the stomach while preventing gapping in the back. With a super-stretchy construction and a patented design for lifting, these pants are a great choice for smoothing your curves in the right places.
Writer Danielle Murphy is also a fan of the brand, noting that the Blake style is her go-to.
Other editor-tested tummy-control pants
The Shop TODAY team is a fan of Halara for its comfortable, versatile lineup of one-and-done dresses, pants and more. This design is best at slimming down your figure on a budget. Plus, it features a breathable, four-way stretch fabric that feels like leggings. These are the pants you pack for vacation to wear for multiple occasions. I’ve worn a similar pair and love them for their softness, stretch and roomy feel.
I’ve been wearing these pants on repeat since last year due to their comfort and versatility. The design features a built-in panel that helps smooth the midsection without having to wear shapewear. They’re so easy to pull up, without feeling constricted and uncomfortable. While they are compressive, the legs are straight and roomy, allowing for easy movement. Truly, these are one of my go-to pieces in my workwear repertoire.
The first time I pulled on this pair, I felt immediately happy for its flawless fit. The style feels breathable and exudes an elegant design despite its elastic construction. It features waist control with double-layer mesh fabric to help you execute your to-do list without feeling discomfort. Eventually, I gifted it to my mom because the crotch area was a bit spacious. Overall, it really helps smooth your curves and enhance your figure. Also, it has a small pocket on the back and a high-waist silhouette that provides a butt lift.
This is another favorite from my work wardrobe for its classic fit and tummy-reinforced technology. Despite their traditional look, the pants encompass many comfortable features that will make you feel like you’re not wearing pants. Aside from their tummy-control silhouette, the pants also feature a side zipper to slim your hips and backside. So, if you’re in search of an everyday bottom that can match button-down shirts, flowy tops and T-shirts, this is the one. Also, their travel-friendly feel makes them a top choice in my carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
According to Okerulu and Manning, you should look for pants featuring a thicker waistband and those without pockets, as these will draw attention to your hip area. Here are additional details Okerulu emphasizes you look for when shopping:
- Built-in panels: "These provide targeted support and control in the tummy area."
- Wide waistband: "Look for a waistband that distributes compression evenly to prevent digging."
- High-rise designs: " Pants that sit at or above the natural waistline help smooth the midsection and prevent rolling."
- Pull-on designs: "Avoiding zippers and buttons helps prevent bunching and discomfort, creating a much sleeker look."
It all depends on the style you prefer. Okerulu suggests looking for pants made from a cotton blend with a 2 to 5% elastane for breathability and stretch. As for denim, she recommends looking for 1 to 4% elastane or Lycra to provide support without feeling rigid.
"For dressier options, a ponte knit is ideal for smoothing the stomach area," adds Okerulu. Another fabric usually omitted is crepe. "Crepes are one of the most underrated fabrics when it comes to flattering pants for tummy control. Their softly textured finish creates a beautiful silhouette by skimming the body rather than clinging to it," shares Manning.
No, you don't need the additional layer, says Manning, as tummy-control pants are designed to hold you in. "The goal in finding the right pants is to avoid having to wear shapewear," she says.
"The key to preventing a waistband from rolling down is making sure you are choosing both the correct rise for your waist length and the right waistband width. If you have a longer waist, a higher rise paired with a 1- to 2-inch waistband typically offers the best support and smoothness. If you have a shorter waist, a mid-rise silhouette with a narrower ½- to 1-inch waistband tends to feel more comfortable and proportionate," shares Manning.
How we chose
We tapped stylists and fashion leaders for their top product recommendations in the tummy-control category. Espinal also offered her expertise as a fashion journalist and stylist, who dedicates her time to testing the garments. We selected only items that offer tummy-control technology and/or fabrics that compress the tummy area for a more flattering look.
Why trust Shop TODAY
Jannely Espinal has been a fashion and lifestyle journalist for the past seven years with a focus on textiles, trends and style. She’s familiar with product sourcing, selection and testing, especially when it comes to the latest trends in home, style and beauty. Additionally, Espinal combines her testing process with experts’ insight to select the best products for Shop TODAY’s audience.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Madeline Manning is a lead stylist at the Watson Style Group.
- Sandra Okerulu is an accomplished celebrity style expert who has styled some of the biggest names across the world.
