The secret is out: Built-in shapewear is in. While experts say dresses with built-in shapewear won't completely replace shapewear separates, they take a few steps — and layers — off your outfit. Because let's be honest, who wouldn't love a more low-maintenance routine with the same results?
Whether you’re headed to the bar, the beach or just running errands this season, there's a dress for you. We rounded up the best dresses with built-in shapewear for each occasion and season. To find out which shaping dress is the right fit for you, keep scrolling or use the links below.
What should I look for in dresses with built-in shapewear?
Trial and error is what it's all about — and a little bit of research too. Bare Necessities bra fit expert Kristyn Polin says there's no specific formula when it comes to looking for clothing with built-in shapewear.
"Get a sense of the brand itself. Take the time to look at reviews," Polin recommends. "A lot of websites now are posting reviews with women's height or weight, so trying to check that information before selecting your size is definitely helpful."
Fabric
Polin says all shapewear will — and should — have a bit of stretch. She and our other experts say the most common shapewear materials include the following:
- Spandex
- Elastane
- Nylon and microfiber blends
Compression
Polin says that compression should all be based on your comfort level and how you feel in the garment that has shapewear built in. Retailers usually divide compression levels into three categories: light, medium and high compression.
Polin says the fabric for light-compression shapewear is not as thick and will lay on the body, focusing more on smoothing. Medium compression is thicker and brings your body in a bit more. High compression should be just a step up from medium, but should still allow you to move around comfortably.
Body type
Whether you have a pear shape, square shape or something in between, our experts say shapewear should fit any body type.
"I haven't seen any specific article of shapewear geared more towards a certain body type, and I haven't seen [shapewear] not work for certain body types," fitting expert Polin says. "It's pretty universal."
According to Polin and the rest of the expert bra-fitting team at Bare Necessities, there's no shapewear specifically marketed to petite or tall sizes on the market from major retailers.
"Thankfully, shapewear has come a long way with the materials that are used," a representative for Bare Necessities explains. "Most shapewear pieces are constructed with stretch materials and made specifically to hug all the right curves on the body, no matter what your exact measurements are."
The representative adds that depending on the specific shapewear piece, when they fit a petite customer, there may be suggestions they can make to get a better fit.
"For example, if she’s looking at a bodysuit that is [based on] bra size, sometimes suggesting a sister size can help with the length of the suit," the Bare Necessities rep says.
Something to note: Some product specifications we list here, such as length, compression type and care instructions, were obtained from the retailers themselves.
Are dresses with built-in shapewear safe while pregnant?
Our experts say shapewear can be used safely during pregnancy if it does not overly compress your ribs, abdominal muscles or internal organs.
“The uterus is a pretty tough cookie! But excess amounts of pressure on the uterus can cause not only discomfort, but in some cases light contractions,” says board-certified OB/GYN and Evernow advisor Dr. Taniqua Miller. “Maternity shapewear options can include light support around the growing belly with support, or full bodysuits that provide firm support, similar to a maternity belt.”
Dr. Amanda Black, president of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, says your shapewear shouldn’t fit too tight because it may reduce circulation or cause pain.
“Provided that a pregnant person is comfortable wearing it and is able to move breathe and sleep without restriction or pain, then there should be no problems with its use,” Black says.
Our experts say that in some cases, healthcare providers may recommend compression stockings to help with leg swelling and the prevention of varicose veins during pregnancy.
“There may be some trial and error in choosing the right support, but luckily, there are many maternity options at different price points for parents-to-be,” Miller explains.
Best dresses with built-in shapewear under $50
Mock-neck detail: Yummie Mock Neck Smoothing Dress
- Flattering fit
- Comfortable fabric
- Runs small
- Shoppers say fabric is thin
Length: 38.5 in. | Type of compression: Full-body | Compression level: Level 1 Smoothing | Size range: S — XL | Care: Machine-wash cold with like colors on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low heat. Only use non-chlorine bleach and iron on low heat when needed. Do not dry clean.
This Yummie bodycon mock neck is the perfect smoothing closet staple. This dress is made of breathable fabric that is soft to the touch. One verified reviewer said, “I have ordered quite a few things from Yummie and they never disappoint…this dress is no exception. It gives the perfect amount of smoothing but doesn’t feel uncomfortable or ‘sucked in’, the way other brands can. It’s great on its own, or throw any jacket or cardigan with it. This will definitely be a staple in my closet!!”
The downside to this dress is that there is a limited size range.
Racerback design: Yummie Tank Smoothing Dress
- Not too tight
- Comfortable and soft
- One color
Length: 33 in. | Type of compression: Full-body | Compression level: Level 1 smoothing | Size range: S - XL | Care: Machine-wash cold, gentle cycle; tumble-dry low
Reviews say this Yummie tank dress is perfect for someone looking to smooth all their curves. The bodycon dress is made with soft, breathable fabric that's a mix of nylon and spandex. The high neck and racerback design makes it perfect to dress up or down, and reviewers add that this dress is great for layering too.
Scoop-neck with spaghetti straps: Torrid Seamless 360° Smoothing Slip Dress
- Easy to wear under clothes
- Soft and shaping
- Shoppers complain rides up
- Runs small
Length: 32 in. | Type of compression: Full-body | Compression level: Moderate smoothing | Size range: 10 — 30 | Care: Machine-wash cold, dry flat.
This Torrid smoothing dress has a ribbed hem to make sure it doesn't ride up when you're out and about. This can be worn as a slip under clothes or as a statement dress. It has a scoop neck and back and adjustable straps to customize it for your body.
Best swim dresses with built-in shapewear
Knot-front style: Shapermint Essentials Knot-Front Swim Dress
- Stylish
- Fits different bodies well
- Complaints about the knot
Length: Not provided | Type of compression: Tummy | Compression level: Medium | Size range: S - 4XL | Care: Not provided (here's our recommendation)
The Shapermint swim dress has an empire waist designed to minimize your waist and thighs. The knot front enhances your bust, while the added compression supports your chest. It also features an Inner Power mesh panel for tummy smoothing.
One reviewer said, "I was super nervous about ordering a one piece swimsuit because they don’t tend to fit correctly. This one fits perfectly and it doesn’t slip or ride. The tummy control is super effective and it’s comfortable."
Made with UPF fabric: L.L. Bean Women’s Shaping Clasp Halter Swimwear Dress
- Stylish
- Slimming and flattering
- Sizing proportion complaints
Length: 30 in. | Type of compression: Upper and mid-section of body | Compression level: High | Size range: 8 — 26 | Care: Hand wash cold, line dry
This L.L. Bean shaping swim dress is made of quick-drying and chlorine-resistant Italian fabric. This swimsuit is made of a one-piece suit underneath for coverage with a lightweight swim dress on top. This swim dress has a fully adjustable halter strap and is rated UPF 50+, blocking 10 times more of the sun’s UV rays than a white cotton tee. This form-fitting swim dress is available in regular, plus and long sizes.
Best active dresses with built-in shapewear
Built-in shorts: Ewedoos Workout Dress with Built-in Bra and Shorts
- Built-in shorts
- Adjustable straps
- Removable padding
- Shoppers note seam fraying
- Length short for tall shoppers
Length: Not provided | Type of compression: Torso and upper thighs | Compression level: Light, Smoothing | Size range: XS — XXL | Care: Not provided (here’s our recommendation)
This workout dress is made of moisture-wicking fabric with 4four-way-stretch technology that is designed to smooth. The removeable bra and built-in shorts offer ease of movement while holding you in. Keep your essentials close in the two side pockets added into your shorts. This dress is a flattering A-line shape and adjustable straps with X-design on the back of the dress. This dress is a No. 1 bestseller for women’s tennis dresses with over 4,000 verified ratings.
One reviewer said, "Fabric is amazing, the fit is amazing, I’m beyond impressed. I also rarely leave reviews but because I was so on the fence about this I feel compelled to help the next debating shopper out. Biggest take away for you, if you’re not sure whether to size up or not…don’t! I’m 5’7 127lbs and I ordered a small in the black & white—perfect fit."
It has pockets! Outdoor Voices Volley Dress
- Flattering cut
- Stylish
- Shorts ride up
- No removable padding
Length: 31 in. | Type of compression: Full-body | Compression level: Light | Size range: XXS — XXXL | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
Available in a few colors, this Outdoor Voices active dress can walk right off the court and into your everyday wardrobe. The Volley dress has a fit-and-flare style and a built-in shorts liner with pockets designed to hold you in. This dress is made of the brand’s SuperForm fabric for high-sweat, high-impact movement with built-in UPF 50 protection. This dress comes in seven colors and has a racerback design.
Shop TODAY senior social media editor Kate McCarthy is a superfan of this dress: “I’ve worn it walking around for hours, and the built-in shorts makes it super comfortable to move around in, highly recommend.”
Editor pick: Spanx Zip Front Dress
- Form fitting
- Great for athletics
- Comfortable
- Fits small
Length: 33 in. | Type of compression: Full-body with built-in Booty Boost® shorts | Compression level: Light | Size range: XS — 3X | Care: Machine wash warm with like colors, tumble dry low, do not iron, do not use fabric softener, only non-chlorine bleach when needed, warm iron if needed.
This zip-front shaping dress is beloved by multiple Shop TODAY editors for workouts and outings alike.
"This is my first exercise dress, and I absolutely love it," gushes editor Amanda Fama. "I have it in a size medium, and it’s just snug enough without being too tight. It feels supportive (yet chic), and the inner shorts don’t ride up while you’re moving. I went to a happy hour after a workout in this dress recently and felt super confident."
"I’ve worn this dress for everything from tennis to pickleball to weekend errands," adds senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil. "It’s flattering and comfortable, and as someone with a bigger bust I appreciate the option to zip it up to a high neckline for more coverage. It’s also form-fitting enough that I feel supported even without a separate sports bra underneath."
Best little black dress with built-in shapewear
There's a hidden zipper: Honeylove InnerPower Sleeveless Dress
- Easy zip on and off
- Flattering ruching
- Stylish design
- Runs small
- Visible zipper
Length: 42 in. | Type of compression: Tummy and hip | Compression level: Moderate | Size range: XS - 3X | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle; line dry
This LBD has built-in shaping panels that give hidden tummy, back and hip shaping without the extra layer of shapewear. The hidden zipper in the side seam make it easy to slip this dress on and off. The crepe fabric and asymmetrical shirring make this dress a perfect closet staple for any season.
Best maxi dress with built-in shapewear
Complete with a built-in bra: Popilush Shaper Bodycon Maxi Dress
- Adjustable straps
- Removable bra padding
- Shoppers say falls apart
- Runs small
Length: 51.30 in. | Type of compression: Full-body | Compression level: Medium | Size range: XS - 4XL | Care: Hand wash only
Made of biodegradable soft modal fabric, this dress has adjustable straps and a mesh lining around the butt area that's designed to sculpt the body's thigh contour.
The shaping bodysuit underneath will smooth your tummy with its double-layer shapewear design and stretchy, sweat-absorbent material. The dress also features a built-in bra with removable pads, adjustable straps, butt-lifting technology and an open gusset that makes bathroom breaks easy.
If your waist and hip measurements fall within different sizes, the brand recommends sizing up when buying this dress.
Best long-sleeve dresses with built-in shapewear
Perfect for cool days and nights: Shapellx Built-In 360° Slim Fit Shaping Maxi Dress
- High quality fabric
- Flattering fit
- Not most shaping
- Only comes with long sleeves
Length: Not provided | Type of compression: Tummy | Compression level: Mid-compression | Size range: S - 3X | Care: Hand wash, do not tumble-dry
Shapellx’s simple yet elegant Built-In 360° Slim Fit Shaping Maxi Dress is the perfect closet staple. The modal fabric keeps you soft and cool while stretching around your curves. This dress features a built-in power-net lining that smooths your tummy and shapes your waist.
Best petite dresses with built-in shapewear
Petite-friendly: Out From Under Bec Skort Mini Dress
- Comfortable, stretchy fit
- Built-in shorts
- No built-in bra
Length: 28 in. | Type of compression: Tummy | Compression level: Very light | Size range: XS — XL | Care: Machine wash
As a petite girl, short dresses are my best friend. I (Ekman) just tried this dress from Urban Outfitters' Bec line and it's so comfy, I never want to take it off! The bodycon fit is stretchy and smoothing with minimal compression, which I like because it's totally unrestrictive. To note, there's no built-in bra, but the built-in shorts are printed, so if the skirt flips up it's pretty well camouflaged. The dress comes in six colors in a thin, breathable cotton. I'm sure I'll be living in this all summer!
How we chose
Before choosing dresses with built-in shapewear, we reviewed pages of customer feedback and consulted various experts to find you the best dresses on the market. The dresses that made the cut provide excellent support and shape, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit. While long-lasting shapewear is on the pricier side, we’ve considered a range of price points to make sure there’s something for almost everyone.
Shop TODAY is a team of shopping experts with years of deal-finding experience. We use our skills to discover long-lasting, high-quality items at the best possible prices.
Meet the experts
- Kristyn Polin is a bra fit expert at Bare Necessities. She has conducted more than 500 bra fittings in her nearly eight years with the retailer. Her favorite part of the job is helping her clients feel empowered and confident by embracing their body and trying new styles. She previously talked to Shop TODAY about how to shop for a plus-size bra.
- Dr. Taniqua Miller, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN and advisor at Evernow. Dr. Miller is also a midlife/menopause health expert who trained in psychology at Yale University and earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical school.
- Dr. Amanda Black, MD, MPH, FRCSC, is the president of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada and a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Ottawa.
- Our top picks
- What should I look for in dresses with built-in shapewear?
- Are dresses with built-in shapewear safe while pregnant?
- Best dresses with built-in shapewear under $50
- Best swim dresses with built-in shapewear
- Best active dresses with built-in shapewear
- Best little black dress with built-in shapewear
- Best maxi dress with built-in shapewear
- Best long-sleeve dresses with built-in shapewear
- Best petite dresses with built-in shapewear
- Frequently asked questions
- How we chose
- Meet the experts