Strapless dresses are elegant, timeless, and often a popular choice for weddings, formal events, or warm-weather outings. But with no straps to hold things in place, they also come with one big question—what's the right shapewear to wear underneath?
The wrong piece can peek out, roll down, or create unwanted lines, which kind of defeats the purpose of wearing a sleek dress. The right shapewear isn't just about looking good—it's about feeling like the dress was made for you. Let's break it down.
Best Shapewear Types for Strapless Dresses
- Strapless Bodysuit
A strapless bodysuit offers full torso control while staying hidden under your dress. It smooths out the waist, tummy, back, and sometimes even the hips, depending on the cut. Because it's all one piece, you don't have to worry about anything shifting around as you move. Look for one with silicone lining or grip strips along the top—this helps it stay in place without slipping down.
- High-Waisted Shaping Shorts
These are a favorite for anyone wearing a dress that hugs the lower half. High-waisted shaping shorts offer strong control around the stomach, waist, and thighs, and they help avoid the dreaded visible panty line. For strapless styles, go for a pair that stops right below the bust and includes some non-slip grip or boning to keep them from rolling.
- Waist Cinchers
If your dress already has structure but needs midriff magic, a minimalist waist cincher does the job. These elastic bands target just your waist, creating an hourglass shape without covering your chest or legs.
- Open Bust Shapewear Slip
This is a great option when you want shaping through the body but prefer to wear your own bra. An open bust slip leaves your chest area free while still hugging your waist and hips. Since it's a full slip, it also helps with smoothing under the skirt portion of the dress. It's especially useful when your strapless dress has a sweetheart or deep neckline that wouldn't work with a full-cover shaper.
Tips for a Flawless Fit
Match the color
Nude tones disappear under light fabrics; black works under dark hues.
Test-drive early
Wear your shapewear during the dress fitting to check for lines or slippage.
Size up if unsure
Too-tight shapewear causes bulges—comfort beats extreme compression.
At the end of the day, the best shapewear is the kind you forget you're wearing. Whether what shaper you're wearing under your strapless dress, these picks all can let your confidence.