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Shapewear isn't about hiding who you are — it's about enhancing what you already love. Think of shapewear like the architecture under a dress: the right foundations let the surface shine. Whether you want a subtle daily boost, reliable support for a special occasion, or something to smooth lines under slim-fitting jeans, the right piece can change how your clothes sit and how you feel. In the UK market you'll find everything from lightweight briefs to full bodysuits, and brands now make comfort and breathability as important as shaping power.
Lindex brings a clean, Scandinavian approach to shapewear, focusing on smart cuts, soft fabrics, and wearability. Their collections are designed to blend into everyday wardrobes while offering targeted support where it matters most. If you like minimal design with practical performance, Lindex is a great first stop when hunting for shaping solutions that won’t shout “undergarment” under your outfit.
Among Lindex’s popular options are zonal support bodysuits that combine targeted compression with comfort, available in thong-style backs or versions with short legs for extra thigh coverage. They also offer firm support full bodysuits for maximum smoothing, as well as light and medium support shaping briefs that work well under skirts or trousers. For sporty silhouettes, shaping biker briefs with medium support are handy under dresses or bike shorts, and shaping bikini bottoms with a high waist give a discreet lift under high-waisted trousers. These pieces prioritize fit and natural shaping rather than extreme cinching.
Understanding support levels helps you buy smarter. Light support feels like a gentle hug and is perfect for everyday use, while medium support offers noticeable smoothing and light compression for more structured garments. Firm support gives the strongest shaping and is best for special outfits or when you want defined smoothing. Your comfort thresholds, the event, and the garment you’ll wear over the shapewear should guide your choice — aim for balance between shaping and breathability.
Light support pieces are ideal for casual days, long work hours, or temperate weather when you want subtle smoothing without restricting movement. These typically work well under looser dresses, blouses, and trousers and are often made from thinner, stretchier fabrics so you can move freely.
Medium support is the most versatile choice for many wardrobes. It provides noticeable smoothing and light contouring while still allowing reasonable comfort. If you’re wearing pencil skirts, fitted shirts, or a slimmer dress, medium support often hits the sweet spot between effectiveness and wearability.
Firm support delivers the highest level of shaping and is commonly found in full-bodied suits and high-waist shaping briefs designed for defined silhouettes. Choose firm support when you need pronounced smoothing for a tailored outfit or an evening dress, but be sure to try different cuts to find one that feels supportive rather than restrictive.
While Lindex offers elegant and practical options, the UK market has several other strong players. Each retailer brings a slightly different focus — value, fashion-forward styles, luxury fabrics, or inclusive sizing. Exploring a few can help you discover what fits your lifestyle and body best.
Marks & Spencer is a go-to for dependable, well-priced shapewear that focuses on comfort and fit. Their Ne(oprene-free) briefs, shaping shorts, and bodysuits aim to combine everyday wearability with reliable smoothing. M&S is also known for developing inclusive sizing ranges and user-friendly guidance on fit.
ASOS has become a one-stop shop for fashion and shapewear, stocking everything from budget-friendly basics to trend-led pieces. Their in-house ranges and curated third-party brands mean you can find high-waist shaping briefs, bodysuits, and biker shorts in a wide range of sizes and styles, often with customer reviews to help you pick the right fit.
Next offers a balanced mix of contemporary designs and value. Their shapewear often focuses on everyday smoothing pieces such as high-rise briefs and supportive camisoles that pair well with casual and workwear outfits. If you prefer trying things on first, many Next locations have fitting options in store.
Boux Avenue and Ann Summers lean more into the sensual and fashion-led end of shapewear, with pieces that combine aesthetics with shaping function. Expect laces, semi-sheer panels, and sculpting corsetry alongside more practical high-waist briefs and shaping bodysuits for special occasions.
John Lewis curates shapewear from multiple brands — from affordable basics to premium names. Their advantage is the broad selection, helpful staff advice, and quality guarantees. You can find branded bodysuits, shaping briefs, and specialist items like postural-support garments across their online and in-store offerings.
H&M brings accessible shapewear designed for trend-conscious shoppers on a budget. Their collections often include seamless high-waist briefs, shaping shorts, and bodysuits that prioritize a smooth look under fast-fashion pieces. These are great for seasonal buys when you want a no-frills solution.
For those who prefer luxe fabrics and refined construction, Intimissimi and similar premium labels offer beautifully finished shapewear. Expect silk-blend panels, precise cut lines, and garments that balance comfort with a high-end aesthetic. These pieces work well when you want shapewear that feels as special as the outfit you’ll wear over it.
Getting the right fit starts with simple measurements in inches: measure your underbust, natural waist at its narrowest point, and full hip at the widest point. For example, a waist of 28 inches and hips of 38 inches will guide you to the correct size on most brand charts. When trying on shapewear, it should smooth and compress without pinching or causing numbness. If you feel uncomfortable after a few minutes, size up or try a different cut that distributes pressure more evenly.
Different shapewear pieces work better with certain outfits. Thong-back bodysuits and high-waist briefs are your friends under bodycon dresses and fitted skirts because they avoid visible lines. Shaping biker briefs and short-leg pieces are ideal under midi skirts and casual dresses, preventing thigh chafing while smoothing hips. Full bodysuits with short legs or a thong finish are best for more structured garments where you want continuous smoothing from bust to hips. Think of shapewear as a secret stylist: choose the version that disappears under your clothes while doing the heavy lifting.
Shapewear often contains elastic components that benefit from gentle care. Hand-washing in cool water or using a delicates cycle helps preserve compression over time. Avoid hot dryers, which can degrade elastic; instead, lay pieces flat to dry. Rotate several pieces if you wear shapewear frequently, so elastic recovers between uses and the garments last longer. With good care, quality shapewear can remain effective for many months or even years.
Sustainability is increasingly important in shapewear design, with more brands using recycled nylons and responsibly sourced fabrics. Look for pieces that offer both breathability and eco-friendly materials. Comfort features like soft waistbands, cotton-lined gussets, and adjustable straps are common now, so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for shaping power. Choosing durable, well-made pieces reduces waste in the long run — think of it like investing in a wardrobe staple rather than a single-use item.
Buying shapewear online gives you access to a wider range and customer reviews that help with sizing. Retailers like ASOS and specialist boutiques provide extensive size charts and return options, which is handy when trying a new brand. If you prefer to feel fabrics and test compression, shops like Marks & Spencer, Next, and department stores such as John Lewis let you try before you commit. A hybrid approach—research online, try in store if possible—often yields the best results.
Choosing the right shapewear is a blend of science and style: measure carefully, pick the support level that matches your outfit and comfort needs, and consider brands that balance design with breathable materials. Lindex is a standout choice for clean, Scandinavian-inspired shaping pieces, but the UK market is rich with alternatives from high-street favourites to premium labels. With the right foundations under your clothes, you’ll feel more confident, comfortable, and ready to tackle any day or occasion.
