Shapewear vs. Regular Underwear: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing what to wear under your clothes, the decision between shapewear underwear and regular underwear can make all the difference in how you feel and look throughout the day. Whether you’re dressing for a special occasion or simply want everyday comfort, understanding the benefits of shaping underwear versus non-shaping styles helps you choose what’s best for your body and your wardrobe.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Shapewear Underwear?

Shapewear underwear is designed to do more than just cover. It smooths, shapes, and sculpts your silhouette, giving you a streamlined foundation that enhances your natural curves. Whether you want a little tummy control, a lifted booty, or overall smoothing under your clothes, shapewear is your go-to.

Unlike regular underwear, which prioritizes comfort and breathability, the best shapewear underwear blends that same comfort with targeted compression in all the right places.

Featured Shapewear Styles:

1. SPANX®shape Invisible Brief

Ultra-sleek, lightweight, and virtually invisible under clothing, this brief provides targeted tummy shaping with a smooth, stay-put waistband. It’s ideal for daily wear when you want a little extra confidence without sacrificing comfort.

2. SPANX®shape Booty Lifting Brief

For a lifted, rounded look, this style gives your backside a boost with booty-enhancing panels and firm tummy support. Wear it under jeans or dresses for a noticeable difference in your shape—without the bulk.

What Is Non-Shaping Underwear?

Non-shaping underwear—like briefs, thongs, and bikinis—prioritizes softness, breathability, and fit. It doesn’t shape or sculpt, but it does provide everyday ease and flexibility. Regular underwear is great for lounging, sleeping, and days when compression isn’t what you’re looking for.

Featured Non-Shaping Underwear Styles:

1. SPANX® Smooth Fit-to-You Supima Cotton Thong

Made from premium Supima® cotton, this thong offers a barely-there feel with a no-pinch waistband. It’s a must-have for minimal lines and maximum breathability—perfect under leggings or slim-fit dresses.

2. SPANX® Smooth Fit-to-You Supima Cotton Brief

These ultra-soft briefs offer full coverage with a flexible fit, making them your everyday essential. They’re great for comfort-first days when ease and movement matter most.

Shapewear vs. Regular Underwear: Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your goals:

If your goal is smoothing tummy or hips,

choose shapewear underwear.

If your goal is lifting and shaping your booty,

choose shapewear underwear.

If your goal is breathable, everyday comfort,

choose non-shaping undewear.

If your goal is minimal visibility under clothes,

choose shapewear or non-shaping underwear.

You don’t have to choose one over the other forever. Many customers rotate between underwear shapewear and regular underwear depending on the day, the outfit, or even the occasion.

The Bottom Line

Whether you want to sculpt or simply stay comfortable, there’s no wrong choice—just the right one for your needs. From the best shapewear underwear that shapes and lifts to breathable cotton styles that move with you, Spanx has you covered.

Need help deciding? Start with one of each and discover the difference for yourself.