How to Choose Shapewear for Dresses: Holiday Shapewear Guide

The holidays are full of sparkle — and photo moments. Whether it’s a cocktail party, family dinner, or New Year’s Eve celebration, every outfit starts with the right foundation. The secret? Shapewear for dresses that smooths, supports, and stays invisible no matter what you wear over it.

At SPANX, we design shapewear that works as hard as your outfit does — because feeling confident underneath is the first step to looking amazing on top. From sleek bodysuits to sculpting shorts and versatile thongs, this guide breaks down the best shapewear for dresses this season — and how to choose the perfect piece for every look.

Why Shapewear for Dresses Matters

When you’re dressing up, the right shapewear should disappear under your clothes while enhancing your natural silhouette. It’s not about changing your shape — it’s about celebrating it.

The perfect SPANX shapewear helps:

• Smooth lines under fitted or clingy fabrics.
• Support and sculpt in all the right places.
• Stay put through dinner, dancing, and every celebration in between.
• Boost confidence so you can focus on the moment — not your outfit.

The Best SPANX Shapewear for Dresses (and When to Wear It)

1. SPANXsupersculpt Transform High-Waisted Mid-Thigh Short

Best for: Bodycon, knit, or slip dresses

This ultra-sculpting short smooths the waist, hips, and thighs while staying invisible under even the sleekest holiday looks. The high-rise waistband provides targeted compression that stays put (no rolling, no adjusting), making it perfect under curve-hugging silhouettes.

Styling tip: Ideal for long nights out — think cocktail dresses, form-fitting holiday looks, or satin midis.

2. SPANXsculpt OnCore Open-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

Best for: Structured or tailored dresses

This open-bust bodysuit allows you to pair it with your own bra while delivering firm shaping through the core and thighs. The sculpting panels lift and smooth without feeling restrictive, making it a favorite under more fitted or professional holiday looks.

Styling tip: Try this under sheath dresses, work-party outfits, or anything with sleeves.

3. SPANXshape Invisible Mid-Thigh Short

Best for: Lightweight, flowy dresses

Made with barely-there fabric, this short offers smooth shaping without bulk. It’s perfect for softer silhouettes or unlined fabrics that show texture easily.

Styling tip: Perfect under slip dresses or lightweight chiffon styles where you want a completely invisible finish.

4. SPANXshape Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Mid-Thigh Bodysuit

Best for: Backless, deep-v, or special-occasion dresses

Your ultimate event shapewear. The plunge neckline and low back make it the perfect secret weapon under daring holiday looks, while the mid-thigh design keeps everything smooth and secure.

Styling tip: Wear this under low-back gowns, plunging cocktail dresses, or open-cut jumpsuits.

5. SPANXshape Invisible High-Waisted Thong

Best for: Body-skimming minis or pencil dresses

This thong offers light, smoothing coverage for your midsection with a totally invisible finish — no seams, no lines. It’s great when you want shaping without full coverage, and the bonded waistband ensures it stays in place through every celebration.

Styling tip: A go-to under fitted minis, wrap dresses, or anything where panty lines aren’t invited.

6. SPANXshape Invisible Capri

Best for: Maxi dresses or pant and jumpsuit styles

For all-over smoothing from waist to calf, the Invisible Capri is a cold-weather essential. It provides light, breathable coverage under longer dresses and works beautifully for formal winter events.

Styling tip: Pair with long holiday maxis, velvet gowns, or holiday pants for a sleek, smooth finish.

Finding the Right Fit (and Features)

When choosing shapewear, it’s all about comfort meets confidence. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Target the trouble spots: Mid-thighs for smoothing skirts, open-bust for lift, or full-body for an all-over sculpt.
• Match fabric to dress: Invisible styles for lighter fabrics; firmer compression for structured or clingy dresses.
• Check the gusset: Many SPANX pieces include an easy-access gusset so you don’t have to fully undress mid-event.
• Bodysuit vs. Shorts: Bodysuits offer total shaping, while shorts and thongs provide flexibility for different silhouettes.

With the right foundation, your holiday outfit feels (and looks) effortless.

FAQs: Shapewear for Dresses

1. What is the best shapewear for dresses?

The best shapewear depends on your dress type — for example, a mid-thigh short works well under bodycon styles, while a low-back bodysuit is perfect for evening or cocktail dresses.

2. Can shapewear make dresses fit better?

Yes. Shapewear smooths fabric, prevents bunching, and enhances the fit of dresses by creating a seamless foundation underneath.

3. What SPANX shapewear works best under tight or bodycon dresses?

The SPANXsupersculpt Transform Short offers firm shaping that holds everything comfortably in place under fitted styles.

4. What should I wear under a backless or low-cut holiday dress?

The SPANXshape Suit Your Fancy Plunge Low-Back Bodysuit is made for low backs and plunging necklines — a must-have for cocktail events.

5. What shapewear is best under thin or silky fabrics?

Choose the SPANXshape Invisible Mid-Thigh Short for lightweight fabrics — it provides invisible smoothing without adding bulk.

6. Is shapewear comfortable to wear all day?

Absolutely. SPANX designs shapewear with breathable, flexible fabrics that move with you — so you’ll forget you’re even wearing it.

7. How do I know what size shapewear to buy?

Always start with your regular SPANX size. Our size chart helps you find the perfect fit — avoid sizing down, as comfort and smoothness come from the right stretch.

8. Can I wear shapewear under jumpsuits or pants, too?

Yes! Options like the Invisible Capri or SPANXsupersculpt Transform Shorts work beautifully under pants, jumpsuits, and fitted dress alternatives.

9. Do SPANX bodysuits include gussets?

Many SPANX bodysuits, like OnCore and Suit Your Fancy, feature easy-access gussets so you can stay comfortable and confident all night long.

10. What level of shaping should I choose for holiday outfits?

For all-day wear, try light to medium shaping. For special occasions or form-fitting dresses, firm shaping offers maximum support while maintaining comfort.

Your Flawless Holiday Look Starts Here

The right shapewear transforms how your favorite dress looks — and how you feel wearing it. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or refreshing your holiday wardrobe, these shapewear styles deliver smoothing, shaping, and confidence that lasts all season long.

Shop shapewear for dresses and find your perfect foundation for every outfit.