Shapewear for Wedding Dresses: What to Wear Under Your Gown

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life—and you want to look and feel your absolute best. While the dress takes center stage, what you wear underneath can make just as big of a difference. The right shapewear smooths, sculpts, and supports your silhouette so your gown fits like a dream (and you feel confident from the aisle to the dance floor).

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best shapewear options for every wedding dress style—so you can say “I do” without wardrobe worries.

Shapewear can give you an extra confidence boost on that special day.

Why Shapewear Matters on Your Wedding Day

Shapewear isn’t about changing your body—it’s about enhancing your natural shape, supporting your posture, and ensuring your gown drapes beautifully. The right undergarments can:

• Smooth out panty lines and fabric bunching

• Provide light tummy or back support

• Define your waist and hips for a more tailored fit

• Help strapless or low-back gowns stay in place

And most importantly: the best shapewear is invisible, breathable, and comfortable for all-day wear.

Shapewear by Dress Style

Mermaid or Trumpet Gowns

These dresses are fitted through the bodice, waist, and hips—so seamless, smoothing shapewear is essential.

Best option:

• High-waisted shaping shorts or a thong bodysuit

• Sculpting slip for all-over smoothing

Look for:

• Firm control around tummy and hips

• No visible lines or seams

• Lightweight, breathable fabric

Ball Gowns and A-Line Dresses

Since these gowns are structured and voluminous, you may not need heavy shaping—just light support or smoothing underneath the bodice.

Best option:

• Strapless shaping bodysuit or camisole

• High-waisted briefs for tummy control

Look for:

• Built-in bra support if your dress doesn’t offer it

• Comfortable fit that won’t bunch under layers of tulle or satin

Sheath or Slip Dresses

These gowns are made with thinner fabrics like silk or crepe and hug the body more closely, revealing everything underneath.

Best option:

• Seamless shaping slip or thong bodysuit

• Second-skin shapewear with laser-cut edges

Look for:

• Nude or skin-tone shades

• No seams, tags, or bulky closures

• Moisture-wicking, breathable materials

Backless or Low-Back Gowns

This silhouette requires shapewear that disappears in the back while still offering support in the front.

Best option:

• Backless shapewear bodysuits

• Adhesive or convertible bras paired with high-waisted briefs

Look for:

• Adjustable, clear, or crisscross straps

• Strong adhesive for lift without slipping

• Low-profile tummy control options

Strapless or Off-the-Shoulder Dresses

Support is key here—especially if your dress doesn’t have a built-in corset or boning.

Best option:

• Strapless shaping bodysuit

• Corset-style bustier with shaping briefs

Look for:

• No-slip grip or silicone lining around the bust

• Underwire or molded cups for lift

• Smooth, structured torso support

Pro Tips for Bridal Shapewear Shopping

• Try it on with your gown: Bring your shapewear to dress fittings to ensure a perfect match.

• Prioritize comfort: You’ll be wearing it for hours, so avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

• Don’t forget bathroom access: Look for open-gusset designs or styles you can easily remove.

• Stick to your size: Don’t size down. Compression should feel supportive—not suffocating.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding shapewear should feel like a second skin—offering just the right amount of support while letting you move, breathe, and dance the night away. Whether your dress is sleek and fitted or grand and romantic, there’s a shapewear solution designed to help you feel flawless from every angle.

Because when you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing underneath, it radiates through everything else—especially on your big day.