Just like the shorts, it has a silicone gripper around the waist to ensure it doesn't slip down and bunch up. These shorts aren’t firm or long enough to give you supermodel thighs. But they do have a smoothing and gently slimming effect, not only on your thighs but also on your tummy. A fab new arrival in the M&S Collection. It clings to your whole body in the best way, cut from an ultra-soft stretch fabric, with a U shaped support in-between the cups that holds them well in place. While a super-high waist is normally more flattering, we found the lower waistline on this pair to be a bit of a relief. They were still flattering and the hold is really firm, but we enjoyed the reduced intensity of a regular high waist compared to a waist that stops below the bra. These bodysuits are incredibly flattering, but they really don't feel or look like shapewear. You could just as easily wear them under a dress to support your tummy as you could wear them with a pair of jeans and a blazer and some hoop earrings to dinner.

The Shape Away Body has a step-in style which means it can be paired with your favourite bra, and adjustable straps and a no-slip edge around each leg opening keep it from moving during wear. The hook and eye gusseting also do their bit to really cinch you in. Our thoughts? This bodysuit isn’t the cheapest but it’s the best of the bunch if you’re serious about toning your tum. Pros: Lifts, supportive, anti-uniboob technology defines breasts, breathable fabric, shaping, no-roll waistband, variety of colours, available in XS to 5X Pros: Comfortable, easy to get on, can replace the need for a bra, adjustable straps, poppers, available in 4 different sizes These days, shapewear comes in all shapes, sizes, colors and cuts, so whether you're shopping for your wedding or an everyday staple, there's something out there for you that can even replace your favorite bra and/or underwear. Here's what we look for in good shapewear for women: First, think of the area you’d like to smooth and then choose a type of shapewear that’ll conceal it best. You can assume that most shapewear comes with built-in tummy control; shorts are great for lifting your bottom and slimming your hips and thighs while slip dresses are the best for carving a svelte silhouette. What size should you get?One of of the best things about these shorts is that the waistband goes all the way up to just below your bra. We're not just talking high-waisted Spandex pants – there is shapewear for all kinds of needs. Whether that's lifting your butt, pulling in your waist or simply smoothing your tummy rolls. Whilst you may automatically associate shapewear with attempting to look slimmer, that isn’t shapewear’s main purpose. Using compression style fabrics, shapewear can be used to smooth and enhance the body’s silhouette – whatever your size or body shape – creating a seam-free finish that is flattering under fitted dresses and outfits. What type of shapewear is best? Senior stylist at Thread, Millie Rich describes shapewear as "an undergarment that helps smooth and sculpt your figure to accentuate your natural curves." Best shapewear at a glance

We were a little concerned to begin with, as the shorts appeared to be far too small for us we tried to wiggle into them. However, you'd be amazed at how nicely they fit once you do get them on. Plus, the tight fit is a key component to the slimming effect that you're after. Some shapewear claims to take inches off you but be wary of any outrageous claims. It all has to go somewhere, after all! Mostly what shapewear does is just smooth out your silhouette, getting rid of any lumps and bumps so that clothes ‘hang’ nicely on you. So it can really change the way you look in an outfit but it’s not going to help you fit in a dress two sizes smaller or anything like that. How tight should shapewear fit? The type of shapewear you choose depends on the look you're trying to achieve - and the occasion you need it for. Shapewear is designed to make everything look smooth and is worn underneath clothes, such as dresses and tight trousers, but it won't create permanent changes.What areas do you want to focus on? - Is it your muffin tops, tummy overhang or thigh chafing that you’re aiming to support? Some shapewear is better suited to overall shaping and smoothing, whilst others specifically target the tummy or lower abdomen.