How to Style a Maxi Dress with Shapewear: The Practical Guide

The maxi dress is one of the most photogenic, versatile pieces in any wardrobe — but the silhouette only works when the foundation underneath does. Shapewear under a maxi dress isn't about hiding your body; it's about creating a smooth line so the fabric drapes the way the designer intended.

Here's a practical guide to which shapewear works with which maxi dress silhouettes, plus 8 dresses from our collection that work beautifully over shapewear.

The 4 shapewear styles that work under maxi dresses

• Mid-thigh shapewear shorts. The most versatile. Works under almost any maxi dress and prevents thigh chafing in heat. Choose seamless edges so they don't show under thin fabric.
• Bodysuit shapewear. Smooths from chest to mid-thigh. Best under bodycon maxis or fitted sheath cuts. Choose a backless version for low-back maxi dresses.
• High-waisted shaping briefs. Targets just the tummy. Best under flowy maxis where you want a smooth waist line but no thigh smoothing.
• Strapless shaping camisole. Smooths the bust line under strapless or one-shoulder maxis without showing straps.

Maxi dresses that pair beautifully with shapewear

1. Mint Tropical Botanical High-Low Tunic Kaftan — Butterfly Print Beach Cover-Up

Mint Tropical Botanical High-Low Tunic Kaftan — Butterfly Print Beach Cover-Up

$189.00

From 189 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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2. Black & White Damask Medallion Long-Sleeve Boho Maxi Dress — Resort Evening Dress

Black & White Damask Medallion Long-Sleeve Boho Maxi Dress — Resort Evening Dress

$98.00

From 98 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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3. Hot Pink Ikat Brushstroke Flowy Long-Sleeve Maxi Kaftan with Pockets

Hot Pink Ikat Brushstroke Flowy Long-Sleeve Maxi Kaftan with Pockets

$149.00

From 149 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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4. Red White & Blue Tribal Ikat Maxi Caftan — Bohemian Americana Resort Dress

Red White & Blue Tribal Ikat Maxi Caftan — Bohemian Americana Resort Dress

$98.00

From 98 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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5. Cobalt Blue Block Print Tiered Bell-Sleeve Boho Babydoll Mini Dress

Cobalt Blue Block Print Tiered Bell-Sleeve Boho Babydoll Mini Dress

$88.00

From 88 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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6. Magenta Pink Candy Stripe Button-Front Midi Shirt Dress — Preppy Resort Dress

Magenta Pink Candy Stripe Button-Front Midi Shirt Dress — Preppy Resort Dress

$98.00

From 98 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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7. Summer Beach Sundresses for Tropical Vacations

Summer Beach Sundresses for Tropical Vacations

$195.00

From 195 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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8. Maxi Dress Sale

Maxi Dress Sale

$210.00

From 210 dollars. The fitted silhouette of this maxi gives shapewear something to shape.

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Rules for picking shapewear that doesn't show

• Match the color to your skin, not the dress. Nude or skin-tone shapewear disappears under any fabric. Black shapewear shows through light dresses.
• Test the edge. The thigh hem of shorts should sit flat under fabric without ridges. Buy a size up if it cuts in.
• Avoid silicone grip strips under thin rayon. They show. Choose silicone-free edges for lightweight maxi dresses.
• Match coverage to dress thickness. Thick fabric forgives more shapewear; thin chiffon shows every seam.
• Always sit down in it before buying. Shapewear that's comfortable standing can dig in when you sit at dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Shop more maxis

Browse our full maxi dress collection and our resort wear collection.