Skims Sculpting vs. Core Control: Which one should you buy?

The Skims Sculpting collection is designed for everyday smoothing and light support with comfortable, breathable fabrics, while the Core Control collection uses high-compression materials for a much firmer hold and targeted shaping, especially around the midsection. Sculpting offers all-day comfort for a natural silhouette, whereas Core Control delivers a noticeably more defined, sculpted look for special occasions or when you want maximum support.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right Skims collection for your shaping needs.

Skims Sculpting Collection

The Skims Sculpting collection is the brand's answer to comfortable, everyday shapewear. It’s designed to subtly enhance your natural curves and smooth your silhouette without the restrictive feeling of traditional shapewear. Think of it as a seamless, light base layer that provides moderate support and feels like a second skin, making it perfect for daily wear under everything from work dresses to casual tees and jeans.

• What it is: A line of lightweight, moderate-compression shapewear meant for everyday comfort and subtle smoothing.
• Key features: Soft and flexible fabrics, seamless construction to prevent lines under clothing, and comfortable designs suitable for all-day wear.
• Price: Ranges from $36 to $68.
• Materials/Construction: Made with a soft, breathable blend of nylon and elastane that molds to the body and offers gentle compression.
• Sizing/Fit: Runs true to size with a forgiving, stretchy fit that provides moderate support without feeling tight or restrictive.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable for long hours of wear. Breathable and lightweight fabric. Provides a smooth, natural-looking silhouette. Versatile enough for nearly any outfit.
• Cons: Offers less dramatic shaping than high-compression options. May not provide enough support for very fitted garments or formal events.

This collection works best for anyone seeking a soft, barely-there feel for everyday smoothing and comfort under casual or professional attire.

Shop this product: skims.com/collections/sculpting

Skims Core Control Collection

The Skims Core Control collection is engineered for maximum shaping and support. This line focuses on sculpting the midsection with high-compression fabric that cinches the waist, flattens the tummy, and supports the back. It provides a noticeably more dramatic and defined silhouette, making it the go-to choice for wearing under form-fitting dresses, for special occasions, or for postpartum support.

• What it is: High-compression shapewear designed to firmly sculpt and support the core area including the waist, stomach, and back.
• Key features: Targeted, firm compression zones, dense and durable fabric for a strong hold, and waist-cinching designs for a classic hourglass effect.
• Price: Ranges from $38 to $78.
• Sizing/Fit: Runs true to size but has a very snug, compressive fit. If you're between sizes or prefer a slightly more comfortable feel, consider sizing up.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted with a dense, powerful blend of nylon and elastane designed to hold you in securely while remaining durable.
• Pros: Delivers significant sculpting and shaping. Excellent for creating a defined waistline. Durable and provides excellent support. Ideal for special events and tight-fitting clothes.
• Cons: Can feel restrictive if worn for extended periods. The high-compression fabric is less breathable than the Sculpting line. Not intended for everyday, all-day comfort.

Perfect for those who want a powerful shaping effect for special events, need postpartum core support, or prioritize a sculpted look over all-day comfort.

Shop this product: skims.com/collections/core-control

Skims Sculpting vs. Core Control Comparison

Support & Compression

The most significant difference between the two collections is the level of compression. The Sculpting collection offers moderate compression, which feels more like a secure hug. It smooths out lines and offers gentle support to enhance your natural shape without feeling like you're being squeezed. Its focus is on creating a seamless base layer that moves with you.

In contrast, the Core Control collection provides high, targeted compression. The fabric offers a much firmer hold, designed specifically to shape and define your midsection. You will feel this garment working - it cinches your waist and visibly flattens your tummy, creating a more pronounced hourglass figure at the cost of some flexibility and comfort.

Fabric & Feel

The fabrics directly reflect each collection's purpose. Sculpting garments are made from a soft, lightweight, and very breathable material. It feels soft against the skin and is comfortable enough to wear all day without overheating or feeling restrictive. It truly feels like a second skin.

Core Control shapewear uses a denser, thicker, and more robust fabric. While still smooth, it has significantly less stretch and is engineered for strength and holding power. This makes it less breathable and more noticeable on the body, which is intentional for providing maximum support during wear.

Price & Value

Both collections are priced fairly close, but Core Control pieces are generally a bit more expensive, with bodysuits and waist trainers reaching up to $78. This higher price reflects the more complex construction and denser high-compression materials used.

The Sculpting line is slightly more affordable, with most items in the $36-$68 range. If you need a piece for everyday wear, the Sculpting collection offers better value due to its comfort and versatility. However, if you need reliable, powerful shaping for key moments, the premium paid for a Core Control piece is justified by its performance.

Versatility

When it comes to versatility, the Sculpting collection has the edge. Because it prioritizes comfort and offers subtle smoothing, it can be worn under almost any outfit, from jeans and a t-shirt to office attire and casual dresses. Its versatility makes it a workhorse in your wardrobe.

Core Control is less versatile. Its potent shaping power is best reserved for specific outfits and occasions where you want a very defined silhouette, such as under a cocktail dress or formal gown. While some use it for postpartum support, it's not a collection you’d grab for a relaxed day at home or casual errands.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both collections are excellent, but they serve different goals. Your choice depends entirely on your priority: everyday comfort or maximum shaping.

Choose Skims Sculpting if:

• You want comfortable shapewear you can wear all day, every day.
• You're looking for subtle smoothing rather than dramatic reshaping.
• Breathability and a lightweight feel are your top priorities.
• You are new to shapewear and want a comfortable introductory option.
• You need a seamless base layer for business casual or everyday outfits.

Choose Skims Core Control if:

• You want maximum compression and a noticeably cinched waist.
• You're dressing for a special event and wearing a form-fitting outfit.
• You prioritize strong tummy control and core support over comfort.
• You are seeking postpartum support for your midsection.
• You already love shapewear and want a high-performance piece for your collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Skims Sculpting and Core Control?

The main difference is the compression level. Sculpting offers moderate compression for everyday smoothing and comfort. Core Control provides high compression for intense shaping and support, primarily targeting the waist and tummy.

Which one is more comfortable?

The Sculpting collection is significantly more comfortable. Its fabric is softer, more breathable, and designed for all-day wear. Core Control is performance-focused and can feel restrictive after several hours.

Can I wear Core Control every day?

While you can, most people find it too restrictive for daily all-day wear. It's best suited for occasions lasting a few hours. For everyday use, the Sculpting collection is a much more practical choice.

Are they true to size?

Yes, both collections are considered true to size. However, because Core Control is designed for high compression, it will feel very snug. If you are between sizes or prefer a bit more breathing room, you may want to size up in the Core Control line.

Which collection is better for tummy control?

Core Control is better for tummy control. It's specifically engineered with reinforced fabric panels to flatten and smooth the stomach area with a very firm hold.

Which one should I buy if I'm new to shapewear?

If you're new to shapewear, start with the Sculpting collection. It's a great introduction to the benefits of a smoothing base layer without the intense compression that can feel overwhelming to a new wearer.

Is Core Control worth the extra cost?

If you need powerful shaping for a specific event or garment, yes. The difference in shaping is noticeable, and the durable, high-compression fabric justifies the slightly higher price for those key moments.

Do these show lines under clothes?

Both collections feature seamless construction to minimize lines. Because the Sculpting fabric is thinner and more flexible, it tends to be completely invisible. Core Control's thicker seams can sometimes be visible under very thin or silky fabrics, but generally, it provides a smooth finish.