Skims vs. Spanx Bodysuit: Which one should you buy?

Choosing between a Skims Bodysuit and a Spanx Bodysuit comes down to a clear difference in philosophy: Skims prioritizes comfort and modern versatility with a seamless, second-skin feel, while Spanx focuses on higher-compression, targeted shaping, and classic durability. Skims bodysuits are designed to smooth and feel like you're wearing nothing, often doubling as a top. Spanx, the original name in shapewear, provides more structured control to sculpt your silhouette for special events or professional attire.

Here’s a complete look at how they compare so you can decide which one is right for you.

Skims Bodysuits

Launched by Kim Kardashian, Skims bodysuits are known for their minimalist aesthetic, inclusive sizing, and incredibly comfortable, lightweight fabrics. They are designed to blend the functions of shapewear, underwear, and even ready-to-wear tops, making them a truly versatile wardrobe piece. The brand's focus is on providing a seamless, smoothing effect under clothes without the restrictive feeling of traditional shapewear.

• What it is: A collection of light-to-medium-compression bodysuits focused on smoothing, comfort, and versatility, with a modern, fashion-forward aesthetic.
• Key features: Seamless construction, innovative and buttery-soft fabric blends, extensive range of skin-tone matching shades, and designs that can be worn as outerwear.
• Price: Tends to be more accessible, ranging from about $48 to $78.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from lightweight nylon and spandex blends that feel like a second skin, offering stretch, breathability, and seamless edges.
• Sizing/Fit: Renowned for its inclusive sizing, running from XXS to 4X. Skims generally fits true to size, but some recommend sizing up if you are between sizes for a less compressive fit.
• Pros: Exceptionally comfortable for all-day wear, functions as both shapewear and a stylish top, a huge range of inclusive colorways, and a more affordable price point.
• Cons: Offers less-intense shaping and compression than Spanx, softer fabrics may not be as durable with frequent machine washing, and popular styles often sell out quickly.

This brand is perfect for anyone seeking everyday smoothing and comfort or a stylish base layer that seamlessly tucks into pants and skirts.

Shop this product: skims.com/collections/bodysuits

Spanx Bodysuits

As the pioneering brand in modern shapewear, Spanx has built its reputation on powerful, high-performance undergarments that deliver noticeable shaping and support. Spanx bodysuits are engineered with targeted compression zones to smooth the tummy, shape the waist, and lift the rear. They are a go-to for special occasions, formal events, and any time you need reliable, powerful shaping under your clothes.

• What it is: A range of medium-to-high-compression shapewear bodysuits engineered with targeted control panels for maximum shaping and support.
• Key features: Patented shaping technology, targeted compression zones for a contoured silhouette, high-denier fabrics for durability, and thoughtfully placed seams to remain hidden.
• Price: Priced at a premium, generally ranging from $68 to $128, reflecting its construction and performance.
• Materials/Construction: Utilizes structured, durable fabrics like high-grade nylon and Lycra blends known for their strong compressive qualities and shape retention over time.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a wide size range from XS to 3X. Due to the high compression, some styles can feel tight. It's often recommended to consult the size chart carefully, stick to your true size for intended compression.
• Pros: Provides superior levels of slimming and shaping, often seen as a worthy investment for its durability and performance, targeted control zones smooth specific areas effectively.
• Cons: Less breathable and can feel more restrictive for all-day wear, higher price point, design is purely functional and less suited for being worn visibly as a top.

These bodysuits are ideal for anyone prioritizing a sculpted silhouette and maximum-control shapewear for special events or professional wear.

Shop this product: spanx.com/collections/bodysuits

Skims vs. Spanx Comparison

Quality & Materials

The biggest difference lies in the fabrics. Skims uses innovative, lightweight nylon and spandex blends designed for a buttery-soft, second-skin feel. The emphasis is on comfort, breathability, and stretch. This makes them ideal for everyday wear, but the softer material may be less resistant to wear and tear with constant use and washing.

Spanx bodysuits are made from thicker, high-denier nylon and elastane fabrics engineered for control. These materials provide targeted compression and are famous for their longevity and shape retention. While robust, they can feel less breathable and more structured than Skims' softer alternatives.

Fit & Shaping Power

Fit is another key differentiator. Skims offers a smoothing fit that gently enhances your natural curves without feeling restrictive. It's more about creating a seamless foundation under clothes than drastically altering your shape. The compression level is generally light to medium.

A Spanx bodysuit, on the other hand, delivers a high-compression fit designed to slim and sculpt. Its panels are specifically engineered to flatten the tummy, contour the waist, and lift the butt. If you want a product that actively shapes your body, Spanx provides a more noticeable result.

Style & Aesthetics

Skims takes a modern, minimalist approach. With sleek designs and an extensive palette of neutral and skin-tone shades, its bodysuits are created to be seen. Many styles look great worn as a simple top paired with jeans or a skirt, making them highly versatile.

Spanx focuses on classic, functional shapewear design. The aesthetics are performance-driven, with visible seams for shaping panels and a more utilitarian look. Although designed to be hidden, they are the industry workhorse for a reason - they simply get the job done under almost any outfit.

Price & Value

Skims generally offers a more accessible price point, with most standard bodysuits costing between $48 and $78. Considering their versatility as both shapewear and clothing, they provide excellent value for everyday use.

Spanx sits at a higher price, with bodysuits typically ranging from $68 to $128. This premium price is justified by the brand’s durable construction and powerful shaping technology, making it a sound investment for anyone seeking reliable, long-lasting performance shapewear.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, both Skims and Spanx make excellent products, but they cater to very different needs and preferences.

Choose a Skims bodysuit if:

• You prioritize comfort and a barely-there feeling for all-day wear.
• You want a versatile piece that you can wear as both shapewear and a standalone top.
• You are looking for a wide variety of skin-tone shades to create a truly invisible base.
• You need light-to-medium smoothing rather than intense slimming.

Choose a Spanx bodysuit if:

• You want powerful shaping and high compression for a noticeably slimmer silhouette.
• You're shopping for an important event or to wear under a formal outfit.
• You value durability and want a shapewear piece that will last for years.
• You need targeted control to smooth specific areas like your stomach or hips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Skims and Spanx bodysuits?

The main difference is comfort versus control. A Skims bodysuit is designed for everyday comfort, light smoothing, and style versatility. A Spanx bodysuit is engineered for high-compression, targeted control, and visible shaping results, making it ideal for occasions requiring maximum support.

Which brand is more comfortable?

Skims is almost universally considered more comfortable for extended, all-day wear. Its lightweight, buttery-soft fabrics feel like a second skin, whereas Spanx's compressive materials feel more restrictive.

Are Skims bodysuits true to size?

Yes, Skims bodysuits are generally true to size. However, because their focus is on a comfortable fit, some people prefer to size up if they are between sizes to ensure a non-compressive feel.

Does Spanx run small?

Spanx is designed to fit snugly to provide adequate compression, so it can feel tight. It's best to stick to your true size based on their official size chart for the intended shaping results. If you purchase too large of a size, it will not perform as intended.

Can you wear a Skims bodysuit as a shirt?

Absolutely. Many of Skims' bodysuit styles are specifically designed with a sleek, minimalist look perfect for wearing as a top with pants, skirts, or shorts.

Which is better for tummy control?

Spanx is hands-down the better choice for effective tummy control. Its bodysuits are constructed with powerful, reinforced panels across the midsection designed to slim and flatten the stomach.

Is Skims worth the money?

If you're looking for comfortable, everyday shapewear that also serves as a versatile wardrobe staple, Skims offers excellent value. Their combination of comfort, style, and effective smoothing makes them a worthwhile purchase for many.

Which one should I buy for a wedding or formal event?

For a formal event where you want a smooth, sculpted silhouette under a form-fitting gown or dress, Spanx is the more reliable option. Its high level of control will ensure you look and feel your best all night.