As an advocate for eating disorder awareness, I’m 100% in support of buying and wearing anything that makes you feel more confident. For me, it’s always been shapewear. I love my body, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but sometimes it feels good to know that everything is tucked away and all potential wardrobe woes are subdued. Since, from experience, I know you can spend a fortune on shapewear that doesn’t actually do anything– or it rips/breaks after one wear, I was so excited to find out that Kohl’s offers affordable shapewear that actually works. From well-known brands like Spanx and Naomi & Nicole, I can confirm that durable and effective options are out there, and they don’t cost an arm and a leg if you know where to look. Here are my top three picks for affordable shapewear that actually works from Kohl’s: 

Affordable Shapewear That Actually Works: ASSETS by Spanx Flipside Firmers, $42

These are amazing for multiple reasons. First of all, this style is two shapers in one. These are mid-thigh REVERSIBLE firmers (turn them inside out to change from nude to black) that smooth your tummy, hips, thighs, and booty with double-layer fabric. Another reason these are my absolute favorite? There’s no conspicuous seam running down the front middle, which almost all cheap shapewear has. Plus, ASSETS by Spanx is a more affordable version of regular Spanx, and it’s sold only at Kohl’s. If you’re a Spanx fan, why not get the same products for less? 

I traditionally wear these under jeans in place of underwear for a smoother more sleek look. Even in the Florida summer, the material is cool against my skin and doesn’t itch. I don’t have to worry about noticeable lines, even underneath white pants, and I feel confident and slim all day long. Here’s an example of how to wear this style (full outfit details here): 

Affordable Shapewear That Actually Works: Maidenform Shapewear Endlessly Smooth Firm Control Body Briefer in Latte, $58

This is my go-to undergarment for virtually any outfit that isn’t strapless. It has versatile multi-way straps, so I’ve worn it with low-back tops, dresses with plunging necklines, and garments that may potentially attract static. The material is actually anti-static, so, as you can imagine, this particular piece is a lifesaver in the cold!

Also, unless shapewear is reversible, I always buy it in a nude color. Think about it– you can still wear a nude slip even under a black dress, but you can’t wear a black slip under a white dress. However, if your heart is set on black, this Maidenform body briefer comes in black, as well. Here’s an example of how to wear this style (outfit details linked below): 

Shop the Look: Striped Dress, $15 | Heels, $120| Bag, $278 | Sunglasses, $12

Affordable Shapewear That Actually Works: Naomi & Nicole Luxurious Shaping Strapless Bra Slip in Cupid Nude, $60

This strapless bra slip gives my body shape in strapless dresses while still maintaining a smooth look. It’s got a built-in panty, and it produces no lines whatsoever. Plus, I wore this particular strapless bra slip for over five hours at a wedding, and it didn’t ride up once. Amazing!

Also, when searching for shapewear that actually works, you’ll notice some brands start at a C cup. I, for one, am not a C cup, so I appreciate companies who recognize the fact that smaller chested women still have insecurities and are susceptible to wardrobe malfunctions, just like everyone else. Naomi & Nicole offers shapewear for B cups in sizes 34-38, which is pretty handy. Here’s an example of how to wear this style when your dress is light, airy, and borderline see-through (full outfit details here): 

Do you have a favorite style or brand of affordable shapewear that actually works? Please share in the comments!

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^{This post is sponsored by Kohl’s. I received the included shapewear as compensation. As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you so much for supporting the brands that make Diary of a Debutante possible!}