Skims vs Shapermint: Honest Comparison for Real Women
Skims and Shapermint represent two very different philosophies in shapewear. Skims — Kim Kardashian's brand — is built around a sleek, minimal aesthetic and a lifestyle image. Shapermint focuses on accessible compression with a wide size range and practical everyday performance.
Which one is right for you depends almost entirely on what you need the shapewear to do. Here's our honest take.
Quick Verdict
Best for aesthetics and travel: Skims
Best for compression and value: Shapermint
Best for flight attendants on duty: Shapermint
Best aspirational pick: Skims
Brand Overview
Skims
Founded in 2019, Skims quickly became one of the most recognizable shapewear brands globally. The aesthetic is minimal and the marketing is aspirational — but the actual compression level is light to medium on most pieces. Skims excels at a smooth, sculpted look for social and travel occasions rather than therapeutic support during long work shifts. Note: Skims is not available on Amazon — purchase directly via skims.com or through authorized retailers.
Shapermint
Shapermint has built its reputation on consistent, accessible compression across an inclusive size range. The brand's direct-to-consumer model keeps prices lower than premium competitors, and their customer reviews consistently highlight comfort during extended wear — a key factor for professionals who are on their feet all day.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Skims | Shapermint |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | $42 – $98 | $28 – $45 |
| Compression level | Light to medium | Medium (consistent) |
| Size range | XXS – 4X | XS – 5XL |
| Aesthetic | Minimal, aspirational | Practical, inclusive |
| Available on Amazon | No | Yes |
Shapermint High-Waisted Short
Shapermint High-Waisted Short
Reliable medium compression, inclusive sizing, and a seamless finish at an accessible price. Shapermint's bestseller for good reason — consistent performance across hundreds of customer reviews.
Best for: All-day wear, nurses, retail workers, everyday shapewear
Pros
- ✓ Best value in category
- ✓ XS–5XL sizing
- ✓ Comfortable all-day wear
- ✓ Available on Amazon
Cons
- ✗ Light compression only
- ✗ Less fashionable than Skims
- ✗ No targeted zones
Shapermint Compression Leggings
Shapermint Compression Leggings
Full-length compression leggings with tummy control and a non-see-through fabric. Available in petite to plus sizes.
Best for: Cooler weather, travel, all-day standing
Pros
- ✓ Full-length compression
- ✓ Tummy control
- ✓ Non-see-through
- ✓ Wide size range
Cons
- ✗ Medium compression only
- ✗ Limited color options
A Note on Skims
Skims products are not available via Amazon Associates. If you'd like to shop Skims, visit skims.com directly. For our full assessment, we recommend Skims for aesthetic occasions and travel — and Shapermint when consistent compression support is the priority.
Who Should Choose Skims?
Skims is the right choice if aesthetics and brand image matter to you, you're shopping for travel or social occasions, or you already have compression wear for work and want something for off-duty days.
Who Should Choose Shapermint?
Shapermint is the better functional pick for long professional shifts, inclusive sizing needs, or if you want consistent medium compression at an accessible price. It's particularly strong for nurses, retail workers, and flight attendants looking for an everyday solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skims or Shapermint better for flight attendants?
Shapermint offers more targeted compression and a wider size range, making it a stronger practical choice for flight attendants. Skims is better suited for travel and off-duty wear.
Does Skims offer real compression?
Skims provides light to medium shaping rather than graduated medical-grade compression. It's designed for a smooth silhouette, not therapeutic compression support.
Which brand has better sizing options?
Shapermint offers a wider inclusive size range (XS–5XL) compared to Skims (XXS–4X on most styles). Both brands have improved their size range significantly in recent years.
For higher compression needs — including medical-grade support — see our guide → How to Choose the Right Compression Level