The short answer: choose a high-waist shaping thong for zero panty lines under fitted trousers, leggings-style pants and clingy skirts. Choose shaping shorts when you're wearing a dress or skirt and want thigh smoothing and anti-chafe comfort. Both smooth your tummy with a high waist.
Both smooth and shape while you wear them. Neither changes your body permanently.
Quick comparison
- Panty lines: a thong leaves none. Shorts can show a leg line under very tight trousers.
- Thigh chafing: a thong gives no thigh coverage. Shorts protect your thighs.
- Tummy smoothing: both, with a high waist.
- Seat shaping: a thong leaves your seat natural. Shorts smooth it, and padded styles add lift.
- Warm days: a thong is lighter and cooler.
- Best outfits: a thong suits fitted trousers, pencil skirts and bodycon. Shorts suit dresses, A-line skirts and wide-leg trousers.
When a high-waist thong wins
Pick a thong when your outfit is fitted over your seat and you want nothing to show. It's also great in warm weather. The Soledad High-Waist Thong Shaper smooths your tummy and waist with no lines through fitted trousers.
Soledad High-Waist Thong ShaperShop now
Want smoothing up top too? The Liesl Short-Sleeve Thong Bodysuit gives a no-line finish from shoulders to seat.
Liesl Short-Sleeve Thong BodysuitShop now
Browse more in shapewear under pants and trousers.
When shaping shorts win
Pick shorts under dresses and skirts, where thigh rubbing is the real problem. The Ottilie High-Waist Padded Shaper Shorts smooth your tummy and thighs with gentle lift behind.
Ottilie High-Waist Padded Shaper ShortsShop now
For soft lace legs that lie flat, try the Marisol Padded Lace-Trim Shaper Shorts. For sizes up to 6XL, see the Zelie Padded Hip Enhancer Shorts.
Marisol Padded Lace-Trim Shaper ShortsShop now 
Zelie Padded Hip Enhancer ShortsShop now
See our thighs guide or shop shaping shorts.
Choose by outfit
- Fitted trousers or tailored pants: thong
- Pencil skirt: thong, or shorts if your thighs rub
- Bodycon dress: thong, or a thong bodysuit. See shapewear under bodycon dresses.
- A-line, wrap or maxi dress: shorts
- Wide-leg trousers: either works
More ideas in our shapewear under dresses guide.
Fit and sizing tips
- Thongs: the high waist should sit flat without rolling. Choose one with a grippy or boned waist.
- Shorts: size for your hips and thighs. Leg bands should lie flat, not dig.
- Use each product's own size chart, and see our sizing guide.
Common mistakes
- Shorts under tight trousers: the leg band can show.
- A thong under a summer dress: you'll miss out on anti-chafe coverage.
- Sizing down: it makes waistbands roll. Read how tight shapewear should be.
FAQs
Is a shaping thong comfortable for plus size women?
Yes, if it fits. A wide, high waist spreads the hold so nothing digs.
Which is better for tummy control?
Both smooth your tummy with a high waist. Choose based on your outfit.
Do shaping shorts stop thigh chafing?
Yes. They create a smooth barrier between your thighs.
Can I wear a shaping thong under a dress?
Yes, especially fitted dresses. For flowing dresses, shorts are usually more comfortable.
Should I choose a bodysuit instead?
If you also want back and waist smoothing, yes. Read bodysuit vs shorts.
The bottom line
A thong for no lines under fitted pants and skirts. Shorts for dresses and anti-chafe comfort. Explore our seamless vs shaping guide, best plus size shapewear guide, shop all shapewear, or visit our Shapewear Guides.