‘I put Spanx’s new shapewear to the test and it made me look like I’d lost a dress size’

If I’m honest shapewear isn’t something I often reach for. A figure-hugging outfit isn’t my usual go-to, and when I do wear something more form fitting I tend to eschew tight shapewear in favour of comfort.

Whilst I don’t believe anyone needs shapewear, some outfits can benefit from a smoother base underneath, whether to stop a pattern from distorting, to hide lines from your underwear seams, or to make you feel more comfortable and confident. As there have been times I’ve thought something I’m wearing would look more streamlined with the addition of shapewear, I decided to try on Spanx’s brand new SpanxShape range – and I was absolutely blown away by the results.

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The SpanxShape range takes high quality cotton shapewear and gives it performance capabilities, like sweat wicking, breathability and a lightweight feel. It’s made from a combination of Lycra elastane and nylon, along with Supima cotton, which makes it the first of its kind on the market, and features Spanx’s signature four way stretch.

The brand new SpanxShape collection has shapewear separates including vest tops and knickers that smooth and sculpt your body and can be worn together or individually depending on which part of your figure you want to smooth. You can choose from full briefs, vest tops, thongs and mid-thigh length shorts in colours including beige, black and lighter pastel shades.

I opted for the SPANXshape Invisible Supima Cotton Cami, £78, and the SPANXshape Invisible Supima Cotton Thong, £56, in black, as I felt they were two pieces that would be incredibly useful and work with plenty of different outfits. I’m typically a size 14 on the bottom and a size 12 on the top, and I chose both of the Spanx items in a size large.

How did the SpanxShape range fit?

I’ll be honest that getting the Cotton Cami on initially was a struggle – the compression fabric is thick with plenty of stretch, but it does require a little wiggling to get it into place. However, once it was on the effect was instantaneous. Where usually I have some lumps and bumps, it was instantly smoother, my waist was more defined and the long length of the vest meant it took the smoothing effect right down to my hips.

The straps are adjustable and the chest area doesn’t have any compression, but if you have a larger bust it may be worth going up a size, as it did flatten my chest down slightly and it may not be as comfortable for you. However I found it surprisingly comfy once it was on, and it didn’t roll up at the bottom or feel like it was slipping down.

The Cotton Thong was much easier to put on, and was also really comfortable to wear. The thong cut meant there was no VPL under my dress, and the waistband stayed firmly in place with no rolling down.

I’ve tried shapewear thongs before and they rode up with every step which is horribly uncomfortable, but thankfully none of that happened with the Spanx Cotton Thong. It also has a high waist band that went up over my hips so there was no awkward digging in or ‘ muffin top’.

Did they work?

Yes. Instantly. The effect from both pieces was quite astonishing. I tried on a black figure hugging dress that has plenty of stretch but does tend to show off some lumps and bumps when I wear it, and I couldn’t believe the difference.

My waist was much more defined and it gave me a more streamlined hourglass figure that genuinely did make me look like I’d gone down a whole dress size. Although there were still a couple of bumps (which is absolutely fine) they were much less pronounced and it allowed the cut of the dress to shine without detracting from its silhouette.

Whilst I may not be reaching for my SpanxShape pieces every single day, I’ll definitely be putting them to use on days when I need a little confidence boost or want to give my outfit some streamlining. You can shop the full SpanxShape range now.

For some alternative options, I’ve always loved Boux Avenue’s shapewear too. The Smoothing Soft-Stretch High Waisted Thong is an affordable pick at £16 and is another one that doesn’t roll down or ride up as you wear it. The waistband is super wide and comfortable, and the fit is flattering and smoothing without being too tight.

Marks &amp, Spencer also has a great range, with everything from waist cinching knickers and bodysuits to slip dresses and cami tops. Items vary in price, but they’re generally a great affordable option if you’re looking for some pieces to add to your collection.

Source: Mirror