Spanx Women's Thinstincts Convertible Cami Shaping Top, Opaque

Product Information

Size up, not down - Whilst it may be tempting to buy a size smaller to achieve maximum compression – don’t do it. Buying shapewear that is too small will simply make you feel uncomfortable and at its worst or squash and squeeze your body to the outer edges of the pants. Not a great look. Whilst most shapewear brands recommend buying your usual size, some specify sizing up if you’re not used to firm control. How much control do you need? - From light to firm control, how much shaping and smoothing are you trying to achieve? Medium control pants will provide a smooth silhouette but may be less effective at flattening tummy fat. Firm control can feel quite fitted if you’re not used to them, so consider how long you intend to wear them. Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family. About the author

Mumsnetters have certainly put shapewear brands through their paces when dressing up for nights out and special events, with many Mumsnet users sharing experiences (both good and bad) of the shapewear they’ve personally tried and tested.

Bodysuits

It goes without saying that no one should squeeze themselves into a pair of sculpting shorts or a Lycra bodysuit because of the societal pressures to look a certain way, and we're the first to agree that shapewear's nature (i.e. something that alters your natural form) is problematic, but we appreciate having the option. Sometimes we just want a smooth surface beneath our favourite silk slip dresses, and if you do too then you're in the right place.

No. Not unless the brand says that the sizes run big so you need to size down. Buying a size smaller won’t ‘hold you in’ any more. In fact, it might make you spill over the top and just look worse so always buy the ‘right’ size for your body. Does shapewear actually change your shape?

Founded in 2000 by Sara Blakely, Spanx products have become a reliable companion for those looking to smooth over their shape, flatter their body and boost their confidence. Made for women, by women, the brand seeks to provide premium comfort while delivering results. Some shapewear claims to take inches off you but be wary of any outrageous claims. It all has to go somewhere, after all! Mostly what shapewear does is just smooth out your silhouette, getting rid of any lumps and bumps so that clothes ‘hang’ nicely on you. So it can really change the way you look in an outfit but it’s not going to help you fit in a dress two sizes smaller or anything like that. How tight should shapewear fit? Colours - Consider the colour of your shapewear which you could match to compliment either the outfit or your skin tone. Some shapewear brands offer more variety of skin tone shades than others.