Each outfit in your wardrobe deserves the best foundations, which is precisely where the Spanx women's collection comes in. Whether you're searching for leggings to lounge in or the right undergarments for the dress you've been wanting to wear, our selection makes it easy to find what you need. 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. verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ 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. Despite the fact that even the best shapewear pieces remain a contentious issue, we are of the firm opinion that its all about choice.

Higher quality shapewear comes with a higher percentage of elastane (usually in combination with nylon or polyamide), which not only offers effective control and smoothing compression, but ensures comfort and flexibility of movement too. Is shapewear uncomfortable to wear? 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. What are you wearing? - When choosing your shapewear, consider the style of outfit you are planning to wear. All-in-one bodysuits and slips are ideal for under dresses, particularly ones that allow you to wear your own bra. If you’re wearing something particularly fitted, pay attention to any visible seams or waistband support that will prevent them from rolling down.

Does shapewear actually change your shape?

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? 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 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.

Shapewear comes in many different designs, but if you’re looking for shapewear that is both effective and comfortable you should pay attention to the amount of elastane they include.Some shapewear can feel a little restrictive, particularly after a big meal so it’s worth shopping around to find products that are supportive but not ‘too’ firm and don’t dig in anywhere. Shapewear can also feel hot sometimes, because of the manmade fibres that are often used in them, so bear that in mind when choosing the rest of your outfit. Pieces that cover most of your body are often particularly hot as most of your core is covered - you’re essentially adding another layer of clothing. The heat can sometimes contribute to chafing, skin rashes and even UTIs if worn regularly so it’s best to keep your shapewear for high days and holidays. Worn occasionally it shouldn’t cause any problems. Should you buy shapewear a size smaller?