Is Shapewear comfortable? What a question!! For most of us, shapewear & comfortable are two words that don't go together. Shapewear is a word that implies discomfort to just about all of us women. To most of us fashion shoppers, it means that we are trying to 'smooth bulges' or 'squeeze into' a favorite outfit…
So how do you buy shapewear comfortable enough to wear on a daily basis?
Well there are several key questions to ask yourself:
* What is the fabric content of the control garment that you want to buy?
* What part of your figure are you trying to correct or enhance?
* What you are going to wear over your new body shaper?
Lets start with fabric content. Fabric content is probably the most important aspect of any garment. In the case of shapewear comfortable enough to wear daily, the garment must shape your body, but still allow you to breathe. The secret to comfortable shapewear is an intricate balance between Lycra in combination with another fabric that is knit and stretches like nylon or even cotton. Lycra will give you the smoothing effect while the stretch fabric will allow you to breathe. Look for reasonably high Lycra content - 10% or more if you are searching for a bottom, anything less is simply not going to do the job. If you are searching for a top like a control camisole, for instance, as little as 5% Lycra can do wonders.
The part of the body you are trying to correct or enhance is also key in finding shapewear comfortable enough for daily wear.
What you want to enhance or camouflage is really quite related to what we just learned about fabric. Ideally if you are searching for a control camisole, you will most probably have the most comfort with cotton/Lycra knit blend of 90-95% cotton & 5 - 10% Lycra. A shoulder pad camisole can in cotton/Lycra is very comfortable and can correct a number of figure flaws - it can even make you look a little bit taller!
A shoulder pad bra is the perfect comfortable shapewear solution for the pear-shaped body type. Most of us have to wear a bra every day anyway -- you might as well solve a figure issue at the same time. Did you know that wearing shoulder pads can make you look up to 1 inch taller and up to 10 pounds thinner? Well they can -- the eye reads from left to right, just the way we read a book. The 'illusion' of broader shoulders that balance the hip 'trick' the eye into seeing a taller, thinner silhouette. Fabulous!
For control bottoms, Nylon/Lycra usually is the preferred fabric for the bottom half the body. Nylon gives the bottom half the 'oomph' & 'lift' that it needs. Once again remember to look for 10% Lycra for your bottoms to give you support and comfort.
What you are going to wear your new body shaper with is key to your purchase.
If you are wearing your shaping camisole under a dress, keep the neckline of the dress in mind. It sounds so simple, but getting comfort that controls and works for your outfit can be challenging. If you are searching for a body-shaping bottom to wear under a skirt, you may be interested in the purchase of a control half-slip. If you are a very active person or have the habit of fidgeting with your clothes, a better choice would be a control short. Both panty styles and long leg briefs are available. Both styles can work wonders for you depending on what you are wearing. For longer leg briefs, a leg length of at least half way down the thigh is a good choice, perhaps with a stretch lace trim for comfort (and of course prettiness) would work well. Shape wear can be pretty so don't settle for a battle-ax corset!
Finding shapewear comfortable enough to wear every day can be a fashion challenge. Remember to look for the right fabrics for the right part of the body, know what you what part of your figure you want to enhance or camouflage and keep in mind what outfit you are going your new body shaper under. If you keep these three things in mind, you will never again have to ask yourself the question: Is shapewear comfortable?
Frequently Asked Questions
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QUESTION:
shapewear?
I'm looking to buy shapewear for prom. I'm not very large, but I want to control my tummy. any ideas as of brands/styles? I have researched spanx a little bit and heard they are great, but i was wondering what was out there. My dress is at the knee and I don't want one that has to be connected to the bra on top.Thanks!
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ANSWER:
I've tried spanx - I liked the tank top style one, but that won't really work for a prom dress. I didn't really like the "suit" like thing that was short shorts up to right under my bra.I haven't tried the Dr. Ray (from Dr. 90210) but that might be worth a try for prom!
Have fun :0)
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QUESTION:
Shapewear?
I have put weight on on the last few weeks and wanted some shapewear to wear until I loose a feew pounds which are the best ones and which ones look okay on as i don't want to look really frumpy in my underwear!-
ANSWER:
Check out www.brazilianlingerie.co.uk, very impressive for products and delivery
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QUESTION:
What shapewear is good to wear underneath strapless wedding dress?
What is a good shapewear for my strapless wedding dress. My dress is tight bodice a-line dress. I would like to make my tummy a little smaller and my boobs to be pushed up a little bit.-
ANSWER:
My friend just bought a push up bra and went to Walmart and bought a shaper by the brand Curves (?) featuring Queen Latifa. It comes up right under the bra, zips and has boyshort legs. She has a very fitted gown and says it is invisable. She wore it for her alterations and the seemstress said it was perfect and asked her where she got it. I think she paid under .00.
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QUESTION:
How does shapewear work?
I've never had any experience with shapewear before and I was wondering if they only helped improve your figure when you're wearing it or if it slowly improves your figure overall over time. In the end, will it change your body to the desired shape? Thanks!-
ANSWER:
it works by sucking in the excess areas should you have any, and shaping the buttocks and thigh, but no. it will only work whilst you use the garment, it will not remould your body in future
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QUESTION:
Need really good shapewear for my homecmoing dress?
I have really bad self confidence. We ordered a homecoming dress online because we ran out of time and im really self conscious about my stomach. I need a strapless shapewear that doesnt cause my stomach to flow out the top by my ribs or at the bottom either. i need overall shaping from stomach to past the hip. Any help is appreciated!-
ANSWER:
get them at walmart. get the more thick ones
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QUESTION:
Looking for shapewear to control muffin top, Any suggestions?
I'm looking for a shapewear to smooth out my muffin top when i wear certain skinny jeans. Any recommendations?-
ANSWER:
Some flowy tops and things that are banded at the bust.
Examples;
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=top&product%5Fid=2072490786&Page=1
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=top&product%5Fid=2073221442&Page=1
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=top&product%5Fid=2074118895&Page=1
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QUESTION:
How much of a difference does waist-cincher shapewear make?
You know, the waist-cincher shapewear from places like Kohls, JCPenny, Macys, etc.Any reviews, suggestions, etc. would be greatly appreciated!
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ANSWER:
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QUESTION:
Does anyone own spanx or any other type of shapewear?
I want to buy spanx or some other shapewear. I've heard more good things about spanx. I'm a curvy woman and my problem area is my "muffin top". I'm concerned the shapewear will roll down as I move. I was thinking of getting spanx slim cognito because it comes with straps to hold it up. Does anyone have any experiences with good shapewear?-
ANSWER:
I have spanx, and the only problem with them is the fact that is rolls down sometimes. Because of this, I only wear it on special occasions, like when I wear dresses and things.
If the spanx have straps, then I suggest getting it.
I have had my spanx for over a year, and it hasn't ripped or torn.
I say get the spanx.
:]
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QUESTION:
Has anyone used the shapewear or suck in underwear after a c section? Do they work?
Does the price in shapewear really matter just as long as it has support in the belly area. I seen a pair in ebay selling for 0 + postage or can I buy a paur for and it doe the same???-
ANSWER:
Just buy Spanx, they will do the trick at a lot less than 0
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QUESTION:
What is the best shapewear to use?
What is the best shapewear to use to flatten my tummy and slim out my hips? Mostly under short dresses and tight shirts. Preferrably one that is a thong and only comes up to right below the bra-line.-
ANSWER:
Spanx is the best shapewear out there. I dont know if they have one that is a thong, but they have several types. If you don't mind its not a thong, I would suggest the power panty. They are very comfortable.
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QUESTION:
What is a good shapewear item to hide back fat?
since starting some different medication I've gained 30pounds and was wondering whats some good shapewear to hide my backfat lol-
ANSWER:
SPANX PRONOUNCED SPANKS
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QUESTION:
What is the best shapewear to wear to make you look skinnier?
What is the most slimming shape wear to wear under dresses that are a little on the skimpy side?-
ANSWER:
spanx
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QUESTION:
What shapewear to wear for sisters wedding that I am in?
I have a satin knee-length chocolate brown dress that I am wearing for my sisters wedding next weekend. What are the differences in corsets, waistshapers etc... ? Any good brands that I should lookout for? Any tips? Thanks!-
ANSWER:
Get the type that goes from under your breasts to above your knees cause if you get the half ones then it will leave a roll above your waist so thats why you need the full suit some even come in the shape of an all in one dress no one will even know your wearing it. Go to a lingerie store or a department store that has a wide variety you will know what I am talking about when you see it. Hope i helped.
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QUESTION:
Do any of you wear body shapewear? What kind should I get?
I have a gut bulge below my belly button, but above my pantyline that won't go away with diet and exercise so I'm looking for body shapewear. There's so many, I'm lost! Do I get the cami, the shorts, the full bodysuit? I just want something to smoothen out the love handles and the gut bulge.-
ANSWER:
If you're only looking to smooth the love handles and bulge then get the high cut control top panties. The only time you need the full shebang is if you're trying to squeeze into a little dress. If you're wearing them under pants anything else is uncomfortable. That said, the bodysuit with the shorts bottom is a girls best friend under a silk little black dress. Try on a few and see what you like the best, there is no right or wrong answer.
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QUESTION:
What shapewear is best for love handles and a post-baby bulge?
Closest stores are Target, Gordmans, and JcPenny.-
ANSWER:
Target has the Assets line of shapewear similar to spanx . JC Penney has the flexees and the "CONTROL IT" line of shapewear . Good luck the "spandex diet " works when the calorie counting and exercise haven't kicked in yet !
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QUESTION:
Where can I get good shapewear for plus size women?
I am a size 22 and I have a big buddha belly! I want something that can minimize that.-
ANSWER:
The plus size stores and catalogs : Lane Bryant , Catherines , Roamans , Lady Grace , Woman Within , Intimate Appeal , Arizona Mail Order . We caloricly challenged gals need a little help from the "Spandex Diet" to keep our shape in shape !
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QUESTION:
What shapewear can I wear under pants that won't cling to them or show a line at the thigh?
I've tried spanx but they either cling to my pants of show a line in the leg.-
ANSWER:
you could try a longer shapewear like the ones that go to the ankle, that way there is no line. i usually wear pantyhose under pants but there is cling and static, so i put a little lotion on them or rub a dryer sheet over them before i put the pants on. you can also get static guard spray.
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QUESTION:
What is the difference between a Belly Belt and Shapewear?
So i am wanting something to hold everything in and smooth it out. I read the Belly Belt will actually lose the belly? someone please help me.-
ANSWER:
All the doctors and nutritionists say targeted weight loss is impossible, especially in the waist and belly areas, but I achieved it with colon cleanse. I realize they say that pills won't work, however they definitely worked for me, and they've been showcased on CNN too. There is a free trial happening currently at http://suveng.fitnessfestival.info , why not try it, why not?
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QUESTION:
What kind of shapewear u have that really works?
after my pregnancy i have a tummy problem. i want to get a shapewear that really works. Thanks much-
ANSWER:
Spanx. You can get it at Nordstroms or online at Spanx.com. The lower version is Assets by Spanx at Target. You will never buy anything else and they come in all shapes and sizes and types.
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QUESTION:
What type of Bridal Shapewear or Corset should I wear?
I'm wearing a strapless dress that sits on my natural waist and is A line. I've looked at Spanx and Fredericks of Hollywood and am a little lost. I'm looking for something that is comfortable, will be discreet and won't be hell if I have to use the ladies room, lol.-
ANSWER:
I just purchased this one:
http://www.herroom.com/Goddess-689-Lace-Longline-Bra.shtml#infoI purchased my normal size, which actually was too big in this style; can't wait to exchange it for a smaller one...even in the too large size it worked very well!
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QUESTION:
Question for women about wearing shapewear?
How many of you women wear shapewear, such as Spanx or Assets, on a regular basis? Just curious!-
ANSWER:
I have had a weight problem since age 12 , I don't leave my house without some form of tummy or muffin top control. When calorie counting doesn't work the "spandex diet " does !
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QUESTION:
Does anyone know of a good girdle or shapewear?
I am looking for a good girdle that I can wear everyday that actually helps my stomach look flatter. I have tried control top pantyhose and they don't work. I am planning to have a corset made, I haven't actually found a place to make it yet so it's going to take a while, so I was looking for something to wear in the meantime.-
ANSWER:
You could try a waist cincher or high waisted panty girdle. They come in differing degrees of firmness. The firmer they are they more they will reduce your waist. Waist cinchers are just boned bands that go around your midriff. Google corsets if you are still looking for somewhere to get one.
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QUESTION:
What is a Good shapewear for plus size women?
I am about s 3x and looking for a good shape wear system that I can wear everyday and breath. I am large busted 44 H and my mid section is the problem. I have a low pooch after 2 sections and a muffin top. What will work the best and not roll down?-
ANSWER:
Avenue, a plus-size clothing store, carries a good range of plus-size shapewear on-line. Also at some of the on-line bra & lingerie specialty websites that have huge inventories, you can look for the Ragowear brand for sizes all the way up to a 12X.I agree with the previous poster - you will want to look for either an all in one body shaper style, or a waist cincher (which are harder to find, and actually much less comfortable). Unfortunately, in my experience, most department store shapewear lines don't go much larger than a 2xl.
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QUESTION:
Can I wear shapewear or spanx at 9 weeks?
Hi, I'm naturally a bigger girl by size and am 9 weeks pregnant. I was wondering if I could wear shapewear or spanx tonight for a few hours? Help? Thanks everyone!-
ANSWER:
Yes as long as your not uncomfortable
You are only 9 weeks the baby is still very tiny and still nice and snug below the pubic bone
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QUESTION:
Did you wear a postpartum girdle or shapewear?
With my first baby, I didn't wear any post partum compression garment or shapewear / girdle. I have been told that wearing it does speed up recovery and help the uterus shrink. is this so? Has this worked for anyone else on here?-
ANSWER:
Personally i didn't wear the girdle.I just made sure i ate healthy,lots of water and did lots of walking and skipping.Unbelievable but i was previously a size 14 and am now a size 10...baby and all.....yippee!!
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QUESTION:
What is the best brand of shapewear for women?
My wife wants to know.-
ANSWER:
Spanx is the most well known and trusted (ie. its kind of the go to thing for shapewear). Although, I'm sure if she went into any upscale department store she could have someone help her find something good easily.
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QUESTION:
Is a girdle more or less uncomfortable than high control shapewear?
I walked about 9 miles today in a Maidenform Flexee waist cincher and I was perfectly comfortable (I was wear high heels too). Is a girdle more or less comfortable?-
ANSWER:
A properly fitted girdle is amazingly comfortable. If the cincher doesn't bother you, a girdle should be no problem either. Remember, ladies in the 40s through the 60s wore girdles all the time. I love vintage fashions and wear a girdle with stockings and heels every day.
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QUESTION:
SHAPEWEAR- What is a great bodysuit that is low back with good support?
hey i need a bodysuit that is low back with removable straps with a high cut brief bottom that has a preferable size 10E but can do 12DD. i'm in Australia so online store preferable.
thankkx for all your help .-
ANSWER:
Hi There,I'm from America, so I found a company out in the UK which is closer to you and shipping won't take as long. This is a Miraclesuit Shaper. It has removal straps. Converting your size 12DD is equivalent to a 34DD. They carry that size as well. Take a look at the link below and see if this suits your needs. If not, the website still seems to have a lot to choose from, keep looking until you see what you need.
I also specialize in shapewear. Feel free to check out my site below the link I gave you.
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QUESTION:
How conferable is it to wear this brand Spanx Shapewear under your clothes in the summer months?
This brand is sold on the www.Iqvc.com website-
ANSWER:
honestly that sounds horrible.
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QUESTION:
where can i find backless shapewear?
I have a wedding dress that sits a little lower than I thought, where can i find backless shapewear?-
ANSWER:
http://www.brabarella.com/floatpages/shapewearfloats/vabien1570.htm
http://www.orchardcorset.com/Backless-Bridal_c_109.html
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QUESTION:
Where can I find cute shapewear underwear?
Every where I've looked they have them but they're not cute Where can I get cute one.-
ANSWER:
walmart
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QUESTION:
where can i get shapewear/body wear in bombay?
Do anyone know if its possible to buy shapewear/bodywear in india? First of all, is it available in india and esp in bombay?-
ANSWER:
ew thats India
noooo meee gustaa
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QUESTION:
What shapewear do you recommend for the wedding day?
I'm plus sized and my main problem is my midsection. I've got some jelly rolls there.-
ANSWER:
Spanx are an excellent brand, however they are rather pricey. At Target, they have an alternative to Spanx, and they are called Assets. It is made by the same company as Spanx, and the are less expensive than them. =) I hope this helps.http://www.target.com/gp/search/602-1994732-0000661?field-keywords=assets&url=index%3Dtarget&ref=sr_bx_1_1
The shorts suck it all in! And help make one more shapely! =)
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QUESTION:
Is there any shapewear or tummy cinchers that have a compartment that opens and closes for bathroom trips?-
ANSWER:
There was... Because it is in my dresser.Victorias secret may carry some but they just may be scanty too.
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QUESTION:
Do guys think shapewear body suits are sexy?
Are guys put off by one piece body shaper suits or "body briefers"? It's shapewear, but it kind of looks like a teddy. So do they think it's attractive?-
ANSWER:
Yes my bf loves it
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QUESTION:
Where can I get slimming shapewear for men?
Where do they sell slimming shaping undergarments for men?-
ANSWER:
Go to www.equmen.com
The products are amazing and really comfortable - not for sale yet but if you sign up for their newsletter you can get notified. They will be available in Dec or Jan I believe
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QUESTION:
What is the body shapewear they showed on paid programming on tv called it wasa perticular namemade in italy?-
ANSWER:
The shapewear I have used is Spanx and Lipoinabox. Don't know if they are made in Italy.
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QUESTION:
Looking for the best control shapewear. Suggestions, anyone?
I've some tummy spilling from mid front, and yes, I'm working out and need a temporary solution so I won't feel so sh**y!I've searched for control shapewear and I'm seriously confused by the wide range out there.
I'm looking for a medium to firm control one piece shapewear, preferably a thong bodysuit or a slip or one damn good piece of high waisted tummy control panties/thongs to wear under stretch pants.
Tried and tested personal suggestions please! Thanks!
Ladies, specfic models instead of a brands pls?-
ANSWER:
Spanx. they shape everything!!
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QUESTION:
Does any of you here wear a shapewear?
I mean, that kind of undergarment that covers all of your torso, breasts like a bra and back, cipls at your crotch and has straps over the shoulders. I'm 13 and wear one everyday for punishment for having disobeyed my mom and went out braless. I hate it, it's made of thick tissue, makes me sweat and is uncomfortable. But I gotta wear, it's a punishment. If you wear one, why do u wear it, if they are unconfortable?-
ANSWER:
Talk about punishment.Sometimes I wear a Rago full body girdle and it can get uncomfortable after 10 hours of wear. But I only wear it when I want to hide the extra poundage that time has added.
In your case, maybe talk to you mother about it and tell her that this very unfair. Don't forget, there are far worse things for punishment.
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QUESTION:
Where can I buy shapewear in Melbourne?
i live in melbourne and I really REALLY need one of those body shaping lingeriesi want the nancy ganz brand
where can I buy it? (Preferably somewhere near the CBD)
are there any shape wear retailers here?
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ANSWER:
Hi there,Melb stockists below from website: http://www.7perth.com.au/view/today-tonight-articles/20070510172321/
Nancy Ganz stockists:
- Myer
- David Jones
- Or to find out lingerie boutiques that stock Nancy Ganz, contact Gazal Apparel on (03) 8412 9999Cheers.
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QUESTION:
are shapewear corsets good to help look slimmer underclothes?
Im going to buy some slimming underwear are the corsets good to help u look slimmer round the waist and tummy-
ANSWER:
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QUESTION:
What is the best SHAPEWEAR product for women?
Spanx
Slimwear??? Give me your opinion!-
ANSWER:
I like Kimori (sp?) body shaper. They have the infomercial on tv all the time. I bought one and it actually does work without making you feel uncomfortable
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QUESTION:
Where in the UK can i buy a shapewear tankini?
i have looked online and cant find any decent ones- also i need to go into a store really to try it on and make sure it fits.i had my son 4 months ago and need a tankini for holiday which is slimming around the tummy.im looking to spend no more than £40
thanks in advance-
ANSWER:
Hi,http://www.shoppershub.co.uk/productlist.php?q=tankini&rb=4-0
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QUESTION:
Exactly how does Shapewear help to get your figure back ?
Does it really burn calories while you wear them ?-
ANSWER:
Hi, I'm afraid Chris is right on this : shapewear (which really is anything that shapes your body, even a simple bra) pushes your body tight in the places you wear it for, but that's the end of it.
The moment you take them off, everything goes back to what was before, so there really is no lasting effect (certainly no automatic slimming !)
So don't rely on them for that, instead, try to be more active in a fun way (a relaxed walk, go swimming ...) regularly. That way you'll build up your own shapewear.
Stay away from junk food and try to eat more veggies and fruit.
You'll feel better and enjoy your healthy body more !Good luck !
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QUESTION:
What is the best Shapewear product on the market for the abs!!,?
been looking around and I am willing to spend the money for the right shapewear. Please be specific and only if you personally have tried it for your abs. I am a good weight, etc for my height and age but the abs !!! Thanks for your help. I am talking about the ABS-
ANSWER:
The only thing that works is diet and exercise.
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QUESTION:
Where can I buy Spanx Shapewear without ordering online?
I have looked on the Lane Bryant and Target websites and all they have is the pantyhose. Im looking for the thigh and tummy shaper..Thanks
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ANSWER:
I've seen them in Torrid and at most department stores. Not cheap, though.
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QUESTION:
I am wearing a prom dress with a low back this year but i need shapewear with a low back to go under.?
I need tummy control in the dress i will be wearing, but nothing i try on or look at online is low enough.-
ANSWER:
The only shapewear solution I've found that works with a low back is a a body shaping product called TapeShaper. You can buy at www.tapeshaper.com. It really works amazingly great....you just apply it where you need to look slim and need to smooth yourself out...really gives a custom fit. I think its great. I just used for a wedding and it was really comfortable. Good luck.
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QUESTION:
I just bought two form fittinng dresses, but i need shapewear to wear them?
because i have a bit of a tummy problem and would also like to appear to have a smaller waist. The only issue i have is that most shapwear flatten you behind. does anyone know what brand is best for me and wont flatten my backside?-
ANSWER:
Spanxhttp://www.spanx.com/pls/enetrixp/!stmenu_template.main
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QUESTION:
Are those shapewear really help you to lose a significant amount of weight just by using it?
I am referring to those shape-wear on the site HourGlassAngel.com. Any testimonials? Would really appreciate them. I am considering buying from this site.-
ANSWER:
no they don't, its just a ploy and a scam.. I really wouldn't waste my money and instead just start eating healthy and working out
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QUESTION:
a type of shapewear you can wear to make your thighs look slimmer and you can wear it unnoticeable under jeans?
is there? that you can buy maybe at macy's or target perhaps? please and thank you
any stores will do..-
ANSWER:
Spanx.
Available at Nordstroms
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