Women's SPANX

The Ultimate Guide to Women's Spanx

What are Spanx?

Spanx is a brand of undergarments, primarily known for its shapewear, that helps to smooth and reshape the body, giving the wearer a more streamlined silhouette. Created by Sara Blakely, Spanx has become a household name in the fashion industry, especially among women looking to achieve a flawless look under their clothes.

History of Spanx

Spanx was founded in 2000 by Sara Blakely, who initially conceived the idea while preparing for a party. Wanting to wear a pair of white pants without any visible panty lines, she cut the feet out of a pair of control top pantyhose and wore them under her pants. The idea stuck, and she soon realized the potential for a new type of undergarment that could smooth and reshape the body. Blakely bootstrapped her business in the early days, eventually growing it into a multimillion-dollar company.

Types of Spanx

Spanx offers a wide range of products, catering to different needs and body types. Here are some of the most popular types of Spanx:

1. Shapewear: Spanx's flagship product, shapewear, comes in various styles including bodysuits, camisoles, shorts, and slips. These garments are designed to smooth lumps and bumps, giving the wearer a sleek silhouette.
2. Hosiery: Spanx also offers a line of hosiery products, including tights, leggings, and socks, designed to provide a smooth look while also being comfortable.
3. Swimwear: For those looking to hit the beach or pool in style, Spanx offers a range of swimwear that not only looks good but also provides support and shaping.
4. Activewear: For the fitness enthusiasts, Spanx has a line of activewear that includes tops, bottoms, and sports bras, designed to keep you comfortable and supported during your workout.

How to Choose the Right Spanx for You

Choosing the right Spanx can be daunting, given the wide range of products available. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Know Your Body Type: Different body types require different types of shapewear. For example, if you have a larger bust, you might want to opt for a bodysuit or camisole that provides extra support. If you're looking to smooth your lower body, shorts or slips might be a better choice.
2. Consider Your Clothing: Think about the type of clothing you'll be wearing over your Spanx. If you're wearing a tight-fitting dress, you'll want something that provides maximum smoothing. If you're wearing looser clothing, you might not need as much shaping.
3. Comfort is Key: While the main goal of Spanx is to reshape your body, it's also important that they're comfortable. Make sure to try on different styles and sizes to find the perfect fit.
4. Read Reviews: Before making a purchase, read online reviews from other customers to get a sense of which products work best for different body types and clothing styles.

How to Wear Spanx

Wearing Spanx correctly is crucial to achieving the desired effect. Here are some tips for wearing Spanx:

1. Put Them On Before Your Clothes: Spanx are designed to be worn underneath your clothes, so make sure to put them on first.
2. Adjust for Comfort: Once you have your Spanx on, adjust them as needed for comfort. Make sure they're not too tight or too loose.
3. Wear the Right Size: It's important to wear the right size Spanx. If they're too small, they'll be uncomfortable and may even cause damage to your body. If they're too big, they won't provide the desired shaping effect.
4. Layer Properly: If you're wearing multiple layers, make sure to put your Spanx on first, followed by any underwear or socks, and then your regular clothing.

Caring for Your Spanx

Proper care and maintenance of your Spanx are important to prolong their lifespan and keep them looking and feeling like new. Here are some tips for caring for your Spanx:

1. Hand Wash Only: Most Spanx are made of delicate fabrics and should be hand washed in cold water with a gentle detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
2. Air Dry: After washing, lay your Spanx flat to air dry. Do not put them in the dryer as the heat can damage the fabric and elastic.
3. Store Properly: When not in use, store your Spanx in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Folding them neatly will help prevent wrinkles and creases.
4. Avoid Excessive Stretching: Be careful when putting on and taking off your Spanx to avoid excessive stretching, which can damage the fabric and elastic over time.

Spanx and Fashion

Spanx have become an essential part of many women's wardrobes, not just for their shaping properties but also for their ability to enhance any outfit. Here are some ways Spanx can be incorporated into your fashion choices:

1. Smoothing Under Dresses and Skirts: Wearing Spanx under a tight-fitting dress or skirt can help create a sleek and polished look by smoothing out any lumps or bumps.
2. Enhancing Your Curves: Spanx can also be used to enhance your curves, giving you a more hourglass figure. This is especially useful if you're wearing a form-fitting dress or top.
3. Confidence Booster: Knowing that you look your best can give you a major confidence boost. Wearing Spanx can help you feel more secure and comfortable in your own skin, allowing you to rock any outfit with confidence.

Health Considerations

While Spanx can help you achieve a smoother silhouette, it's important to consider the potential health impacts of wearing them. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Breathing Difficulties: If Spanx are too tight, they can restrict your breathing. Make sure they're not too constricting and that you can breathe normally while wearing them.
2. Digestive Issues: Tight shapewear can also compress your stomach and intestines, potentially causing digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. If you experience these symptoms, try loosening your Spanx or taking them off for a while.
3. Circulation Problems: If Spanx are worn for extended periods of time or are too tight, they can restrict blood flow and cause circulation problems. Take breaks from wearing them throughout the day to allow your body to rest.
4. Skin Irritation: Some people may experience skin irritation from wearing Spanx, especially if they're made of a material that doesn't agree with their skin. If you experience itching or redness, discontinue use and consult a doctor if necessary.

Alternatives to Spanx

While Spanx are a popular choice for shapewear, there are other options available on the market. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Commando: Commando offers a range of shapewear products that are designed to be comfortable and provide excellent shaping. Their pieces are made of soft, stretchy fabric that moves with your body.
2. Maidenform: Maidenform is another trusted brand in the world of shapewear. Their products are designed to fit seamlessly under your clothes, providing a smooth silhouette without sacrificing comfort.
3. Yummie by Heather Thompson: Yummie by Heather Thompson offers a line of shapewear that combines fashion and function. Their pieces are designed to be stylish while also providing the support and shaping you need.
4. DIY Shapewear: If you're feeling crafty, you can even try making your own shapewear at home. There are plenty of tutorials online that show you how to transform an old pair of tights or leggings into custom shapewear.

Spanx are a popular choice for women looking to achieve a smoother, more streamlined silhouette. However, it's important to choose the right style and size for your body type, wear them correctly, and take care of them properly to prolong their lifespan. Additionally, while Spanx can help enhance your appearance, it's important to consider the potential health impacts of wearing them and take breaks throughout the day to allow your body to rest. If Spanx aren't quite your style or you're looking for alternatives, there are plenty of other options available on the market that can help you achieve the look you desire.