NOW CLOSED M&S shapewear testers review thread

[TheOtherHelenMumsnet]

This thread is for the members of the M&S Mumsnet panel who have been trying out M&S shapewear.

We've posted some feedback questions below to get you started but please feel free to add any other comments you have. Everyone who adds their feedback will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 M&S giftcard.

Please remember to include details of which shapewear item(s) you bought with your £30 voucher in your response.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

Thanks and good luck with the prize draw!
MNHQ

[TheOtherHelenMumsnet]

smokinaces - sorry for the delay - will be in touch with photo testers today!

[smokinaces]

Helen was there any feedback on the photos? I submitted some to your email address and the insight one when I got an out of office reply but never heard anything?

[TheOtherHelenMumsnet]

Thanks to everyone who added their feedback - M&S have found your comments really useful. I'm pleased to say that the winner of the prize draw for a £50 M&S giftcard is...

purplemonstermum

Congratulations! Your prize should be with you very soon!

[janx]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
I have never bought shapewear before - I had to ask in the store to be directed to the range and the assistant didn't seem to know where it was

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I looked online, but decided to go into a store as I wanted to feel the fabrics and get a better idea of the sizing.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
Not enough choice in the store and I think the whole range lacks different colours

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes I bought a lot of knickers - thanks

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
I thought the light control knickers were good

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
More colours and better graphics to make it stand out in the store

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes -would recommend to go and have a look

[cityangel]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
I have bought control pants in the past. You have to be careful to allow for wash shrinkage. The online selection of shapewear is easy to navigate.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
At the moment with 2 young kids internet shopping is the best option for me. Its easier to try on options at home and return those that don't fit.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
Yes online availability was very clear.

I think there could be more hold-ups/ stockings colours. Some good funky pant colours are available eg. Pink, but there could be more pretty design options like the Marie Jo underwear range.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes good value stockings

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
The Brazillian knickers weren't hugely comfortable but looked nice on.
The full range is quite pricey overall

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
Offer more colours, a designer look and feel.
I would consider John Lewis, Selfridges in store

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
I would recommend that they consider trying some on as part of their searc

[GrumbleAndGrouse]

Not sure if I am too late, my apologies!

Q1- not bought m&s shapewear, website was fairly clear didn't make it to a branch.

Q2- easy to buy on line, whic I did, but I wish I had managed to get to a store to see the items and sizes as ver difficult to get a correct idea from a pic.

Q3- there was not a lot in stock on line and would like to see more in nude as black/White is more obvious under clothes.

Q4- the pricing is way out of my budget. Tbh I have bought tummy control pants from matalan that worked much better for a fraction of the cost.

Q5- disappointed. I am 5foot 10 and 8/10 but have a wobbly tum that I wanted to hide. Chose the bandeau slip. It was far too long to be hidden under my dress, the bust part was incredibly high and looked ridiculous. I didn't feel particularly 'controlled' either.

Q6- would like more that is hidden under clothing, a lot looked like it would give vpl/need a lot of covering. Also, if you are going to cover the bust area, a bit of padding would be good t counteract the flattening effect!

Q7- no, the price would not be affordable to most I know.

[Tobermory]

Almost missed the feedback thread. V last minute!

Q1. I have bout shapewear before though not from M&S. The website made the shape range very accessible and easy to find, less so in the store I visited (meadowhell) I really wanted a structured body but I am tall with a long body and sadly not catered for.

Q2. Both. I prefer buying online because the store seems, by comparison, a lot more complicated! There is also often not as wide a range available.

Q3. The first pair of light control pants that I chose were out of stock but everything else that I chose was available. I'm not convinced that there is enough in terms of choice, much of te range was I thought quite similar.

Q4 &5 I bought a couple of pairs of what I would term big pants, though on the website they were orob describes as medium control, waist clinchers or similar. They are absolutely fantastic, though a bit costly and I will certainly buy another pair!

Q6. I would like to see a wider range aimed at taller women, because for full body stuff there really snt anything suitable.

Q7. Yes I would, specially the pants!

[plusonemore]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

Yes, I have bought shapewear before. Using the internet site was easy to see all the products available as they are in their own category. In store is a little harder, although they are vaguely altogether I wasn't sure if I'd seen it all as other items were mixed up in it.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

I looked online, decided I wanted the 'wear your own bra slip' and so headed into town to buy. They didnt have any available, and only limited selection of the (inferior looking) cupless slip not in my size. I waited quite a while at the ordering til only to be told I would be better off looking online at home as they only had the same items available to them to order!! What is the point of an ordering till??

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

No, not enough choice at all, very limited in particular for larger cup sizes. After the trip to the store I continues to look online but there was nothing available in my size. I could have bought knickers but I already own these from M&S and so was trying to buy something new. I was very disappointed in the size availability- both in terms of what was available in larger sizes, and also the stock availability of these items! Colours also very limited and quite boring. The slip and bodies all look the same.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

I managed to finally order some items online but unfortunately didnt realise that they had been billed to my old address. 2 weeks later I checked on the status of the order and discovered this. I hadn't had any emails to say they had been dispatched or I might have noticed this error (on my part I know). I have bought items before- the waist cincher, thigh & waist cincher, knickers and bandeau full slip. These items I think are all very expensive, it does deter me from buying in the first place.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

(I will comment on items previously ordered as still waiting to reorder) I LOVE the bandeau full slip, it is very comfy, smoothing and well made. I love the choice of straps also. The waist cincher rolls up and down, and the thigh & waist cinchers also roll down- they never seem long enough on the back- they need to come up further to sit under or over bra.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

Much more variety, plenty more larger cup sizes. I tend to look at bravissimo.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

Maybe, but I wouldn't be too enthusiastic

[mrspink27]

Should have said "Thanks for the chance to take part and the added bonus of the voucher"! Was a treat to have something specifically for me and not spent on the DC's, DH or house!

Thanks MN and M and S!

[mrspink27]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

Yes - had bought M&S shapewear before - very small selection in my local store, but easy to find what I had in mind on the website. I have previously bought tummy control pants and tummy control vest with secret support.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

I tried to buy instore, but the range available was quite limited in comparison to the range on offer on the website. I would have preferred to buy instore so I could try before I bought but also like the flexibility of being able to see the full range online before I tried to buy instore. Like previous posters I like to be able to feel the fabrics as anything too thick or Grannyish is a no-no!

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

I think there could be more colours available - but ultimately it is shapewear and probably not for public consumption! I guess the standard white, black and neutral is probably a good starting point as will be suitable to go underneath most outfits. There was a limited range of smaller sizes instore and online - even smaller ladies have wobbly bits which need sucking in!!


Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
I bought Flatter-Me High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping Knickers and Flatter-Me Lace Back Brazilian Light Shaping Knickers both £7.50 which was a fair price and I liked the extra pink and purple options available - although I bought black.
I also spent a bit extra and bought Body Solutions Bandeau Full Slip Firm Control which was £27.50 but only available in black. Again I was happy with the price especially compared to branded shapewear products like Spanx etc.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

Satisfied with items - light control knickers were comfortable for every day and the full slip was bearable underneath my special occasion outfit for the duration of the event!

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

I would have liked more product availability in store and also better advised staff on what was available as the two I spoke to were not very helpful - although could have caught them off guard. Also a wider range of smaller sizes please. I would definitely look at M&S if buying in the future - especially if shopping for something specific like under a wedding outfit etc.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

I would recommend M&S shapewear to friends - purely on price and value. The products I tried did what I was expecting and certainly gave me an added confidence boost which my husband commented on!

[FaceCrack]

I bought flatter-me high rise lace light shaping shorts and gorgeous waist high control lace knickers.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I have previous bought shapewear tights, which I use for work. I use the firm control tights which I love. I had a look before I went shopping online which gave me an idea of what to get. However, in store I could not find anyone to ask for guidance. I did find what I had in mind.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I would shop in store only as I like to see what it looks like. I also like to feel the material as shape wear seems to be fairly thick and I worry about getting hot.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
I felt the knickers were all quite bland colours. I would have liked brighter colours ? this would make them seem less granny-ish to me! There was excellent stock availability and I could get the size I wanted.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes great value for money compared to spanx and other brands.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
I thought they did the job pretty well. The high waist control ones rolled down under my tummy a bit which left a slight bump under my dress so I had to hoist them up a few times. Other than that, great. I liked the light control knickers for day to day wear.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
Nope, I will be looking at the swim wear next. However, a friend of mine recently looked at the shaping swimwear and felt it was a bit frumpy. I would consider John Lewis and Debenha,s.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, good value for money and a range of styles.

Thanks for the voucher.

[Charleymouse]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
No, I have bought other items of this type from other retailers (Debenhams & Speedo) but not Shapewear before. I bought online and some things were easy to spot and others came up using different searches. Some items I had not considered ie stockings/swimsuit (even though I already have a Speedo tummy control swimsuit). I am not actually sure I bought qualifying items but I am hoping so. I found it a little confusing actually.
I bought
Tummy Control Bandeau Medium Leg Swimsuit
15 Denier Medium Support Stockings
2 Pack - Light Control High Rise Seam-free Shorts

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I bought online but had a brief look instore, I usually prefer to purchase in store so I can try on and I am a touchy person and like to feel fabric, especially of underwear. However M&S offer such a good returns policy I am shopping more and more online as if I don't like an item I simply return it. I like how you can buy online and colllect in-store at little local food M&S.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
There is a good choice and selection but then some of the items I wanted were not available so had to go back to the drawing board. I would also like some brighter colours as my white always end up grey and nude/white/black is a tad boring I was very tempted by the "aubergine" item. I would like some sort of vest/camisole in smaller cup sizes as the only one seemed to be for DD+ cup sizes; that is an item I would get some use of under tops/shirts. I looked at a body and the cup size was not available so chose other items instead. Some of the control pants were also not available in the size/colour I needed.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes especially the stockings as there are 2 pairs for £5

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
Overall quite happy. Time will tell a little as these are the sort of pants I do not wear everyday and will want to see some longevity out of them.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
The only item I would like to see is a "bump band" it is something I bought when pregnant from H&M and I still wear ante-natally as it smooths over the lumps between tops and bottoms quite nicely. Something similar in a more supportive (non-maternity) way would be great and it is surprising in cold weather how having an extra layer round your midriff keeps you warm.
I would consider Debenhams as they seem very knowledgeable in the underwear dept. and sometimes in M&S fitting rooms I have had not such a great fitting experience.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
I would recommend M&S as a retailer both online and in-store and would recommend the range of Shapewear also. Good value, comfort, overall experience and returns policy.

Thank-you Mumsnet and M&S

[MudandRoses]

I bought firm control briefs and a strapless bra. I bought them instore in Brighton. The briefs were defintely part of the range but I wasn't sure about the bra. I asked an attendant whether it was and she said she thought so but it wasn't clear what was part of the range and what wasn't. I had to search for a while and finally ask someone before I managed to locate any Shapewear items.
There was a pretty small selection to choose from and it was all a bit functional looking - flesh coloured, not very sexy. They didn't have the size I wanted in black or white. I was shocked at the expense too!
The bra is comfortable and functions well as a strapless bra but the straps detach very easily and came undone when I was out and about a couple of times.
The briefs do shape well but are on the small side of size 10. But I suppose that's the point!
I don't think I'd recommend Shapewear as opposed to M+S underwear generally, as there didn;t seem to be anything outstanding about it but if a friend said they were looking for control pants or similar (not sure how likely that would be to come up in conversation, but still...) I would mention that they stocked them and they were fine. M+S is still good for undies, but I do think rather too expensive.

[CupcakeQueen]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I had not bought from M&S before but had bought shapewear elsewhere.
I found the range very easy to find and was easy to navigate around.
Yes i found just what i was looking for.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

I bought online as my nearest M&S clothes shop is 50 miles away.
I am often near a shop but wasn't when the voucher arrived so spent it online instead. I prefer to buy online as i can browse and compare at my leisure.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

I was impressed by the choice available. All the products I wanted were in stock although I was interested in the Wear Your Own Bra slip but there was low stock.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

Having bought other shapewear in the past (Spanx) i thought the M&S range was very good value.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

Overall I was really impressed with my items. I spent over the value of the voucher.

Firm Control Slip Is really comfortable and useful under dresses and tunics.

Seam Free Knickers Really comfortable and no vpl at all. Like wearing nothing at all!

High Rise Lace Shorts So nice to have pretty full brief pants. These again are no vpl but the gusset is a bit bumpy (!) so not all that comfortable.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

It would be useful to have all the items available in white/nude and black. Although i was happy with the colour choices in the items i chose, there were some items only available in one colour.
The range offered more than i knew was available in shapewear so I don't think there are any items missing from the range.
I'd normally by shapewear from a department store but i'll be back to M&S in the future.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

Definitely. The seam free knickers are great, i'll be buying them again. The price and choice was great so I'll be back and I'll be telling my friends too.

Thank you Mumsnet and M&S.

[ClaimedByMe]

I got a 2 pack of light control no vpl high rise assorted full briefs, a 2 pack of lace trim high leg knickers anda 2 pack of light control cotton rich high rise shorts.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I have never bought shapewear from anywhere before. I bought them online and it was easy to find the range and read the descriptions of the garments.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

I bought online, its easier for me, I buy most things online but would have no issue buying in store.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

There was enough styles, could possibly do with more colours and I am a size 8 and there wasnt manysize 8 items in stock. As I have never tried anything like shapewear before I had no idea what I wanted and just got what I could in my size.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

I think they were, the quality was good.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

I was satisfied with them.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

More cotton items would be good and colours too. I would shop at the retailer that had the product I wanted.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

I would, the quality was great, the products did what it said on the description.

[MrsMeow]

I bought the Ultimate Magic Body Define Waist Cincher
£29.50.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
I've never bought shapewear from M&S before. I looked online with a view to buying it and was impressed with the amount of info about the products and also found the huge amounts of customers feedback helpful.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I wanted to buy online but was disappointed to find that every product I tried to buy was out of stock. This meant a delay in buying anything as I have to travel to the next town to buy clothes from M&S.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
No, I was really disappointed. I couldn't find anything that I wanted (I was after knickers that I could wear every day and/or a control vest) in the size or colour that I needed. I am impressed with the item I bought but it was definitely a second or third choice.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes, quite reasonable. Cheaper than the Spanx ones in the same style.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
I'm very satisfied. They do what they say on the tin!

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
Maybe more stock availability, instore and online?

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
Yes, already have :)

Thankyou M&S and Mumsnet for the voucher!

[london]

Q1 and 3. There was much more on-line than in the shop. So a good choice online, less so in the shop

Q2.I'd normally prefer to try underwear on and choose it in the shopm, as often difficult tonline to predict sized accurately
Q3.
Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

Q5.I bought a black control body in size 12 - which manages to be pretty as well as shaping. It is light control though so doesn't transform me into a miracle figure! I am tall, but it was long enough which was impressive, and comfortable enough to wear for several hours. I also brought some control pants which don't seem to make any difference underneath clothes

Q6. I was impressed that some of the range was attractive and didn't feel too scarily redolent of Middle Age! On the other hand, it probably is only the heavy duty stuff that actually 'shapes' to any significant degree!

Q7. Not the pants! But for the body, I think so. I thought the price was fair, the garment comfortable and attractive.

[sweetandtenderhooligan]

I bought the Tummy Control Colour Block Swimsuit and a pair of Firm Control Selvedge black knickers

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
No, I'd never bought Shapewear from M&S. I found it quite easy to research the different garments, in fact I was pleased to see a couple of swimsuits there, one of which I purchased with my voucher!

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I bought the items online. I would've preferred to go to the shop as I like to see/touch/hold what I'm buying (especially underwear as the sizes can vary). However, there was obviously far more choice online.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
Not as much larger sizes as I'd hoped for, but I still managed to find something I was happy with.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Some items seemed very expensive but I chose less expensive ones!

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
The briefs are great, they're a good fit and they do what they say they'd do. The swimsuit was a slight disappointment in terms of the length. I have a long back and it was a bit tight round the shoulders and drags my boobs down a bit.
Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from? Maybe make the all-in-ones a bit longer (or have a "tall" range?) and a variation on colours perhaps. I tend to get Shapewear from Evans or Sloggi and will continue to do so, but also M&S now too!

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
I would if it came up. But I doubt it ever will.

[AnotherMuesliPleaseBarman]

I bought a 'bargain' 2-pack of control pants (one black, one nude) and another, more expensive pair of 'magic knickers'. Sorry - can't specify exact product at this moment.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

Yes, I have used Shapewear from M&S before, with mixed results. Find the high tummy pants, that end just under boobs, peel away and roll down. The lower tummy ones don't seem high enough to cover whole tummy.

For this product test, I found investigating the available options confusing as only some of the products in the range were actually labelled with the name 'Shapewear'. I felt the need to look at the products in person rather than online, but never had much time to do so due to always having a baby with me. I didn't quite find what I had in mind. The store I was looking in seemed to have limited stock with many sizes missing.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

Although I am a fan of online shopping, I looked in store for this. I like to be able to feel the fabric and I think it's essential to be able to try something like this on, ie. where it's harder to estimate the fit simply by looking, and where the garment needs to feel especially snug

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

I think there are plenty of different options. I found stock availability more of a difficulty. Lots missing from shelves.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

*The 2-pack control pants, at under £10 were good value as so comfortable and seemed to work pretty well. I don't think the more expensive options represent such good value, though.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

Fairly satisfied, especially with cheaper control pants as strong and simple. Also because fabric was matt and I don't necessarily want shiny, slippery underwear when not wearing a silky dress but, say, jeans. Disappointed with lack of knowledgeable help from shop assistant. She seemed to want to put me off buying the 2-pack control briefs, repeating that their more 'senior customers' favoured them. Implied that I was buying 'old lady knickers'. FWIW I'm in my late thirties and have had 2 babies..

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

A range which specifically addresses the difficult-to-shift 'lower tummy shelf' that typically appears following a caesarean section. If there are already bras for women who have undergone breast surgery, why not? In terms of other retailers, I'd probably look in John Lewis as a first alternative.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

yes, at least for special occasions when even a little added support can make a difference. But not for someone dieting, who intends to go down a size or more. Too pricey to keep buying in different sizes.

[Elspeth]

I bought Waist Sculpt? Firm Control Bonded Knickers in black and Flatter-Me? High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping Knickers in dark pink, light pink and black.

Q1. I have bought Shapewear before. Online it was easy enough to filter for Shapewear and I was impressed how many products there were. I found what I was looking for.

Q2. I shopped online and also went to look in my local M&S. The assistant was very helpful but they did not have much of a range in the Rugby store so I ordered online and picked up from the store where I tried the items on before taking them home.

Q3. Yes, I found everything I wanted. I wanted knickers and there was plenty of choice and in the colours I wanted.

Q4. Yes, I got a huge amount for my £35!

Q5. Very pleased. The bigger control pants flatten everything nicely, and the lacy light control knickers are pretty and just great everyday pants!

Q6. Maybe some red garments otherwise the range is very extensive. If I wanted good quality underwear I'd go to M&S or Bravissimo.

Q7. Yes, I liked the colours, quality and choice of styles. Thanks for picking me for this trial!

[stuckmum]

I bought a holding in slip, and some control pants with my gift card, and then later got a waist-sculpting half-slip.

1. I had never bought shapewear before, used to actually have a figure rather than lumps and bumps sticking out in the wrong place! I looked up shapewear on the M&S website, to see what there was, and found something that looked like what I wanted, but decided to go to the shop to buy it. All the shapewear was in one place online as far as I could see, so that gave me a fairly good idea of what was available.
   

1. I did some research online, but went to my local M&S's to actually buy the items. I prefer buying in person because that way I can hold the things up to me to get a better idea of whether they'll fit me or not. I was hoping to get measured in the store, but when I asked for advice on fit, was just told to try the size I normally wear. Even when I explained that I've put on weight recently, no-one offered to measure me. In the event, I think I did get the right size, but that was just by choosing one on my own.
   

1. There did seem to be a good selection online, but not so much in either of the stores that I visited. When I was in the store closest to my home the item I had chosen was only available in sizes 8 and 10. I asked if more would be coming in stock, and was directed to the ordering desk where I would be able to order it in. Unfortunately when the girl at the ordering desk looked it up they were out of stock online as well and she was unable to tell me if they would be coming back in again or not. She seemed to just be using the same system as you would for online ordering from home. I think it might be a good idea to have a supplemental system for instore, so that they can tell you if things are likely to be coming back into stock or not, I have had this problem with the food department before, they can tell you that something's not in stock, but not if there's any chance they will be getting more in. I would think that if something goes out of stock quickly, that is probably an indication that it is popular, and it might be worth getting more made, especially something like shapewear which is hardly likely to go out of fashion in a few months. In the end I went to a different store, but was still unable to get my original choice, so bought something else instead.
   

1. I think that the shapewear items I bought seemed expensive, but for what they do are probably not. I don't know how much spanx or other brands cost, but imagine they are probably more expensive. So, having worn these, they do seem to be good value for money.
   

1. I am impressed by the items i bought, they seem to do what they promise, which is pretty impressive given my shape just now. I was mostly just disappointed with the situation regarding the stock levels and information available about whether things would be available again.
   

1. I don't know much about shapewear, not having bought any before, but I think that the best thing M&S could do is to listen to customers, monitor stock levels, and reorder popular items that go out of stock quickly. I guess if I was going to get some more I might try spanx, simply because I have heard of them before, but on the whole I am happy with the items I have already.
   

1. It already has, I wore my waist-sculpting half-slip under a slinky dress when I was out with friends last weekend, and they commented on my shape. I had to confess that I was cheating, but they were very impressed with the results from the product.

[WilliamItWasReallyNothing]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I've never bought any shapewear before. i found both stores I visited very disorganised and so it wasn't very easy to see what was available.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I only shopped in store as I prefer to see the fabric of underwear before buying

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

There were lots of products but unfortunately displayed in such a jumbled way it wasn't possible to compare across the range easily. The colours were fairly dull and limited. The first store i visited (REading) didn't have my size in many products so my choice was limited.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

I think they are over priced as the designs are fairly unattractive. I suppose they may wash and last well so that might justify the price tag.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

I wasn't impressed with either of the control pants I bought. The first was an ultimate control brief but was seriously diggy and rough at the waist band - very uncomfortable to wear. The second was a pair of light control pants - these were prettier but don't do much to pull in my tummy.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

Product names were very confusing, all very similar and difficult to compare products because of this. I don't think I will be shopping for shapewear again as I was so disappointed with the results

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

No I wouldn't recommend - the products were disappointing in terms of design and fit. The stores were also dis-organised and (I haven't been to M&S in a long time) seemingly old fashioned so I didn't enjoy my shopping experience.

[mentalpup]

I bought the Ultimate Magic Secret Support? Body Define DD-G Body

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
Never bought M&S shapewear before. I firstly looked online to see what was there and what i wanted to go and find and try on. There was a much wider range than i anticipated.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I did both - firstly looked online to see what the choice was like. Then went to store as I needed to be measured. (3 kids in 5 years, no idea of the correct size I actually needed!) This is when i encountered my first problem - I am a busy mum of three who also works, so popped into my local M&S at lunchtime. I apparently could not be fitted until the next appt which was at 3:30pm that day. I went on the hunt on the shop floor and asked someone to fit me and they did. Very irritated that i was going to have to wait for an appointment just to be measured though!

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
I thought that the choice available was fantastic. Colour was possibly a bit limited.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
The item I bought I feel fits me very well and certainly improves my figure!

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
Overall I am very impressed with the range, and hope to be back! I don't really know of other retailers that I would go to tbh.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?
yes

[blondieminx]

Thanks you MNHQ for picking me as a tester, and M&S for the voucher :)

I brought the lacy body and Flatter-Me shorts

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I had brought shapewear from M&S in the past, when DD was 5 months old I had a wedding to go to and needed some scaffolding control pants for my mummy tummy... my tummy is squidgy as my stomach muscles separated badly during pregnancy and have never gone back despite physio . So I needed up-to-my-boobs type pants!

I have also brought control tights from M&S before. They are good and wash well.

I found approximately what I wanted online easily. However the link for the shapewear styleguide on the main site didn't work ("Sorry! We can't find that page" was the message I got).

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

When I took part in this test I remembered that the selection was quite small in my local store (Colchester) so looked online to see the full range. Having said that I like to check the fabrics too. But because I already had some M&S shapewear and the photos on M&S's website are usually fairly accurate I was confident / happy to buy online. I was VERY impressed with the M&S mobile site on my iphone, really clear, fast and easy to use.

I chose the collect from store delivery option so I didn't have to wait in for the delivery but could run some other errands in town and get my order at the same time. I also picked up some food and cards, and a new shirt for DH while I was in store.

I arrived at the desk at 5.20pm with a laden buggy to the Customer Orders desk to see 5 staff membes see me approach the desk.... and then all as a group go round a corner "out the back". I coughed and said excuse me and one lady came back out but carried on her converstation with her colleague which didn't really make me feel like I was a valued customer, I have to say! However overall the staff at my local store (particularly in food) are usually very good.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

I got the 2 items I wanted in my size with no problems at all (body in a 34C, knickers in a 12). I would have liked to see some more colours in the shapewear range - others have already covered that point extensively upthread .

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

The knickers are good value as they do what I want them to. The body I ordered has nasty cheap plastic poppers and I expected better from a £25 item, especially one from M&S tbh.


Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

The Flatter-Me knickers are FABULOUS and probably worth the money £7.50 if they stay in good nick (only worn them twice - will be interested to see how well they last when they've been washed and washed and washed...) and I will be treating myself to some more of those I think though! They hold me in exactly where I need it and give a great silhouette with no VPL, thank you M&S.

However the body is a bit disappointing. It's a popper issue. The poppers feel very cheap and one of them doesn't want to close without turning myself into a contortionist. The rest of the garment is nice, perhaps it's a teeny bit on the short side in the length (but I'm minded to forgive that as I am tall!) but the poppers sit in an uncomfortable place and they just feel so cheap, flimsy and plasticy. I would hate to try and battle with the darn things after a few ! Such a shame, as it looks nice on.

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?

I personally would like to see more matching bras to go with the knickers (linked when you view the knickers so they're easy to find!) and also I would like to see a wider range of colours (I'd like a pale blue or a red!).

I have shopped for shapewear at Debenhams in the past but what I wanted wasn't in stock in my size.

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

I'd definitely recommend the Flatter-Me pants, yes. I have also recommended the tights in the past (brought before this trial).

[snice]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?.

Have bought shapewear once before but not from M and S. I started by looking online-I expected to find an obvious section called Shapewear online but it wasn't as simple as I thought it would be. There seem to be a lot of different 'brand' names for the different products. I looked for swimwear as other people mentioned having bought it for the product test but it didn't all seem to come up in the search-some did, some didn't but I couldn't see what made one officially shapewear and the other not.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?

I decided to look instore-its quite a large modern branch so I expected there to be a decent range. I wanted to get a look at the fabric/feel the garments prior to buying.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?

The displays in the store were more baffling than the website-descriptions included secret support/light control/magic body/body solutions/tummy control/flatter-me/ultimate magic!!! There is no uniformity across the ranges-in my opinion you need a symbol on the packaging like those denoting say the strength of a curry-different amounts of stars or something depending on how firm the support offered. I couldn't find all the things I wanted in my sizes so decided to go home and look online again.
Incidentally, I was not the only baffled customer that day-I chatted with a couple of women whilst browsing who were unable to work out what they wanted.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?

I ended up buying this 2 pack of knickers and this tummy control swimsuit
I think they are pretty good value -the two pack of knickers especially.

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?

The knickers are fine-very comfy and reasonably attractive for shapewear compared with at lot of the stuff available. They are described as light control and that is accurate-they have an effect but to be honest they wont pull in a pot belly. Perhaps I should have bought firm control!

The swimsuit is a disaster and will be going back. Size wise its ok-I ordered a 12 and it feels fine from the waist down. However its much too short in the body and designed for someone flat chested-I am spilling out all over (am 36D).

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range? Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment? If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
Improve/unify the descriptions. Provide light/medium/firm control items. Offer some more colours. I would probably buy from M and S again and also try Debenhams and John Lewis
Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend? If so, why? If not, why not?

Would recommend the pants-but its not a conversation I'm planning on having.
Thanks for offering me this trial anyway-