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

[AnnaK]

I already own a piece of shapewear ? the thigh and stomach cincher ?knickers? in black. I looked at the range online but found it overwhelming and it seemed to duplicate itself a lot.

I looked online but purchased in store as I wanted to try the item on. I also like to feel the fabric before I buy underwear.

There was plenty of choice. I really like the nude colour! And there was no problem finding my size.

Can?t decide if they were good value or not. £35 on a pair of knickers??

I loved the item I bought. It held my stomach in but not the saddlebags so much. The bottom of the legs has been improved since I bought the original ones as ther is no VPL on the thighs now. I also tried knickers with a tummy control thing but they did nothing for me as the tummy control thing didn't come high enough.

I think M&S have it covered. Wouldn?t go elsewhere ? can?t be bothered when they have everything I need!

Yes I would!! I was showing it off at the big party I went to!

[TiddlerCat]

I haven't bought Shapewear from M&S before. I searched on the website and it was very easy to find, I debated a swimsuit for a while but as I have just bought one and they were rather pricey opted for some knickers! Like others I chose the website as shopping with 2 small boys is hard at the best of times let-alone for underwear!

Great choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc - stock availability good and managed to get what I wanted in my size. The 'flatter-me' knickers were 7.50ea and I braved a waist cincher (Gok Wan stylie) at 19.50. All I thought were reasonably priced.

I was particularly impressed with the Flatter-Me? High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping Knickers, whilst the Brazilian style takes a bit of getting used to (I used to be a thong wearer but now opt for low rise short things) they are surprisingly comfortable and have a reassuring amount of support without stopping you breathe.

The Flatter-Me? High Rise Lace Light Shaping Shorts are very nice, pretty and comfy but don't offer much in the way of support.

Now.. the Heritage Floral Lace Waist Cincher - I am a bit scared of . To start with I was convinced it wouldn't pass over my thighs but in the name of research kept pulling and it did without coming apart at the seams. It has good support, is very pretty and feels comfortable, although I haven't worn it for a long period. If M&S were really clever they would offer a matching maternity bra for us breastfeeding mums who have managed to get out of the house and into a nice outfit.

I do like M&S for knickers but have struggled with their bras for a while.. when not breastfeeding I am a 32D which I can never find in store. I would recommend the light control knickers though, they provide just enough without squashing everything up and over the top.

[BerryLellow]

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 one, maybe two pairs of control knickers before. Before going to the shop I had a browse online and could find things fairly easily although I do find the M&S website quite slow and clunky

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

Browsed online, bought in store. I need to try on to be honest, as I don't trust sizes - I have small hips but fairly sizeable bust for my frame.

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 the variety of choice is reasonably good, in store there was a fair bit to look at, but when it came to the thing bought there was literally only the one in black. Wasn't properly labelled (missing the little card bit from the hanger)

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

I bought the one item, a black control slip with built in bra. It was £29.50, I'm on the fence about it's value as yet - I'm not sure I would have parted with that much of my own cash to try it out, but if it turns out to be really useful it may well be worth every penny. The things I've tried it on with in the comfort of my house have looked good, but the test will be a day or evening out I think.

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?

So far, so good. I bought the only size that was available in store in this particular item, as I wanted the black not nude. Luckily it fits! It feels very comfortable (so far) and seems to be good quality, quite sturdy!

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 problem I have with a lot of the bodies, is that to get my cup size right, I end up with acres of material flapping around my bottom. I don't know how you could address this - perhaps different body sizes, e.g. 36DMedium etc. The wear your own bra slips are a good idea, but the one I tried on just looked...odd, possibly again as I needed a smaller body than the gap allowed for to put a bra in!

I'd like to see something a bit less basic looking, perhaps some pattern or print, I don't want Ann Summers style tack , but something prettier, that doesn't scream 'Nana's undergarments!' Like some of the nude pieces.

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, I think I probably would. It's certainly the most comprehensive selection you could find on the high street, and on the whole the staff are attentive and could help you find the right thing.

[mrsskefton]

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?

First bought some way before kids when barely a spare tyre vs now! Started looking before applying for the test, easy to research online and see reviews from others which helped me decided to go instore. Was sad to see I couldn't find something that would shape bum and thighs without cutting into belly!

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 initially but reviews were off putting so I decided that I would go instore. Glad I did - it was a nightmare! I am top heavy, I wear D, DD or E cup depending on the cut of the underwear, with the shapewear I wanted (full body contour) I found this to be a problem as to fit by chest it was loose (well fitted to skin but tight and could take hold and pull it) on the body - despite carrying 3stone more than I should. Not sure that that was good! Also, despite not "holding me in" I had a back roll which I was hoping to lose!

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 could not find what I wanted, although I want to improve my waist, flatten my belly and I wanted to also cover upper thighs as where I carry extra weight my legs rub when I walk. I often wear my husbands sport "long boxers" from M&S to overcome this and hoped to find a shapewear version. I would have liked items (other than the new lacy knickers) in a colour other than white, black or nude, it might have made it feel a bit sexier. I tried on the waist clincher in 2 sizes (neither were suitable), I tried on the Ultimate Magic Body Define Waist & Thigh Cincher (again in 2 sizes) and Ultimate Magic Secret Suport, Gorgeous Waist Sculpt Firm Control Underwired Body, Waist Sculpt Bonded Full Slip, Solutions-Control-Multiway-Panelled-Dress, Ultimate Magic Thigh Slimmer. NONE of these fitted me as I'd expected or hoped - however having thin models who have no excess body fat doesn't really help when you're feeling a little depressed, hot and bothered in a changing room and having no joy!

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Not really, I am finding my Light control no VPL High Rise Briefs uncomfortable, they roll down under jeans and skirts (but not leggings). Also, I would not usually pay that much for underwear.
I do, however, like my Flatter-Me-Brazilian-Light-Shaping-Knickers although I do not feel they do anything but I feel good in them so don't care!

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?
As mentioned in Q5 - they are not very comfortable, the no VPL High Rise Briefs do get hot and the seam on the gusset is too thick and has caused skin irritation. The Brazilian Light Shaping are good though, they are very soft and 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?

As mentioned, a female equivalent of the mens sports long line lycra shorts but that do not dig in on the waist (as I found with the Ultimate Magic Thigh Slimmer). A better range of strapless/multi position all in ones incorporating bra, waist, bum and thigh but with better fit and easier way to put on allowing for hot weather. Incorporate a little more cotton if possible.... I saw something I wanted in Debenhams and may be tempted to try them next time I go.

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'm not convinced I would, my experience in the changing room made me feel more depressed than I was before I started looking for "shape wear".
However the Brazilian knickers are nice but not sure how much they'd do even for an almost flat belly!

[smokinaces]

I have to add, the reason I didn't go for a body is similar to a pp. I have a short body, with large breasts and to get a good fit round the boobs the body just is too long and big. Maybe something similar to bravissimo, with their curvy/really curvy - like a 34e petite or short or tall or something. Body style all in one underwear just doesn't work for me however much I would like it to :-(

[Blackduck]

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 bought some pants previously which I found cut into me and I was less than keen on. I used the website to see what was available and was specifically looking for shorts to hold in my less than firm stomach.

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 on line to see what was available, but bought in-store. I prefer buying underwear in-store because I want to be able to feel the fabric.

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?

Stock was a bit limited in-store, but I got the sizes I wanted.

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

Yes, I thought they were good value ? I bought these and this The double pack of shorts was particularly 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?

I love the shorts ? so much so I went back and bought another pack. Whilst I know the only way to really deal with my gut is some serious time with Jilian and some weight loss, they hold it in and give a smooth line without being uncomfortable. The pants I bout previously dug into the tops of my legs and waist and were very uncomfortable, these are fab. The body I haven?t really road tested yet, but think it will be great under dresses.
My only gripe was the lack of colour ways. I personally hate ?nude? and could only buy black/nude pack. These shorts do look somewhat surgical anyway, but in the nude colour way they are positively ?surgical support garment?!

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 think the range is pretty good and covers the bases. Would buy again.

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, I think it gives a nice clean line to your clothes and as long as your are realistic about what it can/can?t achieve it is a good range with something for everyone.

[hellhasnofurylikeahungrywoman]

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 but have bought from other places. I shopped on-line and it was very easy to navigate around the items on offer, I found 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?

Shopped on line. Much prefer on line shopping as I hate all the marlarky around popping into town as our nearest shopping centre is 30 minutes drive away and the parking is expensive and difficult to get to.

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?

Plenty of choice and stock availability was good.

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

Great value for money. I've only bought budget shape-wear until now which is thick and uncomfortable to wear. The M&S items are light, soft and easy to wear.

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?

Very satisfied. The items are comfortable and non-restrictive. I wasn't disappointed by anything.

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 thought the range was great, I don't know what could be added to be honest. I think any future shapewear will come from M&S now.

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 prices were higher than I would usually pay but well worth the extra if you ask me.

[AnyoneForTennis]

Q4. I'm finding the light control shirts roll up on the kegs too much still. Was a problem under jeans, so tried them wearing other clothing and it's still a problem for me. Not noticeable to look at, but uncomfortable all the same.

[AnyoneForTennis]

Q5.... Not disappointed with the waist cincher! Slightly with the shorts, but everything else has been fabulous. What's the point in dieting now!?

[NeverFearWonderWomanIsHere]

Q1. I've never bought M&S shapewear before. I first looked in store (even though I was intending to buy online anyway) but was a bit disappointed that they didn't really have much choice in my local M&S. When I looked on the website I found the range was quite vast! I liked that there were customer reviews on each item that I could read before buying. And yes I did buy what I had in mind, I bought the Ultimate Magic Body Define Waist & Thigh Cincher in black for £35.

Q2. I looked in store but bought online. I prefer to buy online because I'm a big girl and I get paranoid that people see me buying shapewear and think I'm fooling myself to think it will work. I feel safer buying online.

Q3. I do think there is lots of choice yes, I think there could be more colours available though. For example the Body Definer that I bought was only available in black or nude, I think a few more colours would be nice. There was lots in stock and I could get my size.

Q4. Yes I think it was very good quality for money, (although it was a little on the expensive side TBH). It lived up to what I would expect from a brand like M&S.

Q5.I was very satisfied with it, it sucked me right in so much I thought my jeans were going to fall down. I was a bit disappointed that if slouched at all it seemed to give me a big bulge over the top of it. I to sort of walk tall IYSWIM.

Q6. There's nothing that springs to mind that I think they could improve on, no. If I was buying shapewear again I would most definitely buy from M&S.

Q7. And yes I would recommend M&S shapewear to a friend. I think it's good value for money, lives up to the M&S brand and does was it says on the tin.

[stressheaderic]

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. My SIL buys a lot of Spanx stuff and showed me some which got my interest. I literally spent HOURS on the website, browsing each item, reading the reviews, as I felt clueless, really didn't know what I needed or wanted. I watched the online video guides which were handy but all a bit middle-class and tbh, pretty pointless using a slim and gorgeous model who prob didn't need the product at all. I was also confused because the video clips said to buy your usual size but a great number of the reviews said to size up for comfort. I think I found what I wanted. I also wanted a cami but I'm only small of bust and worried about the flattening effect.

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 shopped online, like I do with most things. Our M&S is only tiny and the range was very limited. I like to browse at home after DD has gone to bed. I collected instore for free and received excellent customer service.

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 choice was huge, almost too much for me! I am a size 10 and everything I looked at was available. With regard to colours, I understand why white nude and black are used, but I'd like to see maybe a soft grey, a pearl, cream, pale pink maybe.

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

Some items seemed very expensive, and I wasn't sure why. I bought 3 things: Secret Support Waist Cincher £19.50, Secret Support Tummy Control knickers 2 pack £12.50 and Secret Support tummy control knickers 2 pack fromt he Outstanding Value range £9.50 and I got the £5 off code so I think I got superb value for money.

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've worn each item for a day. They are comfy, well-fitted and seem to do the job. I'm impressed. They did what I thought they'd do.

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 probably have a nose in Matalan aswell. I like the M&S range. What would sway me to choose it over others is a slightly more feminine look, and not so functional/ugly. Maybe a tiny discreet bow somewhere, or pattern in the fabric. I can't wear lace, I get a rash, so any pretty alternative is something I'd jump on. When I told DP I was testing underwear, his eyes lit up....but his face soon dropped when he saw what I'd bought haha.

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 already have recommended it to a few friends. It is cheaper than the specialist ranges like Spanx but works better than the Primark etc alternative.

Thanks for letting me be involved, it was much appreciated.

[CoffeeGoneColdAgain]

With the voucher I bought Waist Sculp Firm Control Bonded Knickers x 2 so put a little cash towards them :)

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?
A.. Never purchased from M&S before, very easy to navigate online and find what i wanted.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
A.. I did both, looked online for what choice and styles they had and bought instore. I prefer to buy instore for things like this.

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?
A.. Personally there was plenty of choice in my store, perhaps more colours but no major gripes.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
A.. Very much so, I bought 2 of the same item and put a little cash to the voucher, very pleased with the result.

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?
A.. Very satisfied. does exactly what it says 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?
A..Nothing springs to mind, overall impressed with service, very helpful member of staff who showed my around the range. Doubt I would buy elsewhere, M&S seem to have it in the bag!

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?
A.. already have, my Mum has already been and bought the cami vest, and some knickers!

Thanks for letting me do the product test M&S and Mumsnet :)

[OddBoots]

I bought Firm Control Selvedge Panelled Body and some 15 Denier Medium Support Shine Tights to wear together.

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, but years ago when I was slimmer. I found it easy to browse the website and there was a great range available. I also looked in store and saw quite a bit of the range and was able to get a feel for the different styles.

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 in store but ordered online to collect in store as I knew I only had one chance to get to the shop so wanted to be sure I could get something to test. I prefer buying online, mainly because I am a bit shy.

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 plenty of choice but many things were out of stock in my size, both online and in store. I would have liked a greater range of things with straps or loops to go over or link to a separate bra though. Things roll down easily on me (must be my silky smooth skin, eh! )

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

I think the items were very good value, they weren't the most expensive item but they did work well together. They did the job of supporting me in the right places and making me feel more confident in a dress so that has to be worth it!

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 very satisfied with the item, I would have preferred something with which I could wear my own bra but I did feel that the bra in this supported me well. I found it helpful that the poppered body could go over the tights (in a thong-tights-body order) and stopped them creeping down without impeding me when nature called (sorry to be a bit TMI but these things are important to me)

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 nice if you had more long line/high waist things where support knickers could loop onto a bra because we don't all come in the same shape when it comes to breast size and hip/waist 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 think I would, it would be more a recommendation to look at the range rather than for a specific thing because I think we all have different needs and problem areas but the fact there is a good selection of types and that which I have trid seems to work would be enough for me to suggest it.

[victorias66]

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 and it was easy to find out about the range but many were out of stock in my size (38E)

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

online due to distance to local store mostly and then it is small with poor choice.

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?

stock availability poor in many items. colour range could be larger too. I could not get online or in store the items I actually wanted.

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?

expensive but worth it. The bra top I bought in the flatter me range ( I was not sure if this was part of shapewear but was told in store it was) is very comfortable and flattering.

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 shop for these at M and S again. I shop there a lot and know the quality is good. More availbility though please!!!

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 for the reasons given above.

[Jamdoughnutfiend]

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 shapewear before - never even thought about it before this test. Was expecting big knickers and not much else.

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 went into the store to buy the shapewear as there is no one home to take a delivery at the moment. I usually prefer to buy underwear in-store, I like to be able to see and touch the textures and materials

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 ended up going to 2 stores, as the availablility in my size was so bad. They had nothing apart from knickers in the first shop and I was keen to get a control slip for wearing under dresses. 2nd store had 1 slip in a 14, so I bought that. None of the bodies were suitable for me as I am 6'1 and very long in the body - can't wear M&S swimsuits either

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

The control slip was £27. I would not have paid this much for a slip if I had not been doing this test.

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?

It is the same old story - it just didn't fit properly. The slip was very short, probably would be fine on an "average" woman but being so tall it ended mid thigh and left a bump which you can see with a tight fitting dress. Would be better if it came in different lengths. I thought the quality was ok, but for the price nothing special.

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 good if they could do the one-piece bodies in a long length, to fit taller women. I would look in John Lewis next time as I imagine (now having thought a bit on the topic) they would have a good range.

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 recomend it, mainly as my friends are much shorter than me!

[EROD]

I purchased the Waist Sculpt Firm Control Bonded Body which was £35.

I have brought control pants from m&s shape wear range before.
It was easy to find what I was looking for on their website and I found the images of the items very clear so you could easily see what you were buying.

I shopped online as I have a newborn baby. The item arrived very quickly.

The item I picked was only in black but ideally I would have preferred it in nude so I could wear it under pale coloured clothes.

Compared to other brands of shape wear that I have purchased before I felt M&S to be good value for money and it washes really well.

I wore the body under a tight fitting dress and my stomach looked smoother and firmer and most importantly to me, I felt more confident wearing it than without it.

The range of items is very comprehensive but my shopping is quite price sensitive so I would always look at websites such as figsleaves to see if I could buy a similar quality item at a cheaper price.

I would definately recommend M&S shape wear range as you can always rely on the quality.

[motherwifeteacheretc]

Thanks for the opportunity :)

A1 - Have bought shapewear before: actually from Spanx - the tights and a body control thing - and do like the shape/feel shapewear gives under clothes so was excited about trying M&S as a brand of shapewear -
Looking on line there are lots of different titles/phrases - possibly too many - such as light control, ultimate magic, 2pp shaping? waist sculpt, body solutions, shaping and flatter-Me knickers - it would be helpful to make this less confusing....
Online - you could choose by colour but there was no nude colour listed - but you do have nude shapewear -

I wanted the waist sculpt firm control bonded body - but it only comes in black - surely nude should be the lead colour in underwear as nude is what we should wear under white, not white under white.....after a long time looking I went for....
Firm Control Selvedge Panelled Body
£25.00, 2 pairs of shapewear tights £5.00 - underwear - £5.00
£3.50 delievery - quite a lot for a long wait for them to arrive, - should be free for standard then a fee for nomintated day...


A2: I browsed both online and instore, however bought online as the cost of items did'n't make it easy to 'split' the order for this challenge - however as I said above online was confusing.......see first answer and instore not enough selection

A3. I wanted the waist sculpt firm control bonded body - but it only comes in black - surely nude should be the lead colour in underwear as nude is what we should wear under white, not white under white.....after a long time looking I went for Firm Control Selvedge Panelled Body IN NUDE -

A4. - I think the cost was right, although I would have like to test the Waist Sculpt body as this was £35 and I wondered if it was worth it, but not worth it for just being 'black' as too strong a colour under dresses particularly during wedding season....however for what I got the cost was right - however delivery at £3.50 was steep compared to other companies for standard delivery -

A5. The knickers are excellent, I would order in different colours -
The body is comfortable however the cup size doesn't seem to match with the body size and I think ordering by dress sze and then selecting cupsize would make a better fit - I like the way it feels under clothes and would buy a similar item, BUT PROBABLY THE MORE EXPENSIVE one if it came in more colours than black would be a better fit - however the sizeing is difficult -


A6. I would buy again - I think the whole brand could be streamlined as I said above the range is huge and quite confusing where as a brand like spanx is streamlined but with a range of products - Too many 'clever' titles I presume meaning all the same thing at the moment - Most people buy this type of thing to feel good and/or to go under good clothes for a better finish so focusing on this and a range of colours would be better, black is harsh and very much limits what you can where it with as someone above posted a navy or red can be disguised as a camy under a shirt, where as the nude you still need a top over as under a shirt or 'everyday' clothes it is quite obvious what you are wearing....

A7. I probably would n't recommend the body I bought as the cupsize and dress size does n't feel they match and I am a standard size so would presume they should - however I would be interested in purchasing more, but not sure for £35 I would want the accountability of recommending anything in this age of austerity....

[undertheduvet]

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?

Not bought shapewear before, bought onlibe so it was easy to find 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?

Bought online as less hassle that taking 2 kids shopping during half term, especially with a 6 year old DS who currently finds bums and underpants hysterical :-)


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?

Loads of choice online and no problems with stock levels. Im not keen on the cosret type ones so got 4 pairs of knickers

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

Reasonably good value, spent £33.00 on 4 items with delivery

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?

They have not arrived yet so I will return to the thread when they are here

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?

Some funkier colours would be good, the peach skin couloured ones look a bit graayish. Also maybe having matching bras for the knickers? I'd get some bras as well if they were available to match

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?

Will fill this in once had a chance to try them out

[KatieScarlett2833]

Have just spent another £33 on shapewear

[nancerama]

I bought this in fawn. Bizarrely it is stocked in store as shapewear, but not listed with the shapewear online.

and these in black

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 researched the kinds of things that were available online and was amazed at the range of cuts, fits and levels of control 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 researched online, but bought in store. I prefer to sop inshore for underwear as I like to handle the fabric. Also embellishments never seem to photograph well and underwear rarely resembles the photograph (true of many retailers, not just M&S). I dislike paying additional money for postage with M&S.

Disappointingly there were no staff available on the shop floor to ask for advice, only staff on the tills, which were rather busy. It's rare to find helpful staff members on the shop floor in Reading.

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 loads of choice in styles - perhaps too much it was a little overwhelming. There was a good selection of sizes and I was able to find my size easily. I was disappointed in the choice of colours, and disappointed to see that the neutral/fawn garments weren't all the same shade - I hate my knickers not to match :(

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

The slip is lovely - a great cut and very comfortable. The knickers are poor value for money - they are cut VERY small, so flab hangs out all around them. I am a size 8 and M&S clothing and underwear is often too big for me - these are an exceptionally tiny cut.

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 am very satisfied with the slip, but dissatisfied with the sizing of the knickers.

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 consistency in the sizing. A bigger variety of colours might be nice.

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 probably would. I would recommend m&s for the choice of styles and types of garment, but would advise friends to try on before buying as the sizing is unpredictable.

As an aside, DH has commented that control underwear allows him to control himself around me as it's not sexy enough...

[Init1972]

I bought
"2 Pack - Light Control Cotton Rich Light Control Lace Knickers" £9.50
"2 Pack - Light Control High Rise Seam-free Shorts" £9.50

I also got the following promotions by adding a 5 pack of pants in some lovely patterns which aren't offered in the Shapewear range:
£5 off Lingerie
20% Off T-Shirt Bra

As there wasn't any other Bra's (which is what I really wanted) I bought a DD+ Range one as due to my disability I find it very difficult to use the Body's when I need the loo! [Blush]

I will update once I have collected on Monday!

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before?
*YES

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?

*Instore was awful but online really easy with clear explanations

Did you find what you had in mind?
*Instore NO
*Online YES

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both?
*Both

Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
*Online when I know my sizes but normally have to take back to a branch to exchange and never in stock

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not?
*Could do with a splash of colour!!!

How was the stock availability when you did your shopping?
*Instore - hardly anything on show and all in small sizes
*Online - a few things were instock in my size - I'm currently unsure of exact size and found when buying previously I needed to buy size below otherwise they lost shape and became baggy!!

Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not?
*Yes but I had to filter and choose fro what was available in that size and it wasn't a lot

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
*They look value for money online but still awaiting delivery on Monday 11th June!!

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why?
*Still awaiting delivery on Monday 11th June!!

Is there anything you were particularly impressed with?
*Still awaiting delivery on Monday 11th June!!

Or anything you were disappointed by?
*Still awaiting delivery on Monday 11th June!!

Q6. Do you think there's anything M&S could do to improve the range?
*More colour and definately more BRA's (Only ONE!!)!!!!!

Do you think there are any items missing from it at the moment?
*Yes - Bra's as there was only one online (none instore) and it was a bit old fashioned looking.

If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from?
*I have seen Spanx and Trinny and Susanna in TKMaxx at a lower price than elsewhere

Q7. Lastly, if it came up in conversation, do you think you'd recommend M&S shapewear to a friend?
*YES

If so, why?
*For what I bought previously (Waist cincher pants!!) as they were fabulous although can be a bit warm on a hot sunny day!

If not, why not?
*N/A

[MimsyBorogroves]

I bought High Rise Brazilian light shaping knickers, high rise light shaping shorts, and secret support vest.


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 before. Using the website made it very easy to find out about the product range, and to weigh up (ahem) which product to buy against another. The range was as I expected in terms of what was offered.

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 shopped for the product online, but when I went to pick up my purchase in store I had a look around the store too. I found online much more useful in terms of deciding what to wear because of the list of features of each product. I did not, however, like the delivery charges (hence picking up in-store!) - compared to so many other online shopping experiences which now offer free first class deliveries this was a real negative.

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? Online stock was dire! It took me forever to spend the £35 and I had to really TRY which didn't make it pleasant! To be honest, the lack of availability really soured the fact that I liked the look of a lot of the styles because they just weren't available. Granted, I don't usually shop with money burning a hole in my pocket, but the fact that there was very little available for my size in stock would make me look elsewhere.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? I thought the knickers were very good value, and I will be buying them again because they're such a good fit and so comfortable. The cami top was less good value as I could get a better effect wearing a cheap vest top and a bra.

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 loved the knickers! They didn't creep anywhere unfortunate, they fitted well and they looked nice. I can't say that they made much of a difference in shaping me though. I was disappointed with the vest - with it being in the shapewear section I had thought it might be slimming too rather than just a bra insert. I should have read the product details more carefully, but I think them being in shapewear was a bit of a misnomer.

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 the stock, definitely. If I was to buy something similar I would probably also look in house of fraser as that's where I tend to buy bras

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? The knickers have already been recommended to a friend and to my Mum for their fantastic fit

[plusonemore]

I am really struggling to find anything but knickers in my size- I already have these so it would be a waste!! Really wanted the slip without a bra (either one) and have tried in store and online several times with no luck. Tried ordering from store but they said to keep trying online. How long shall I wait?

[TheOtherHelenMumsnet]

plusonemore - the thread will be open next week too so please do carry on trying if you can!