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

[Follyfoot]

I bought:

Light Control No VPL High Rise Assorted Full Briefs
Flatter-Me? High Rise Lace Light Shaping Shorts
Light Control Cotton Rich High Rise Shorts
Secret Support? Cotton Rich Longline Bra 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?
Yes, Ive bought items before, I found the website was very confusing as if you searched Shapewear', certain items came up, if you searched 'control' or something similar, other items came up eg the secret support bra vest and the longline controlling vest.

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 chose online as I dont like shopping! Also I have found M & S to be variable in terms of having a full range of sizes in store. I like to take my time and also know exactly what is in stock, so online is best for me

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 (almost to the point of too much) and my size was in stock for most things I looked at (apart from sale items).

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Hmmm not sure. £7.50 for a pair of M & S lace pants probably isnt value for money, but a vest top for £12 definitely is. The other pants were two pair packs so werent bad value. I thought some items were expensive and hence didnt chose them (firmer control items 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?
I was very satisfied with the items. They were perhaps more 'smoothing' than 'controlling' but were comfy to wear all day long at work. I would definitely wear them as everyday pants as opposed to just going out ones, especially the no vpl pants, they were great.

The hangers irritated me though! Pants dont need to be on hangers surely, thats a dreadful waste of packaging.

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 there's enough choice already and I'd probably only look in M & S to be honest


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 would. Mostly reasonably priced, huge range. I'd say that if they were looking to squish the fat, go for firmer control....

Thank you very much for allowing me to be part of the panel.

Folly

[Ali1011]

Bought 2 pack firm control cotton briefs and Body solutions firm control full slip

Q1. Yes have bought bra vest and knickers. There is a bit of a dazzling array to choose from now!

Q2. Ended up shopping online as couldn't get to shops in order to browse with children in tow! Would prefer to go to a shop and look at things properly.

Q3. There is a lot of choice, less so in larger sizes. It can be confusing trying to work out the best solution for you. Probably why I picked an all in one thing as part of the selection. I did see an item I would have liked to have tried put it only went up to 18 and I felt I needed next size.

Q4. They are OK value for money. Although the full slip nearly cost as much as the dress I wanted to wear it under. They feel like more one off items then everyday.

Q5. Pretty satisfied, would have liked the pants in a nude colour (ended up with black). The full slip is good, if not very pretty.

Q6. From past experience I think a bra vest more like the kind of thing Bravissimo have would be good. The M&S ones feel less structured (but are obviously cheaper).

Q7. Yes I think so, there is a good range and readily available. Although I think for larger chested people like me the bra stuff could come in a better range of sizes. We are more likely to need the control!

[SuzySheepSmellsNice]

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 think I bought some control knickers from M&S for my uni summer ball in around 2000, but they were hideous and very restrictive. Also, they held my tummy in, but created a lovely 'muffin-top' effect with my top squidge. Mmmm, attractive.
I went into my local store (Poole) and there wasn't much at all, they advised me to go to Castlepoint (Bournemouth).

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 product in store, as I wasn't 100% sure which size I needed and I thought the best thing would be to try them on. If you aren't in a hurry, it's good to order a range of sizes and try them at home, but these obviously have to be paid for up front then the unwanted items returned, and we have just bought a car so I don't think DH would be impressed if I spent £150 on shapewear!

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?

At the smaller store (Poole) there wasn't really a very good range in terms of style and sizes for shapewear, but I was impressed by the range at the larger store (Castlepoint). I was able to get the size I needed, but there does seem to be a lot of size 10 products which seemed a bit crazy to me as if I were a size 10 I wouldn't be wearing restrictive underwear!

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

I think it's nice and pretty, but probably would not have bought it if I had to spend my own (hard earned) £35 on it. Other stores (eg Primark) sell shapewear for much cheaper but Primark won't actually let you try it on or return it, and have hideously erratic sizing, so what's the point? FFS

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 pleased with it, but had to get white as there wasn't my size in black. This might limit it's usefulness, but DH likes it :)

m.marksandspencer.com/mt/www.marksandspencer.com/Perfect-Lace-Panelled-Light-Control/dp/B0035RIB1U?un_jtt_redirect

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's generally nice but a bit pricey, the changing room assistants were very helpful, and I think it would be good to offer a few more colour choices. Especially as it's quite fashionable to show a little hint of underwear sometimes!

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?
If they were specifically after shapewear then I'd say to go and have a look at the range, but it was one of the most tedious and painful hours of my life scraping and squeezing myself in and out of tight underwear!

[wonkyduck]

Right, I've just spent my voucher for M & S shape wear.

I struggled to buy any products that I really wanted to try as they were out of stock but in the end chose the following based on the theory that I will wear them for upcoming weddings: Body Solutions Firm Control Multiway panelled dress slip in nude and a pair of Ultimate Magic 15 denier secret support tights in natural tan.

I have ordered online to pick up in store. I was disappointed that the earliest date available to pick up the items is next Thursday. I was expecting it to be processed on Monday to pick up on Tuesday afternoon.. hmm.

So, I will do my full report at the end of next week once they arrive 'in-store'.

[lemontop]

Only just received my vouchers due to being sent to random post office. I have bought:

1 Qty Ultimate Magic Secret Support? Body Define Low Leg Knickers
1 Qty Ultimate Magic 15 Denier Secret Support? Tights
1 Qty 2 Pack - Light Control No VPL High Rise Assorted Full Briefs

Q1. No have never bought Shapewear from M&S before. I found it easy to find out about the different types of garments available. I'm not really sure what I had in mind but ended up going for knickers and tights that looked nicer than the traditional thigh shaper type garments.

Q2. I shopped online as it's easier than taking a toddler shopping plus no very local M&S stores to me. I would have preferred to try garments on to see if they fit but wasn't possible.

Q3. The colour range seems to be mainly nude / white/ black with the exception of one bright pair of pink knickers! Stock availability was fine for the knickers i wanted but I couldn't find the body I wanted in my size.

Q4. Yes I think they seem very good value for money.

Q5. I am waiting to receive the items so can't comment on quality at the moment. Will update if the items arrive before the thread closes.

Q6. There is a very small range of DD+ items. My bust size is GG so there's actually nothing to fit from that range. It would be great if the sizing went up to a H cup or higher. i would normally buy this kind of garment from Bravissimo.

Q7. Yes, sure.

[2munchkins]

Q1. I bought two sets of cotton control pants and one secret support vest.

Not bought Shapewear before. Online the garments were easy to find and well described. In store, it was difficult to ascertain whether there was one section or garments spread out. Also there was no assistant in the lingerie section (I was told this) to assist me find the vests/camisole I wanted. I eventually got hold of someone from bra fittings who said that if ?I can?t see it they don?t stock it?. Not what I expected to hear. I did not find exactly what I wanted in store and online sizes were not available.

Q2. I shopped in store because of non availability online but this would be my preferred method as I like to see and feel the items for quality and size.

Q3. I was particularly interested in vests/camisoles and opted for a cotton support vest which had availability in black and white plenty of sizes. I had been looking at two other camisoles and vests online where the sizes were not available and I could not find them at all in the store store. I bought two sets control pants and bought the last size 14 in one of them.

Q4. The shapewear pants at two for £9.50 were good value, the vest was acceptable and the other pants at £14 bit too expensive.

Q5. The cheaper light control pants fitted well and were comfortable, however I wouldn?t say there was any 'control' or support as such and I woudn?t particularly describe them as high leg. The other cotton rich lace pants in the same size came up too small and dug in. The cotton support camisole fitted surprisingly well and I felt supported and thought the style was flattering. I would have bought the white as well but the nude bra underneath showed through so obviously that it looked ugly and not so useable.

Q6. I would be more interestd in the shapewear range if there were more cotton rich garments in the range ? I like more hygienic underwear that breaths. The bodies looked lovely, but rather pricey and too much man-made fibre. More camisoles and vests with choice of colours would be good. I would possibly consider John Lewis for such a range if price and fabric ok.

Q7. I would probably recommend the range to a friend if viewed online as garments look and sound appealing - instore is too haphazard to find the range. There didn?t seem to be clear labelling on the items themselves to indicate they were part of the range. If M & S want this to be a dinstinctive range it should be grouped together in the lingerie section.

[RachelHRD]

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 haven't bought any shapewear for a number of years from M&S - About 10 years ago I used to wear one piece body's but they were very different from what is on offer nowadays! I found it very easy to group all of the Shapewear online to look through and was pleasantly surprised at the number and variety of products available.
I decided to look for something to wear under a dress as post 2 c-sections and carrying extra weight I need a lot of help in smoothing out the lumps and bumps! I found a good selection of slips 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 looked online initially to see what was available and read the reviews which I always find helpful when buying anything from M&S. I would happily have bought online but they didn't have my size available in the chosen item so I decided to look in store as well. I shopped in store late evening with a friend and again was pleasantly surprised at the range and pleased to find the item I wanted in my size and had help from a very nice, knowledgeable member of staff.

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 the range is extensive - a bit disappointing that my size wasn't available online and there was only one in store and as the reviews had recommended going a size up and that also wasn't available either online or in store. It seemed to me that there was plenty of stock in the smaller sizes but less in size 18 or above. I took a chance and got the item in my size and thankfully it fitted fine. More colours would be nice though - it was overwhelmingly white, nude and black in store!

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
I bought the 'Waist sculpt wear your own bra slip' @ £29.50 which to me seems expensive as something to wear under a dress and probably isn't something I would normally buy unless it was on offer with a good sized discount.

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 impressed with the design especially that you can wear your own bra with it and was surprised that I could get it on without needing a shoe horn! It fitted well and is reasonably comfortable although because it is tight over the thighs I'm not sure if it might impede my walking slightly and make me a bit pigeon toed! I think also, as with any shapewear, it would be quite uncomfortable to wear in very hot weather but that is unavoidable if you want to gain the benefit from it. I think it might benefit from being a bit longer and straightening out or having a back slit low down to help walking - it stops mid thigh with me which I think might show under a very clingy dress.

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?
Longer slips as I mentioned previously and I do think some of the items are quite pricey - £30 for a slip and £15 for one pair of pants is quite expensive for a Mum on a budget - perhaps more value items.
The lady I asked for advice in store was very helpful and friendly which was a pleasant surprise.
I would probably look in M&S first in the future and then other big stores like John Lewis, Debenhams 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?
Yes I would. I do think the range is good quality and extensive enough to cater for most women's requirements although a little pricey in some areas. The assistance I got ins tore was good and I like the online layout and inclusion of reviews and ease with which you can place an order.

[NellVarnish]

Right here goes, spent my voucher today, thank you very much but nearly lost the will to live and nearly drowned in the pouring rain-.

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 always bought M&S Opaque Suck You In tights ? they last quite a long while and don?t seem to shrink in the wash ? give you a nice smooth outline. Well smoothish. Especially if you buy the next size up and stretch them up to just under your bra. I wanted to try a ?sausage skin? type thingy to wear under a dress, so had a look online before I went to the shop.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
Looked online first at what was available and nearly ordered from there (but it was out of stock) but I?m really pleased now that I went into the shop as I tried on a variety of things and some of the items looked hideous on me.

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?
Grrr. No I had to get a size smaller as there were not enough in stock. It was also a pain finding all the Shapewear as it?s not all in the same place, and it's not all called Shapewear either. The assistants in the Lingerie Changing Rooms were less than helpful and said rather snippily when I asked for another size, ?All the stock is out?. They would only let me take six items in (fair enough), and said I?d have to get changed and rejoin the queue to try on the other items which surprised me rather. There seemed to be much more available in black than in white or nude.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
If I had been going to a wedding or something then maybe I would have spent £35 on it, but as everyday underwear goes, I thought it was a bit pricey for what it was.

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?
Obviously I?m really pleased to have the chance to try it for free, and I like the one I chose. I just wish there had been more available in store in my size. I did check with the Ordering Department who were lovely, but the ones I liked were out of stock online too. And the one I really liked didn?t come in a DD, or indeed a double anything so I have had to squash my generous norks into a smaller cup which floweth over rather. And it used up all of my your precious £35 English pounds! I've just realised as well that mine is a light support rather than firm, so I might ring round a few stores and try to exchange the one I bought as I need all the help I can get.

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 M&S have a wide variety of styles of Shapewear, just not enough sizes. I?d probably try M&S again as a first port of call, but might have a look at John Lewis too, and even Primark as they do some sucky-in stuff too 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?
Yes I probably would, as some of it is quite pretty, if a tad expensive.

Thanks for letting me try it out M&S and MN!

[CarpeJugulum]

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 the shaper tights before as they seem to stay up longer than normal tights, but not any underwear. I first looked in store, and it was really difficult to find - and (after looking online later) only a small selection was in the "Shapewear" section; but there seemed to be other pieces scattered throughout the lingerie section.
I found one item that I had in mind the Secret Slimming Thigh Slimmer which was reasonable priced - but only came in black in store. The rest of the shapewear section was muddled, and most sizes appeared to be out of stock. I was very unimpressed with the store in this regard. The assistants were also fairly clueless regarding the range, and the changing rooms were dirty and horrible - and the staff unwilling to fetch different sizes.

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 used both methods - primarily because the store had such a bad selection available. In an ideal world, I prefer looking at shapewear in store, as it is hard to gauge elasticity/fabric type online from a picture.
However, the charge for delivery did put me off buying online - luckily I have an M&S card and was therefore entitled to free delivery.

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, there was a good range of options, but definitely not in store; the store seemed to be out of the 10-16 range in most items - there were only 8's or 18's and over. I found one item I liked in store, and then looked online.
I would like to see a better range of colour - definitely a red colour and maybe a navy too.

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

As stated above, I bought the Secret Slimming Thigh Slimmer in store, and the Ultimate Magic Secret Support Body Define Low Leg Knickers.
In general, I found the range quite expensive compared with other shops, and probably wouldn't have bought from M&S had I not had the voucher.

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 Thigh Slimmers are great, and I am considering another pair, but the Ultimate Magic Secret Support Body Define Low Leg Knickers don't do much for me - I'd prefer them to come lower down my leg as they do rather create a bulge.

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'd like to see a better range of full slips to go under dresses - the ones online are quite low in the bust, and low in the leg if you are petite, so a shorter/petite option would be great.
If I'm buying shapewear, I do tend to go for John Lewis as the staff are much more helpful, the fitting rooms are clean and tidy, and they will fetch different sizes - something M&S staff are seemingly incapable of doing.

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?

It's unlikely to come up, but if I was to recommend it, it would be to buy online and not in-store, due to the reasons above. However, I'd be more likely to recommend other stores first.

[gingercat12]

I have not bought my shapewear. Doing my research. Due to sales store was too busy, so it seemed a little unfair to ask for help on Thursday.

[Firawla]

mine came yesterday so I tried it out, it was the magic thigh and tummy cincher. unfortunately I have to say it wasn't as good as I hoped, compared to spanx it has a much less noticeable effect, and considering its 35 quid I would have wanted it to be nearly as effective as the spanx whereas I would say its about as effective as other similar thing I had from primark which was about 8 - but the m&s quality is much nicer than the primark I would have to admit. The material of it is quite nice and silky which i've not normally seen on these kind of thigh, tummy items.
based on reviews people were saying on the website to "get a realistic size not the size you wish you are" etc I actually probably was too generous and should have got a size smaller and it may have been more effective if I did that, so partly my own fault for buying too big of a size but even a size down I dont think it would be as firm control as spanx at all
Not bad though, i will try it again under different things

answered the other qs already

[MotherGeek]

I bought the Ultimate Magic Secret Support? Body Define Multiway Body in 40B, nude.

Q1. I have never bought shapewear from M&S before. I found lots of info easily enough online, and found lots of products I'd be interested in buying.

Q2. I had a look in store but there was nothing in my size that I was interested in purchasing. The £5 off discount code online also made it better value to shop online, so this is where I made my purchase.

Q3. There was plenty of choice online, but the stock in my local store (Trafford Centre) had next to nothing in a 40B. (I wanted an all in one type thing to hold in post baby lumps and bumps). There was more choice and availability online, and for me, nude is always my colour choice as I can wear it under anything, so I was happy with the colour choices too.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? Yes. In all honesty, I have always avoided M&S underwear as it has a bit of a "granny" association for me. And the prices always seemed higher than most places. But on receiving the garment, I can see my judgement was off. The quality is great, and I can see why it costs more than the cheaper alternatives available.

Q5. I was very impressed with it. I loved the fact it is seemless at the bottom so there's no visible panty line. A HUGE plus for me! It feels luxurious to touch and the discount I got online made it even better value.

Q6. The only thing which is missing is something for mums to be. I am pregnant but unhappy with my shape. Maybe something to hold in thighs while allowing my bump to breathe? The extra support around my bump would probably help to reduce aches and pains too. I usually buy shapewear from Very, and tend to stick to high waisted panties. None of yours seemed to go all the way up to bra height. I would definitely check M&S before making purchases in the future.

Q7. Yes. Especially if you have online promotions similar to those over the Jubilee weekend. I got £40 worth of product delivered to my door for £35. I would also recommend M&S based on the quality of the garment I received. I haven't worn it yet as I am pregnant but it feels great, looks better than expected and the quality is better than other retailers.

[rosiero]

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 had an all in one to wear under my wedding dress. It was the only place I could find one that fitted and was plain so it didn't show under my fitted dress.
This time I wanted to find some pants, I have recently lost almost 2stone, and after having 2 kids am rather flabby! So wanted to hold it in!
I spent a long time searching through on line and reading all the reviews to try and make the right decision.

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 I think it would be easier in store, but that's not an easy option with a 3 year old and 1 year old in tow!

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 seem to be a lot of nude colour and not enough black and white for my liking. Sizes I wanted were available. A few more sexier items would be good, my husband laughed when I showed him! I was a tad worried when most of the reviews I read we're by 50plus year olds. Either I am old before my time or they just have more time on their hands to review!

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
only worn one style so far, the Light control control cotton rich pants, which are good value. The panelled waist cincher seems very pricey at 19.50 and wouldn't usually purchase something so expensive. Yet to wear 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?
Satisfied, and at the moment glad that I bought the size 12 and not the 10 even though I am 10 in m and s clothes. I was concerned I might not be able to breath in a size 10!

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? Higher legs, or different styles of pants than g string or full pants. The high legs weren't exactly high. Control underwear is good but still want to look sexy and be flattering if you know what I mean?!


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?
Currently would recommend what I have tried, 2 more styles to wear yet. The ones I have tried washed and tumble dried well.


Thanks for picking me for this trial will post again when tried the other 2 purchases!!

[KJ123]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? No
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? It was quite easy as I looked online first & was really surprised there were about 80 products, which seemed a lot and I was impressed.

Did you find what you had in mind? Yes

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Both, but I choose to buy instore so Icould try them on as I prefer to try on rather than buy online & then have to change, but it was good to whittle down the search online first & I was pleased to find the product in store. At first I couldn't find the colour I wanted (beige) as it wasn't hanging next to the black version which was odd, but an assistant helped me find it. Like someone else mentioned, the staff were pretty helpful & it did cross my mind they knew they knew there were 'mystery shoppers' out there, although usually M&S staff are pretty good.
Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why? see above

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? Yes, pretty much. Although thought it may be good to have more 'bodies' with less lace trim on them , so they are smoother under clothes.
How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not? I did get what I wanted, but there wasn't loads so at first I was worried they wouldn't have my size & colour, & I needed help to find it.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? I need to post again when I have tried it. I think it is probably better value than some other brands, but I wouldn't usually spend this much on such a product - I'd just go without.

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? Will add when I have tried it.

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? Maybe smoother 'bodies', as above.
If you were going to shop for shapewear again, which other retailers (if any!) would you consider buying from? Spanx and I would google for other brands as I'm not sure of everyone who does them.

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? Probably - will advise when tried.

[DinosaursHateUnderpants]

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? No
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 looked online and it was very easy, probably too much choice and I did find what i was looking for.

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? This time around I preferred shopping online because the store didn't have what I wanted in the right size or colour and the whole range was poorly arranged and sorted. I'd happily buy something like Shapewear or underwear online without visiting a store.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc. or not? Not enough choice of colour - they are all very drab and boring, and as it's pretty un-glamourous as it is I think prettier and brighter colours would be excellent - pinks, reds etc. I think the choice of items is more than enough - there are loads! I still don't like the M&S sizing of 8/10 or 12/14 because one is slightly too small and the other slightly too big for me in underwear which is why I don't buy underwear from there any more.
How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not? Stock in the shop was poor and they didn't have very much in the sizes I wanted 8/10 or 12/14 so I shopped online and they has evrything I wanted in all the colours and all the sizes.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? My initial impression was they they were overpriced and having worn them and not been particularly impressed I still think they are expensive especially when considering they are very plain and drab looking.

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 bought a 2 Pack of Firm Control Cotton Rich Briefs and I'm really disappointed as I had high hopes, they roll down from the top so that I have an unattractive bulge of fabric below my navel. I bought 2 sizes and despite the smaller ones being snug they still did it, as did the briefs in the next size up - I read similar comments on the M&S site afterwards that others had found the same. I also bought the Light Control Gathered Front Santoni Body which I didn't feel did anything at all and despite the briefs in the same size being snug the body in that size was far less so and a little baggy, certainly no improvement on my usual full body underwear.

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? Biggest improvement would be to either reduce the price in the simple range of colours or provide a wider range of colours/patterns, something a little more flattering and dare I say, sexier. I have shopped for shapewear at Debenhams and John Lewis and prefer the items I have from those retailers.

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 because I was disappointed with the lack of effect and the constant readjusting I had to do with the briefs!

[emdelafield]

Here we go Lots to say. Firstly I bought on line a two pair pack of control pants (one white,one nude)and then in store a black firm control full length slip.

q1 I have bought Mand S shapewear before but only (boring)pants. My online search revealed a plethora of pants and in store I branched out and bought a slip.

q2 I enjoyed both methods. Online was great because there was no time pressure. I was irritated about having to create an account etc and then annoyed that the postgage took my order from £14 to £17.50 but the items arrived in two days by courier so a good service.

I went to a big M and S in Glasgow. Although I have been in both Glasgow and Edinburgh recently I have not had time to shop so the online experience has the advantage for convenience. I also spent more than the postage on my train fare and then another £17 on unnecessary trip to food hall and cafe.

The lingerie section was well stocked and quiet but devoid of staff. I chose a slip (adventurous) and paid another £10 towards it. Being a mystery shopper is soooo expensive.

When I joined the queue to pay I resolved to ask a question about shapewear to test staffs' product knowledge and was put off when two of the five staff were young men. Anyway I was served by a lovely lady and she and her colleague answered my queries.


The store is in the middle of a refit and there were lots of helpful and proactive staff and I came away feeling very cheery (and poorer)

Q3 I can't be doing with too much choice (but that is just me). I preferred the website which was logical and clear. Wandering round the shop was a bit confusing for me especially with no one in the dept to ask.

q4 I am very pleased with the pants and think they are good value because they do the job and will last. They are well made and comfy. The jury is still out on the slip. It looks and feels lovely but I tried to get it on after a shower (when in a hurry) and had to admit defeat. I expect there is a knack to it.

q5 I am very pleased with my purchases and would go online again for a browse around the world of pants. I would buy this way in future.

q6 I think the range is comprehensive and suits my (middle aged ) needs but not sure if it would appeal to a younger buyer. If I was buying elsewhere I would go to my local lingerie store for Spanx or similar.

q7 I would definitely recommend to a friend or a complete stranger for that matter. I like to talk!

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to take part. If you need anyone to test out luxury holidays just get in touch!

[BobbieSox]

I havent actually worn what I've bought yet but I wanted to post some of my feedback before I do the wearing!

What I bought:1 "Flatter-Me? High Rise Lace Light Shaping Shorts"

1 "Light Control Floral Lace Body"

1 "Flatter-Me? High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping 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? Yes I bought pants a few years ago, wasn't happy with them as I had to cut a slit in the leg holes as they were so tight I had a huge sausage effect going on with my thighs (am size 8-10)

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 - I usually do as have two small DC so can't concentrate in a shop, plus the times I have been advised on underwear fitting in M and S I have been unimpressed.

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? So this is my main gripe - I wanted to buy a body that I can wear under a dress - there are none at all in a 32! Fair enough in theory that makes me skinny...but I'm really not ( did I mention I have 2 small DC? and a mum tum to go with them). In fact as an E cup even if I were a 34 there was an extremely limited choice. So I got a size 10 one...happy with availability on the products I actually bought.

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

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? Havent worn the body yet but the pants were....pants! They didn't hold me in at all so I took them straight back when I arrived. Fair enough they were light control but I didn't feel any effect at all. So they have been returned.

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? See above - bigger cup sizes, smaller back sizes 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 TBC

So the actual product test is still to come,,looking forward to going back over this thread and reading others comments!

[southlundon]

In addition to my earlier post, I took back the two items I was disappointed with (the low rise pants and light control thigh slimmer), got a refund and have ordered the ultimate magic body define thigh slimmer online. I'm getting it delivered to a store near me for Friday so I hope the thread won't have closed by then as I'll redo some of my answers.

[OvO]

I bought Firm Control Everyday Minimiser, Flatter-Me High Rise Lace Light Shaping Shorts and 2 Pack Firm Control Cotton Rich Briefs.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? No I haven't.

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? Very easy to find the range online.

Did you find what you had in mind? Yes.

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 instore as I wanted a body suit thingy and needed to try them on before buying. I didn't want to buy online and end up with something unsuitable.

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 go on a huge rant about this. The choices for the large of nork was pathetic. The DD+ range is a joke. There were 7 items and 3 of these went no bigger than an E. Wooo, with this huge choice you are really spoiling us. Out of the other 4 choices 1 was a slip and not at all useful for me. So I was left with 3 but online AND instore 2 of the 3 were out of stock in my size. So I had a massive choice of ONE BLOODY ITEM IN MY SIZE. I'm not an all that unusual size but M&S certainly made me feel like I was. So there was NO choice. I looked at a lot of other stuff online and there was so so much that was not in stock, it was a joke. In store there was an equally pathetic choice. The item I really wanted didn't go up to my size and the item I really wanted out of the DD+ range was out of stock so no I did not get what I wanted. I ended up with the one thing in my size and then buying pants with the rest as at least there were plenty of my size.

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

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 really pleased with the 2 pack of cotton briefs. They were so comfy. I really didn't think they would do much in the way of tummy control as they just looked like big cotton knickers but when I put them on they definitely did keep things 'in'. But they didn't feel tight or uncomfortable like other similar knickers I've bought. I'd be quite happy to wear them as everyday underwear. The shorts I bought looked very nice on and felt even more of a firm control. But after a while the laceyness annoyed me and felt uncomfy and I couldn't wait to get them off. I'd wear them under a dress on a night out as they definitely did the job and they did look nice so made me feel good and for a few hours they'd be fine. The body fit really well which was a nice surprise. It looked quite nice on too - I have it in the black and it's not something I would be embarassed to be caught in by my DH unlike some of the other shapewear. It felt great for about 2 hours then I just wanted out of it. After those 2 hours the firm control felt too firm. The poppers underneath were great - could go pee without a worry! When I've worn control underwear before it had no poppers so the whole thing had to come off which is just the biggest pain ever. Poppers were well positioned so I didn't have to get into a yoga position to close them again. The cup size was spot on which is unusal I've found. I'll definitely wear it again for under an outfit for a night out sort of thing.

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?
Please please make a LOT LOT LOT more of the range in F and G cup sizes! I saw so much I really liked, I'd buy it like a shot but it doesn't go up past a D.

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. It was all decently priced and comfier than other shapewear I've worn.

I feel like a moaning minnie for part of that review, sorry M&S. I am glad to have been part of the product test, thank you.

[babsmam]

Waiting for my order to come tomorrow to the store and then will have a look at the in-store range and report back properly. Initial feedback is the sizing seems unhelpful in a number of items - i'm a size 10-12 and they only have 8-10 or 12-14.

We shall see i suppose

[sleeplessinselondon]

Items bought - just the one! Here

Q1. Have you bought shape wear from M&S before?

Yes - I've bought pull you in pants in the dim and distant past but not for a while, they never seemed to work as well as I imagined!

Q2. Did you shop for shape wear in store, online or both?

I investigated online first.  There was tons of the stuff, but I found that a lot of it was out of stock in most sizes, lots of 8 & 10 but no sizes in the middle. I am a 34FF so although I liked the look of a lot of the bodies there weren't many options for me, and again nothing in stock.  I looked at the online style guide which was pretty basic - and the models were incredibly slim & toned, not great for someone still carrying too much baby weight! I also watched the M&S tv bits on shape wear, presenters were a bit stilted - there was a good video on the 'secret slimming' products but then none of the products were in stock. 

I think for the online guides etc it would be better to have larger models and maybe before and after shots in a floaty dress. 

Q3. Did you think there was enough choice in terms of style shapes colours etc.

After not managing to get anything online I went to the store in Croydon. My first thoughts were just how much of it there was! There must have been 10 racks of shapewear at least. I'd bought a new maxi dress beforehand which definitely needed some shapewear underneath so tried on lots of bottoms in different ranges, waist cinchers, thigh slimmers and tummy things. I also tried on some slips and vests.

The changing rooms were really hot and I found a few things, especially the slips, really hard to get into but could definitely see the difference with most items.  The magic braless slip, which I'd really liked the look of online, didn't work with my dress as the back was too low and I also think it wouldn't be that comfortable with floaty summer dresses as it felt quite hot.

There were no staff at all on the sales floor to ask for advice, and also no info anywhere on the different ranges - maybe a leaflet explaining the different levels of support/ ranges etc would be handy. Everything looked pretty identical which I found a bit confusing.

I ended up buying the 'magic' waist cincher thigh slimmer that a lot of people seem to have chosen for £35 which is very pricy - although I admit it works really well!  My problem with this range was that nothing really differentiated it as premium - I asked an assistant in the changing room why it was much more expensive than another very similar looking product which also said firm control, and she just said - oh it's the best range with the best control.  I think if this is the case (which it obviously is) then the packaging should make it look much more different - maybe all the magic items should be displayed together etc?

Q4. Do you think the shapewear items you bought were good value for money?

I'm not sure. Yes it works really well, but would I have spent £35 on a pair of pants without the voucher, probably not? Although as I said earlier if I really felt I was getting a premium product then yes.

Q5. How satisfied are you with the shapewear item you bought?

Pretty satisfied , it is surprisingly comfortable to wear all day, eat in etc! My only complaint is that as I'm 5'8 there is a bit of a gap between the top of the product and my bra that can lead to a bit of back fat so I've had to pull it up a few times.

Q6. How could we improve the range?

Better differentiation of the different ranges within shapewear, maybe trained staff 'experts' on the floor to help with questions.  I have bought Spanx before (whispers the controversial maternity ones) which were brilliant - not to hold in the bump obviously but to smooth out all the lumps and bumps under a dress I was wearing to a wedding at 8 months which definitely made me feel more confident.  I think you have a pretty good range all in all though and was surprised by the amount of shapewear available in Croydon.

Q7. Would you recommend to a friend?

Yes - the item I bought definitely worked despite the high price.

[goingmadinthecountry]

Went to my local M and S today clutching my card - hardly anything in there, all beige and nothing my size. This is Ashford Kent if anyone's interested. Also the underwear is right my the main walkthrough from High Street to shopping centre - I don't particularly like bumping into kids I teach while buying knickers! For information they also don't have ANY sports bras, the other item on my list.

Went to our outlet store where they had a few bodies - very pretty black lace but very linited sizes. Also I'm too tall for them.

I'm in a much bigger town on Monday so will try there - if no luck will order on line then report back. Apart from Ashford, our nearest M and S is 20 miles away.

[shaztwins1]

i havent forgotten to post my review i just havent worn everything i bought as im going to have to change an item as its too small (even though i bought a size bigger than i am due to the type of garment !!!! ) will be returning on tuesday so will post my review then

[Piffpaffpoff]

A quick update, wore mine again today and it is super comfortable and I was asked by a friend if I'd lost weight! But, I've noticed the quality of finishing on the garment is not great. I thought the seam on the leg had split at the bottom of it, but on closer inspection it's not fully sewn up or has been sewn up squint or something. It doesn't affect the performance but it's not what I expect from something that costs £35.

[smokinaces]

I've sent some photos.

They don't show all that much difference. However its my jelly belly - after two sections and a ten pound baby its all loose. The pants just make it feel firmer and not wobble and therefore boost confidence and clothing options!