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



I bought the cotton rich firm control shapewear full brief 2 pack (£9.50), secret support tummy control cotton rich knickers 2 pack (£14) and the secret support tummy control knickers Orchid lace collection 2 pack (£14).
I have not purchased shapewear from Marks and Spencer before but have from other stores including House of Fraser, Primark, Asda and Peacocks. It was relatively easy to find out the different types of product available.

I was looking for something attractive that I wouldn?t be embarrassed about DH seeing me in. The bodies were not too bad but I felt they would cut me in half as I have quite a long body. Also it would be nice if there were some bodies with a padded wonderbra type bra ? they all looked as if they would just squash norkage! I would have liked a really nice basque type thing but nothing along those lines either. Wish I had looked for a swimsuit reading others reviews.

I had a look online for a start but I felt overwhelmed with choice and all looked quite similar so I went instore to buy instead. I?m a bit old fashioned and like to feel clothes etc wen buying. Also not keen on ordering too much of the internet if I can help it as always turn up when I?m out leaving my neighbours to take parcels in. I know I could have collected from store but wasn?t sure where I was going to be with it being half term. 


There was not much choice when it came to colours ? just nude, white or black at my local store. Also noticed there was just a choice of either firm control or light control with nothing in between. Stock availability was ok instore there was plenty of choice of items in my size, which is quite unusual as find size 14 is quite popular and tends to sell out first in most shops. I was able to get the items I wanted in my size. Did speak to a shop assistant but did not find her very interested or helpful - too busy putting pants on to the displays!

I think the cotton rich firm control shapewear 2 pack at £9.50 was very good value and I find them the most comfortable out of all the items. All the items were comfortable and did the job ? make me feel better in my clothes ? definitely less tight! I found the pants all do as others do and tend to roll down which is quite annoying. Also give a slight muffin top even though I bought the correct size.

It would be nice if M & S could come up with attractive, dare I say it, sexy shapewear. Whoever cracks that will make a fortune!! I did find it confusing looking at all the products some stated shapewear, others didn?t but obviously are. Would not normally matter but as we were told to buy shapewear wanted to get it right! Probably the ranges should be more clearly defined ? with clear labeling.
It would be nice also if there were more choice of colours. Can?t think of anything that is missing at the moment from the range ? apart from nice basques but that is probably just me. If I was shopping for shapewear again I would consider M & S as it is good quality and does the job ? liked the fact it can be tumble dried too. I probably would also consider Primark / supermarkets.

If it came up in conversation I definitely would recommend M & S shapewear and I will be buying more of the £9.50 twin packs of knickers even if DH will tease me about them.

I wrote out a whole review and it all just crashed

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
No, I hadn't bought M&S Shapewear before. I shopped online and it was easy to see the different styles available. Yes, I found what I had in mind; I just couldn't buy it as it was out of stock in my and many other 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?
Online, though I think instore shopping might be better for sizing etc.

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?
Lots of choice, but this was limited by the lack of stock. No I was unable to buy the item I wanted in my size, so had to buy another item instead.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
Yes, I think they were, though I'd never dream of spending £12.50 on a single pair of knickers normally!

Q5. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the shapewear item(s) you bought and why? Is there anything you were particularly impressed with? Or anything you were disappointed by?
I'm quite impressed actually. Both items are comfortable and do what they say they'll do, though the full length slip was quite hard to get on and gave me fat rolls above the bandeau (under my arms)! not very pretty and a bit as I've never had that before!

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 colour range is limited and there should be a wider choice, but at the very least black, white and natural in every piece.
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! these are the sort of thing I chat about with several friends quite often.

Thank you for letting me trial these items :)

Just lost my long review due to a crash will try again tomorrow shame as I thought it was rather good!

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 bought some "magic knickers" some years ago to wear under a posh frock. They were a disaster. I am an apple, rather than a pear, and the top of the knickers used to roll down. SO when investigating the new ranges, I was slightly apprehensive, but open to the fact that things have moved on in the last 5 years! It was easy to find stuff on the website - I had a good idea of what I wanted before I went to the store. I found some of the items I wanted, (Cool Comfort Light Control Secret Slimming Bonded Knickers) but others were not available in store or online in my size. (Floral Lace Bandeau Knickers in large bottom size).

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why? Both. Bought in store, browsed online. I prefer to look online, as I find the shapewear to be all over the place in store, and looking online gave me a good overview of what was available, rather than stumbling across things.

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not? not everything in large bum size in store or online. :( Will keep watching

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? Yes. They do the job and as a two pack for £12.50, they were 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 like the knickers - I wouldnt wear them every day, but under nice clothes. They are comfy and so far I havent had any embarrassing rolling. They do feel very "old lady" and not very pretty. A dull selection of nude/black/white - I hope there are plans to make them available with pretty colours and matching bras!

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 always buy my undies at M&S, so I wouldnt go elsewhere. Id like to see more attractive shapewear. Take a look in your stores in the week M&S - its full of ladies "of a certain age". We like to look good in undies, and we are the ones that need the shapewear!! Matching bras would be great. Especially in bigger sizes...those of us well endowed enough to need big pants also tend to need big bras. But I dont want to look like my granny when I take my clothes off!

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, probably!

Thank you M&S for the voucher, which I managed to leave behind when I went shopping - Doh! I hope that my lacy Bandeau Knickers will soon be back in stock in bigger sizes - you see....pretty, big sizes are clearly popular!

I purchased several items of Shapewear online and got money off in the process which covered the postage costs. I found the website helpful and informative and was impressed by the range and choice of colours, styles and matching items.

I ordered shapewear knickers and vests. The vests have secret support in the form of a built in secret bra. These tops are fantastic as you don't have to wear a bra with them which means women with big boobs like me can wear skimpy tops. The tops are more day wear than underwear.

The knickers are AMAZING. I chose the "Flatter Me" lace trim brazilian style knickers with a secret support. These are bigger style knickers but are in a flattering style. There are perfect to wear with dresses and leggings. The knickers don't show beneath clothes and they hide all your lumps and bumps, especially those post baby love handles.
I LOVE THESE KNICKERS!
I am going to buy them for all my friends

I bought the Secretsupport waist cinching tummy control "wear your own bra" slip and the secretsupport tummy control knickers 2 pack

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 hadn't tried M&S Shapewear before but did know what I needed (something to go under a sheer dress for a wedding) so found both the online video & the guide quite useful in narrowing down my choices. I think if I hadn't had something specific in mind I might have been overwhelmed by the different options - perhaps more videos with different problems to solve might help there).

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

I bought online as getting to a store not always easy (particularly as I would usually have a small boy in tow who would not be patient whilst I looked at all the options). This is where online comes into its own - I had the time to browse in peace however I might have been quicker in deciding if I'd had the advice of an assistant in store. The reviews were really useful - I modified my choice based on these

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 a lot more choice than I expected - I had a slip in mind but there were different options within that category. I had no problems with availability for what I wanted

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

Based on how comfortable & how well they fit I would say yes however the slip being for rare occasions I'm not sure I would ordinarily have wanted to spend quite so much

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 pleasantly surprised with how comfortable they were (after previous experience of tummy control tights that both rolled down & felt very constricting). I was prepared for how fiddly it would be to get slip on by reviews & pleased with being able to wear own bra. I haven't yet had the opportunity to wear the slip for any great length of time but based on the short amount I did & the reviews online I have high hopes. With the knickers I thought at first I'd ordered the wrong thing as they looked just like ordinary big pants but for everyday wear they were actually comfortable & pulled my tummy in a little.

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 can't think of anything missing from the range - it seems to be pretty extensive although maybe some prettier colours for the pants. I would probably go straight to M&S again as so far it has proved much more comfortable than stuff I have tried previously

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 - it's the best I've found for what I need but I'd couldn't claim to be an expert

I have already submitted my results, but today I picked up the cherry print swimsuit as well. It is just fabulous.

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 tummy control swimsuits in M&S in the past. Both online and instore it was quite easy to find waht 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?

The cherry print swimsuit was not available online, but I would have preferred to try on different swimsuits and lingerie, anyway.

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, there were olanty of choices and I could get my size as well.

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

Yes, definitely. Both items are just beautiful.

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 happy. DH and I will celebrate out 40th birthdays in a spa complex. My lovely new shapewear items will make me look much more attarctive.

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?

Not sure how you could improve it.
I always have a look at Debenhams, Next, John Lewis and Fenwicks.

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 was quite impressed.

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 some Shapewear before, but it was a while ago. When I started looking for this product test, I was quite surprised at how much more is now available. It was reasonably easy to look up online and see what there was. The only thing I would suggest is that Swimwear is also included in the Shapewear online 'department', as it doesn't immediately come to mind, and yet a lot of people would be interested in looking at swimming costumes too.

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

I looked online but eventually went into a store because I wanted to see the stuff 'properly'. I do buy clothes online but the range is pretty wide with these products so I wanted to have a really thorough look before buying.

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

There were a couple of items that I'd have liked that weren't available. I think this is probably because I'm a 12-14 so they're popular sizes and sold out quickly. I really, really wanted this cami top but it wasn't available, either instore or online.

I thought the ranges were a bit dull in terms of colour. Mostly black, white or nude, and a couple of camis in grey or pink. These are things we WANT to wear, and it would be nice if they could be pretty and different as well as functional.

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

I bought the Waist Cincher which, at £19.50, I thought was a bit overpriced. I'd have been happier paying around £15 for it.

I also bought the Light Control High Rise Shorts which were really good value for money. 2 pairs for £14, good quality and effective - well worth paying £7 a pair!

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 waist cincher is very tight (maybe I should have bought a size bigger?) and tricky to get on. It's ok once on, but I'm a bit put off wearing it because the material is so unforgiving. Whereas the light control shorts are just wonderful . They're comfy - that very soft cotton, which I love - and yet they still manage to do a great job of holding you in without it feeling like you're wearing a vice. And, because they're shorts and come up higher, there's no muffin top. I love them and am going to get some more. I could wear them every day, but I've only got two pairs!

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 above, I think the range could be prettier and less utilitarian. It's nice when underwear can be fun and attractive - why shouldn't Shapewear be the same? More colours, patterns and variety would be great.

I would buy M&S Shapewear again. If I went anywhere else, it would probably be John Lewis.

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

I would definitely recommend the shorts. And probably the wide range that's available. M&S is quite a 'go-to' place for underwear anyway, but I was surprised at how much Shapewear there is and would probably mention this to friends.

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 bought things in the past and always seem to find the light- medium control items work best as the firmer control items always seem to roll down or just feel too rigid and tight. When I looked this time, at M&S Camberley, I found the section without any problem, but I think signposting could have been better and there were so many different range names it was a bit confusing so would say labelling/branding could be a lot better- one range, instead of lots of different ones. That said, I like the firm/ medium/ light control descriptions.

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 instore to try on/ take things back if the size isn't quite right. I buy online for my children though and it's great.

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?

It was ok...too plain generally though both in terms of colours available and styles. We might be curvy girls, but I suspect most women who buy these items are mums in their 30's and 40's so it would be nice to have more feminine colours and pretty styles- and not feel embarrassed to be seen in such matronly underwear!

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

I bought several pairs of light control briefs and a control cami. I would say the value is average- not too expensive but significantly more than a multipack of briefs.

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

I'm really happy with the briefs in terms of holding me in and comfort, but think the styling could be more modern/ pretty. The cami is great too but does ride up....I'm an apple shape and seem to have this problem with lots of shapewear. Maybe you could signpost recommended products for different body types?!!

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?

Stock more sizes, more feminine colours and more pretty/ lacy styles please. I would also agree with other comments that many women are looking for control briefs/ waist cinchers- i.e. we don't need the thigh part, but do need briefs to come up high under bust. I think the signposting/ range branding could be much better too- it's a bit overwhelming to go into a large store and see a huge underwear section and not know where to begin. I would also like a seperate changing room for lingerie ideally.

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, I find the products very comfortable with just the amount of control I want and I do really love the generally excellent customer service. It is a big factor for me.

I bought the DD+ support bra vest, lace panel support knickers and the firm control low leg knickers.
Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?

I haven't bought Shapewear before. There was a very large selection online but I decided to try my local M+S first. The selection in store (Bolton Town Centre) was very limited and tucked away in a little corner. I had to ask an assistant to point me in the right direction.

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 usually prefer to try underwear on first as I'm an odd shape and like to know it fits before buying and did try a couple of items in store. I eventually ordered online

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

In store the selection was limited. Online there was a large selection to choose from. I had no problem with stock availability in the pieces I wanted and managed to order my size first time.

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

I am extremely happy with the bra support vest. I have never been able to find anything like this in a DD+ size and it's excellent for wearing under a sheer top. It's definitely value for money so much so I will be buying another in a different colour. The firm control knickers are also value for money for a two pack of control briefs.

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 lace panel briefs have turned out to be just comfortable large briefs. Not a great deal in the support department. Particularly impressed with the support vest. I just wish the straps were a little thicker. I wouldn't wear it on it's own.

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 did try on a bodyshaper in store. Although the body itself was very good at providing shape the bra part was fairly inneffectual. Again the straps needed to be thicker and stronger. If they had been I may have bought it. I honestly don't know of any other shapewear retailers but I was happy enough with M+S online selection. I would like to have seen a bra with midriff support (50s style?) to go with the briefs.

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 so ,yes. Although i'm not sure I would if they had particularly large breasts.

Today I am mostly wearing the lacy Flatter Me pants and I like them Very Much. They don't look or feel like control pants but give a nice smooth line with no VPL. And no dreaded rolling.

SueP - is that a nod to the Fast Show?

I bought the Secret Support Tummy Control knickers (no VPL) Firm Control in White, the Flatter-Me High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping knickers in Cerise and Secret Support Bodyshaper tights in Nude.

Q1. I have only bought from the tights range before. It was very easy to find out about the range, I looked online first. Didn't realise the range was so big and diverse these days!

Q2. I bought instore as my local M&S is, I believe, a flagship store and always has a great range of everything. I do equal amounts of online and instore shopping with M&S generally.

Q3. I was amazed at the range - a whole department! - and found it difficult to chose. When I had chosen, everything was available in the size and colours I wanted. Great to see different colours, not just white, black and nude.

Q4. I chose 3 reasonably priced items but thought some of the all-in-ones were pricey. That's not to say they weren't good value though. My items seem well made, hard to say if they will last a long time, their underwear usually does...

Q5. I was impressed. The light control pants were pretty much like ordinary pants but made you feel 'secure' and had a smooth line. I liked the colour very much. They have washed as new. The firm control were a bit more restricting (the point of them, I assume) I did feel they were rather unsexy but hey, they had a job to do! Also I bought white, which I don't often do in underwear. They did leave some ridges on my skin but were comfortable to wear and didn't roll up or down when they shouldn't. The tights were brilliant.

Q6.The range was fantastic, so much to choose from, so no suggestions sorry.

Q7. Most definitely. Being 50+, most of my friends have similar issues with our shapes, and I'm pleased to see that M&S are taking this seriously, getting away from the 'pantie girdle' image of our mothers' generation.I bought the Secret Support Tummy Control knickers (no VPL) Firm Control in White, the Flatter-Me High Rise Brazilian Light Shaping knickers in Cerise and Secret Support Bodyshaper tights in Nude.

Q1. I have only bought from the tights range before. It was very easy to find out about the range, I looked online first. Didn't realise the range was so big and diverse these days!

Q2. I bought instore as my local M&S is, I believe, a flagship store and always has a great range of everything. I do equal amounts of online and instore shopping with M&S generally.

Q3. I was amazed at the range - a whole department! - and found it difficult to chose. When I had chosen, everything was available in the size and colours I wanted. Great to see different colours, not just white, black and nude.

Q4. I chose 3 reasonably priced items but thought some of the all-in-ones were pricey. That's not to say they weren't good value though. My items seem well made, hard to say if they will last a long time, their underwear usually does...

Q5. I was impressed. The light control pants were pretty much like ordinary pants but made you feel 'secure' and had a smooth line. I liked the colour very much. They have washed as new. The firm control were a bit more restricting (the point of them, I assume) I did feel they were rather unsexy but hey, they had a job to do! Also I bought white, which I don't often do in underwear. They did leave some ridges on my skin but were comfortable to wear and didn't roll up or down when they shouldn't. The tights were brilliant.

Q6.The range was fantastic, so much to choose from, so no suggestions sorry.

Q7. Most definitely. Being 50+, most of my friends have similar issues with our shapes, and I'm pleased to see that M&S are taking this seriously, getting away from the 'pantie girdle' image of our mothers' generation.

Oops you've got my views twice, they are sooo important!!

Customer Service e-mailed me back to tell me they had applied a p&p credit to my account to enable me to order the pants in a different colour combination without incurring a 2nd set of delivery charges. All good. What was even better is when I went on to the website the colours I had originally ordered were back in stock.

M&S, is there any way you can send out notifications to customers when out of stock items re-appear?

Katie, I am sure they started to do that at one time, it was really useful....

Just ordered some schoolwear as is 20% off and free delivery. I hate waiting till the summer holidays when everything is sold out.

I got the light control lace body, and a wear your own bra control slip.

The lace body is really pretty, and I love the lace pant bit as it is non vpl, so you can wear it with trousers. But as a body, it is just Too Short, so the bust gets pulled down, and a wedgie at the other end. A real pity.
Maybe M&S could consider a long body size on shapewear ?

The wyob slip is excellent though - I can wear a boosting bra, and my bust stays in the right place but the rest of me is noticeably less wobbly looking and it gives a lovely line under my dress

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 few years ago I bought an all in one to wear under a fitted dress.

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

There was more choice online but when I tried to order, what I had chosen was out of stock so I bought in store. I do prefer to buy items like this in store as it is easier for me to decide what shape I need when I can see the item. I bought two packs of different styles of briefs containing two in a pack and a pack of two pairs of shorts. I thought the shorts would possibly not be the fit I wanted as they looked quite low but they are the most comfortable of the 'Shapewear' I bought and fit much higher than I originally thought.

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

I thought there were quite a few different shapes and cuts of 'Shapewear'. The colours I saw were black, nude and white which I thought were suitable but red might be quite nice too. I was able to get what I wanted in my size and I could see that there were all sizes available.

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

I thought the 'Shapewear' I bought was good value for money and are very comfortable to wear and stayed in place. They wash well and I hope they keep their elasticity over time.

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

I was satisfied by my purchases but there was a lot of out of stock items online.

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 was pleased with the range I saw and would buy 'Shapewear' from M & S in future. I think it needs to be clearly labelled as 'Shapewear'. I have also bought some briefs recently from Bravissimo but these were more expensive and were comparable in fit to M & S.

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

I would definitely recommend M & S shapewear as the briefs I bought are very comfortable to wear especially under trousers.

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?

ANSWER: I have a control panel swimming costume I bought from M&S years ago if that counts. I love it. When I first started investigating shapewear online as part of this test I found it a bit difficult to find out what was available. Other responses have mentioned swimwear and tights - I wasn't aware they were within the "shapewear" range as that is not what came up when I looked on the website for shapewear. I also found it difficult to see what the options were until I found the style guide page - I think it would help if this was easier to find on the website. For example, "shapewear" isn't listed in the dropdown menu when you hover over "Women" on the homepage. "Lingerie" is a separate box to "Women" which is odd.

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

ANSWER: I shopped online as we have had a couple of bouts of illness at home that have meant leaving the house rather difficult and as a working mum I have less time than I used to to shop in store. M&S is one of the few shops I am happy buying online as their sizing I find are usually very standard and the returns policy with the ability to return to a shop easily and without fuss means it is less hassle than other online retailers.

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?

ANSWER: I found the range a bit confusing. There seem to be two categories "light" and "firm" but then lots of items don't fit into either category. It wasn't immediately clear to me what was aiming to do what. The item I ended up buying ("Ultimate Magic Secret Support Body Define Multiway Body" in a size 38D) has two picture links - one for the larger of nork and one for those of us that are relatively less endowed but it isn't clear why that is and the two are shown in different colours with slightly different descriptions which is just confusing. It also isn't listed as firm control (or light). I first clicked on the other picture and thought it was surprising that it wasn't in my size - until I found the right one. For my wedding I bought a basque from Rigby & Peller and I did wander if there might be something like that available. There was nothing with boning and very little that was pretty - it was mainly functional.

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

ANSWER: I think the prices are comparable to other controlwear items I have bought before (from John Lewis) but that is after the £5 online discount - I might not have bought it otherwise. That being said I did think adding in a delivery charge of £4.50 so far along the steps to purchase it might have put me off if I didn't have the £5 discount. I often click away and go elsewhere if somewhere adds on a chunky delivery charge or admin fee at a late stage so I can reconsider the price or add more items to make the delivery charge "worthwhile" (but I often end up buying elsewhere or not at all as I lose interest!).

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?

ANSWER: I bought the "Ultimate Magic Secret Support Body Define Multiway Body" in a size 38D in black. I am a size 16 and I was concerned that basing it on bra size might mean the body wouldn't work but it did. I found it very comfortable and it did the job. I was impressed.

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?

ANSWER: prettier things - more lace, more colours. Possibly things with boning. Basques. Something a little less Bridget Jones and a bit more shapewear with style. I would think about M&S in future but I would also look in John Lewis and probably increasingly online like figleaves.

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?

ANSWER: yes, I really like my shapewear.

Correction delivery was £3.50 not £4.50 but would still put me off as that would make the item £43 which seems like a lot for what it is

Q1. I have bought M&S Magic Support tights before, £7 for a pair of black tights. The price shocked me but they are very comfortable to wear, make me feel more confident and the waist band doesn't roll down! I would definitely buy them again. It was easy to find the shapewear range on the website and it was easy to find out about the different types of garments available. I wanted to find some pants and tights, they were easy to find.

Q2. I bought the shapewear online because it is hard for me to get to an M&S store - I am disabled and registered blind so I cannot drive. Also, I don't like clothes shopping in a store because it is so difficult to find what I want and they often seem to have less choice and don't always have my size. I like being able to try items on at home so I can combine them with other items from my own wardrobe.

Q3. I don't think there is enough style and choice of colour. I wanted some 'sexy' control pants but so many look like 'Bridget Jones' pants. They are not attractive. I bought some Flatterme High rise brazilian shaping knickers, light control high rise shorts and secret support sheer tights. The sizes were ok, I think the stock availability was ok, I could get the size that I wanted.

Q4. I do think the brazilian knickers were too expensive - they were £7.50 and they weren't really shapewear - they just felt like a big pair of knickers. I did think the shorts were better value because they were £14 for two pairs and they did feel supportive. It give me greater confidence with more fitted outfits (I'm a size 10 but after two children, I'm a little self conscious about my tummy which isn't as toned as it used to be). I think the tights that I bought are good value, they feel good quality, they were £5 a packet which included two pairs which was excellent value.

Q5. I was most impressed with the tights, they were a really good price (£5 for two pairs) and felt comfortable. It was hard choosing the colour though, I have very pale skin and so many of the flesh coloured tights looked too dark and had reviews saying that they looked like something the reviewer's granny would wear! I wasn't really satisfied with the brazilian knickers, the colour was lovely but they didn't feel supportive and it just felt strange wearing something so big - more like the knickers I wore as a little girl, now I wear thongs!! :) I did like the high rise shorts, they felt really comfortable and offered good support. My only negative for those was the colour choice and also they are not seem free, so I can't wear them with every outfit. I did buy size 12 for the knickers, as the reviewers suggested (I'm normally size 10) and I'm glad I did this. I think a size 10 would have been too small and not flattering.

Q6. I do think the range could be make more sexy, I'm in my early 30's and struggle with the idea of massive knickers! It would be better if there were more colours. I did consider the bodies but I was worried about going to the loo in them. However, a friend told me they have poppers! I wish the website had told me this. There needs to be a better range of tights colours for pale skin, and better photos to show the colours and how they would look on pale skin. If I were to look for shapewear again, I would look at M&S but also Debenhams.

Q7. I would recommended some M&S shapewear to a friend, but not all pieces, you have to choose carefully. It does make a fun conversation! One friend recommend their bodies for a smooth silhouette under a fitted outfit.

Q1. Have you bought Shapewear from M&S before? When you first started investigating the shapewear range as part of this product test, how easy or difficult was it to find out about the different types of garments available? Did you find what you had in mind?
No not bought before from M&S, lots of info online, didn't go into shop as M&S near me really small, the one I wanted the most didn't have in my size.

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, easier to do online as 4 month old not very patient in shops

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?
Lots of choice but my first choice was not available in my size. I managed to get my 2nd choice though.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why?
received them today, so have not yet worn them out as will be ultimate test. I have a long body so not sure if will stay up and may roll down, but anything to hide my belly is greatly appreciated. Value for money? would not usually spend so much on knickers!

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, items look nice and do seem to flatten my tummy, haven't had chance to wear them out yet so not sure if they will stay up ok. £5 off was a good offer too and free delivery

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?
range for tall people too for a longer body, would consider buying again as usually get underwear from M&S

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

Q1- no, not bought any before. Researching the range was relatively easy online, although I did get a bit confused by all the choice of relatively similar looking items, and instore was easy as there was just one area of the range.

Q2 -I looked online but didn't buy - I like to try things on and avoid the hassle of sending things back if they aren't right. I went to a large store (at colney Heath) and had a very helpful fitter who measured my bra size and advised me against getting a body (which I had said I wanted) but a separate pants and bra as my bust needed a lift(!) and she didn't think the shapewear range would do that. She was right and I bought two pairs of knickers and a pushup bra instead. (Gorgeous Waist Sculpt? Firm Control Floral Lace Knickers £22.50 Product Code: T326877). She didn't know the range very well and didn't let me know that the options online were far wider when I was struggling to find things, but she was very helpful otherwise.

Q3 - lots of options on line - in fact I found it a bit confusing - 40 pairs of control knickers meant I didn't know where to start! In store the range was in contrast really limited, even though I was in a large store. Some things weren't available in my size and there were very few options of the different styles of underwear.

Q4 - although I didn't buy a full body thing I thought they were very reasonably priced. The knickers I did buy I thought were a bit overpriced, especially as they are the kind of item that you would want more than one of.

Q5. They were very comfy and worked very well, without rolling down. I was impressed.

Q6 - it would be nice to see a wider range of colours and a body with more of a lift for the bust! (there might have been online but I couldn't find one in store). I would buy again. In the past I have bought spanx from John Lewis and these were just as good, but the instore range from JL was wider so I would probably try there first.

Q7 - Yes.

Thanks very much for letting me be part of the panel. It's the first time I have ever 'won' anything, and being on maternity leave am far too skint to treat myself so I enjoyed the shopping!