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 picked up my items today from the click & collect desk At Cribbs Causeway branch in Bristol. here's what I bought: Body Solutions Firm Control Multiway panelled dress slip in nude and a pair of Ultimate Magic 15 denier secret support tights in natural tan.

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 only one item of shapewear before which was over 5 years ago and was from M & S. I found it easy using the online video guides and shape wear section. I was surprised by how extensive the range is. I found what I had in mind but it was out of stock.

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 in the end as in the store the range was spread out so it was much harder to investigate the full range. I would prefer to try items on before I buy but it's not always possible to do underwear shopping in a small cubicle with a toddler in tow.

Q3. There is enough choice in terms of the range. It would be nice to see some different patterns and a wider choice of colours so it's a bit more appealing. I struggled to get anything I originally wanted in my size online - all out of stock in a 10-12.

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

I don't think the tights we good value as they're disposable items that won't last long. I was happy with the price of the panel slip though as its essentially a bra attached to a slip.

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

I was satisfied with the slip- it gave me a great shape and the bra bit was a great fit and flattering. The only issue was that I would have to go commando to wear it as it squashes your knickers in such a way that gives bad VPL and makes you look like you have fat rolls on your bum! The tights were def firm and were much more like shapewear shorts but it's a lot of money for tights when you could put cheaper ones over shapewear shorts instead.

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...

Better stock management of sizes online! A bigger choice of bold patterns like the main ranges would be nice.

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

I'd def recommend the slip to friends who don't mind going without knickers due to the flattering fit and no fat rolls hanging out anywhere like the knickers often result in. The tights I wouldn't bother with because of the price point.

I bought the Ultimate Magic waist cincher and thigh trimmer for £35 (although there was £5 off for a promotion )
Q1. I bought some firm control knickers many, many years ago but they were not particularly comfortable. The range has certainly come on in leaps and bounds since then! I didn?t have anything particular in mind when I first started investigating what was available and I was very impressed by the massive range available. I did my research online.

Q2. I looked at what was available online. There was a lot of useful information about different types of products and sizing. I thought the video was helpful. I may have bought online but there was limited availability in terms of sizing (a bit disappointing) so I went into a store to actually shop (Guildford). There was a fantastic amount of products available: just about everything that I had seen online and the whole range of sizes seemed to be available. The stock was very well laid out and presented instore, although I may have been confused about what everything was actually for if I had not looked online first. It was also easier to get a sense of the different fabrics in the store. Therefore, I prefer using both methods.

Q3. Yes I was extremely impressed by the different styles and product ranges. Stock availability was poor online but very good in store. I don?t think that lots more colours need to be added to the range as it obviously functional although there does seem to be a presumption that shoppers are light skinned toned for the nude colour.

Q4. I bought from the ultimate magic range because I was intrigued by the fact that they was considerably more expensive than other ranges in the same style. It is difficult to know whether it was worth spending this extra on ultimate magic as I have not really compared it with the other ranges: if I was spending my own money (as it were) I doubt I would have spent the extra and would have been happy with one of the cheaper ranges.

Q5. I am very happy with the waist and thigh cincher: it definitely holds you in and gives a streamlined shape under dresses. I have only tried it on at home so far as am saving it for more occasion wear rather than everyday. But it seems to stay up ok with this limited test. I would definitely buy more from the M&S range now I?ve had an opportunity to see what is available.

Q6. I was interested in the ?wear your own bra? type of products as well and would like to see more of these as I wear a H cup size. I think improvements could be made to some of the information available about the different lines: the information online about what the different styles can do for you was really excellent, but I couldn?t find any information at all to tell me what ultimate magic means, how it differs from (say) secret support, and why I should consider spending more on this particular range.

Q7. Yes definitely would recommend ? really good range of styles and seem to be effective

My 2pk light control seam free knickers and body solutions firm control smoothing full slip arrived yesterday, 2 days earlier than expected.

1. No I haven't bought M and S shapewear before - remember the feel of it in the dim and distant past was far less appealing than it is now. My local store carries very little stock so I had to wait till I got to go to Bluewater to check out the range.

1. I shopped online because I couldn't find what I wanted in store - I'm happy to buy online if I've seen/felt the profuct in store. As we don't live near a town, online is easier.

1. I'd love to see body shapers for tall women, also more slips in larger cup sizes. There was plenty of online availability for what I bought.

1. Prices were fine.

1. I really like the slip. I have a few jersey dresses and it gives a really smooth look. I bought the nude but will get a black one as well.

1. I don't think so. I've bought Spanx and Trinny and Susannah stuff before. Would check out Debenhams simply because it's the only shop in our town with any stock.

1. I'd certainly recommend the slip to friends if it came up in conversation.

Thank you for the chance to take part - I've got some great products that I would definitely buy again.

Right, to continue where I left off. M&s and mumsnet, thank u for this opportunity.

My package arrive today after ordering on Monday. However, joules and John Lewis seem to be faster in their delivery and joules delivery is free as you get a code for joules on mumsnet.
I ordered the slip (on phone so cannot link) worth 27.50. Tried it on. It's fabulous. It gives me a defined waste. If I was a little less rotund on the tummy, it may even make me look very thin and more defined indeed. I will see if i can post some before and after shots. Knocked at least 5 pounds off. Thank you m&s. I would not have purchased a size 12 in store. Glad I purchased online and went with the smaller size rather than 14.
The vest top looks really large and awful at first glance. I would not have purchased it in store if I has seen it. The large cups on it makes it look really unsexy. I want to feel I am buying dainty womenly things, not great big matronly vests. However, again, surprisingly, it is fantastic on. Even without a bra on my 36 E breast feeding bosoms. I will be buying more colours. at GNP 19 this was expensive for what it is. I can now wear slinky vests in the summer rather than worry about bust support or bra straps showing. Love u m&s!!

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 ahve bought shapewear from M&S before, normally knickers. I found sizing difficult - I initially wanted a underwired all in one body or slip. I am a 36G. the only item in store looked utilitarian and a bit russian shot-putter

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why?
I went to the local high street store as I prefer to feel fabrics etc before I buy.

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

no. absolutely not. For the larger busted customer, bravissimo are still miles ahead of M&S. a lot of teh underwired shapewear was ugly. I eventually settled on two lacy trimmed bosies in black and 'flesh' which did look pretty and feminine

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

well, they were free and therefore excellent vfm I doubt I would buy them i f I did not have 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?

I bought my usual size and am now on dukan. very skimpy fit, I do appreciate that to 'suck in' the garmnet has to be tight, but it's not something I could strip out of easily and therefore limits the slimming effect when I have to struggle to take the item off!

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

improve range by making larger items similar to smaller items. M&S manage to make their DD+ bras conversant with the smaller cupped options in the range - the only items avilable to me in store on that particular day were ugly. As previously mentioned, bravissimo are prefered.

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 if they had a smaller bust.

I bought these ,this and these. I shopped at The Mall Bristol branch.

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 not bought shapewear before anywhere. I looked online first and found what styles I liked, and had in mind a bodysuit.

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 first, and as I have 2 preschoolers I usually buy most stuff online. I decided quickly that I would have to go instore to buy shapewear, as I did not want to buy it without trying it on as I wanted to ensure a good fit, and I was worried about shapewear being uncomfortable. I have also just finished breastfeeding so I wanted to get measured for a bra.

I found the customer service instore was great and just what I would have expected. The woman who served me was really helpful and knowledgable although I asked her lots of awkward questions. The problem though was that I went to the store on a Saturday at 1pm, which I imagine is one of your busiest times, and there was no-one available until 5.30 to give me a bra measurement. It just was not possible for me to stick around that long, and I was surprised there was no-one available on a Saturday to offer this service, as it must be really popular. If I was just bra shopping I would have gone elsewhere and got measured and bought a bra.

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 clicked on a couple of things to see if they had them in my size online and they were sold out. Instore I was surprised at the size of the range, although I think more colours would be good in general. The store seemed well stocked though.

I tried on a copy of bodysuits and was disappointed that neither of them were long enough so had to change my purchases to knickers and a support vest. I am 5ft8 and a size 18, so quite tall and broad. A tall range for shapewear would be a great idea.

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

They were all good value for money.

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

I thought they were all good quality and felt nice to the touch. I was a bit scared of buying support knickers that would feel constrictive, so wimped out and got light support. On the one hand, they were really comfortable, but on the other hand, I am not sure they did all that much to hold my tummy in. The 2-pack of more traditional shapewear knickers gave more support than the brazilian lace ones, but the brazilian lace ones were prettier and I felt really confident in them.

The vest was soft and comfortable, and it is a revelation being able to wear a vest with no bra straps showing for the first time since I was young enough to go bra-less! I wore the vest under a dress which is a bit too revealing for everyday wear and I found it rode up a bit though and needed hoiking down.

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 a wider range of fabrics and colours would be good, in more modern styles. Although good quality I felt the styles were all quite traditional, so may only appeal to a certain type of late-middle-aged customer, and you may be missing out on a younger market.

I would like to see slips / bodysuits for taller women.

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, yes.

I bought this Tummy Control Assymetric Mesh Swimsuit

Q1) I bought some thigh shaper pants years ago to squeeze into a dress as it was cheaper than buying a new one; they were effective but not that comfortable & very hot. I typed in shapewear online & all sorts came up. I hadn't thought of getting a swimsuit until I saw it in the search results but it seemed the most useful purchase as I wanted to start taking my baby for swimming lessons.

Q2) Online but I picked them up at the Truro store & had a quick browse of the lingerie range; didn't see any of the swimsuits though. I think I would prefer to buy instore if I didn't have a baby strapped to me in a sling as I'm so unsure of my size & shape since having a baby.

Q3) As others have said I think the colour choices in lingirie were very limited & could be prettier. As lots are highwaisted for tummy control maybe a ditsy 50's print or polka dots? They do some lovely undies aimed at a younger market, surely it wouldn't hurt to add a couple of pretty prints to the shapewear range? Stock availability in this swimsuit was rubbish I'd have gone for a 10 rather than an 8 given the choice & a long rather than standard which I don't think was even available in the smaller sizes.

Q4) I thought it was quite pricey for a swimsuit. It's lovely though, which is why I haven't returned it even though it's a dodgy fit. If it had actually had tummy control then maybe it it would be good value but it really doesn't.

Q5) Love the style/design. Wish I could get it in a 10 long & I wish it actually had tummy control, so mixed feelings really.

Q6) As I said before I think the lingerie could have some more prettier, younger, fashionable choices. Also, they could have a maternity option like Spanx does. I really needed my bum lifted & thighs slimmed when I was pregnant but didn't want to pay Spanx prices for something I wouldn't get a lot of use out of. I'd either buy M&S or Spanx.

Q7) I can't imagine the conversation but I suppose I would recommend the lingerie, maybe not the swimwear though purely because of the lack of actual tummy control in this suit.

I bought the Body-Solutions-Cupless-Panelled-Slip for £27.50 and used the rest of the money to pay P&P for next day delivery.

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 of the pants before. I have also used other "waist-cinch" products. When I first starting looking this time I found the range a bit overwhelming to be honest. I thought there was quite a lot (? too much) choice and several items seemed to do the same thing. I was pleased to find a garment like this as having quite a large chest I can never fit into all-in-ones and I liked the idea of wearing my own bra.

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

I looked on-line and in-store. In theory prefer to buy in-store so that I can try items on; in practice however I hate it as I usually have at least 1 child in tow, little time, can't find the items I want in my size, can't find anyone to help etc etc...I therefore tend to browse and buy on-line from the comfort of my own home. Downside of that = that I can't try for size or look at fabrics, feel, shape of item etc. This time I bought the item on-line. With hindsight I think that was a mistake.

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

I think there is too much choice. I had to look at the on-line guides several times to work out what each item was supposed to do and even then I was confused about what were the pros and cons of each. I suppose I should have gone to a shop to ask for help. When I popped into an M&S branch (London Colney Junc 22 M25) there seemed to be very little stock on display (the few things I looked at did not seem to have anything in my size) and it was hugely unclear which items were part of the shapewear range and which weren't. There didn't seem to be anyone around to help (but I can't say I looked very hard...it was Sat eve and I wanted to get home for tea! Perhaps I should have tried harder). With regard to the on-line item I purchased, it was actually my 2nd choice, the first being "Gorgeous waist sculpt wear your own bra slip" which had better on-line reviews but was out of stock in all sizes except 6 and 8!

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

I thought the price wasn't bad, considering some of the pants things were more expensive.

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 a bit disappointed to be honest. My item arrived very quickly - I was impressed with that side of the service. However it was a highly unattractive piece of kit...which actually did little to suck in my flabby bits. It also felt uncomfortable to wear. (Perhaps I'm just not used to these types of things, though, as I haven't worn a slip for years).

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

More shapes and colours would be good. The nude colour of my item was hideous but it wasn't available in black or anything else. I would have much preferred it in purple or something! I am not sure where else I would look for shapewear in the future. I don't particularly like boned corset-type things either such as those by Miraclesuit (in fact I have one for sale on ebay right 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?

Probably not to be honest. I have't been particularly impressed with any of the items I've had now or in the past. But maybe I'm expecting impossible miracles!

I got this body, these pants and these tights I got them online and used the £5 off if you ordered over £30 or whatever it was and got them delivered to my local store.

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 slimming pants from M&S before but years ago so I doubt they were the shapewear range. I still have them though! I wanted a body which I managed to get and so the pants and tights were a real bonus.

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

I did it online because my local store is more of a food store. I did briefly look at the stuff in the next nearest store but there wasn't a lot in my size so I decided to order online. I would normally prefer to buy it in store so I can feel and see the products. I didn't find the website very easy to use as it jumps about all over the place and it's hard to get back to where you just were. Also when I went to the main page and typed in 'shapewear' it didn't display as much as when I went to the shapewear page via the Mumsnet link.

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 lots of choice actually but when I actually went to buy online there were quite a few of the items I wanted that were out of stock in my size or in the colour I wanted so the body I got wasn't my first choice one at all.

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

Yes really good value for money, I got 5 items for £34.50 which I think is great. (Obviously two were multi pack items)

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

I am very satisfied with them. The only complaint about the body I have is that I would have preferred it to have been a whole cup on the boobs rather than half cup and sheer for the rest of it (if this makes sense) as it's not overly flattering on me. It was certainly comfy and I wore it to work all day and ditto with the pants/tights.

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

I would buy items from here again, they were good value for money and good quality. I can't think of anything missing from the range at all.

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 have already recommended it to friends and given them an eyeful of my body under my work clothes!!

Q1. Yes, I had bought some knickers before and they were really good. I had a look on line first and then went to the local store. I wasn't sure what I wanted so had a browse and there were alot of different items

Q2. I preferred to shop instore as i could see what i was buying and speak to an assistant.

Q3. There were different items at 2 different stores i visited. I am still holding on to one item which i want to exchange for a different colour and it is out of stock. It is difficult to exchange items which are not the same price and keep the 'spend over £30 and save £5 even though i still spending the over £30.

Q4. The knicker set were very good value and felt lovely especially being cotton. The slip is a reasonable price too, just need it in a flesh colour as oppose to black.

Q5. I loved the feel of the slip and the knickers. The slip will be brilliant under dresses when a half slip may show at the waist under the dress. shame it is hard to get the flesh colour. waiting for it to come back into stock frustrating.

Q6. more camisoles or vest tops would be nice. may buy from John Lewis

Q7. yes I would as the items I have are discreet and not too restrictive. I like the fact that the knickers are cotton and really comfortable

I have previously bought shapewear from M&S (black shorts for sucking in my tum bum & thighs). This was probably about four years ago (pre pregnancy).
I went shopping for my shapewear this time at the Richmond store and found there was only a limited number or products on offer and the ones I was interested in were not in my size. I asked the sales consultants if they had any other sizes. They were very helpful (I suspect they knew they were being tested) and said they did not have any more available in store but that they could order in the size I wanted or check another store. I declined as I wanted to check out the full range online and find out if there were other styles I preferred (there were).
I found there was far more choice online and a full range of sizes and although I wouldn?t usually buy clothing online as I like to try stuff on, I have ordered the ?Body Solutions Firm Control Multiway Panel Dress Slip? to collect in store so I?ll be able to try it on before taking it home. I chose this to go under a dress for a wedding and it?ll also be good to go under some of my suit dresses for work.
The item seems reasonable value for money, especially as I?ll be able to wear on a number of occasions.
In all honesty the shopping experience has been a bit time consuming and if I hadn?t have been involved in this trial I probably would have given up at the point that they didn?t have my size in store.
I will post again once I received my items.

I bought a double pack of light control knickers and a shapewear light control full slip

Right, here we go. I bought Waist Sculpt? Firm control cincher in natural and 2 x 2 packs Light Control Cotton Rich Knickers in black/white and white/natural.

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 did, years and years ago - I got very firm control zip up pants which were very painful to wear. The website was very easy to navigate with all the information though difficult to tell how the items looked on people who needed any form of control as the models were all so lithe with not an inch of fat amongst them. And yes, I did find my initial item on my "want" list which was a waist cincher.

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

I wanted to buy online but being over 40 I just can't get the idea of not feeling or trying on clothes before I buy - I never did catelogue shopping for clothes either.

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 seemed to be an awful lot of choice (possible too much - I felt overwhelmed in a way) in my local M&S - I went early in the morning so clothes were all neatly on hangers in the right size order and fully stocked. Yep, there was a full choice for my sizing and I did get what I wanted. I did try on the waist cincher and although I couldn't find a member of staff on the floor to help, the lady in the changing rooms said they normally advise you wear a size bigger than you are. I took a 16 and 14 into the changing rooms and was surprised to find that the 14 was more comfortable (at the time) than the 16 which was just like an extra layer of underwear for me. I'd also tried on a full waist/hips/pants/thigh outfit in a size 14 and this was far too big.

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

Mmmmn, I normally would not have spent this amount of money on a dress yet/let alone underwear. We do not have disposable cash, this would have to be a real investment. And really, 2 pack of pants for £9.50 - even being the cheapest and "Outstanding Value" no - not in my world.

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 W/C started off being really comfortable - til I made the mistake of sitting and then leaning over It rolled up rapidly, visibly (taking my top with it) like a cartoon roller blind and then sat, sausage like just on my midriff with blubber sticking out above and below I soon learned how to sit properly so in effect it corrected my posture which made me suck in my spare tyre

The pants, I just can't get out of my head that I am wearing my mum's knickers that I have picked up by mistake and I haven't lived with her since I was 17 Nice lacey bits for big pants - but big pants all the same!

I have done a wash and it's all come up as lovely as brand new and the pants (being light control) feel just as controlling as they did when first worn.

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?

In the shop, I felt overwhelmed - there was so much stuff, all with different names, titles, descriptions. It did have labels above the racking saying "Shapewear" - but I wasn't too sure which bits were bits and whether they actually belonged. It would have been easier say to have one snazzy brand name only and then divide into Firm/Light/Medium control. Or all pants together ranked in control order, all bodies etc etc. I was all over the place just looking for pants no change there then

Unfortunately, due to financial circumstances I have to shop in lower end retailers eg Primark or Sainsburys for example. Actually Sainsbury's stuff is quite good

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 someone was looking for a very large range and choice then yes, I would.

Thank you for letting me participate in this

Q1. I have never bought Shapewear before. I had heard of similar products but not of this specific product range so I had no idea what I was going to buy until I entered the shop.

Q2. I bought the £35 pants only because that is the amount of money I had but would never ever have spent that amount on a pair of pants normally. I think I prefer to buy underwear in person and not online as I would like to try on bras. But pants - well either way really.

Q3. Stock was reasonably good but a bit mixed up on the hangers. Not sure the pants I bought were ever to be worn for style! I just kept thinking Bridget Jones and carried on with the purchase.

Q4. These items do not come cheap and I would never have purchased rhese £35 pants normally. The bottom of the pants at the leg were a bit frayed on one spot when I got them home so not sure the quality matched the price. These are only PANTS after all with elastic - what justifies a £35 price tag is beyond me. Realistic price for me wold have been circa £15-18 and I would have been absoulutely desperate for a flat tum or pre menstral at that price.

Q5. Yes they were satisfctory, lightweight and comfortable and they looked and felt sleek.

Q6. I have nothing to compare this product with. So if I was shopping I may have gone to John Lewis or Debenhams for an alternative named product. I don't think the price justifies the quality so I think M&S could do with cutting the price. There seemed to be a good range of types of product.

Q7. Yes I would recommend to some of my better off friends although I am not sure any of my friends would thank me for the suggestion that they might actually need a bit of a tum and bum tuck!

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've bought Shapewear before. It was fairly easy to check out the range. It's in its own section both online and in store and is pretty well set out within those sections.

Q2. Did you shop for shapewear in store or online, or both? Which method do you prefer for buying things like shapewear and why? I looked in both to get an idea of the range and sizes. I looked in store to see what they actually looked like - fabric/colour doesn't translate well across photographs I find. I'd be happy to buy online now I'm familiar with the range although I had some problems with that (see below)

Q3. Do you think there is enough choice in terms of styles, shapes, sizes, colours etc or not? How was the stock availability when you did your shopping? Were you able to get what you wanted in your size or not? The range seems pretty comprehensive to me. Availability was fairly bad in the sizes I wanted though, both online and in store. I'm tall and overweight - bad combination in M&S generally (had to stop buying trousers there) I wanted to order online and pick up from the store, but pretty much everything I looked at was out of stock. First time I went into the store most of my first choices were OOS in my size too. I was luckier the second time (although I'd changed my mind about what to get anyway) I got the thigh slimmer pants by being brave and buying the size I probably am rather than the (larger) size I always go for. Still had to compromise with the tights however. I need the extra large because I'm 5'10" and they are always like gold dust, even in the non shapewear ranges.

Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? Difficult. They were very expensive, but they work well and are well made. I'm not used to spending so much money on one item!

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 happy - they worked well, and were surprisingly comfortable given how much wobbly stuff they were compressing Only annoying thing was that the waistband keep folding down, but I could ignore that with what I was wearing.

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 miss my old control pants - absolutely plain black jersey ones which were sold in a multipack. I buy all my underwear from M&S I have to say - it balances price against quality far better than any other similar retailer.

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. TBH I wouldn't know who else to recommend, and I do like their underwear on the whole (shopping for it is a different matter, but this isn't the place for a whinge about their lack of larger sizes - not of selling it, just of being able to find the damn things!)

Firstly, thank you very much for picking me to take part in this product review. It couldn't have come at a better time as we have a very smart family do coming up imminently and I need some shapewear to fit under my lovely Damsel in a Dress frock, picked up for a song .

This will be an entry in two halves though. Believe it or not I still haven't had my voucher! The first one seemed to have gone AWOL and the second one arrived on Wednesday (when we were out) and was delivered to some distant and inconvenient collection point (without my say-so)and haven't had time to collect yet! Think the first lesson for M&S from this is that Royal Mail would probably have been a better delivery service to use - at least then I could have been in charge of the redelivery options. Did try to get Parcelforce to redeliver to a more convenient place but they couldn't and were unable to commit to a given home redelivery date! Also, it might have been cheaper to give product testers the option to collect the giftcards in-store if that is feasible?

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

Yes, I have bought shapewear before from M&S but quite a while ago and think it was to go under something specific - a rather fluid summer dress. Since I had my DCs I have definitely developed a flabby tummy and this needs addressing. Of course I could do push-ups every day but don't have the time or the inclination! Used to have a really taut, flat tummy so it is a bit of a shock to get a side view of self in clothes with a podgy tum sticking out! And I still like to wear quite figure-hugging clothes so shapewear is definitely a serious consideration for me when buying clothes.

I started investigating the shapewear range online and in-store as soon as I discovered I'd been chosen to participate in the product review - champing at the bit to get started, so a bit disappointed that it's taken so long to get the voucher to spend. Quite excited to see that there were eight pages of shapewear products listed online, but less so once I started scrolling through and discovered that half at least were just knickers/tights. Our local branch is large and I was pleasantly surprised by the rows of different products, some of which wouldn't have looked out of place in one's grandmother's closet and others of which were far more to my liking, working a sexier vibe. I was also a bit of a swot and searched online for articles in the press to help me with decision making.

Signing off now and will be back next week to answer the rest of the questions!

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?

A1. Many moons ago, when I had no need for shapewear i bought the most uncomfortable pair of knickers I have ever owned. Apart from then I haven't bought M&S Shapewear. I used the website, and it was fairly easy to navigate and find the shapewear range. This time I bought This and these

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

A2 Online. I don't do fitting rooms in store especially for things like underwear after once getting stuck in something and it having to be cut off me buy an assistant.

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?

A3. I'm at the larger end of your range and found that a number of the items weren't available in my size. That given i think the range covers just about every lumpy bumpy problem us ladies have to deal with. I think sticking to the 3 main underwear colours is good, because really who are you going to be flashing your big granny knickers too?

*Q4. Do you think that the shapewear item(s) you bought were good value for money or not? Why? 8

A4. The 2 pack of knickers are very comfortable and do exactly what I wanted them to. More that I would spend on "normal" knickers, but I would be happy to buy them again. I am however disappointed with the Waist cincher. I felt it didn't quite cinch as much as I would have liked, it also kept rolling down. I have another pair of bry to thigh knickers I bought for the pricely sum of £5 from Primark that do a better job of controlling my tummy, so I'm afraid I would buy those again, which is disappointing, because you think you are getting a top quality product from M&S.

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?

A5 See above

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?

A6. I usually buy shapewear from Debenhams or bravisamo and have bought from Primark in the past and would again.

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

A7. Probably, yes, because of the wide range.

Can I also add I bought a paid of your T-shirt bras and they are the most confortable bras I have bought for a while, the straps are soft and dont dig in, which with my bust has almost become a normal thing. So I will buy those again too!

Hello

I responded much earlier in the thread and I said how I wasn't impressed with the items I had bought so I returned them and ordered an Ultimate Magic Body Define Thigh Slimmer.

I tried in on last night and I am far more impressed with it than the light control thigh slimmer I had bought last time. Really works on my waist by a few inches without feeling tight and it smooths down my thighs, although I haven't noticed much slimming on them but the overall effect is great so I really don't mind.

I'm going to be out all day tomorrow for a family event and will definitely wear it.

Good value for money - it's steep at £29.50 but if it lasts a long time I think it will be worth it.

I am happy with nude or black spfor these types of 'proper' control wear.

And yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Thanks again :)

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, haven't bought before. I did a quick bit of research online, but went into our local branch (a smallish one) to have a look 'in the flesh'. The range was very limited in terms of styles and sizes, and I could only find one product which was actually 'Shapewear' branded, the rest were called things like Secret Support, so I wasn't sure if they qualified for the test.

There weren't any members of staff in the near vicinity, although I probably could have found one if I had really wanted to.

Much easier to check out the range online.

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 then looked online properly, and found it much easier to see what was available.

I realised that the whole 'support' range was in an online category called Shapewear, so I guess it all counts? I chose two different garments:
'Seamfree Light Control Shapewear Short' - big pants with short legs £9.50
and
Body Solutions Bandeau Full Control Slip - firm £27.50

I used the £5 off LINGERIE code, so with delivery I got both items just 50p over budget.

As Shapewear would be a difficult thing to try on, I'd probably just buy it online, especially given the lack of stock in our store. I shop both in store and online at M&S usually.

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

The stock in store seemed very limited - so limited in terms of lines and sizes I don't think I would have found anything suitable.

I thought there was more than enough choice online, and only found one thing out of stock (a black slip) that I was interested in.

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

The slip seemed expensive at £27.50, although it was nice that it had the detachable sparkly straps. The pants weren't such bad value at £9.50 for two pairs.

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?

1. Slip - when I initially tried this on I thought I had it on back to front as it comes up quite high at the front. I then tried to twirl it round and got a bit panicky as it was SO tight! I eventually sorted it out.

Good points - it is a good length, and is quite smoothing. Nice to have the choice of taking the straps off. It worked well under the dress I tried it with.

Bad - I'd have to wear it without pants, as I tried it on with pants underneath and ended up with a bad bulge. Pantless be a bit scary in a short dress. It also makes the bust a bit droopy looking without a bra underneath. The strap hooks were a bit scratchy at the front, and seemed a bit short and tight even on the longest setting. Going strapless made boobs droop even more. The garment also had a slightly odd smell, a bit like cigarette smoke, I think that was from the plastic packaging. The fabric is very thick and almost plasticy-feeling, it would be nice to have something a bit softer.

2. Pants - I'm wearing these at the moment

Good points - love the feeling of having tummy held in, very comfy. Fabric is nice and soft and seamfree.

Bad - I'd probably go for the longer shorts the next time, these stop at the fattest part of my thighs, so dig in a tiny bit, and also tend to ride up.

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

The range seems good. I'd definitely be tempted to try 'long john' style control pants, as long as they were soft and seam free.

I'd probably look in John Lewis as well, and check out Figleaves online. I like Sloggi products so might see if they had anything.

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 don't think it would come up in conversation really, not sure if I'd heartily recommend as I've only tried two of the products, so don't know what the rest are like. I'd probably recommend it as a place to check out though if they said they were looking.

Thank you for the vouchers.

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

i have never bought shapewear before this test, i looked online to see what was available before visiting the store. i had no trouble finding what i wanted instore.

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 like to look/feel things before i buy.

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 of different choices so i feel there is enough, there was plenty of stock in the size i needed so had no trouble purchasing what i went for.

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

yes i thought my items were very good value s i bought a few 2 pack sets.

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 pants i bought but i was hugely disappointed with the waist cincher i bought, being a size 12 i bought a size 14 thinking this would be more comfortable but i had to return it as it was way too small i know its supposed to make your waist thinner but u do have to actually get it on in the 1st place !!!!!!!

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

i would consider m&s again as most of the items were wonderful but i really think they need to look into the sizing on the waist cincher as buying 2 sizes bigger just so it fits right kind of defeats the object its meant for in my opinion. sorry to sound so ungreatful.

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 it came up then yes i would recommend it but its not really something i talk about with my friends in all honesty, i was quite happy with my other items tho they were fabulous.

I went into two M&S shops - Witney and Swindon. I bought two items, a body suit and some briefs. Seen here: www.marksandspencer.com/Light-Control-Floral-Bandeau-Knickers/dp/B002TBF5M6?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_57&nodeId=43270030&sr=1-57&qid=1339856725

www.marksandspencer.com/Light-Control-Gathered-Front-Santoni/dp/B002G4RIAI?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_14&nodeId=309705031&sr=1-14&qid=1339856969

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

I've never bought shape wear before. It was easy to find shape wear, especially online. I wanted a body to wear under a dress I'd bought for a friends wedding.

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 initially went into a small M&S and had a look around. There were plenty of shape wear knickers but no full body suits. The staff were very helpful with the items that were available and suggested that I go to a larger store for a wider range of items. I preferred buying in store as I wasnt totally sure what to buy and I found that the different types of items gave you different effects. It was easy in a large store to pick out a large number of items and try lots of things on.

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 the large store there was plenty to choose from in terms of styles and shapes and sizes. Some items were very nice and most didn't even look like shape wear, it would be nice if some items came in other colours. I was able to find what I wanted and in the sizes that I wanted.

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

I think the items were good value for money in terms of the quality of the items and the finish but I didnt find that the items gave me exactly the results that I had been hoping for.

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 shape wear that I bought had a number of good and bad points.

Good

• Very pretty styles, they dont look like the 'girdle' type support wear I used to see my mum wear.
• the fabric and finish to the items were both good quality.
• The body suit gave me a great shape around the bust and bottom. It flattened out my lumps and bumps which was great.

Bad

• The items didn't have the support in the lower tummy area I was hoping for, there was obviously some improvement but not the improvement that I was hoping for. But I suppose it could be that I'm hoping for a little too much.
• Item descriptions were different on the Internet and on the packaging. I only just discovered this, on the packaging the bodysuit says 'firm' control, on the Internet the item is described as 'light'. So I'm not sure whether this is the reason why I didnt find everything I was looking for in my items.

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

A recommendation to improve the range would be to introduce a 'post natal' range. As a new mother I have had a number of special events to go to but haven't felt as confident wearing some of my favourite outfits or shopping for occasion wear. The items available were great but it would be wonderful to have something that I am able breastfeeding in. On evenings out it is difficult to manoeuvre everything to be able to feed the baby but also ensure that I don't end up with milk on my new clothes!

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

I would recommend shape wear to give you an improved overall look and the knickers especially for the comfort, look and fact you don't get a vpl when wearing stretchy fabric dresses. But as I wasn't able to fully get the look I was hoping for I probably wouldn't suggest the body suits.

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, never. I wanted to test the magic cellulite reducing pants but they seem to have disappeared so I chose the Ultimate Magic Body Define Thigh Slimmer instead.

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 would have preferred in store so that I could try different sizes on but I live in a rural area so online is more convenient. I followed the size guide on the M&S website but I'm not convinced I got the right size, despite measuring an inch smaller than the size I ordered.

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

The choice of colours is a bit boring. Some brighter colours and more patterns would be nice.

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

Not really, although I've seen more expensive

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?

To be honest, I think they are rubbish. I tried them on and they were a bit snug, but I expected this from control undies. My hips and waist are an inch smaller than the the size according to the size guide on the website. I tried to put my jeans on over the top and they wouldn't fit- how on earth did the control undies make me bigger?! For this reason I don't think I will bother ordering a size up. Also the pants dug in around my thighs and made them look lumpy which I never had before (they looked and felt as if they were seam-free but there was a band that dug in. Maybe making it wider would help.)

Went back to my regular undies, jeans fit fine and look much better.

The fabric felt nice though.

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?

Check the sizing maybe?

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?

Wouldn't recommend them, no. I don't think any of my friends would be interested anyway.

Thanks for the voucher though!

I brought the Ultimate Magic Secret Support Body Define Body £39.50
A1. I have brought shape wear before but not from M&S. I found it terrible so was looking forward to trying a superior product. I searched online for an idea of what I would like and decided on a body. I researched which ones were available in my size but 1/3 was OOS online.
I went to my big local store (Torbay) and trying to find ANYTHING was a nightmare. Everything seemed to be listed under wall panels (t-shirt bras, per una etc) apart from shape wear. When I found the 2 stands, it was chaotic. I know this is mainly customers etc but seriously, I took a picture of how bad it was if M&S would like it! And there was nothing in my size. At all. Not. One. Thing. Not a slip, body, wyob bodice.

A2. I took a range of other sizes in, knowing sometimes a 'cup down, back up' size can fit but no avail. The lady on the door of the fitting rooms told me 'Im on my own so if you need any other sizes... I won't be able to help'. I asked if id be able to order in store but apparently she 'doesn't do that, you'll have to go upstairs'. I understand being short staffed is annoying but I was quite put off by her attitude.
I ended up sat in M&S car park on my mobile buying the body I wanted. The mobile site was down, wouldn't load, kept resubmitting etc so swapped to online and it was very easy.

A3. Stock availability in store was non-existent for what I feel is a 'standard' size, 34e, but was pleased to get what I wanted online. Colour wise I was very happy with the natural bodice as its for a sheer dress. The range of different fabrics was very good too as I wanted to avoid lace.

Q4-5.I love the body. It really could be a tiny bit tighter round the waist but I'm happy as the bust fits very nicely. I wouldnt have paid £39.50 if I'm honest as even with firm control, it feels skimming rather than slimming. But for £4.50 and M&S generosity, it's fab!
A6. More stock availability in store? Larger but sizes throughout the range. The selvedge body is lovely but not available for a bigger bust. I'd definitely use M&S again, probably online though as going to the store seemed a waste of a trip.

A7. I already have! A friend commented that I looked slimmer so I shared the secret.... She ordered hers on Friday

Forgot the thank you to M&S and Mumsnet

I bought "Body Solutions Firm Control Smoothing Full Slip" in black and "2 Pack - Light Control No VPL High Rise Assorted Full Briefs" in black/nude. It came to £40 but there was a £5 discount offer on.

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

I've never bought any before, so I found the array a bit overwhelming actually! I had a vague idea of what I wanted but I didn't know if it existed. Turns out it does though.

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

I looked in store but there was a tiny selection of things and nothing at all in my size so I had to buy online. I would have preferred to buy in store as I wasn unsure of sizing.

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

I thought there was a very good choice and everything that was in a size came in my size. However things sold by bra size were not in my size. Nothing I looked at was out of stock.

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

Yes, I do, the slip is very useful as I wear a lot of dresses and skirts to work, so I can see myself getting a lot of wear out of it. The knickers were more than I would usually pay but a pair of no-VPL nude underwear is a good thing to have and worth paying for.

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 quality is good and I liked the feel of the fabric and the cut. I love the fact that the neckline of the slip means it can work as a camisole under lower-cut dresses so I don't have to wear another layer and spoil the line of my clothes. It does have a tendancy to ride up at the bottom if I forget to adjust it after going to the loo, however.

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 is room for more attractive colours etc but I'm not sure that what I want from M&S - I would go there to get exactly the sort of items I bought and I wouldn't like that good range of basics to be compromised for fancier stuff you could buy other places. I would tend to look at the cheaper end of the marker such as Peacocks, Primark or supermarkets first if I needed something like this but wouldn't go to a more expensive retailer.

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 as I just didn't know what was out there and I think it's a good range.