As I explained in my last post on shapers, Fall 2008 Lingerie Workshop: Body Shapers Part 1, my friend, Ann, and I conducted "field research" on body shapers in order to give Modern Glam readers the very best info.
We both found things to like about this type of shaper, the body briefer, sometimes called a bodysuit, or a cami or camisole body shaper. Available in a variety of styles, from light to firm control, with various optional features.
From left to right:
1. Bali Underwire Bodysuit |approx. $34
2. Body Wrap Seamless Underwire Body Briefer |approx. $52
3. Spanx Thong Back Bodysuit, No Bra | approx. $54
The light control body briefers are a great choice for a woman who wishes to achieve a smoothing effect, and is not overly concerned with slimming.
From left to right:
1. Seamless, underwire Body Briefer by Wacoal |approx. $85
2. Cass and Co. Cami Bodysuit, no bra, straps are not adjustable | approx. $86
3. Va Bien Comfort Strap Underwire Body Briefer | approx. $57
Moderate control bodysuits enable you to achieve a slimmer look, as well as smoothing your silhouette. Most of the moderate control shapers do feature a built-in bra.
From left to right:
1. Miraclesuit Molded Cup Body Briefer |approx. $55
2. Miraclesuit Underwire Strapless/Convertible Strap Body Briefer |approx. $45
3. Va Bien Ultra-Lift Low Plunge Convertible Strap Body Briefer |approx. $80
From left to right:
1. Annette Soft Cup Thong Back Bodysuit |approx. $68
2. Body Wrap Strapless/Convertible Strap Underwire Bodysuit |approx. $74
3. Body Wrap Underwire Bodysuit |approx. $72
From left to right:
1. Annette Soft Cup Bodysuit (Non-adjustable, hook and eye front closure) |approx. $72
2. Annette Underwire Contour Cup Bodysuit Strapless/Convertible Straps |approx. $76
3. Body Wrap Seamless Molded Cup Bodysuit (Inner pockets hold breast enhancers in place) |approx. $78
Firm control bodysuits enable you to achieve a much slimmer silhouette, many claiming to take 4" off your waist size. Most of the firm control shapers do feature an underwire bra.
A couple of things you should know
1. First, as with other types of shaper garments, the lack of an built-in bra means that there is not much real support for your breasts if you are larger than a B cup, and thus, it would be my advice to wear a bra underneath any shaper that has no built-in bra.
2. All of the shaper garments that we tried on, and all of those sourced on this page, have a gusset with a hook and eye in the crotch area.
3. Almost all of the different types of shaper garments are also available in plus sizes.
Available style variations
~Boning for the most control.
~Adjustable straps (not available on all shapers)
~Convertible straps
~A padded bra
~Pockets for breast enhancers
All images are courtesy of the manufacturers.
xxo
Related Posts:
Losing 60 lbs in the last year, I need one of those to help with the... er...excess skin.
Posted by: Grandy | July 09, 2008 at 03:56 AM
Grandy, I am in awe that you were able to do that....that is no simple/easy feat!
That said, if you need advice on choosing one of these, feel free to email me. :)
Posted by: nicole | July 09, 2008 at 10:29 AM
I have used one of the ones listed here. The Bali in the light control section is actually really good. I have a problem with most shapers making my boobs look strange. That one actually doesn't do that and the underwire in it is nice. Plus it is on the cheaper side and they are easy to find. If you have a Hanes/Bali outlet near you then you might get them even cheaper. I love a deal.
Posted by: Rachel | July 11, 2008 at 12:41 PM
once piece suit some times actually works better than 2
Posted by: ameo | July 12, 2008 at 12:42 PM
@ Rachel........we used to have a Bali/Hanes outlet near here, but no more.....:(
I like the Cass and the Body Wrap lines best, but I have bought Bali bras many times. I like a deal too! :)
@ Ameo.....you are so right, Ameo! :)
Posted by: nicole | July 12, 2008 at 04:55 PM