George Boyle
When it comes to choosing the right undergarments for your wedding dress, shapewear is a popular choice for brides who want extra support or a smoothing effect. While it's not a requirement, shapewear can help you feel more comfortable and confident on your big day. One of the most well-known brands of shapewear is Spanx, which offers a variety of options such as thongs, shorts, and bodysuits that can help accentuate curves, provide support, and smooth out lines. However, some people find Spanx uncomfortable, especially in hot weather, and there are alternative shapewear brands to consider as well. Ultimately, the best choice of undergarment depends on the style and fabric of your wedding dress, as well as your personal preference for comfort and support.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Style | Strapless, backless, high slit, low back, thong, shorts, bodysuit, etc. |
| Fabric | Breathable, lightweight, moisture-wicking |
| Compression Level | High compression for a super-smoothing look, light compression for volume retention |
| Structure | Boning for bust support, simple slip for less structure |
| Comfort | Choose shapewear that is comfortable and allows freedom of movement |
| Colour | Nude or flesh tones to blend seamlessly under the dress |
| Brand | Spanx, Skims, Honeylove, Shapellx, Wacoal, Lane Bryant, Popilush, Commando, JC Penney |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of wearing Spanx under a wedding dress
Pros of wearing Spanx under a wedding dress
Spanx and other shapewear are designed to shape and contour the body, creating a smoother and more streamlined appearance. They can offer extra support and a smoothing effect for tighter gowns. For example, if you want your bridal shapewear to target your belly, Spanx shorts offer firm compression in the front and light compression everywhere else.
Cons of wearing Spanx under a wedding dress
Spanx can get hot, especially if you are wearing a satin dress. They can also be uncomfortable, hard to go to the bathroom in, and may roll down. They may also add an extra layer that makes your dress fit tighter, which can be unforgiving. It's also important to consider the fabric of your wedding dress, as some dresses do not hide things like wrinkles or cellulite, especially in a more fitted silhouette.
Other considerations
If your wedding dress has been properly altered and has all the correct support added, shapewear may not be necessary. Boning can be added to any wedding dress to give support and reinforce the structure of the dress bodice.
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Spanx recommendations for different wedding dress styles
When choosing Spanx to wear under your wedding dress, it's important to consider the style and fabric of your gown, as well as your personal comfort. Here are some Spanx recommendations for different wedding dress styles:
- Mermaid or form-fitting dress: For a mermaid-style or form-fitting wedding dress, Spanx can help smooth out your silhouette. Look for high-waisted or high-rise thongs, such as the Spanx SPANXsculpt Seamless Power High-Waisted Thong, which provides compression and seamless coverage without visible panty lines. However, some users have reported that Spanx can get hot and roll down, so it is recommended to invest in a good pair or opt for alternative shapewear.
- Backless or low-back dress: If you're wearing a backless or low-back wedding dress, consider a backless shapewear bodysuit. The Spanx TotalContour Bodysuit offers support and smoothing, but if you're concerned about heat, a corset-style top with separate bottoms may provide more breathability.
- Strapless dress: For a strapless wedding dress, you can opt for a strapless corset-style top with separate bottoms or a strapless bra. This provides targeted support around your waist while allowing breathability elsewhere.
- Minimalist or lightweight dress: If your wedding dress is minimalist or made of thinner material, opt for lightweight and breathable shapewear. The Undie-tectable Thong by Spanx provides a "light hug" of compression and is designed to be seamless and invisible under clothing.
- High slit or leg-baring dress: For a wedding dress with a high slit or leg-baring design, consider Spanx with leg shorts to prevent chafing and provide a smooth base for your dress.
Remember, the best Spanx or shapewear for your wedding dress is one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It's a good idea to try out different options and consider the specific cut and fabric of your gown to find the right choice for your special day.
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Alternatives to Spanx
If you're looking for an alternative to Spanx to wear under your wedding dress, there are several options to choose from. Here are some suggestions:
Corsets
Corsets can be a great alternative to Spanx if you're looking for targeted support around your waist while still allowing you to breathe freely elsewhere. Corsets are especially suitable if a one-piece bodysuit doesn't work with your dress silhouette. Look for a low-back bustier-style corset that can be paired with bridal panties. However, keep in mind that sizing may vary, so it's recommended to size down as they can run a bit loose.
Shapewear Brands
Other shapewear brands like Honeylove and SKIMS offer similar products to Spanx. Honeylove, in particular, has been praised for its comfort and support, making it a good investment for multiple uses. Flexees by Maidenform is another highly recommended brand for tummy control.
Shapewear Styles
Depending on the style of your wedding dress, you can opt for different shapewear styles. For a backless dress, a backless shapewear bodysuit or a strapless bra can provide support while remaining discreet. If your dress has a plunging neckline, consider a backless plunge thong bodysuit to provide hidden support and enhance your natural curves. For a form-fitting sheath dress, a shapewear thong can offer seamless coverage without visible panty lines. Additionally, sculpting leggings or shorts can be a great option for form-fitting, floor-length gowns to achieve a smooth and seamless look.
Remember, the best alternative to Spanx will depend on your personal preferences, the style of your wedding dress, and the level of support and comfort you desire.
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How to choose the right Spanx for your body
When choosing the right Spanx for your body, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to select the appropriate size. Using a measuring tape, measure the narrowest part of your waist and the widest part of your hips. Refer to the Spanx sizing chart to determine your size based on these measurements. If you notice skin bulging or the Spanx riding up or down, opt for a larger size for improved comfort and fit. Additionally, consider the style of your outfit. If you plan to wear a strapless dress or top, opt for high-waisted Spanx or build-your-own bodysuits that don't cover the bra line. For shorter skirts or dresses, girl shorts or knicker leg styles can provide discreet coverage. The Spanx Undietectable range offers both slimming and pretty options. If you desire significant shaping, the EXTRA FIRM CONTROL styles in the Spanx Oncore range can provide a noticeable difference.
The colour of your Spanx should also complement your wardrobe. For lighter-coloured outfits, choose a shade that matches your skin tone. Spanx offers a diverse range of nude shades to suit different skin tones. Alternatively, neutral colours like white and black can work well. If you're wearing darker pieces, Spanx also offers printed underwear that can complement your ensemble. The Spanx Power Series Collection is recommended if you fall between two sizes, as it offers the most flexibility. When in doubt, opt for seamless shapewear and use your larger measurement to select your size.
The compression level and structure of your Spanx should align with your goals. If you seek a super-smoothing appearance and substantial support, high-compression pieces are ideal. For targeted bust support, consider pieces with boning. Conversely, if you prefer less structure, a simple slip can provide a lightweight solution. It is also essential to choose a comfortable fabric. Look for keywords like "breathable" and "moisture-wicking" to ensure the fabric is lightweight and won't roll down or up.
When putting on your Spanx, take your time. Seat your bottom in them by pulling them up high, similar to how you would put on a pair of tights. Some Spanx styles feature additional "bum shaping" to enhance the shape of your bottom. If you opt for high-waisted Spanx, ensure they fit snugly around your rib cage to prevent rolling. Choose styles with slip-strips inside the waistband to help them grip your skin and stay in place. Additionally, avoid putting on Spanx immediately after a shower. Allow your body to cool down and ensure you are completely dry before donning your Spanx.
Lastly, proper care for your Spanx is essential. While some labels may indicate machine washability, hand washing and line drying are recommended to prolong the life of your Spanx. Heat and friction can damage the Spandex/Elastane fabric. For shapewear, swimwear, and tights, hand-wash in cold water and lay them flat to dry.
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Reviews of Spanx from brides who wore them
Many brides opt for shapewear under their wedding dresses, and Spanx is a well-known and trusted brand in this category. Here are some reviews from brides who chose Spanx for their big day:
"I regularly wear them post-wedding, that's how comfy they were. [...] I used a Spanx bodysuit." – Reddit user
"I think the Spanx-undie-tectible thong would be a great option! [...] They do run 'true to size' and when you first put them on they may feel like they are too small but they do have some stretch to them so it takes about 15-30 mins before they lay correctly without 'digging in'." – Reddit user
"The Spanx body suit line is great if they properly fit someone's body! Because the cups/bra are built in, it can be difficult to get a customized look. I find that it doesn't work great with people with very long or very short torsos and/or large breasts. It is hit-or-miss, so I recommend trying it on before purchasing or buying it from a store with a good return policy!" – Reddit user
"I wore [Spanx sculpting leggings] under a gown for my son's wedding and it couldn't have fit me better. They were also extremely comfortable, which is really important with shapewear!" – Jayne R, spanx.com
While the following review is not from a bride, it is included here as it is a review of Spanx shapewear:
"I decided to try three brands that stood out to me: Spanx (which I know from my mom), Skims (which I know from the Kardashians), and Honeylove (which I know from a display at Nordstrom). [...] I could see myself wearing Spanx for a few events, while I could see myself keeping something like the Honeylove SuperPower Short for many events and seasons to come." – mysubscriptionaddiction.com
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Frequently asked questions
Spanx can help to smooth out your silhouette and ensure your underwear disappears seamlessly under your gown. They can also help to prevent chafing and decrease friction when getting into your dress.
Some people find Spanx uncomfortable, especially in hot weather, and they can be difficult to go to the bathroom in. Cheap versions may roll down or up throughout the day.
You could try a corset, a slip, or a bodysuit. If your dress is backless, a backless bodysuit could work well. If your dress has a plunging neckline, a backless plunge thong bodysuit could provide hidden support. If you want to wear a bra, there are strapless options available.
The best Spanx for your wedding dress will depend on the style of your dress. If your dress is form-fitting, consider a thong to avoid visible panty lines. If your dress is backless, opt for a backless style. Choose a colour that blends seamlessly under your dress, usually nude or flesh tones.
