Luckily shapewear has gotten so smart (Top-secret firming technologies! Patented slimming microfibers! Scientifically tested construction!) that you don't have to look like the "before" shot in a "Big Babes Gone Wild" issue of Star magazine.
Whether you're five pounds or 25 pounds from your goal weight, or are just battling those persistent problem areas-grrrr, bat wings!-there's an option out there for you. Check out our top picks:
The Best of Spring Shapewear
Engineered to minimize the midsection, this charcoal-colored tank whips lumps and bumps into submission. Don't trust us? Take it from Heather Gross, who as a buyer for barenecessites.com is a superstar in the shapewear universe. "The cotton has been upgraded on this improved version of the classic Yummie Tummie tank and now contains more stretch, so it lies better against the body," she says. "And because the tummy panel is disguised and covered by cotton, you could absolutely wear this tank out." Stylish and slimming too? Sign us up!
Available at Barenecessites.com.
With a name like Do Me (oops, DuMi) it had better deliver. And this lightweight and comfy bra/cami combo is perfect if you're in the market for moderate control. Made of 22% Lycra and complete with a 2-ply front tummy panel, it smoothes your curves just enough so that you can indulge in that calorie bomb of a muffin for breakfast-without ever stressing about muffintop. (If you eat the whole tray, well that's another story.) And while there's no shame in shapewear, DuMi promises to "make sure you don't get busted" for wearing it. But with the balconet bra's flirty lace detail, you'll probably want to be found out.
In the battle of the bulge, you need friends. Consider Sculptz's figure flattering control shorts your new BFF. With breathable fabrics, all day support and a genius high-waisted design that keeps everything in its place (via a no-roll attachment for your bra), this sculpting marvel flattens the tummy, boosts the caboose, and minimizes the hips and thighs. Oh, and it also does your laundry. Just kidding.
Available at Sculptz.com.
Goodness, the picture pretty much speaks for itself doesn't it? This is shapewear at its sexiest. Aside from its curb appeal (well, you know what we mean-don't literally wear it street side unless you want to cause a ten-car pile up), Gross notes that it's the perfect piece to wear beneath this season's jeggings, leggings, skinny jeans and skirts. "It eliminates VPL [that's visible panty lines to you shapewear novices] and controls lower stomach pouch and muffin top to make everyone look great in this season's hottest looks," she says. Somewhere out there, Sisqo feels vindicated.
Available at Barenecessities.com.
Grab a ten-pound weight. Using both hands, raise and lower the weight behind your head, while keeping your elbows firm for 20 reps....or, nevermind! This V-neck top made of microfiber and spandex will make you look as if you've done three sets of tricep dips. Not only does it conceal that floppy stuff dangling from your upper arms, it also keeps your torso looking tight. Wear it alone or layer it with other long-sleeved shirts and sweaters and chuckle under your breath when people tell you "no pain, no gain."
Available at Classicshapewear.com.
Taxes you have to accept. Rainy days you have to accept. Charlie Sheen going to rehab for the umpteenth time, you have to accept. But back fat? Uh uh. It may be a fact of life, but don't have to live with it. A true feat of engineering, this bra, made for B and C cups, keeps your ladies in place with its soft molded cups and keeps bumps at bay with its firm, seam-free fit.
Available at Laurensilva.com.
In a true testament to its tightening power, Bare Necessities' Gross wore this piece under a clingy, one-size too small wrap dress and exclaims, "I'm a believer." She gives it extra props for working perfectly under "most any style dress-sweater dresses, wrap dresses, or even floaty chiffons" and adds, "it's the kind of sexy shapewear that if you get caught wearing it, you wouldn't feel you owe anyone an explanation."
Available at Barenecessites.com.
Avoid a bad romance with Mr. Jiggle. This bandage colored girdle has been the actual costume for Lady Gaga and her dancers on a number of their recent "Bad Romance" performances. While the lady and her vamps are generally known for wacky highfalutin couture, this mass-market contraption-from those "As Seen on TV" infomercials and available at Bed Bath and Beyond-somehow infiltrated the singer's closet. A firming force of nature, you'll probably wear it under your clothes, or hey, let your freak flag fly and go full on Gaga.
