Disguising my mum tum with a little help from Maidenform Shapewear

‘Shapewear is the canvas and clothes are the art’.

That’s what the founder of Spanx famously said, but what she failed to divulge is that there’s no need to pay Spanx prices to achieve the desired effect.

I’ve become a big fan of shapewear since doing TV work because it can literally shave off the pounds, and the fact is since having baby number three I need all the help I can get!

My arsenal includes everything from budget-breaking Spanx to good old M&S, and if there’s one thing I’ve learnt it’s that more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better.

So, when lingerie and underwear brand Maidenform got in touch to see if I’d like to try a piece from their Maidenform shapewear collection, I was intrigued. I hadn’t come across the brand before, even though it’s been around since 1922, and like I said, I need all the help I can get!

Disguising my mum tum with a little help from Maidenform Shapewear

If you’re new to shapewear, Maidenform has everything you could ask for, from thigh-slimming bottoms to waist-nipping briefs and body shapers.

The collection is split into three ranges: Firm Foundations, Ultimate Slimmer and Sleek Smoothers, in colours ranging from black and nude to latte and beige. I chose a Firm Foundations ‘stay put’ wear-your-own-bra body shaper (£42) which promises to stay put thanks to silicone-free grippers and no-slip hems.

It’s got adjustable straps just like a bra, so you can adjust it to suit your size and frame; a hook-and-eye gusset and the whole thing is made from anti-static fabric too.

What does it look like on?

The body shaper is made from 64% nylon and 36% spandex with a delicate Herringbone design around the bust.

What I particularly liked is that – unlike other brands I could mention – when it says it’s breathable, it really is. I didn’t break out in a sweat getting into it, I didn’t feel like a trussed-up sausage once inside it and to be honest, I didn’t even really feel like I was wearing it.

And now for the magic bit…

As soon as I put a dress on over the body shaper I could notice the difference, both from sideways on thanks to the smoothing effect over my hips and waist…

…and from the front on the mum tum front too.

Magic isn’t it! I think I’ve found my new favourite shapewear!

I also love the fact that you could easily wear Maidenform’s wear-your-own-bra body shapers and bodybriefers while breastfeeding, giving you coverage over your tummy and back for modesty while offering easy access to your boobs at the same time.

My verdict:

Maidenform’s body shapers are less than half the price of Spanx’s equivalent offering, and in my opinion better owing to the breathability and the fact I didn’t have to wrestle myself in – or out – of it.

But want to know what the best bit is? No-one even has to know you’re wearing it – perfect for the party season in the run up to Christmas!

I was gifted Maidenform’s Firm Foundations body shaper in exchange for this post. As always all opinions are my own and based on my own honest experience. Maidenform Shapewear is available through Bravissimo, JD Williams and Very.co.uk.