Spanx is a godsend for numerous ladies out there — even though the image of being sucked and smoothed can be akin to that of a corset.
Shapewear, like Spanx, can give a real confidence boost to those who want to look their absolute best, hide saddlebags or make muffin tops less visible . But, there is a slight (and when we say slight, we mean huge) conundrum on whether or not you should wear panties with them.
So, let's dive into this somewhat murky, confused water, shall we?
Should You Wear Underwear with Spanx?
The short answer is: no.
Slimming wear like Spanx is used so you have a seamless figure underneath your dress or other garments. If you pile on the layers (including wearing a little thong beneath your Spanx), you will create more bulk.
Of course, this largely comes down to personal preference. Some people do wear underwear with their Spanx and it works fine for them.
Generally, you don't need to wear panties underneath Spanx since it comes with the right structure and support built-in. There isn't a right or wrong answer here, it just depends on you.
Pros of Wearing Underwear with Spanx
The Wonderful Wick of Your Nether Regions
While they will probably make you extra hot down there, wearing panties underneath your Spanx can help wick away any moisture, preventing yeast infections and UTIs.
Having said this, many pairs of Spanx are lined with cotton in the gusset (not a very attractive word, is it?) so you shouldn't need to worry about this too much.
Stain-Free Spanx
Okay, we don't want to get too explicit or graphic here, but we might have to. Let's just get into it and see how it goes. Ready?
Right. Our genitals can sometimes create discharge which, inevitably, falls into our underwear.
Whether this is clear or...colored is pretty irrelevant at the moment. We are getting at the fact that if you aren't wearing undies with your Spanx, this stuff will fall straight into them which could eventually stain and ruin your shapewear.
If that does happen though, read our guide to learn how to clean discharge from underwear.
That wasn't so bad, right? Swiftly moving on!
Cons of Wearing Undies with Spanx
Bumps and Bulges
The whole point of Spanx and other shapewear is to give you a beautiful, streamlined, Kim Kardashian look (hourglass figure anyone?), so, it goes without saying that shoving underwear on will ruin the look.
Trust us, even those anti-VPL (visible panty line) undies might peak through your Spanx and spoil the show.
Just let your shapewear be your panties for the evening.
The Dreaded Bunch and Roll Down
Even if you aren't wearing undies, your high-waisted Spanx may roll down a bit. Some do have slip-strips inside the waistband to hopefully fix this, but it's probably best to check before you wear them to your best friends bachelorette party.
Honestly, the biggest con of sporting underwear beneath your Spanx is the horrible bunching that it brings along. It destroys the look you're after and makes putting on the shapewear pretty much pointless.
Although, some clever folks have discovered that if you tuck your high-waisted Spanx under bra, it stops it (and your panties) bunching. So, if you feel you need to wear pants, try this handy little tip.
Here are some other helpful Spanx hacks as well!
When You Really Must Wear Pants with Spanx
To be completely truthful (what else would we be, right?), there isn't a situation where you must wear underwear with your Spanx.
It depends how comfortable you feel going commando (although, as we talked about earlier, Spanx act as underwear anyway so it's all good!).
Tips for Wearing Underwear with Spanx
Tuck It In
We talked about tucking your Spanx into your bra earlier and we stand by this! It truly is the best advice when it comes to wearing undies with your shapewear.
Of course, this only works if you are wearing high-waisted ones so if you've chosen the oh-so-popular OG biker short, this isn't great for you.
High-waisted is Your Friend
The first tip leads nicely on to the second. Where you can, only wear high-waisted ones as you are able to easily stop them from slipping down or bunching.
Go With a Thong
If you're going to wear panties with Spanx, wear a thong.
Full coverage panties, boyshorts or similar panties have a higher chance of bunching up and making you look bulkier (which is the exact opposite of what you want with Spanx).
Instead, go with a nice seamless thong that'll give you protection without being noticeable underneath your shapewear.
Pick the Right Spanx For You
We won't lie, this is pretty hard but stick to the following tips and you will be good to go.
Know Your Size
Ladies love to size down their shapewear for extra firmness but seriously, it doesn't work. In fact, it can make you look bigger and cause you to feel uncomfortable for the whole day or evening. No one wants that.
Pick Your Constriction Level
As a general rule, medium constriction smooths and strong constriction will alter your figure.
Before you buy, take a little look at the tag and clothing label to find out the type of constriction specific garments offer. Don't forget to try it on though! Otherwise, you might go home disappointed which would be worse than a kick in the teeth.
Know The Effect You're Looking For
Whether you want your booty lifted and sculpted, smooth lines across your mid-drift or toned, beautiful legs, there are Spanx for that.
- For a lifted, sculpted bum choose the Butt Lifter
- For smooth lines over your tummy and torso choose high-waisted Spanx
- For toned, beautiful legs choose tights that come with shapewear inside them
- For those who want their entire figure transformed choose a complete bodysuit
Cotton Blends Are Your Friend
You'll get hot wearing Spanx, that's just a fact, but opting for a cotton blend version will stop you dying from the heat.
Nowadays, they do offer what they call "Thinstincts Spanx" which is nothing more than a lighter version of their usual garments.
You Don't Have to Wear Underwear With Spanx
We promise this is the last time we'll say it — Spanx double as underwear! Of course, if you don't feel as secure as you would like, then pop on your favorite panties too. It's completely up to you but we're always here for a good undies' convo.
Until next time, rock those Spanx ladies!
