Choices are limited only by your imagination.

Be sure to buy quality.

Consider it a stylish investment in your cherished wedding day comfort.

Top Brands

Spanx

Flexees

Wolford

Wacoal

Squeem

Lipo in a box

La Perla

Body Shapers are made by many lingerie companies, but we've found that this really is an area where you really need to invest.  We recommend spending as much as you can afford on this accessory.

"I don't do that very often, but speaking from experience, it cinches some very important organs...and you want good quality. Very few products are worth spending the extra money for, but this is surely one of them."

A quality body shaper should enhance your entire figure.  Most body shapers immediately reduce the waistline, and depending on the amount of lycra, can reduce your measurements anywhere from 1 to 4 inches at the waist.

These 1930's advertisements for Vassarette (the year 1938 above and the year 1936 below) show the needed undergarments for the clingy bias cut gowns of the decade.

Obviously, these garments work as they are still made by various companies.  Shapers are sold in light, mid and heavy compression range with manufacturer ratings

At Left: A 1938 Advertisement of the Day.  Underneath it all... a Vassarette  The Natural Way to a Lovelier Figure 1938

Lightweight shapers should flatten the tummy comfortably while mid to heavy range body shapers may even correct the posture and relieve back pain. Those with a built-in bra will lift the breasts and buttocks while reducing saddlebags.

At Left: The Delightful Paradox 1936

Important features of a good shaper are double hook and eyes for closure rather than a single hook, adjustable bra straps, a cotton lining to wick perspiration from the body, and if possible, an open bottom or closed bottom with hook and eye for ease.

Most contemporary compression garments have a rating for wearable hours.  You will be wearing it for a minimum of four hours on your wedding day, so get one that is recommended for a daily average use of 8 to 10 hours.  Don't sacrifice comfort for control.  Best product feedback: Allover unitard and cami shapers are preferred over target area waist cinchers and high top briefs. Shapers with a built in bra are considered the best for control and movement.

A note about vintage: Vintage Longline Shapers, Merry Widow Corsets and vintage girdles are still easily found on specialty sites or ebay. Many vintage companies such as Vanity Fair, Olga, Lily of France and Warner's are still in business today, so they have a good idea of what works.

If you like the idea of a vintage undergarment along with your vintage gown, be aware that much of what we consider as "seamless" did not exist 50 years in the past.  There may be pointy bra cups and large hardware, but to some people, this adds to the vintage appeal.  Lady Marlene sells a fabulously affordable bustier with retro appeal for under $45, but their production is limited.

Vintage Panty and open bottom girdles are sold according to waist size and you should chose one that is closest to your natural waist measurement.  Vintage all in one girdles with a bra are sold according to bra size.  As long as you select the proper bust size you should get a good fit.