the skinny on shape fx

You know the saying, “It’s what’s inside that counts?” I couldn’t agree more…which is why I’ve kind of fallen in love with a line of clever clothing for women called Shape FX (www.shapefx.com). I realize that by revealing this relationship, no one will ever look at me the same way again, but I’m doing it for the greater good….

To the outside world, I’m talking about a collection of ultra-reasonably-priced pants, dresses, skirts, leggings, and sweaters that are, if not cutting edge, at least stylishly, crisply classic. Think: black boot-cut pants (my personal favorite)…a tweed pencil skirt…a Diane Von Furstenberg-looking shirtdress…a ribbed sweater, and on it goes. But strategically stitched into each piece is a swath of Lycra, designed to push, pull, mold, and tease your trouble spots into submission, resulting in what can best be described as “lipo-by-wardrobe.” (It’s undoubtedly more comfortable and cost-effective than going the traditional route.)

Frankly, the concept is not unlike the hugely popular Spanx phenomenon…but overall, it’s cheaper ($14 for a nylon/spandex top as opposed to $68), and there’s a heck of a lot more to choose from; 30 dresses alone in the collection. By the way, they also offer an entire line of “bodyshapers” (the fashionable buzzword for girdle-type garments)…but I’m rather partial to clothes with the power already built in.

If you decide to take the plunge, I promise I won’t tell. But will you tell me about it?