Tomima's Blog – Lingerie & Underwear Expert

I just returned from New York this week where I was meeting with several shapewear manufacturers.  Specifically, I was in a meeting with Maidenform who also makes Flexees and Lilyette.  While looking at their exciting new styles for 2010, some interesting information came out.

I think we all know about that silicone gripper tape that is often used to line a strapless bra or the edges of shapewear.  Consumers, and I’m one of them, have always thought that when a garment has this, it will stay in place – no more pulling up a strapless bra or feeling that creeping up feeling from the legs of your shapewear.  Well guess what?  Having that silicone inside your garment doesn’t do anything.  That’s right, Flexees in particular has run tests and found that it doesn’t really work.  It’s a purely cosmetic feature.  Consumers see it and the perception is that the garment will stay put.  If deciding between two garments, a consumer will pick the one with the gripper tape because the perception is that it will stay in place better.

So, the lesson learned here is to look at the construction and fabric of the garment.  Quality elastic that isn’t skimpy, and fabric with an ample percentage of spandex will provide the best support and staying power.  All that gripper tape is doing is pulling on your body hairs and irritating your skin.

 

 

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