This is a compensated review from BlogHer and Bare Necessities.

Recently, the nice folks at Bare Necessities sent me three styles of shapewear to test: two different "shapers" (the ones that look like bike shorts) and a tank top.  Their timing was excellent -- I've gained a few pounds over the summer, nothing much, but enough that some of my favorite fall pieces are not really fitting the way I would like, especially through the middle. 

And so, in the interest of science -- er, beauty and fashion, I spent a week wearing shapers EVERY SINGLE DAY, to see what worked and what was comfortable.  It's a hard job, but someone has to do it.  Also, you're welcome!

Slim Cognito Shaping Mid-Thigh Bodysuit by Spanx, $72.00

This was the most elaborate of the shapewear pieces I tested.  The "bodysuit" is really a pair of bike shorts that can be attached, via removable straps, to your bra; this way, you can create a full shaping bodysuit that fits properly both in the hips and the bust.  You can also wear the shorts part without hooking it to your bra, if you so desire.

I had mixed feelings about this one, honestly. This is a very comfortable piece of shapewear, and certainly does the job of pulling in all the extra bits around the middle.  My backside looked great in it, particularly under a clingy dress.  The Slim Cognito pieces have no leg bands, which eliminates any bulging at the hem.  It was also fairly easy to get on (which is saying a lot, if you've never worn shapewear -- it's a workout just getting these suckers pulled up).

However, the combination of my very small bust and my very large wardrobe of jersey knit dresses made the straps for the bodysuit stand out dramatically through my clothes, which wasn't exactly the "slimming" look I was hoping for.  I also found the full "bodysuit" effect to be pretty uncomfortable; it felt as though the shaper was pulling my bra askew, but it is possible that's just me and that this would work better on a curvier woman.  I wouldn't rule this one out, but I would consider trying it on before you commit, if that's at all an option.

Body Wrap Firm Control High-Waist Long-Leg Panty, $42.00 currently $31.50

This is hands-down the best shapewear I've ever worn (and I've tried my fair share over the years, believe me).  It's a basic long-waist panty that stretches from the middle of your rib cage to the middle of your thighs.  It's lightweight and stretchy and genuinely comfortable.

But it also pulls everything in, without that horrible sense that you're doing damage to your internal organs.  I wore this under three different dresses, each time for an entire day, and was able to completely forget about it each time.  The waistband stayed put and it didn't pull or shift during the day.  I also tried it with some pants that I'm having trouble zipping, and voila! problem solved!

If you're looking for shapewear that you could really WEAR, I would wholeheartedly recommend the Body Wrap line (although I'm not sure that this type of shapewear is something you really want to add to your everyday wardrobe -- but for date night or a special event, this is the way to go).

Yummie Tummie Hip-Length Shapewear Tank, $62.00

Occasionally, a girl wants a little extra help for every day, something that will just keep it all under control while she's working or playing or running errands.  Full-on shapewear is too much for these days, but the Yummie Tummie tank is perfect.

This extra-long tank is perfect under a dress, or with jeans and a top; it has a "secret minimizing panel" across the torso that holds your midsection in without leaving you feeling breathless.  The top functions like a regular tank (I've been wearing this over my normal bra) and is designed to be seen under low-cut pieces.  The hem hits at the hip and can either be tucked in or left hanging out.  I wore it with a low-cut jersey knit dress and with jeans and a very slim sweater; it worked equally well with both, and was incredibly comfortable.

The Yummie Tummie tank is available in nine colors, including two pinks and two blues.  This a nice alternative to your regular ribbed tank for pieces that need layering; it is also a nice solution to a not-quite-perfect mid section.

There are other options out there in the land of shapewear; Michelle Madhok at Real Simple's Simply Stated tried out the Sassybax Torso Trim Cami (and liked it!), StylishMoms love the Yummie Tummie, while BraTalk dishes about Bali's shapewear line. 

Do you have a shapewear secret?  Share it with us -- join the BlogHer community today and start blogging at BeautyHacks!