Table of Contents
About Skims
Perhaps attaining that Kim K bod isn’t too far from reach. Skims specializes in women’s intimates, ranging from shapewear, bras, and panties. The brand is definitely a contender within the lingerie business, as it boasts over 3.4 million followers on Instagram.
Founded by Emma Grede and Kim Kardashian in 2019, this Californian brand has managed to ‘break the internet’ for its inclusive collection of apparel. It also doesn’t hurt that they’re affiliated with numerous celebrities, including Kylie Jenner, Sofia Richie, and Ashley Graham.
About Spanx
Considered the OG of shapewear, Spanx has been making women’s intimates since 1998. It’s the brainchild of Sara Blakely, who felt disappointed with the lack of quality undergarments on the market.
The solution was a haphazard cut of pantyhose, which was later rebranded as Spanx. Now synonymous with pop culture, this Georgia-based brand has been featured in various media outlets over the years, including CNN and Vogue. They also showcase an impressive following of over 655k on Instagram.
Shapewear continues to be an important asset in a woman’s closet. If you’re looking for your forever brand, there’s a good chance that you’ll settle for one of these main two. The question is, what company is worth your time and money?
Hopefully, this Skims vs Spanx review will help answer that question for you, as I’ll provide a rundown of their products, quality, and price in a side-by-side format.
What to Consider
Target audience
When it comes to shapewear, brands usually use three main assets to successfully target their audiences: size, inclusivity, and aesthetic.
To further break things down, size relates to their range of measurements; inclusivity entails their product pictures and company mission, and aesthetic mainly boils down to daring silhouettes and conservative designs. Where you fall on the spectrum dictates what shapewear company is right for you.
Product range
Do you prefer a large selection of options? Or do you shop best with a small collection of items? In most cases, loud and proud designs usually span by the hundreds, while minimalistic styles only come by the dozens. It’s worth noting that this doesn’t just apply to shapewear, as it can also entail jeans, swimwear, and other types of apparel.
Materials and sustainability
Like swimsuits and sports bras, materials serve as an integral part of making the perfect shapewear piece. The finished product should be flexible, supportive, and conforming to your body shape. If you’re an ethical shopper, you’re probably on the lookout for recycled or biodegradable materials such as upcycled spandex or Tencel.
Style and fit
If you don’t like it, you’re not going to wear it. Style is as crucial as functionality when it comes to apparel, as it’s indicative of your personality and fashion tastes. Of course, aesthetics can only go as far as the product’s quality. If something fits poorly, there’s a good chance that it’s doomed for the closet dust bunnies.
Accessibility
Nobody likes a super-exclusive brand. An ideal company would carry its inventory on its official site, through multiple brick-and-mortar stores, and on several partnered retailers. It’s also important that they offer fair prices to accommodate budget-conscious shoppers. In addition, you should be on the lookout for any subscription plans to help save money along the way.
Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps vs Spanx OnCore Open-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit Review:
Everybody wants the snatched bod. While some turn to strict diets, others opt for the ready-to-wear option in the form of shapewear.
Case in point, the Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps and the Spanx OnCore Open Mid-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit can help users achieve that hourglass figure. Both options are designed to be worn under outfits, but hey—if Kim K can wear underwear as outerwear, so can you.
Below, this Skims vs Spanx review will provide a side-by-side outline of what each bodysuit offers.
Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps:
- Designed in a classic one-piece silhouette with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Seamless, high-cut, and comes with sheer butt pockets to prevent ‘flattening’
- Built with a snap enclosure on the gusset for easy access
- Made to smoothen the upper back
- Available in 9 different colors from sizes xxs to 5x
- Costs $62 (offers Afterpay)
Spanx OnCore Open Mid-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit
- Offers a semi-coverage silhouette that allows you to wear a bra over top
- Built with tummy and side panels for added compression
- Invisible hems to prevent bulkiness
- Made with booty-lifting pockets
- Features a snap enclosure on the gusset
- Available in 2 colors in sizes xs to 3x
- Costs $78 instead of its original $98
Honestly, the differences are quite obvious with this one. The Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps is for those who prefer a seamless fit without the support of a bra. Ultimately, it’s a much more breathable alternative for the warm season.
The OnCore Open Mid-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit gives users the option to wear something supportive, which serves as a helpful asset in case you’re looking to ‘dress things up.’
The Skims and the Spanx version serve different purposes. While they’re widely dissimilar in price, I’d urge you to consider your needs first before opting for the ‘cheaper’ version.
Skims Fits Everybody T-Shirt Bra vs Spanx Bra-llelujah!® Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra Review:
Bra shopping is a hassle and a half. If you’re looking for adequate support and a comfortable fit, perhaps it’s time to give Skims or Spanx a try.
The Everybody T-Shirt Bra and the Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra both promise the same degree of functionality and flatter-ability through their simplistic designs. There are no lace and frills here. If anything, both options act as your ‘casual Tuesday’ alternative.
Can’t settle on a design? This Skims vs Spanx review will provide a neat comparison between the two.
Skims Everybody T-Shirt Bra:
- Made out of a soft blend of nylon and spandex
- Built with adjustable shoulder straps
- Features full coverage cups and a classic hook-and-eye closure at the back
- Comes in band sizes 32 to 44
- Cup sizes include A to DDD
- Available in 9 different colors
- Costs $48 (offers Afterpay)
Spanx Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra
- Designed to smoothen lumps and bumps
- Built with Spanx Smart Straps to prevent shoulder digging
- Offered with a hook-and-eye enclosure at the front
- Made out of a blend of elastane, cotton, nylon, and lycra
- Comes in band sizes 32 to 40
- Cup sizes include A to DD
- Available in 8 different colors
- Costs $54 instead of its original $68
Like all bras, it really boils down to your design preferences. For those who prefer the classic back closure, the Skims Everybody T-Shirt Bra can serve as a great option.
But for those who can’t manage to fasten clasps blindly, the Spanx version can act as an excellent substitute. In addition, the differences also entail size since it seems that the Skims alternative can accommodate a wider range of band and cup measurements.
So, what bra will you opt for? If you end up picking one of the two, this Skims vs Spanx review is sure that it’ll offer the comfort and fit you’ve been searching for.
Skims Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh vs Spanx Mama Short Review:
Just because you’re expecting doesn’t mean you have to settle for loose dresses and leggings. It’s time to adopt that hot mama persona—easily achievable by getting the right type of shapewear. The Skims Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh and the Spanx Mama Short both provide that needed support to help flatter the biggest of belly bumps.
Need a quick rundown of what each option entails? No worries; this Skims vs Spanx review has gathered a few salient points to help in the decision-making process.
Skims Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh:
- Designed with a non-compressive core to help accommodate growing bellies
- Made to contour the thigh and butt
- Built with a silicone placement on the waistband to prevent rolling
- Features an open gusset
- Available in sizes xxs to 5x
- Offered in 9 different colors
- Costs $34 (offers Afterpay)
Spanx Mama Short:
- Also made with a non-compressive belly band to accommodate growing bumps
- Features zones for added back support
- Built with a cotton gusset to prevent visible panty lines
- Available in sizes A to D
- Offered in 3 different colors
- Costs $26 instead of its original $32
The Skims and Spanx versions offer separate degrees of support. While both come with a non-compressive core, features differentiate in regards to crotch gussets, waistband construction, and sizes.
If you’re looking for a quick-removal option in case of emergencies, the Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh may serve as a better option. The Mama Short, on the other hand, provides a casual fit that’s probably ideal for the first trimester.
At the end of the day, I think we can all agree that the Spanx and Skims version are an upgrade from the everyday biker short. Ultimately, it’s up to you to crown the winning victor.
Skims vs Spanx: Quality
Unless you love the unexpected thrill of crotch-stitch ripping, it’s always best to look for quality materials when shopping for shapewear. In a typical buyer’s sense, this usually entails three main assets: flexibility, durability, and performance. Here, this Skims vs Spanx review will help differentiate these two brands regarding material.
Let’s start off with Spanx. In most of their garments, they use a blend of nylon and spandex. These fabrics are universally known to be stretchy, form-fitting, and super-durable if cared for properly.
In some cases, Spanx utilizes matte yarn twill knit technology, compression levels, and non-slippage waistbands for extra support. When combined together, it’s definitely a garment that can last through several years of use.
Skims also uses the same blend of spandex and nylon, but just at a different percentage. Its differences lie in features, which usually entail sheer butt pockets, adjustable straps, and silicone placements to prevent rolling hems.
According to the brand, their materials offer ‘zero cutting’ and ‘second-skin softness.’ Skims’ fabric construction is nothing too revolutionary, but it provides a classic blend that’s universally trusted by most customers.
Both brands shine differently when it comes to materials—but I think it’s safe to assume that they both pass the quality control test. If you’re looking to balance price versus value, it’s best that you stay put for this Skims vs Spanx review.
Skims vs Spanx: Price & Value
So, how much are we talking here? If you’re a budget-conscious customer, chances are that you’ve skipped to this part of this Skims vs Spanx review. I’ll cut to the chase with a side-by-side view for both of these brands regarding price.
- The Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps: $62 (offers Afterpay)
- The Skims Everybody T-Shirt Bra: $48 (offers Afterpay)
- The Skims Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh: $34 (offers Afterpay)
- The Spanx OnCore Open Mid-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit: $78 (originally costs $98)
- The Spanx Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra: $54 (originally costs $68)
- The Spanx Mama Short: $26 (originally costs $32)
In relation to quality, Skims and Spanx seem to be worth the price. These two brands aren’t exceedingly expensive, as you can find a decent shapewear piece for under $100. It’s also good to know that buyers can save a bit of money on both retailers, as Skims offers Afterpay while most of Spanx’s garments are sold at a discounted price.
Customers on both sides agree that their intimates collection is comfortable and well-made. But, if you’re looking for an in-depth account of feedback, I’d suggest you stay put for my Skims vs Spanx review.
Skims vs Spanx: What Do Customers Think?
Skims and Spanx have definitely captured the public’s attention for their unique collection of undergarments. Of course, with celebrity backing from Kim K coupled with a 20-year establishment in the industry, it’s only natural that there would be hundreds of comments to reside online.
I’ll keep things brief, as this Skims vs Spanx review will provide a summarized list of ratings and common feedback related to each company.
On the Skims’ official website:
- The Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps: 1,179 reviews with 4.6/5 stars
- The Skims Everybody T-Shirt Bra: 427 reviews with 4.8/5 stars
- The Skims Maternity Sculpting Short Mid Thigh: 21 reviews with 4.1/5 stars
Skims through external sources:
- Trustpilot: 376 reviews with 3.2/5 stars
- The Better Business Bureau: 208 complaints
Amazon ratings for Spanx
- The Spanx OnCore Open Mid-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit: 452 reviews with 4.4/5 stars
- The Spanx Bra-llelujah Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra: 863 reviews with 4.2/5 stars
- The Spanx Power Mama Mid-Thigh Maternity Maternity Shaper 163: 128 reviews with 4.3/5 stars
Spanx through external sources:
- Sitejabber: 42 reviews with 1.6/5 stars
- The Better Business Bureau: 18 complaints
If numbers aren’t enough to form a solid decision, how about some genuine customer reviews? I’ve summed up some common feedback attributed to both Skims and Spanx. Let’s take a look down below:
Skims:
- Felt comfortable to wear and looks well-made
- Most garments fit true to size
- A few positive experiences with customer service and delivery
- Some commend its inclusive size range
Spanx:
- Comfortable and well-made in quality
- Helped to flatter the figure
- Small features like non-compression and adjustable straps won the upvote of some customers
Arguably, this section should come as the main deciding factor on what brand to opt for. But if you’re just at the tipping point, my Skims vs Spanx review will detail some promotions and shipping policies to help settle your final decision.
Skims vs Spanx: Promotions & Discounts
Looking for a deal? Of course you are; everybody’s looking for a way to save money. Fortunately, I uncovered lots of promotions on Spanx’s website.
Sadly, the same cannot be said for Skims, as they rarely offer discounts or coupons for their products. If you are looking to buy one of their shapewear pieces for less, I’d suggest shopping at one of the brand’s partnered retailers.
Spanx:
- Currently hosting a Black Friday Sale in which all items are 20% off
- Offers a sale outlet on its website
- Customers can receive $20 by sharing the brand’s affiliate link with their friends family
I won’t crown any winners here, but I think this segment speaks for itself. If it’s any consolation, Skims does offer Afterpay as another alternative if you can’t afford a one-time payment. I also recommend keeping tabs on both of the brand’s social media for any future promotions.
Skims vs Spanx: Shipping & Returns
It’s time for the last side-by-side comparison. More often than not, the real deal-breaker lies in the shipping and return policy. If the delivery costs and poor customer feedback run in the negatives, chances are that you’ll switch over to something new. As a heads up, this Skims vs Spanx review will summarize both of the brand’s policies down below.
Skims:
- Free shipping on U.S orders $75 or more
- Also provides other delivery options in the form of Express and Priority
- Does offer international shipping to select countries
- Issues a tracking number alongside a confirmation email
- Has a 30-day return policy with a $6 shipping fee
- Reported issues with missing or delayed deliveries
Spanx:
- Free standard shipping on all orders
- Does provide other delivery options such as basic and expedited
- Doesn’t offer international shipping
- Issues a tracking number and a confirmation email
- Has a 90-day return policy with free U.S-based shipping
- Reported issues with delayed orders
Obviously, Skims acts as a more accessible option for those who don’t reside in the United States. While Spanx doesn’t provide international shipping, you can still find them at partnered retailers such as Amazon and Nordstrom. In our opinion, it seems that free delivery may act as the final deciding factor in choosing what brand to opt for.
Who Will You Shop With?
In their own respective ways, Skims and Spanx are popular for different reasons. It really boils down to reputation and company mission.
For one, Spanx acts as the ‘safe-bet’, since it’s a universally recognized company within the industry. They’re a trusted brand that’s been manufacturing undergarments for nearly 20 years. On top of that, their prices are semi-affordable, which leans in favor with a few budget-conscious customers.
If you’re looking for something new, Skims can serve as that refreshing substitute. Compared to Spanx, they offer a more inclusive company mission. It’s widely apparent in their given size range, as well as the product pictures they issue. In addition, Skims is the brand to opt for if you’re big on following the latest celebrity trends. I mean, it’s backed by Kim K of all people.
My Skims and Spanx review has provided you with all the facts to consider when choosing a brand. At the end of the day, you can at least relax knowing that both companies are well acknowledged by the public.
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