Mmmm, won ton women.
Spanx fucking rock. Can’t say the same for all the other shapewear out there, unfortunately. Most of them, as you say, roll down immediately on my short waisted self, or leave those horrid compression lines on my thighs, visible through slacks and even skirts, when I’m sitting. Not Spanx. They really, truly are different.
With an hourglass like that, you oughtn’t be looking to spot slim, because you’re perfectly proportioned. But Spanx *will *help firm up any jiggle you don’t like in the rear seat, so to speak. If you don’t want to take off inches (and with those measurement, I wouldn’t), just don’t buy Spanx that are too small.
If you want the 12 year old anorexic with a ridiculously long trunk look that’s in vogue right now, I’m afraid the boobs’ll have to go before the Spanx can tackle the bum. The only thing I know of that will do an honestly all-over (meaning breasts to hips, not thighs) slim is a longline corset, and they’re just not terribly practical in most of today’s clothes. (Although I luuuuurve my Edwardian corset!)
Seconded. I don’t corset up often – I don’t currently have a fitting one – but when I have worn a well constructed, sturdy corset, I am incredibly comfortable. Corsets lift and support extraordinarily well, taking a lot of strain off the upper back and shoulders. Well fitted corsets will be far more comfortable than a bra, though there is somewhat restricted freedom of movement.
Thanks! I will check it out 
The corsets intrigue me. I shall investigate further and then if need be I’ll start saving up to get one made.
I shuld also have been a bit clearer in my OP, btw - sorry for the confusion. It is indeed the British versions of “How To Look Good Naked” and “What Not To Wear” that prompted me. Although I have seen the American version of the latter. FWIW, I think Stacy & Clinton are far, far nicer to the client whereas Trinny & Susannah are brutal but get you into better clothes. 
Thanks very much, everyone!
Heh…mine (one of them) was custom made too. And The Love Of My Life ™ splashed out 500pounds for it. Cuz I’m just that good 
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And I guess I’ve never found it that uncomfortable really, but…when you get a guy lacing you up he will get carried away (thing Mamie from Gone With the Wind…not that I’ll ever see 18"…not without breaking a few ribs and rupturing a spleen…).
It’s not uncomfortable but it does make you sit up straight.
So how you doin’?
Great, now I’m am appitzer.
But if you want to drop by with Belrix my afternoon’s free.