Let me start by saying I've tried my fair share of shapewear, and these Vertvie shorts surprised me in the best way possible. The first thing I noticed was how soft the fabric feels against my skin - it's that perfect balance between sturdy enough to hold everything in but breathable enough that I don't feel like I'm wearing a sauna suit.

I wore these under a bodycon dress for a wedding, and wow - they delivered! The four stay-put bones actually work (unlike some shapewear that gives up after an hour). I danced all night without any rolling or shifting. The thigh bands stayed perfectly in place too - no awkward adjusting in the bathroom stall.

For everyday wear, they're surprisingly comfortable. I've worn them under work slacks when I want extra smoothing, and under flowy summer dresses to prevent thigh chafing (a lifesaver in humid weather). The cotton gusset is a thoughtful touch - no need for extra underwear means one less layer to worry about.

Now about sizing: listen carefully to the size chart! I'm usually between sizes and went with the larger option based on reviews, which was absolutely the right call. They're snug when you first put them on (expect some strategic wiggling), but once positioned, they mold comfortably to your body without digging in.

The only minor drawback? If you have a particularly long torso, you might wish they came up slightly higher. But for most standard dresses and tops, the coverage is perfect. After several washes (yes, they hold up well in laundry), they've maintained their shape and elasticity.

Final verdict? These have become my go-to shapewear for both special occasions and everyday wear. They provide noticeable smoothing without making you feel like you can't breathe - that magical sweet spot we all look for in shapewear!