What did we do before Spanx? I was in high school when the brand launched more than 20 years ago. So, the timing couldn’t have been better aligned to my formative years of wearing bodycon dresses to pretty much everything (*cringe*). Founded by Sara Blakely in 1998, they’ve established themselves as a pop culture phenomenon that changed undergarments. But, they’re so much more than that now with an expanded line of products that are available in more than 50 countries. From the cult classic Spanx faux leather leggings to their now coveted Spanx Air Essentials collection, they offer loungewear, jeans, maternity and more.
But, like I always say – all brands can’t be everything to everyone. You won’t find me wearing the faux leather leggings because I like another pair better. That said, I’ve always admired the brand and what Sara has built. Now, these super soft pieces have won me over. Keep reading for the pros and cons of the collection in my Spanx Air Essentials review (and whether or not they are worth it!).
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Spanx Air Essentials Review
I’m all about comfort lately. As someone who works from home day-to-day and chases after a 10-month old, I need clothes that move with me and feel good while I’m on the go. Drapey fabrics are preferred so that I’m not constrained and ideally there’s some good stretch in the material. That’s exactly what you get with the Spanx Air Essentials.
The brand has a way of regularly making it onto Oprah’s favorite things list, so it’s no doubt she loved the Air Essentials collection. Each of the pieces are lightweight and super soft. So, no matter the season it makes them easy to wear year-round.
The material is something they call their spacer fabric which is what gives it the premium and luxe feel. It also provides maximum air flow and circulation (yes, please! These postpartum sweats are ridiculous.). This collection is not intended to be form-fitting, but you could always size down if you like that better. I would say it all runs true to size overall. I’m in a medium in everything I’ve styled.
Items I Own from the Spanx AirEssentials Collection
Air Essentials Half Zip
More than anything else I own from the collection, the Half Zip pullover (also here in more colors) is a VIP in my closet. Of course, it looks great when paired with the Tapered Pant below. But, it’s also great with a pair of jeans or jean shorts in transitional times like summer to fall.
This piece currently comes in six colors (they occasionally expand the options!) and is very size inclusive with XS to 3X available. It does regularly sell out when new colors are launched! Mine is ‘fawn’, which is unavailable right now but has been restocked several times.
Price: $128
Air Essentials Tapered Pant
Designed with a relaxed fit, the Tapered Pant (also here in other two other colors) is a mix between a jogger and a pant. The fit is sort of like a straight cut jean. It gives your body some shape and has a slim fit through the leg that’s very flattering.
This pant has 4-way stretch that lets you move, squat and hustle like you need to. And when it comes to waistbands this one has some give and lays nicely on your body. One of my pet peeves is that annoying muffin top that some legging and pants give you. There’s none of that here. This pant is something you just throw on and go.
Price: $138
Don’t love a slim fit? Try their cropped wide leg pant instead. It’s shown online in two colors right now, but it also normally has 3-5 variations. They also offer a full length pair in five colors.
Air Essentials Crew Neck Dress
So, for clarity, I’m wearing the mock neck dress in the pictures above. But, that piece is sold out. While I really like that dress (the cut, the pockets and the color), the only con is having to stretch the neck enough so that my makeup doesn’t get messed up when I put it on! This new crew neck style is much more my speed.
First, I love that it has functional pockets. It’s so easy to throw my phone in there during daycare pickup or grocery store runs. Then, I love the classic shift cut to the dress and the longer sleeves
Price: $148
Are Spanx Worth It?
Whenever I add clothes to my wardrobe it’s for one of two main reasons: there’s a gap in my closet or I’m wearing a lot of that type of item right now. With the Air Essentials collection it falls into the latter. I live in loungewear right now (last year it was maternity loungewear). More specifically, I live in comfortable loungewear. The clock hits 5:30 p.m. and I’m changing to run to daycare, So, in my opinion, the price tag this collection carries is well worth it. It’s light but breathable and looks chic at school pickup. Check and check! Plus, the quality is awesome. You’ll wash and wear these on repeat.
Where To Buy Spanx
Spanx is sold all over the world, but there are a few retailers that always have their newest items and great stock. Below is my preferred list of where you can find the Spanx Air Essentials collection and many of their other best sellers.
From the luxuriously soft fabric to the lightweight construction, my vote is a thumbs up. I hope my Spanx Air Essentials review is helpful. If I purchase anymore pieces (helloooo cute jumpsuit!), I’ll add them to this post.
