A few of weeks ago I wrote about the wonders of womanly fashion. Well, I deliberately withheld the secret to its success. Lingerie. When you’re wearing clothing designed to accentuate the female form, it’s essential ensure yours is in a state worth emphasising.

Yes, exercise is the modern woman’s corset, but there are a few other tricks too.

The biggest news undercover is the return of foundation garments, or shapewear as they’re now known. Ok, I’m not suggesting you want anyone to know if you’re wearing them, or let your lover peel them off, but it’s worth familiarising yourself with the latest crop of stretchy wonders to lift, firm and tone.

Smooth-finish bras that boost and define (Fine Lines and Elle Macpherson Intimates are especially useful under shapely knits and silk camis) plus seamless knickers are a given. Yes, that’s right, knickers. G-strings are so five years ago. Anyway, it’s not the basics we’re talking about but the new body-shaping pieces that go over the top or in some cases, replace, your usual underwear.

There are various pieces designed to trim your waist, tummy, bottom, hips and thighs individually or in combination. So what should you look for? From the UK style-Nazis comes Trinny & Susannah Original Magic Knickers for some serious sucking in. Styles include Tummy Flatteners and Bum Lifters so you know exactly what you’re getting. Nancy Gantz and Spanx are two other international brands that deliver instant – if a little restricting – body boosts.

Closer to home are two Australian labels that get it right. Love & Lustre pieces are flat-seamed for an invisible finish. The Bandeaux and Half-slip are particularly good if you’re looking to prevent the cling that comes with stretch fabrics and lace rather than reducing significant lumps and bumps.

Then there’s the Nearly Nude Slimming Slip and Strapless Slip. Both offer breast support and tummy control for women who wear up to a 16DD bra even though there’s a choice of just S/M and M/L. Magic huh?

So get your gear off. Then put it back on over your new shapewear and feel the difference.

Where do I get? Waist shapers found at debras.com.au; Pictured on Model is the 5-Way Moulded T-Shirt Bra finelineslingerie.com.au; find more slimming body suits at lalah.com.au. Great range online is at www.slimwear.com.au. Nearly Nude (top right) from DJ’s and Myer.