This is my second time to buy Spanx brand shapewear.  Normally I buy a store brand.  True to my last experience, these didn't last.  I bought them and wore them for the first time on 6/29/11.  I have worn them about twice a week since and by the middle of July they were already ripped at the seam.  I have a similar black pair that I bought at a department store for half the price that have lasted over a year and I am still wearing them with no rips or tears.  In my opinion, Spanx brand is definitely not worth the extra cost.