This garment arrived quickly and came in a plastic package. I took it out and the first thing I noticed is that it is heavy. That's because of the rubber. The boning is fine and well placed. The front hooks are actually not very noticeable under clothing like others have said. Unless you are wearing clingy or skin tight. I tried this on under a dress and it made me stand up tall and lose about 2 inches off my waist. It's true that it compresses. So you have to sort of wiggle it around in order to get the best fit. I stepped in and went bottom up with the hooks. But then I learned it's best if I do the middle ones first then the top and bottom. This ensures an even compression for me somehow. I ordered the large because I am 165 pounds. It was pretty tight on me and when I took it off I had worked up a sweat around my waist. I am using this mostly for posture and back support. The straps on this are not the kind that shape breasts as you see with other brands. The are pretty thin and dainty. The panty is full lace. Even in the crotch. I don't really like that because it can irritate the skin and ride up a bit. This is pretty sexy when you put it on. You could get a pretty strapless bra and pair it with garters and stalkings for a really steamy look.