wow those are girdles - pretty soon we will have drawstring corsets like in gone with the wind.

the body shapers might be an option. These have open crotches so at least you can pee:
http://www.shopstyle.com/browse/womens-intimates?fts=open+crotch

Hanes are way better than Spanx. Also, Macy's carries Miraclesuit shapers. I have one on right now. Can't breathe. It's great.

In addition to the spanx, these type dresses hide my pooch:

http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/womensapparel-dresses-littleblackdresses-Faux_Leather_Ponte_Dress-lordandtaylor/246593

http://www.lordandtaylor.com/eng/womensapparel-dresses-littleblackdresses-Cap_Sleeved_Lace_Dress-lordandtaylor/245851

Go to Target for the less expensive line of spanx. Get the pantyhose with the support. I think they are like $22 compared to the ones by the same company that are $12 a pair. Also use one of the spanx tanks. This should help! Have fun at your event.

Flexees and Wondersuit work much better than Spanx. Macy's, L&T, etc. have lots to try.

I just saw a bunch of other Spanx options online. Last time I bought them at a dept store and just got the panty version. I'll try the stronger/bigger version next. Thanks!

Possible that you also need to go down a size in Spanx.

Personally, most Spanx don't work well for me because the top ends up rolling down, and that is even worse than a pooch. I have had better luck with the slip, which I can tuck the top edge under my bra (and still use the toilet without too many gymnastic maneuvers).

Thanks - I'll check those out!

I wish I could find a better dress! I have tried on a ton of dresses and the only ones that don't show my belly blob are empire. But then I almost start to look pregnant again. And Spanx does smooth it out but also lifts my belly pooch up so there is a weird bump, like a little shelf.

Also, I didn't realize there were different Spanx strengths? I'll look into those as well.

Thanks!

Honestly if the strongest Spanx isn't doing it for you, this is probably not the right dress.

Honestly if the strongest Spanx isn't doing it for you, this is probably not the right dress.

I like my Vedette shaper but holy heck, is that thing tight.

I like CASS shapewear

I've read that dressers for celebrities use several layers of spanx on their clients to get the look they want for filming or a particular dress. Haven't personally tried it.

I still have a sizeable pooch after #2 and have a big event coming up. I've tried Spanx under my dress, but it doesn't seem like enough. What is more hard core than Spanx? Are we talking old lady girdles? I just don't want pigs under the blanket!!