Spandex vs. Spanx — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 24, 2024
Spandex is a stretchable synthetic fabric known for its elasticity, used broadly in clothing, whereas Spanx is a brand that specializes in making body-shaping undergarments using materials like spandex.
Difference Between Spandex and Spanx
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Spandex is a synthetic fiber celebrated for its exceptional elasticity and strength, commonly used in sportswear and performance costumes. Whereas Spanx, although utilizing spandex in its products, primarily focuses on the production of shapewear designed to contour and smooth the body's appearance.
Spandex offers versatility in various clothing due to its ability to stretch up to five times its original length. On the other hand, Spanx uses this characteristic to provide garments that offer compression and support, enhancing the wearer’s figure under different outfits.
The production of spandex involves the polymerization of polyurethane, making it durable and resistant to body oils and perspiration. Whereas Spanx incorporates this durable material in its design to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of its body-slimming products.
Spandex is widely used by multiple brands and manufacturers in a variety of garments beyond shapewear, including swimsuits and leggings. In contrast, Spanx specifically markets itself as a shapewear brand, with a product line that includes bodysuits, leggings, and maternity wear designed for body sculpting.
While spandex fabric is a material choice, Spanx represents a brand name that has become synonymous with shaping undergarments. This distinction highlights Spandex’s role as a raw material versus Spanx’s specialization in finished consumer products.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
A synthetic fiber known for elasticity
A brand specializing in shapewear
Primary Use
Sportswear, casual and performance clothing
Body shaping and contouring undergarments
Material Properties
Highly elastic, durable, resistant to body oils
Uses spandex for elasticity, adds supportive features
Product Variety
Used in a variety of garments by many brands
Focused range of shapewear products
Consumer Perception
Known as a versatile fabric
Known for enhancing body shape
Compare with Definitions
Spandex
Resistant to sweat and oils.
Spandex shorts are ideal for long-distance running due to their moisture-wicking properties.
Spanx
A brand known for its body-shaping undergarments.
She wore Spanx under her dress to smooth out her silhouette.
Spandex
Often blended with other materials to enhance comfort and durability.
The socks had spandex woven into them to ensure they stay up throughout the day.
Spanx
Offers products like shapewear, leggings, and maternity wear.
Spanx leggings are popular for their comfortable fit and slimming effect.
Spandex
Used primarily in sportswear and activewear.
My gym leggings are made from spandex because they stretch well and maintain their shape.
Spanx
Often used for special occasions to enhance appearance.
For her wedding day, she chose a Spanx product to enhance her bridal gown's fit.
Spandex
Can stretch up to five times its original length.
Spandex is perfect for yoga pants due to its ability to stretch extensively.
Spanx
Focuses on contouring and smoothing the wearer’s figure.
Spanx bodysuits are designed to offer a streamlined look under form-fitting clothes.
Spandex
A highly elastic synthetic fabric.
The dancer's costume was made of spandex to allow greater freedom of movement.
Spanx
Known for its innovative use of fabrics like spandex.
Spanx incorporates high-quality spandex in their products for maximum effectiveness.
Spandex
Spandex, Lycra, or elastane is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is a polyether-polyurea copolymer that was invented in 1958 by chemist Joseph Shivers at DuPont's Benger Laboratory in Waynesboro, Virginia, US.The generic name "spandex", which is an anagram of the word "expands", is the preferred name in North America.
Spanx
Spanx, Inc. is an American underwear maker focusing on shaping briefs and leggings, founded in Atlanta, Georgia.
Spandex
A type of stretchy polyurethane fabric
Gold spandex leggings
Spandex
A synthetic fiber or fabric made from a polymer containing polyurethane, used in the manufacture of elastic clothing.
Spandex
Of or relating to spandex or its elastic qualities.
Spandex
A synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity.
Spandex
Clothing made from such material.
Spandex
An elastic textile material, used for clothing
Spandex
An elastic synthetic fabric
Common Curiosities
What is spandex made from?
Spandex is made from a synthetic polymer called polyurethane, which is highly elastic.
Can spandex be worn for long periods?
Yes, spandex is comfortable and durable enough for long wear, although it's important to choose the right fit to avoid discomfort.
How does Spanx use spandex in its products?
Spanx uses spandex to provide elasticity and support in its shapewear and contouring garments.
Are there any limitations to wearing Spanx products?
While highly effective, Spanx products should be chosen according to the desired level of compression and comfort, as overly tight garments can be uncomfortable.
What makes Spanx different from other shapewear brands?
Spanx is known for its high-quality materials, innovative designs, and effectiveness in body shaping compared to other brands.
How has Spanx impacted the fashion industry?
Spanx has significantly influenced the fashion industry by mainstreaming the use of shapewear and enhancing the silhouette of clothes worn on various body types.
What types of clothing is spandex found in?
Spandex is commonly used in sportswear, activewear, and performance costumes.
How should spandex garments be cared for?
Spandex garments should be washed gently and air-dried to maintain their elasticity and shape.
Do Spanx products only come in neutral colors?
No, Spanx offers a variety of colors and styles to suit different preferences and occasions.
Is spandex suitable for all types of weather?
Spandex is versatile and can be worn in various climates, but it is particularly beneficial in activewear for warmer conditions due to its moisture-wicking properties.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Vinyl vs. Polycarbonate
Next Comparison
Annoyance vs. AnnoymentAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
