I have been wanting to write a blog post comparing the Spanx and Commando faux leather leggings for awhile now. The Spanx faux leather leggings are part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale so I thought this would be a great time to share what I like/dislike about each. I have the full length Commando leggings, but I saw the 7/8 version is part of the NSale! At a quick glance, they could look nearly identical however there are some big differences and after owning both for some time now, I definitely favor one over the other. I’ll be going into the details of each below and some styling ideas !
Quality & Style
Spanx – these are more lightweight and have a more casual style that’s more fitting to wear with sneakers. If I was going for an athleisure look, I would reach for the Spanx over the Commando.
Commando – these are more thick and have a high end material look and feel. They look like real leather leggings ! Unlike the Spanx, you can dress these leggings up or down – with sneakers and a t-shirt or sweatshirt or with boots and a sweater. There’s more of a control top than the Spanx. The Spanx roll down on me at the waist, but the Commando leggings don’t. For these reasons, the Commando is the clear winner for me and my favorite!
Other noticeable differences between the two are the seams. The Spanx has an outer seam in the front waist area as well as the sides and a finished hem, but the Commando does not. I’m wearing the Spanx leggings in this outfit:
Wash & Care
Spanx – with the Spanx, it’s nice that you can throw them in the wash like workout leggings. However, after washing several times, I have noticed they start to lose that “faux leather” look. I think if you hand wash and let them air dry, they will probably hold up better.
Commando – the downside of the Commando leggings is that you can’t throw them in the wash as could with workout leggings.
Sizing
They both fit true to size. I have both of them in my usual size small. They are nice and tight and don’t stretch after wearing. Spanx offers petite, regular and plus sizes. Commando offers sizes xs to 3x.
How to Style Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
How to Style Commando Faux Leather Leggings
All in all it depends on your preference – you really can’t go wrong with either. They are so versatile and flattering. I love both, but the Commando leggings are my favorite at the end of the day.
I hope you found this helpful ! If you are looking for more reviews for more of my favorite classic closet staples, I have a Gucci Belt Guide and a Golden Goose Sneaker Review. Let me know if you have any requests 💗
xo, Jaime
Hi,
Where is the cardigan above from? The picture with the Commando leggings, white t shirt, Gucci waist bag and white tennis. Shoes.
Thanks!
Lynnel
Hi ! Here is the link – https://rstyle.me/+ddsUkobkmuyvrr8aXfxevQ
I have size small 💗
Okay after reading your comparison, I need to try the Commando! I love my Spanx for casual like you mentioned, but have had a hard time. “dressings them up”! Love your honest reviews!
Yes ! I think you will love the commandos then 😊
Great article, Jaime. You covered just what I was wondering about. After trying tons of different brands I found Commando the most slenderizing of them all. Operative word for me!
Yesss love them 🤍
You never said whether you liked the regular commando or the7/8 commando better. Do you prefer one over the other?
Girl, please tel me where you got the boots. I think I may know but want to make sure. Your style is fab & thanks for the ref between the two. I am getting some to wear for my bday this Friday, and want a list I can do both with yet holds all the things in. 🙌🏻 it’s a must at 41,,, lolol
Pair* not list [oops]
Hi! Which boots were you looking at? There are links to the items in the photos underneath! The leopard booties are sold out 🙁 the black ones are here: https://www.gucci.com/us/en/ca/women/shoes-for-women/boots-and-booties-for-women-c-women-shoes-boots-and-booties?ranMID=37490&ranEAID=QFGLnEolOWg&ranSiteID=QFGLnEolOWg-J9ZG_rFzKxZlX3ZAOWl5yw&utm_source=QFGLnEolOWg&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_campaign=1&utm_content=15&utm_term=QFGLnEolOWg&siteID=QFGLnEolOWg-J9ZG_rFzKxZlX3ZAOWl5yw