We're bringing back some old fashion, vintage flair with our newest brand - Rago! Known for their premium, size inclusive shapewear garments, we're proud to bring some vintage fashion to the modern day. Highly requested by many of our customers, these garments give homage to classic contouring and the days of the open bottom girdles.
We're kickstarting our range of Rago products that we will be stocking in our Melbourne lingerie store with 4 gorgeous items: a High Waist Padded Panty, Soft Shaping Six Strap Garter Belt, and a Firm & Extra Firm Shaping Open Bottom Girdle.
And honestly? After 40+ years in this business, I'm absolutely thrilled you asked for this. There's something magical about bringing back the style, craftsmanship and quality that made vintage shapewear so iconic.
Why Rago? Why Now?
You've been asking, and we've been listening! While brands like Spanx, Miraclesuit, Naomi & Nicole, and Nancy Ganz have their place in your lingerie drawer (and we love them!), there's been a growing hunger for something different. Something with more structure. More vintage appeal. More of a traditional oomph - especially among our mature ladies lingerie customers who remember when shapewear was built to last.
Enter Rago - the brand that's been perfecting shapewear since 1945. Yes, 1945! While everyone else is chasing trends, Rago has been quietly mastering the art of premium shapewear construction with their signature High Waist/No Roll guarantee and those gorgeous open bottom girdle designs that make you feel like a vintage Hollywood starlet.
The Beauties We're Starting With
Let me introduce you to the trio that's launching our Rago collection here in Australia:
High Waist Padded Panty (Light Control)
Similar to out Magic Padded Instant Booty Lifting Brief but in a high waist style, this clever little number features removable foam shaping pads in the rear (yes, please!), a cinched seam to enhance your curves, and a teardrop front panel for gorgeous tummy smoothing. Made with silky smooth fabric that feels luxurious against your skin - it's comfort meets curves in all the right ways. Perfect for everyday wear when you want a little boost and a lot of confidence.
Soft Shaping Six Strap Garter Belt
Oh, this one's special. Six adjustable straps with metal garters that pair beautifully with your favourite stockings. It's got tummy control built right in, made from exclusive silky smooth fabric with four-way stretch. Whether you're channeling vintage vibes or just want to feel absolutely fabulous, this garter belt delivers functional beauty. Trust me, once you wear proper garter belts, you'll never want to go back!
Extra Firm Shaping Open Bottom Girdle
Here she is - my favourite of the collection! This is what you've been requesting, and it's absolutely stunning. Made with a special lace floral design knit fabric, featuring Rago's exclusive contour bands, flat sewn seams, and six metal garter clips. This is old-school shaping at its finest - when you want serious support and that vintage girdle silhouette that photographs like a dream. It's shapewear that means business.
What Makes Rago Different from Your Other Brands?
While we adore all our shapewear brands at Illusions, Rago brings something unique to the table. Think of it this way:
Spanx is your modern, grab-and-go everyday essential. Miraclesuit is sleek and contemporary. Naomi & Nicole and Nancy Ganz are your reliable comfort zones.
Rago? Rago is vintage glamour with serious engineering. It's for when you want constructed support, not just compression. The difference? Rago uses power circle technology, flat sewn seams, and secure woven elastics that actually last. We're talking garments that’s made to last - not fast fashion shapewear that gives up after a month.
The additional constructed tummy panel makes it like having architecture built into your shapewear. Everything stays exactly where you put it, smoothing without that uncomfortable squeeze feeling.
The Vintage Appeal Meets Modern Standards
Here's what I love about Rago bringing back that vintage aesthetic - it's not just nostalgic, it's practical. The open bottom girdles are perfect for wearing with stockings and creating those gorgeous vintage silhouettes while the garter belts aren’t just costume pieces, they're functional shapewear that happens to be absolutely beautiful.
And unlike modern fast fashion, Rago is still made in USA with quality construction that respects both the garment and the wearer. Their flat seaming prevents digging and discomfort and their woven elastics don't stretch out or lose integrity.
Come See Them in Person!
These gorgeous pieces are waiting for you right here at Illusions Lingerie in Melbourne! There's something about seeing the vintage design in person, feeling the fabric, and understanding how these garments actually work that you just can't get from online shopping.
After four decades of fitting lingerie, I can tell you that the right shapewear changes everything. And ensuring you’re getting the right size is crucial. Rago tends to fit small so we’re here to help you get the perfect size with a shapewear fitting whether you're curious about trying your first open bottom girdle, want to explore garter belts beyond basics, or simply need shapewear that actually stays put and lasts.
Your Shapewear Wardrobe, Your Way
The beauty of having Spanx, Miraclesuit, Naomi & Nicole, Nancy Ganz, and now Rago all under one roof? You get to choose what works best for each outfit, each occasion, and each mood. Modern everyday compression for Monday, vintage glamour for Saturday night, and everything in between.
We're here to help you navigate all these gorgeous options and find what makes you feel absolutely fabulous - whether you're building your everyday lingerie wardrobe, exploring crossdressing, or simply want shapewear that delivers results.
Come visit us in Melbourne and let's find your perfect fit. Trust me, your wardrobe is about to get a very fashionable upgrade!
