Spanx stretches into new territory with jeans, but the fabled magic is elusive

The Spanx empire of stomach-flattening, thigh-slimming, jiggle-reducing foundation garments has expanded to include what the brand promises is the mother of all body-shaping miracles: Spanx jeans. Debuting on the company's Web site last week and available in department stores Aug. 25, the jeans come in two styles, multiple cuts and three washes, and are priced at $148. They promise "thigh-trimming construction" and stretch technology meant to smooth the tummy.