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11 DIFFERENT KINDS OF WOMEN’S UNDERWEAR: WAYS TO CHOOSE THE BEST 

Underwear is a crucial part of a woman’s wardrobe, providing comfort, support, and a foundation for clothing. But with so many different styles and cuts available, choosing the right underwear can feel overwhelming. This guide explores 11 common types of women’s underwear, explaining their characteristics and helping you select the perfect fit for your body shape, outfit, and desired level of coverage and comfort.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST UNDERWEAR

Beyond simply looking good, choosing the perfect underwear is about finding the ideal balance of comfort, fit, and function. With so many styles and fabrics available, it’s crucial to consider key factors that ensure you’re making the best choice for your body and needs:

  • Comfort First: Above all, prioritize comfort. The best underwear feels like a second skin, allowing you to move freely without irritation.
  • Fit is Key: Ensure a proper fit that’s snug without being constricting or loose. Underwear that fits well won’t bunch or ride up, providing optimal comfort throughout the day.
  • Fabric Matters: Different fabrics offer varying levels of breathability and comfort. Choose materials like cotton for everyday wear or moisture-wicking fabrics for active lifestyles.
  • Style and Preference: Don’t forget your personal taste! Opt for designs that resonate with your style, whether it’s classic briefs, lacy thongs, or comfy boyshorts.
  • Occasion and Outfit: Consider the outfit you’ll be wearing. Certain styles offer more coverage under specific clothing types for a seamless look.

By prioritizing these factors, you’re not just buying underwear; you’re investing in your comfort, confidence, and overall well-being. Remember, the right underwear can subtly elevate your entire outfit and mood, making it a worthwhile choice for every woman.

11 ESSENTIAL UNDERWEAR STYLES

BRIEFS

Briefs are a timeless underwear choice known for their full coverage and comfortable fit. Featuring a snug waistband and fabric that extends down to the mid-thigh, they offer excellent comfort and support throughout the day. Their versatility makes them suitable under various clothing types, from fitted dresses to pants, without visible panty lines. Available in a wide range of fabrics, colors, and styles, briefs cater to individual preferences, with high-cut, mid-rise, and low-rise options providing varying levels of coverage. When choosing briefs, ensure a comfortable fit that avoids being too tight or loose, select breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials for active lifestyles, and opt for a rise and leg opening that complements your body shape and clothing choices.

BOYSHORT

Boy shorts are a comfortable and flattering underwear option that combines the full coverage of briefs with a sporty, boyish charm. Inspired by men’s boxer briefs, they feature a waistband that sits comfortably on your hips and leg openings that extend just below your upper thighs. This design provides excellent coverage, minimizing chafing and offering a smooth silhouette under skirts, dresses, and even jeans. Their comfortable fit and full coverage make them a popular choice for everyday wear, offering both a touch of flirtiness and a layer of added modesty.

HIPSTERS

Among various types of women’s underwear, hipsters offer a comfortable mid-rise fit that sits just below the belly button, striking a balance between the full coverage of briefs and the lower rise of a bikini. Their waistband sits lower than high-rise styles but higher than low-rise options, providing moderate coverage while still showcasing a hint of your midriff. This combination of comfort and mid-rise coverage makes hipsters a versatile choice for everyday wear, perfect under low-rise jeans, skirts, and dresses.

THONG

Thongs, which are types of women underwear, offer minimal coverage. They have a narrow band of fabric at the front and back connected by a thin string that goes between the buttocks. This minimalist design creates a seamless, invisible look under tight clothing, making them a popular choice for form-fitting outfits like leggings, tight dresses, and low-rise jeans. While thongs may not be the most comfortable option for everyday wear, their ability to eliminate panty lines and provide a smooth silhouette makes them a go-to for special occasions or specific clothing choices.

BIKINI

Bikinis offer a low-rise, comfortable fit with moderate coverage. Their waistband sits below the belly button, and the leg openings are similar to those of briefs, providing a balance between comfort and a slightly more revealing look. This style is versatile and works well under various clothing types, from low-rise jeans and skirts to dresses with a higher rise. Bikinis are a popular choice for everyday wear due to their comfortable fit and moderate coverage, making them a go-to option for those who prefer a less revealing alternative to thongs but still want a touch of style.

CHEEKY

Cheeky underwear offers a sexier style that doesn’t rely on lace. It strikes a balance between a thong and classic briefs, providing a medium level of coverage that shows a hint of cheek without sacrificing comfort or support. This makes cheeky underwear perfect for everyday wear, especially under denim for a subtle bum boost. Additionally, its enhanced functionality minimizes the risk of wedgies and rolling waistbands, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free experience.

HIGH-CUT

High-cut underwear features a higher leg opening compared to other styles, extending further up the thighs. This design offers several benefits: it provides a streamlined silhouette under clothing, minimizing visible panty lines. Additionally, the higher leg openings reduce the risk of chafing, making them ideal for active lifestyles or wearing under tighter clothing. While high-cut styles may not offer the same level of full coverage as briefs, they provide a comfortable and flattering fit for those seeking a balance between coverage and a touch of leg exposure.

HIGH RISE BRIEF

High-rise briefs prioritize full coverage and comfort. Their high waistband provides a slimming effect, complementing various body types. This style offers additional support and acts as a comfortable barrier under high-waisted pants, making them ideal for everyday wear. Additionally, high-rise briefs pair perfectly with dresses or skirts that cinch at the waist and flow outwards, ensuring a smooth and seamless look.

SEAMLESS OR NO-SHOW

Seamless or no-show underwear prioritizes creating an invisible, smooth silhouette under clothing. While not all seamless underwear is technically “no-show,” both types utilize special construction techniques and materials to minimize visible panty lines. This makes them ideal for wearing under tight-fitting clothing like leggings, bodycon dresses, or form-fitting pants, ensuring a flawless appearance without unwanted lines disrupting your outfit.

G-STRING

G-strings offer minimal coverage, featuring a thin string that connects the front and back panels. This minimalist design provides a nearly invisible look under clothing, making them ideal for form-fitting outfits like leggings, tight dresses, and low-rise jeans. However, due to their minimal coverage, g-strings may not be the most comfortable option for everyday wear.

FRENCH-CUT

French-cut underwear offers a unique combination of comfort and coverage. They feature a full seat coverage similar to briefs, but with a higher leg opening that extends further up the thighs, resembling a short-legged version of a high-cut brief. This design minimizes the risk of chafing and provides a smooth silhouette under clothing, making them a comfortable choice for everyday wear. Additionally, the full seat coverage ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the higher leg openings offer a touch of leg exposure for those who prefer a slightly less covered feel compared to traditional briefs.

HOW TO DETERMINE BODY TYPE

Understanding your body type is key to choosing underwear that fits and feels just right. Take note of how your shoulders compare to your hips in width, whether your waist is curvy or more straight, and the balance between your upper and lower body. Embracing these factors helps you feel confident and comfy in your underwear.

WHAT’S THE BEST UNDERWEAR FOR BODY SHAPE? 

Choosing the best underwear for your body shape goes beyond just aesthetics; it’s about finding the perfect balance of comfort, support, and coverage that flatters your unique figure. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Hourglass: Bikinis or hipsters are ideal, highlighting your curves with moderate coverage and support.
  • Apple: High-waisted briefs or boyshorts offer full coverage and a slimming effect, providing comfort and support for your midsection.
  • Pear: Thongs or bikinis complement this shape, minimizing bulk in the rear while offering a smooth silhouette.
  • Rectangle: Bikinis or hipsters with a higher waistband can create the illusion of a defined waist, adding some shape to your figure.
  • Inverted Triangle: High-cut underwear minimizes bulk around the hips and thighs, offering a balanced look.

Remember, this is just a general guideline. Experiment with different styles and fabrics to discover what feels most comfortable and flattering for your individual body shape and preferences.

WHAT’S THE BEST UNDERWEAR FOR BUTT SHAPE?

Choosing the right underwear for your butt shape can enhance your curves and provide the coverage you prefer. For round butts, thongs, G-strings, briefs, and boyshorts are great options. Thongs and G-strings offer minimal coverage, while briefs and boyshorts provide full coverage and support. Cheeky underwear offers a balance between coverage and highlighting curves.

If you have a V-shaped butt, high-cut briefs, bikinis, and boy shorts are ideal. They provide coverage, lift, and a fuller appearance. Thongs with ruching can add volume and definition to enhance the V shape.

For A-shaped butts, high-cut panties, thongs, and bikinis work well by minimizing bulk around the thighs and highlighting the natural shape of your butt. Cheeky underwear offers a comfortable and flattering fit without adding unnecessary volume.

If you have an upside-down heart-shaped butt, hipsters, string bikinis, and boyshorts are good choices. They provide good coverage without cutting into your curves, ensuring a comfortable fit for this shape.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST UNDERWEAR MATERIAL FOR WOMEN

When it comes to choosing the best underwear material, comfort and breathability reign supreme. Here’s why cotton stands out as the top choice for many women:

  • Breathable: Cotton is naturally breathable, allowing air to circulate and preventing moisture buildup. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment and preventing irritation.
  • Soft and Comfortable: Cotton’s soft texture is gentle on the skin, making it ideal for everyday wear.
  • Hypoallergenic: Cotton is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to synthetic materials, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Durable: Cotton underwear is generally long-lasting and can withstand multiple washes.

While cotton is the champion for everyday comfort, other materials offer specific benefits:

  • Moisture-wicking fabrics: Synthetic materials like nylon or polyester are often blended with cotton to create moisture-wicking underwear, perfect for active lifestyles.
  • Silk: Luxurious and soft, silk adds a touch of elegance and can be comfortable for special occasions.
  • Linen: Similar to cotton, linen is breathable and lightweight, making it a good choice for hot weather.

WHAT MATERIALS SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR OUTFITS AND OCCASIONS

Choosing the right underwear is crucial for both comfort and enhancing your outfit’s appearance. From everyday wear to special occasions, each situation demands specific styles for functionality and aesthetics.

For daily activities, cotton briefs or hipsters offer breathable comfort. Silk or lace thongs add a touch of luxury for special events while ensuring no visible panty lines. Workout sessions call for moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry and comfortable, while period underwear provides extra protection and peace of mind.

During pregnancy and postpartum, high-waisted styles with stretch accommodate the growing belly and offer gentle compression. Seamless underwear is essential for leggings to maintain a smooth silhouette, while nude tones prevent show-through with white pants. Bodysuits pair well with thongs or seamless styles to avoid unwanted lines.

If you prefer sleeping without underwear, opt for breathable fabrics like soft cotton or modal. Ultimately, selecting underwear that aligns with your outfits and occasions ensures you feel confident and stylish every time you step out.

CONCLUSION

With a vast array of styles and materials available, the world of women’s underwear offers something for every woman and every occasion. Understanding the different types of underwear, their strengths, and how they complement various body shapes and outfits empowers you to make informed choices. Remember, the best underwear is the one that prioritizes your comfort, support, and personal preferences. Embrace the variety, experiment with different styles, and discover what makes you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day. After all, the right underwear can subtly elevate your entire outfit and mood, making it a worthwhile investment in your well-being and overall sense of confidence.

Stay Comfy with 15 Best Underwear for Women

Asking a large group of people for their recommendations on the best women’s underwear will yield a wide range of responses. Everyone has a favorite, and it typically depends on the body type and the individual.  We recognize that comfort is always the most crucial factor when it comes to underwear, and you are not alone in this issue. So to make it easier, we have rounded up 15 best underwear for women.

Best Cotton Underwear for Women – Hanes Original Women’s Hipster Cotton Underwear

The Hanes Original Hipster is a tried-and-true choice for everyday cotton pants due to its affordable price, availability in vibrant hues like Tango Orange, and fun designs like Floral Garden Party. They have a classic fit, a wide waistline, and a hipster design with full back coverage. And after washing, they do not shrink. When looking for a simple, affordable alternative, Hanes is tough to surpass because they have been manufacturing underwear for a very long time.

Best Breathable Underwear for Women – Anzermix Cotton Thong Panties

These underwear are constructed of a seamless, incredibly breathable fabric that flows with you, making them perfect for working out. The fabric offers coverage without bunching up in the crotch region. You might think you are not wearing any underwear down there since they are so soft. However, we must admit that the fabric may initially seem a little cheap.

Best Period Underwear for Women – Skims Cotton Rib Boxers

These rib boxers from Skims are the ideal substitute when wearing underwear does not feel protective enough. If you want to look smooth, wear really high-waisted clothes that hold in your stomach when you feel particularly bloated. They are an excellent choice for sleeping shorts during your period. If you want your pad to stay in place throughout the night, put it in the gusset of these shorts. These boxers may be a little flimsy, but they will go a long way.

Best High-Waisted Cotton Underwear for Women – Molasus Cotton Underwear Briefs

When you do not want to use shapewear but want to smooth out your curves, these high-waisted underwear are ideal for wearing underneath a tight dress. When wearing these briefs, the firm claims you will not be able to see any panty lines. Additionally, reviewers noted that the waistband does not roll down or bunch and increased stomach support is a bonus.

Most Sustainable Underwear – Everyday Classic Fit Bikini

Everybody has a favorite pair of underpants that they wish they could wear every day because they are the most comfortable. In addition to their snug fit and incredibly warm fabric, they are eco-friendly, so you may feel even better while wearing them. The company partners with Fair Trade manufacturers for secure working conditions, employs organic cotton that saves seven gallons of water for every pair of underwear and works with SimpliZero to offset the carbon impact of their whole supply chain. Some claim that these underwear can ride up, though.

Best Bikini Underwear for Women – Simiya Breathable Bikini Panties

During the summer, it is vital to take extra caution because of the humidity and sweat there. Moisture-wicking, breathable pants are your first step to protecting vaginal health throughout the summer. With its double-layered crotch, this particular pair of underwear offers the cool, dry, and comfy feeling you wish all of your underwear offered.

Best Running Underwear for Women – Lululemon InvisiWearMid Rise Hipster Underwear

Even though they have a simple design, these Lululemon hipsters have a lot to boast about. They fit true to size and check all of our criteria for no gathering or VPLs below leggings. When you run, the thin, light fabric does not move around and is able to immediately wick away sweat. Although some people might want additional coverage over the buttocks, these underwear are still extremely excellent.

Best Affordable Underwear For Women – The Cotton Hipster 

Everlane is renowned for producing eco-friendly underwear made from cost-effective design staples. This classic sports-inspired hipster brief in ultra-comfy Supima cotton with a hint of elastane for support and stretch is hard to beat at this price. These briefs include a smooth waistband, a tagless design, an easy low rise, and decent butt coverage that does not seem (or feel) ugly. They are available in four simple colors.

Best High-Cut Underwear For Women – Natori Bliss French Cut Brief

Natori focuses on minimalism, form, and function; this French Cut brief features a high-cut leg and is made of Pima cotton with a tiny bit of lycra for stretching. Natori offers extended sizing and multiple fit. This basic is made interesting with the lovely lace trim around the waist and legs. You might need to hand wash them to maintain them.

Best Plus-Size Underwear For Women – Yitty Mesh Me Smoothing High Waist Brief

Shapewear brand Yitty, created by plus-size body advocate and musician Lizzo, wants to broaden the appeal of undergarments. Light compression fabrics in a wide variety of colors for all skin tones are included in sizes 6X to XS along with some wacky patterns. The Mesh Me semi-sheer high-waist brief boasts a supportive silicone-grip waist and a double-layer construction that smooths out the skin.

Best Thong for Women – Hanky Panky Hanky Panky Original Rise Lace Thong

Apart from more fitting clothing, like yoga pants or a body-con dress, Hanky Panky’s characteristic thong is a crowd favorite for its comfy texture. It will not show lines because the lace sits flat on the skin. The low-rise and vintage high-rise variations are equally well-liked. Hanky Panky is a bit pricey, but you can always build up a stash over time and you can clearly tell the difference in quality. 

Best Underwear for Trans Women – Origami Customs Hipster Gaff Underwear

Have you been seeking gaff underwear that offers safe, comfortable, all-day compression and that you can feel good about purchasing online? So stop searching and give custom-fit Hipster Gaff a try! This semi-sheer mesh underwear from Origami Customs sits low on the torso and has enough compression to tuck. It’s a nice, simple style that’s designed for trans femmes to wear every day. 

Best Control Top Underwear for Women – Spanx Spanx Undie-Tectable Lace Hipster Briefs

Although the concept of Spanx shapewear for special occasions is well known, these hipster pants make it simple to maintain a smooth appearance every day. The high-rise underwear style provides a thin layer of tummy control so you can still breathe throughout the day. It sits just below your belly button. Additional coverage is also provided by lace on the sides and back, but it has a sexier vibe than a granny-panty appearance.

Best Sheer Underwear for Women – On Gossamer On Gossamer Mesh Bikini

You should definitely check out On Gossamer’s mesh bikini if you prefer nylon to cotton. Although it will not completely erase panty lines, considering that it has additional back coverage, it comes very close. Fans of this type of underwear recommend sizing up for the best fit despite how pleasant the mesh fabric feels. We must tell you that hand washing is advised for these underwear.

Best Invisible Underwear for Women – Hanro Invisible Cotton Full Brief

Want a pair of seamless full-coverage briefs to wear with a figure-hugging outfit? It will work with these Hanro Invisible Cotton Full Briefs. You will not have panty lines thanks to the lightweight, breathable fabric, and you may wear whatever you want without having to worry about what is seen. 

The good news is that modern underwear for ladies is far better than it was ten years ago. With new and extended size ranges, contemporary approaches to fit, high-tech fabrics, and a genuine focus on comfort, a new wave of inventive brands has recently caused the category to erupt. You may find it challenging to choose the best pair of shoes because of this. For the ideal purchase for both you and your wallet, remember to check out our lists.