When it comes to lingerie and undergarments, having the right pieces can make or break an outfit. From comfort to support and style, the types of undergarments for women play a crucial role in how we feel throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for everyday comfort, body-shaping solutions, or the perfect underwear for a specific outfit, knowing your options is key. Let's dive into the different types of women's underwear and explore which styles best suit your needs, body shape, and lifestyle.
1. Bikini
One of the most common and versatile female underwear types, the bikini strikes a balance between coverage and style. With a mid-rise waist and moderate coverage in the back, bikini underwear is perfect for everyday wear. It’s available in various fabrics, from cotton for breathability to lace for a more elevated look. Bikinis are a go-to for many women because they’re comfortable, flattering, and ideal for any occasion.
Best for: All body types; casual, everyday wear.
2. Briefs
Briefs are known for offering full coverage on the front and back, making them a popular choice for women seeking comfort and support. They come in various rises, from mid-rise to high-waist, and are a classic staple for many. Briefs are also a favourite in plus-size collections due to their supportive and comfortable design. If you're looking for something that combines comfort with maximum coverage, briefs are the way to go.
Best for: Women who prefer full coverage; great for plus-size women looking for support.
3. Thongs
For women seeking minimal coverage or a no-show look under tight-fitting clothes, the thong is a must. This style has a narrow strip of fabric in the back, offering little to no coverage, which prevents visible panty lines (VPL) under form-fitting garments. Thongs are available in different rises, with low-rise thongs often being a favourite for low-cut jeans or skirts.
Best for: Tight-fitting outfits; women wanting a no-VPL look.
4. Boyshorts
Inspired by men’s boxers, boyshorts are a popular style among women looking for full coverage with a fun twist. They have a square-cut design, providing coverage for the hips and rear while offering a smooth, flattering fit under skirts or dresses. Boyshorts are perfect for lounging or wearing under clothes where comfort and coverage are essential.
Best for: Women seeking extra coverage; great for skirts, dresses, and lounging.
5. Hipsters
Falling somewhere between a bikini and a boyshort, hipsters sit lower on the hips and offer moderate coverage for the front and back. This style is a favourite for women looking for a comfortable option that won’t ride up but still looks stylish. They work well under low-rise pants and jeans, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Best for: Low-rise outfits; women who prefer moderate coverage.
6. G-String
A variation of the thong, the G-string offers even less coverage. It’s essentially a thin strip of fabric at the front and back, designed for maximum minimalism. G-strings are typically worn under body-hugging dresses or pants to avoid any chance of visible panty lines.
Best for: Skin-tight outfits; women wanting an ultra-minimal, invisible underwear option.
7. High-Waisted Underwear
The retro-inspired high-waisted underwear has made a stylish comeback in recent years. This style extends up to or above the belly button, offering more coverage while also flattering the waistline. High-waisted underwear is perfect for women looking for comfort, support, and a figure-flattering shape. They also provide a sleek look under high-waisted jeans and skirts.
Best for: Creating a flattering waistline; women who prefer more coverage and comfort.
8. Shapewear
Women’s body-shaping undergarments—often referred to as shapewear—are designed to smooth, sculpt, and contour the body. Available in various forms, including high-waisted briefs, bodysuits, and shorts, shapewear provides targeted control to areas like the tummy, hips, thighs, and back. These garments are ideal for special occasions or outfits that require a streamlined, smooth silhouette.
Best for: Special occasions; women seeking body-sculpting support.
9. Tanga
A tanga is a cross between a bikini and a thong, offering slightly more back coverage than a thong while still minimising visible panty lines. It’s a great middle ground for women who want less coverage than a bikini but more than a thong.
Best for: Women who want minimal coverage but still need some back coverage.
10. Seamless Underwear
The seamless underwear style is designed to sit invisible under clothes, making it a popular choice for fitted outfits. Seamless underwear comes in various cuts like briefs, bikinis, and thongs, with no visible seams, creating a smooth look even under the tightest of clothes.
Best for: Tight-fitting clothes; women who prioritise comfort and invisibility under clothes.
11. Girdle Type Underwear
Girdle type underwear refers to a body-shaping style that supports the waist, hips, and stomach. Offering medium to firm control, girdles are ideal for women seeking enhanced support and a sleeker silhouette under clothing. These are similar to shapewear but focus primarily on the midsection for that hourglass figure.
Best for: Tummy control; women wanting extra support in the midsection.
12. Control Briefs
A popular subset of shapewear, control briefs provide tummy control while also offering full coverage for the bottom. They’re designed to smooth out the stomach area, giving you a streamlined look under dresses or tight-fitting pants. Control briefs are often a go-to for women who want the support of shapewear without the full commitment of a bodysuit.
Best for: Women looking for tummy control; everyday shapewear.
13. Crotchless Underwear
Designed with a cutout in the crotch area, crotchless underwear is usually worn for special occasions or intimate moments. This style comes in various cuts like thongs, briefs, and even boyshorts, adding an extra touch of excitement and allure.
Best for: Special occasions; intimate wear.
14. French Cut
French cut underwear sits high on the waist but features high-cut leg openings, offering a retro-chic look. This type of underwear provides full coverage in the back while elongating the legs, making it perfect for women seeking a flattering and feminine fit.
Best for: Women who prefer high-waisted underwear with a vintage twist.
15. Cheeky
Cheeky underwear sits between a bikini and a thong, offering moderate back coverage with a slightly more revealing fit. As the name suggests, this style highlights the curves of your bottom in a flirty, cheeky way, making it great for women who want to show off a little without going full-thong.
Best for: Women who want a playful, sexy look with moderate coverage.
How to Choose the Best Type of Underwear for Women:
When choosing the right female underwear types, consider the following:
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Fabric: Cotton is best for breathability, while lace and silk are more luxurious. For shaping underwear, opt for fabrics with spandex or elastane for a comfortable stretch.
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Occasion: Everyday underwear like bikinis and briefs are ideal for daily wear, while thongs and seamless styles are great for tight-fitting outfits. For body-shaping needs, shapewear or girdle type underwear can provide that extra support.
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Body Type: Whether you're plus-size, petite, or anywhere in between, choosing the right cut and fit is crucial. The best type of underwear for plus-size women often includes high-waisted briefs, control briefs, or seamless boyshorts for comfort and support.
Embrace the Variety of Women's Underwear Types
With so many types of undergarments for ladies available, there’s something for everyone. From everyday staples like bikinis and briefs to more specialised options like shapewear and girdles, knowing your options ensures you’ll find the best style to suit your body, outfit, and personal preferences.
Explore the endless world of different types of women’s underwear to find the ones that make you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to take on the day!
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