Women’s knickers, also known as panties and drawers, are the underwear women wear underneath their clothes. They come in different styles, and some are more revealing than others.
For example, a pair of cheeky panties shows less of your cheeks than Brazilian briefs and is more revealing than hipsters. They are often lacey or embellished with precious applique.
Cheeky panties
Whether you opt for the full-coverage of a thong or want something a little cheekier, there’s a cheeky panty out there for you. These underwear offer more coverage than a thong, but less than a bikini, showing off your sexy little behind (and hiding your panty lines).
Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng loves a pair of made-in-London knickers she calls her “sporting undies.” They’re high on the hip and fit like a panty without being too tight in the rear, making them good for women with squarish butt shapes.
When it comes to fabric, look for natural or Supima cotton. It’s super breathable and the type of cotton ob/gyns recommend because it’s super comfy. But if you really wanna step it up, consider options such as hemp or tencel, which are both incredibly sustainable and crazy soft.
Brazilian briefs
The Brazilian brief is the middle ground between a thong and a hipster panty. It leaves the outer cheeks of your behind partially covered, and it can feature scalloped or seamless edges. The fabric can be organic cotton, silk or polyester. Some are made of special activewear fabrics to wick away sweat more quickly, and others are breathable for everyday wear.
Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng has a pair emblazoned with chile peppers she calls her “sporting underwear.” She likes that they don’t ride up or feel too tight.
Shop Intimissimi’s collection for a huge choice of coordinating Brazilian panties with every bra in the line. Browse a range of options from luxe, soft lace to textured knits, and find a style that suits you. And remember that you can always go a size up or down to get the perfect fit. The lingerie label also has bralettes, garter belts and slips to complete your intimate wardrobe.
Boy shorts
Women’s boy short panties are a perfect choice for everyday wear under skirts and dresses, eliminating panty lines and providing comfortable coverage. The high waistband sits a few inches below the waist and reaches down to the mid-thigh. Like briefs, boyshorts offer full cheek coverage.
This underwear style is modeled after men’s boxers, hence the name. Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng loves this style, especially the pair that features chile peppers on her waistband (pictured). “They feel sporty, which makes them ideal for when I’m running errands in a skirt or if I want to prevent chub rub,” she says.
Shop for women’s boy short panties from top lingerie designers including Calvin Klein, Hanky Panky, Free people and Maidenform(r). For sleeker silhouettes try body-sculpting styles with slimming technology from brands like Wacoal and SPANX. For a more playful look, opt for lace or crochet-inspired designs. You can also find options with precious applique for a touch of feminine whimsy.
Thongs
Thongs have become popular for everyday wear, allowing you to avoid visible panty lines under tight pencil skirts and fitted pants. They’re also a good choice for avoiding any chafing that might come from seams digging into the skin.
T-front and g-string are intermediate styles between traditional thongs and full rear coverage, but they have a slightly thicker front patch of fabric while still offering minimal back coverage. There are also novelty designs for both sexes that offer more back exposure with shapes that conform to the genitals.
Spanx has a range of seamless thongs with a buttery soft feel that’s perfect for everyday wear. Try this ribbed pair in bright teal paired with jeans for an easy summer look or under your activewear for comfort on the go. The breathable fabric will stretch with you while you move, too, so you can stay cool during your workout or day at the beach. Invest in a few pairs to keep in your drawer and you’ll be able to switch between different looks with ease.women’s bamboo knickers
