How to Choose a Pair of Panties

There’s a lot more to picking a pair of panties than thinking they look cute in the store.

Step 1: Think about comfort
Decide how important comfort is to you. Briefs, boy shorts, and ladies boxers are the least constricting styles.

Tip
If you need to wear a thong, try one with more front coverage, or tangas, which have wider waistbands.

Step 2: Consider fabric
Take the fabric into consideration. Polyester provides the most support, wicks moisture, and dries quickly, making it great for workouts. Spandex or Lycra provides the most seamless look. Silk and satin are pretty, but must be hand-washed. Cotton is more hygienic because it’s breathable.

Tip
If you like the look and feel of polyester panties, buy ones with a cotton crotch.

Step 3: Size up your body
Consider what works best with your body type. To trim your hips and thighs, try boy shorts made with Lycra. To eliminate muffin top, go with a high-waisted Lycra brief or panties that dip in the front.

Tip
If you want your legs to look longer when you step out of your clothes, choose a French-cut brief.

Step 4: Whittle away inches
Invest in a few good body shapers to wear with unforgiving clothes. Some can squeeze as much as an inch and a half off your waist and hips!

Step 5: Match waist height
Wear panties with a waistline at or just under the height of your skirt or pants -- unless you want people to see the outline of your bikini panties under your high-waist trousers.

Tip
The waistband of your panties shouldn’t feel the least bit tight. If it does, go to the next size.

Step 6: Ensure a smooth fit
If you’re wearing tight jeans, slip on a hipster or string bikini. Both have less material on the sides.

Did You Know?
America’s first print underwear ad ran in the Saturday Evening Post in 1911.