What Are the Different Types of Women's Underwear and How to Choose the Right One?

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1 What Are the Different Types of Women's Underwear and How to Choose the Right One?

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless underwear options in stores and online? You're not alone. With countless styles, fabrics, construction methods, and special features available today, finding underwear that perfectly balances comfort, function, and style can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Women's underwear comes in various categories including different styles (briefs, bikinis, thongs, boyshorts), fabrics (natural vs. synthetic), construction methods (seamless, cut-and-sew, bonded), and purpose-specific designs (everyday, athletic, period, shapewear). The best choice depends on your body shape, outfit needs, comfort preferences, and specific activities.

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At HAVING, we've spent years perfecting our underwear designs across our 3000+ stores. With annual sales exceeding 30 million USD, we've learned that underwear is far more complex than most people realize. Our body-before-fabric philosophy has taught us that the perfect underwear isn't just about looking good—it's about feeling confident, comfortable, and supported throughout your day. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about women's underwear to help you make the best choices for your body and lifestyle.

What Are the Main Style Categories of Women's Underwear?

When I first started in the lingerie manufacturing business in Shantou City, I was amazed by the sheer variety of underwear styles available. Each serves a specific purpose and suits different body types, outfits, and occasions.

Women's underwear styles range from full-coverage options like briefs and boyshorts to minimal coverage styles like thongs and G-strings. Each style is designed with specific benefits in mind, whether it's providing support, eliminating visible panty lines, or enhancing comfort for different activities and outfits.

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At our HAVING factory, we produce over 20 different underwear styles. Let me break down the most popular ones and explain when each works best.

Full Coverage Styles

Classic Briefs

Classic briefs are the workhorses of the underwear world. They feature:

  • Full front and back coverage
  • A waistband that sits at or slightly below the natural waist
  • Comfortable leg openings that don't ride up
  • Excellent support for everyday activities

I've found that our customers who prioritize comfort above all else often prefer classic briefs. They're particularly popular among women who want reliable coverage without having to adjust their underwear throughout the day.

High-Waisted Briefs

High-waisted briefs have made a significant comeback in recent years, and at HAVING, we've expanded our high-waisted collection to meet growing demand. These feature:

  • A waistband that extends to the natural waist or even higher
  • Full coverage in the back
  • A vintage-inspired look with modern comfort
  • Light tummy control without the discomfort of shapewear

These are perfect for wearing under high-waisted pants, skirts, or dresses. Many of our customers also appreciate how they don't dig into the waist like lower-rise styles might.

Control Briefs

Control briefs take the supportive nature of regular briefs to the next level:

  • Firmer, more structured fabric for shaping
  • Higher waistbands for tummy control
  • Strategic seaming for a smoother silhouette
  • Reinforced panels in areas that benefit from extra support

At our factory in Guangdong Province, we use specialized elastic materials in our control briefs that provide firm support without sacrificing comfort or breathability.

Boyshorts

Inspired by men's boxer briefs but designed specifically for the female form, boyshorts offer:

  • Extended coverage along the upper thigh
  • Full back coverage
  • A sporty, modern aesthetic
  • Minimal riding up compared to other styles

These are particularly popular among our younger customers and those looking for comfortable sleepwear or loungewear options. The extended leg coverage also makes them ideal for preventing thigh chafing in warmer weather.

Moderate Coverage Styles

Hipsters

Hipsters sit lower on the hips than briefs and provide moderate coverage:

  • A waistband that sits 2-3 inches below the natural waist
  • Coverage that fully encompasses the buttocks
  • Modern silhouette that works well with low-rise bottoms
  • Comfortable fit that doesn't create visible lines at the hips

In our HAVING stores, hipsters are consistently bestsellers because they strike the perfect balance between coverage and style. They're particularly flattering on women with wider hips as they sit perfectly on the hip bone.

Bikini Underwear

Bikini underwear is inspired by bikini swimwear bottoms and features:

  • A waistband that sits at the hip bones
  • Moderate back coverage
  • Higher-cut leg openings than briefs
  • A versatile style that works with most outfits

This style has been a staple in our collections for years because it's so versatile. The moderate coverage and comfortable fit make it suitable for almost any occasion or outfit.

Cheeky Underwear

Cheeky underwear, as the name suggests, reveals a bit more of the buttocks:

  • Coverage that sits between a bikini and a thong
  • A playful, flirtatious look
  • Reduced visible panty lines compared to full-coverage styles
  • Comfortable for everyday wear while still being stylish

This style has grown increasingly popular at HAVING as more women seek options that feel feminine and fun without the minimal coverage of a thong.

Minimal Coverage Styles

Thongs

Thongs are characterized by their minimal back coverage:

  • A thin strip of fabric (the "string") between the buttocks
  • Full front coverage
  • Elimination of visible panty lines
  • Various waistband heights from low to high

At our factory, we've perfected the art of creating comfortable thongs by using soft, flexible materials and ensuring the perfect fit. The key is finding a thong that doesn't feel too tight or too loose.

G-Strings

G-strings take the minimal coverage concept even further:

  • The barest minimum of fabric in the back
  • A thin string waistband
  • Virtually invisible under any clothing
  • Often chosen for special occasions or intimate moments

While not everyone's everyday choice, G-strings serve a specific purpose in eliminating any trace of underwear lines under the most form-fitting clothes.

Tanga

The tanga style sits between a cheeky and a thong:

  • More coverage than a thong but less than cheeky styles
  • Often features decorative elements on the sides
  • Reduced visible panty lines
  • A popular choice in South American countries

We've introduced more tanga styles in our HAVING collections as global fashion influences continue to shape underwear preferences.

Hi-Cut/French Cut

Hi-cut underwear, also known as French cut, features:

  • High-cut leg openings that extend above the hip bone
  • Moderate to full back coverage
  • A leg line that elongates the appearance of the legs
  • A retro-inspired look that's come back into fashion

This style is particularly flattering for shorter women as the high-cut leg creates the illusion of longer legs.

What Fabrics Are Used in Women's Underwear?

The material of your underwear significantly impacts comfort, durability, breathability, and even health. At HAVING, we carefully select fabrics that promote comfort while maintaining shape and support.

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Natural Fabrics

Cotton

Cotton remains the gold standard for everyday underwear:

  • Highly breathable allowing air circulation
  • Naturally moisture-wicking
  • Soft against the skin
  • Durable and easy to care for
  • Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin

In our cotton underwear collections, we use premium long-staple cotton that maintains its softness even after multiple washes.

Organic Cotton

Organic cotton takes the benefits of regular cotton to the next level:

  • Grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals
  • Environmentally sustainable production
  • Often softer than conventional cotton
  • Ideal for those with chemical sensitivities or ethical concerns

At HAVING, we've seen growing demand for organic options as customers become more environmentally conscious.

Silk

Silk offers unparalleled luxury in underwear:

  • Exceptionally smooth and soft against the skin
  • Natural temperature regulation properties
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Naturally hypoallergenic
  • Luxurious appearance and feel

While more delicate and requiring special care, silk underwear remains popular for special occasions and those seeking premium comfort.

Bamboo

Bamboo fabric has gained popularity for underwear due to its:

  • Exceptional softness, often compared to cashmere
  • Natural antibacterial properties
  • Excellent moisture-wicking abilities
  • Sustainable and eco-friendly production
  • Breathability and temperature regulation

We've incorporated bamboo blends in several of our collections at HAVING to offer customers the benefits of this innovative natural fiber.

Merino Wool

Though less common, merino wool underwear offers unique benefits:

  • Superior temperature regulation
  • Moisture-wicking without feeling damp
  • Odor-resistant properties
  • Soft and non-itchy unlike traditional wool
  • Ideal for athletic activities or cold weather

Our premium lines include merino wool options for customers seeking performance benefits with natural materials.

Synthetic Fabrics

Nylon

Nylon is widely used in underwear manufacturing for its:

  • Exceptional durability and strength
  • Smooth, silky feel against the skin
  • Quick-drying properties
  • Excellent elasticity and shape retention
  • Lightweight nature

At our Shantou factory, we often blend nylon with other fibers to create underwear that combines durability with comfort.

Polyester

Polyester is valued in underwear production for its:

  • Excellent color retention
  • Wrinkle resistance
  • Durability and longevity
  • Quick-drying capabilities
  • Affordability

While not as breathable as natural fibers, modern polyester blends have improved significantly in comfort and performance.

Spandex/Elastane/Lycra

These elastic fibers (different brand names for similar materials) are rarely used alone but are crucial in underwear for:

  • Stretch and recovery
  • Shape retention
  • Comfortable fit that moves with the body
  • Durability through multiple wears and washes
  • Support without constriction

At HAVING, we typically use 5-10% spandex in our underwear designs to provide the perfect balance of stretch and support.

Microfiber

Microfiber is a fine synthetic fiber that offers:

  • Ultra-soft feel against the skin
  • Excellent moisture-wicking properties
  • Lightweight and breathable nature
  • Durability and resistance to pilling
  • Smooth appearance under clothing

Our microfiber collections are particularly popular for athletic wear and seamless styles.

Modal

Modal is a semi-synthetic fiber made from beech tree pulp that provides:

  • Exceptional softness and drape
  • Better breathability than fully synthetic fibers
  • Excellent moisture absorption
  • Resistance to shrinkage and fading
  • Eco-friendly production compared to many synthetics

We've found that modal underwear is particularly popular among customers seeking the softness of natural fibers with the durability of synthetics.

What Construction Methods Are Used for Women's Underwear?

The way underwear is constructed significantly impacts its comfort, appearance, and functionality. At HAVING, we employ various construction methods depending on the intended use and style of the underwear.

Cut-and-Sew

This traditional construction method involves:

  • Cutting fabric pieces according to patterns
  • Sewing the pieces together with visible seams
  • Creating structured designs with defined panels
  • Allowing for complex designs and decorative elements
  • Providing durability and structure

Most of our classic styles at HAVING use this time-tested construction method, which allows for precise fitting and detailed design elements.

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Seamless Knitting

Seamless underwear is created using specialized circular knitting machines:

  • No side seams for a smooth appearance under clothing
  • Reduced risk of chafing and irritation
  • One-piece construction for comfort
  • Laser-cut edges that don't dig into skin
  • Perfect for form-fitting outerwear

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Our seamless underwear line has grown significantly as more customers seek invisible underwear solutions for modern, form-fitting clothing.

Bonded Construction

Bonded underwear uses heat and adhesive rather than traditional stitching:

  • Pieces are fused together without visible seams
  • Creates an ultra-smooth silhouette
  • Virtually invisible under clothing
  • Eliminates bulk from traditional seams
  • Modern, technical appearance

This high-tech construction method is used in our premium invisible underwear collections.

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Molded

Molded underwear (particularly common in bras but also used in some panty styles):

  • Uses heat to shape the fabric into three-dimensional forms
  • Creates seamless cups or panels
  • Provides structure without seams
  • Offers consistent shape and support
  • Smooth appearance under clothing

We use molding techniques in our shapewear and some of our more supportive underwear styles.

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Dot Glue Construction

This innovative technique uses:

  • Small dots of silicone or similar adhesive
  • Strategic placement to hold edges in place
  • Elimination of traditional elastic bands
  • Completely smooth edges that don't dig in
  • Invisible finish under even the tightest clothing

Our luxury invisible underwear line features this cutting-edge construction method for the ultimate no-show experience.

What Purpose-Specific Underwear Types Are Available?

Different activities and needs call for specialized underwear designs. At HAVING, we've developed purpose-specific collections to address various customer requirements.

Everyday Underwear

Designed for daily comfort and reliability:

  • Breathable, soft fabrics (typically cotton or cotton blends)
  • Durable construction that withstands frequent washing
  • Comfortable elastic that doesn't dig in
  • Moderate coverage appropriate for daily activities
  • Available in various colors and simple designs

Our everyday collections form the backbone of our business, with comfort and durability as the primary focus.

Athletic/Sport Underwear

Engineered specifically for physical activity:

  • Moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you dry
  • Antimicrobial treatments to prevent odor
  • Seamless construction to prevent chafing
  • Secure fit that stays in place during movement
  • Quick-drying properties

Our sports underwear line has been developed with input from athletes to ensure it performs under the most demanding conditions.

Period Underwear

Specially designed to provide protection during menstruation:

  • Multiple absorbent layers that lock away moisture
  • Leak-proof barriers to prevent accidents
  • Antimicrobial treatments for freshness
  • Varying absorbency levels for different flow days
  • Washable and reusable design

This growing category represents our commitment to innovative solutions for women's everyday needs.

Shapewear Underwear

Designed to smooth and contour the body:

  • Firmer, more compressive fabrics
  • Strategic panels for targeted shaping
  • Varying levels of control from light to firm
  • Seamless construction for a smooth appearance
  • Breathable design for all-day comfort

Our shapewear ranges from subtle smoothing pieces to more structured garments for special occasions.

Postpartum Underwear

Created specifically for the post-birth recovery period:

  • Higher waistbands to accommodate healing abdomens
  • Extra stretch to adapt to changing body shapes
  • Soft, non-irritating fabrics for sensitive skin
  • Absorbent options for postpartum bleeding
  • Supportive designs that provide gentle compression

This specialized category reflects our understanding of women's changing needs throughout different life stages.

Thermal Underwear

Designed for cold weather conditions:

  • Insulating fabrics that retain body heat
  • Moisture-wicking properties to keep skin dry
  • Longer styles for additional coverage
  • Smooth outer surface to layer easily under clothing
  • Breathable design to prevent overheating

Our thermal collections are particularly popular in colder regions where additional warmth is essential.

Bridal/Special Occasion Underwear

Created for memorable moments:

  • Luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or fine lace
  • Decorative details such as embroidery or appliqués
  • Often designed to coordinate with outer garments
  • May include special features like "something blue"
  • Balance of beauty and comfort

These special pieces in our collection allow women to feel their most beautiful during significant life events.

Maternity Underwear

Specifically designed for pregnancy:

  • Expandable waistbands that grow with the belly
  • Soft, stretchy fabrics for changing body shapes
  • Support panels for the growing abdomen
  • Low-irritation seams and materials
  • Often available in under-the-belly or over-the-belly styles

Our maternity line focuses on providing comfort during a time when women's bodies are constantly changing.

Menopause-Friendly Underwear

Designed to address the specific needs of women experiencing menopause:

  • Moisture-wicking fabrics for hot flashes and night sweats
  • Breathable designs to regulate temperature
  • Antimicrobial treatments for freshness
  • Comfortable fit that accommodates body changes
  • Absorbent options for light incontinence

This growing category reflects our commitment to supporting women through all life stages.

What Embellishments and Special Features Are Available?

The finishing touches on underwear can transform basic pieces into something special. At HAVING, we offer various embellishments and features to suit different preferences and needs.

Decorative Elements

Lace

Lace adds a feminine, delicate touch to underwear:

  • Can be used as trim or as the main fabric
  • Ranges from delicate and subtle to bold and dramatic
  • Adds visual interest and texture
  • Creates a romantic, traditional aesthetic
  • Available in countless patterns and designs

Our lace suppliers in Guangdong Province provide us with both traditional and contemporary lace designs for our collections.

Embroidery

Embroidery adds personalized, artistic elements:

  • Can create detailed designs and patterns
  • Adds texture and dimension
  • Often used for logo placement or branding
  • Creates a premium, handcrafted appearance
  • Allows for customization and unique designs

Our embroidery workshop at HAVING creates everything from subtle monograms to elaborate decorative patterns.

Appliqués

Appliqués are decorative pieces attached to the underwear:

  • Can include flowers, bows, or other decorative elements
  • Adds three-dimensional interest
  • Creates focal points and visual appeal
  • Often used in special occasion pieces
  • Adds a premium, handcrafted touch

These special details are particularly popular in our bridal and special occasion collections.

Rhinestones and Crystals

These add sparkle and glamour:

  • Can be used sparingly for subtle shine or abundantly for dramatic effect
  • Often applied to waistbands or decorative elements
  • Creates eye-catching highlights
  • Adds a luxurious, special-occasion feel
  • Available in various colors and sizes

Our premium collections sometimes feature these special embellishments for customers seeking something extraordinary.

Metallic Prints and Foils

These create shine and visual interest:

  • Can be applied as all-over prints or accents
  • Adds reflective qualities and visual pop
  • Creates a modern, fashion-forward look
  • Often used for special occasions or fashion-focused pieces
  • Available in various colors and finishes

These special finishes add a contemporary edge to selected styles in our collections.

Functional Features

Silicone Grippers

These prevent underwear from shifting:

  • Thin strips of silicone applied to edges
  • Creates gentle friction against skin
  • Keeps underwear in place during movement
  • Particularly useful for thongs and seamless styles
  • Eliminates constant adjustment

This practical feature is especially popular in our athletic and seamless collections.

Moisture-Wicking Panels

Strategic panels that enhance comfort:

  • Often placed in the gusset area
  • Made from specialized absorbent materials
  • Draws moisture away from the body
  • Keeps skin dry and comfortable
  • Reduces odor and irritation

We incorporate these panels in many of our athletic and everyday styles for enhanced comfort.

Antimicrobial Treatments

These treatments inhibit bacteria growth:

  • Applied to the fabric during manufacturing
  • Reduces odor-causing bacteria
  • Extends freshness between washes
  • Particularly beneficial for athletic styles
  • Adds an extra layer of hygiene

Our premium athletic and everyday collections often feature these treatments for added freshness.

Cooling Technologies

Innovative fabrics that help regulate temperature:

  • Special fibers or treatments that dissipate heat
  • Creates a cooling sensation against the skin
  • Particularly beneficial in hot climates
  • Enhances comfort during physical activity
  • Helps manage hot flashes or night sweats

These advanced technologies are incorporated into our performance and menopause-friendly collections.

Laser-Cut Edges

This finishing technique creates smooth edges:

  • Eliminates bulky seams and hems
  • Creates a completely smooth edge
  • Virtually invisible under clothing
  • Prevents digging in or creating lines
  • Modern, technical appearance

Our invisible underwear collections feature this cutting-edge finishing technique.

How to Choose the Right Underwear for Your Body Type?

Understanding your body shape is essential for selecting the most flattering and comfortable underwear styles. At HAVING, we believe that the right underwear should enhance your natural shape while providing comfort and confidence.

For Pear-Shaped Bodies

If your hips are wider than your shoulders:

  • Boyshorts highlight curves in a flattering way
  • High-waisted styles create balance
  • Bikinis with side details draw attention upward
  • Avoid string bikinis that can dig into wider hips
  • Look for styles with comfortable leg openings

Many of our customers with pear-shaped figures find these recommendations help them feel their best.

For Apple-Shaped Bodies

If you carry weight around your midsection:

  • High-waisted briefs provide support and smoothing
  • Control briefs offer gentle shaping
  • Avoid low-rise styles that may roll down
  • Look for wide waistbands that won't dig in
  • Consider styles with decorative elements at the hips to create balance

Our body-positive approach ensures women with apple shapes find comfortable, flattering options.

For Hourglass Figures

If your bust and hips are balanced with a defined waist:

  • Bikinis showcase your naturally balanced proportions
  • Hipsters sit perfectly on curvier hips
  • Thongs eliminate panty lines under fitted clothing
  • Almost any style works well—choose based on coverage preference
  • Decorative waistbands highlight your defined waist

Hourglass figures have the most flexibility in choosing styles that work for their proportions.

For Athletic/Rectangle Figures

If your shoulders, waist, and hips are similar in width:

  • Cheeky styles add curves and dimension
  • Boyshorts with ruching create the illusion of curves
  • Bikinis with side ties add hip definition
  • Look for styles with feminine details to soften straight lines
  • High-cut legs elongate and add curves

Our design team creates styles that enhance natural shapes while ensuring comfort for all body types.

For Inverted Triangle Figures

If your shoulders are broader than your hips:

  • Boyshorts add volume to the lower body
  • Hipsters with details create the illusion of wider hips
  • Avoid high-cut styles that can make hips appear narrower
  • Look for styles with decorative elements at the hips
  • Consider bikinis with side ties for added hip dimension

These recommendations help create visual balance for inverted triangle body shapes.

How to Choose Underwear for Different Outfits?

The right underwear can make or break an outfit. At HAVING, we design underwear with specific outfits and occasions in mind.

For Form-Fitting Clothes

When wearing bodycon dresses, tight skirts, or fitted pants:

  • Seamless styles eliminate visible panty lines
  • Thongs or G-strings provide minimal coverage
  • Laser-cut edges disappear under tight fabrics
  • Nude colors that match your skin tone become invisible
  • Consider bonded construction for zero bulk

Our invisible underwear collection is specifically designed for these challenging outfits.

For Sheer or White Clothing

When wearing light-colored or transparent fabrics:

  • Choose underwear that matches your skin tone
  • Avoid contrasting colors or patterns that show through
  • Look for seamless styles with minimal decoration
  • Consider styles labeled "invisible" or "no-show"
  • Nude-colored microfiber is often the best choice

We offer a range of nude shades to match different skin tones for truly invisible underwear.

For Low-Rise Bottoms

When wearing low-rise jeans, skirts, or shorts:

  • Low-rise bikinis sit below the waistband
  • Thongs eliminate visible panty lines
  • Avoid styles that might peek above the waistband
  • Look for comfortable waistbands that won't roll
  • Consider hipster styles designed specifically for low-rise bottoms

Our low-rise collection is designed with the specific challenges of these garments in mind.

For High-Waisted Bottoms

When wearing high-waisted pants, skirts, or shorts:

  • High-waisted briefs provide smooth lines
  • Boyshorts prevent riding up under skirts
  • Mid-rise styles work if they sit below the garment's waistband
  • Avoid low-rise styles that create a visible transition line
  • Consider seamless high-waisted options for the smoothest look

The resurgence of high-waisted fashion has led us to expand our high-waisted underwear offerings.

For Athletic Activities

When exercising or playing sports:

  • Moisture-wicking fabrics keep you dry
  • Seamless construction prevents chafing
  • Secure waistbands stay in place during movement
  • Consider styles with antimicrobial properties
  • Look for breathable fabrics that prevent overheating

Our athletic collection is tested by real athletes to ensure it performs under pressure.

For Special Occasions

For weddings, anniversaries, or romantic evenings:

  • Luxurious fabrics like silk or lace add a special touch
  • Decorative elements create visual interest
  • Consider matching sets for a coordinated look
  • Look for details like satin bows or embroidery
  • Choose styles that make you feel confident and beautiful

Our bridal and special occasion collections are designed to make memorable moments even more special.

How to Care for Different Types of Underwear?

Proper care extends the life of your underwear and maintains its comfort and appearance. At HAVING, we provide care instructions tailored to different materials and construction methods.

For Cotton and Natural Fibers

To maintain the integrity of natural fabrics:

  • Wash in cold water to prevent shrinking
  • Use mild detergents free from harsh chemicals
  • Avoid bleach which can weaken fibers
  • Air dry when possible or use low heat settings
  • Turn inside out before washing to protect decorative elements

These simple steps will help your natural fiber underwear last longer and stay comfortable.

For Synthetic Fabrics

To preserve the performance of synthetic materials:

  • Wash in cold or lukewarm water
  • Avoid fabric softeners which can reduce moisture-wicking properties
  • Use gentle cycle to prevent damage to elastic
  • Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
  • Wash after each wear to prevent odor buildup

Proper care ensures your synthetic underwear maintains its shape and performance properties.

For Delicate Materials and Embellishments

To protect special pieces:

  • Hand wash or use lingerie bags in the washing machine
  • Use specialized lingerie wash or mild detergent
  • Never wring or twist which can damage delicate fabrics
  • Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight
  • Store flat or hanging to maintain shape

These extra steps are worth it to preserve your most special underwear pieces.

For Shapewear and Compression Garments

To maintain the supportive properties:

  • Hand wash when possible to preserve elasticity
  • Never use bleach or harsh detergents
  • Avoid hot water which can break down elastic fibers
  • Air dry flat to maintain shape
  • Rotate between multiple pairs to allow elastic recovery

Proper care ensures your shapewear continues to provide the support and shaping you need.

General Care Tips

For all underwear types:

  • Replace underwear every 6-12 months for optimal hygiene
  • Inspect regularly for signs of wear like stretched elastic or holes
  • Sort by color and fabric type before washing
  • Consider using mesh laundry bags to protect delicate items
  • Follow manufacturer's care instructions for best results

At HAVING, we believe that quality underwear deserves proper care to maximize its lifespan and performance.

Conclusion

The world of women's underwear is far more diverse and specialized than most people realize. From various styles and fabrics to construction methods and purpose-specific designs, there's truly something for every body, outfit, and occasion. Understanding these differences empowers you to make choices that enhance your comfort, confidence, and style.

At HAVING, our 30 million USD annual sales across 3000+ stores reflect our commitment to creating underwear that follows our body-before-fabric philosophy. We believe that the perfect underwear should feel like a second skin—supporting you throughout your day without calling attention to itself. By considering your unique body shape, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences, you can build an underwear collection that truly serves you in every situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many pairs of underwear should a woman own?

Most experts recommend having 14-21 pairs of underwear, allowing for a fresh pair daily with some extras for laundry cycles. At HAVING, we suggest having different styles for different outfit needs—perhaps 7-10 everyday pairs, 3-5 athletic pairs, 3-5 seamless/no-show pairs, and a few special occasion pieces.

How often should women replace their underwear?

For hygiene purposes, underwear should ideally be replaced every 6-12 months, even if it still looks good. Elastic deteriorates over time, and fabrics can harbor bacteria even after washing. Signs it's time for replacement include stretched waistbands, faded colors, thinning fabric, or any discomfort.

What's the healthiest underwear fabric for everyday wear?

Cotton and organic cotton are generally considered the healthiest options for everyday wear due to their breathability and hypoallergenic properties. At HAVING, our cotton gussets (even in synthetic styles) help maintain proper airflow and reduce moisture buildup that can lead to infections.

Should underwear be tight or loose?

Underwear should be snug enough to stay in place but not so tight that it leaves marks on your skin or causes discomfort. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably under the waistband. Too-loose underwear can bunch up and cause chafing, while too-tight underwear can restrict circulation and cause discomfort.

Are thongs bad for your health?

When made from breathable materials and worn in the correct size, thongs are not inherently unhealthy. However, those prone to infections may prefer styles with more coverage. At HAVING, our thongs feature cotton gussets to maintain breathability in the most sensitive areas, and we recommend limiting thong wear to 8-10 hours at a time.

What's the best underwear for working out?

The best workout underwear features moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics with seamless construction to prevent chafing. Look for styles with secure waistbands that won't roll down during movement and antimicrobial properties to prevent odor buildup. Our sports collection at HAVING is specifically engineered with these features in mind.

How do I prevent visible panty lines?

To prevent visible panty lines (VPL), opt for seamless styles, thongs, or G-strings. Laser-cut edges and bonded construction also help create a smooth silhouette under clothing. Choosing underwear in a color close to your skin tone can also make any lines less noticeable under light-colored clothing.

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