The Sunday News
Rutendo Chidawanyika
IF you wear one type of panty, then you need to read this article. Variety is good too when it comes to undergarments.
High waists
High-waisted underwear has enjoyed a revival in recent fashion seasons. Most noticeably, the retro silhouette — which sits higher than standard briefs at your natural waist — has infiltrated our denim, lingerie, and swimwear. Just like a classic brief, it has full coverage across the behind and front for easy comfort.
These days, high-waisted underwear is often an intentional fashion statement. It’s a great style to wear if you’re thinking of layering it under a sheer lace skirt or dress. It can also serve the dual purpose of shape-wear. The silhouette is especially practical when wearing garments that look best with smooth lines underneath.
Boyshorts
As far as underwear goes, boyshorts are one of the more modest options. Modelled after men’s briefs, they perfectly frame the bottoms, with full sides and front, but a thong-style base. Not only are they usually mega comfortable, depending on the fabric and fit, boyshorts can usually serve the same function as thongs under clothing. The covered-up silhouette can often be worn with form-fitting clothes without any dreaded. They work, especially well layered beneath short, fluttery skirts on windy days when you don’t want to show the world your assets.
Maybe you’re into thicker fabrics for this shape, and choose to wear them as loungewear and pyjamas — that’s cool, too. To each her own.
When to wear them: When fitted properly and made from the right fabric, boyshorts can actually serve the same function as a thong in being worn under formfitting clothes without visible panty lines. Longer cotton boyshorts, however, can even be worn as loungewear or pyjamas.
Briefs
Briefs can be absolutely gorgeous and, unless you’re trying to hide panty lines, are great for every day. They’re similar to bikinis, but they offer a more traditional cut and extra coverage — think more of a straight-cut leg versus a high cut, definitely don’t bring to mind anything with the word “Granny” in it.
When to wear them: Unfortunately, the up-to-the-belly button waist makes these visible in low-rise jeans and trousers, so limit them to your high-waisted pants or for that time of the month.
Bikinis
With the advent of “cheekies” and “cheekinis, the term ‘‘bikini’’ is pretty vague and can mean a lot of things. If you’re equally confused, think of the style as a middle ground between thongs and briefs. Typically slim on the sides, and with just enough on the behind to offer some coverage, a bikini is not only very sexy, but another great option for a less visible finish. The skivvy has a low-slung, cool vibe that’s perfect when layered under denim.
Thongs
Similar to G-strings, thongs are slightly thicker on the band, with a little more coverage on the front and back triangles. It’s considered, by some, to be the G-string’s more comfortable counterpart. It’s also widely regarded as a preventative measure for visible panty lines. Most women are afraid of panty lines and just default to a thong. The minimal underwear option is designed to sit seamlessly under your clothes.
When to wear them: Whenever you’re in the mood to twerk to some Sisqó. Or when you’re rocking a body-con dress or tight pants.
G-strings
You may be asking yourself, “What’s the difference between a G-string and a regular thong? That’s a valid question. And, no, they’re not interchangeable terms in the lingerie world. For starters, G-strings (sometimes called V-strings) are the skimpiest of skimpy underwear choices.
French-cut panties
Often referred to as high-cut panties, these gained a resurgence in the 1980s thanks to Jane Fonda’s exercise videos. They have the same high waist as the classic brief but feature high-cut leg holes that rise just above the widest part of the thigh, which is often better for circulation.
When to wear them: If you are Miley Cyrus or if you want the coverage of a brief but find the elastic band around the leg uncomfortable.
Hipsters
Not meant to be worn by hipsters alone, this style — also called hip huggers — got its name because the waistband sits on the hips, a full two inches below the waist. They also feature low-cut leg holes.
When to wear them: These still provide full coverage but are perfect for low-rise jeans and pants.
Butt lifter
Lift up your spirits and your bottom line with the Butt Lifter panties which promise a firm and round shape with continuous use. The waistband is made of an elastic material which helps in body slimming and contouring. Designed with buttock cut-outs, it perks up butt muscles and imparts the right volume to the right place. In these you get the Kim K, Black Chyna typa bum.
Ladies, do get your different type of panties, for different occasions and clothes. You can never have enough. Fill sexy in your under garment.
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