Have you ever wondered that what we wear underneath our dresses has a backstory of its own. Yes, there is a huge history behind the origin of our panties. Let us dive into the deep history and the wonders of panties. Most of us would not have paid much attention to what we wear and how we wear them. But it is really important to understand and know the different types of panties and styles.
Indian women mostly tend not to care much about what they wear underneath. In this blog, we can explore what a panty is, its primary functions and the various different styles available in the market. Make sure you have these in your wardrobe because women should never underestimate their wardrobe. This blog would give you more information on all the various options you can explore. Keep reading.
Don’t forget that there are so many types of panties for women, ranging from bikinis, hipsters, thongs, boy shorts, mid-rise, low-rise, and seamless panties. You can pair them up under any outfit that would make you look and feel great. Based on your preference you can choose from the style that is available.
What Is a Panty?
A panty is a form-fitting undergarment that is designed for women and girls. A staple in every woman’s wardrobe, panties give you all the comfort, hygiene and protection under our outer clothing. There are many types of women’s panties, ranging from full-coverage styles to minimal, seamless options for different outfits and occasions. And some of the most common styles include briefs, bikinis, hipsters and thongs.
Explore 19 Types of Panties You Must Know
The types of panties can be categorized based on the following sub-categories based on style, coverage, waistline and functionalities. As style includes the core look and cut they can be classified by the minimal designs like design of bikinis, thongs, cheeky and tummy tucker styles.Coverage is a direct measure of how much skin is concealed, ranging from full to moderate and minimal and no coverage panties. The waistline categorises panties by rise on the torso that range from high-waisted for maximum coverage and support to low-rise for wearing low-cut clothing. Ending with functionality-based panties such as seamless panties shapewear for a smooth silhouette, period panties with built-in absorption are all we need to know about the types of panties.
Types of Panties Based on Style
Panty styles are mostly categorised by their coverage and where they sit on the waist and legs. The main types based on style include:
Cheeky- This panty offers a playful “halfway” coverage, revealing a bit more of the cheeks than a brief or bikini but still providing more coverage than a thong. It gives moderate side coverage and minimal rear coverage.
Boyshorts – These panties are inspired by men’s boxer briefs, boyshorts that offer full coverage of the hips, seat and upper thighs. They provide a comfortable, sporty and a modest look, as these panties prevent chafing under skirts and dresses.
Tummy Tucker – Tummy tucker panty is a type of high-waisted shapewear or compression undergarment designed to flatten and smooth the midsection, define the waistline, and reduce the appearance of bulges under clothing
Bikini – A bikini is a popular and versatile style that sits lower on your hips than briefs. It offers a moderate coverage and has higher-cut leg openings, providing a balance of comfort and style.
Hipsters – Hipsters are a combination of a low-rise fit of a bikini with a wider side panel and a more fuller coverage of a boyshorts.
High-waisted briefs – This is a variation of the brief that features a high-cut leg opening that sits above the hips. This cut elongates the legs for a flattering silhouette. These high-waisted panties sit higher on the waist than conventional briefs, they give more coverage and a smoothing effect for a sleek silhouette.
Briefs – A classic and a timeless style that offers the maximum coverage both front and back are briefs. They sit at or above the natural waistline, giving support and comfort for everyday wear.
High-waisted – High-waisted panties sit higher on the waist than conventional briefs, they give more coverage and a smoothing effect for a sleek silhouette.
Thongs – Designed to eliminate the VPL’s, thongs give a minimal rear coverage with a narrow strip of fabric at the back. And this style is an ideal choice for fitted clothing like leggings or bodycon dresses.
Also read – Thigh shaper vs Tummy Tucker pantieshttps://blog.shyaway.com/thigh-shapewear-vs-tummy-tucker-panties/
Types of Panties Based on Coverage
Full-coverage panty – These bras are designed for maximum comfort and support. These panties cover your entire buttocks and are ideal for everyday wear. They give maximum front and rear coverage.
Medium Coverage panty – This is a medium coverage panty style that provides a balance between full coverage and minimal coverage, offering more coverage than a bikini but less than a full brief by offering moderate side and rear coverage.
Low coverage panty – With moderate side and minimum rear coverage, these styles are very popular for everyday wear when paired with form-fitting clothes as well as for modern and daring looks.
No Coverage panty – “No coverage” panties are designed with a minimal amount of fabric, specifically at the rear, to eliminate visible panty lines (VPL) and create a seamless look under clothing. They prioritize invisibility and a “barely there” feel. They do not give no rear coverage.
Types of Panties Based on Panty Waist Line
High-waist panty – High-raise panties are also known as high-raise panties that sit at or above the natural waistline, typically covering the belly button and providing maximum coverage for the tummy and lower back.
Medium waist panty – A mid-waist panties are a great choice for everyday wear. The waistband typically rests a couple of inches below the natural waistline or just below the belly button. They fall below the natural waist offering moderate coverage.
Low waist panty – Low-waist panties sit low on the hips, several inches below the navel.
Types of Panties Based on Functionality
Panties can be differentiated based on its functionalities, here are a few function specific panty styles for you to choose from.
Seamless Panties
Made without visible seams, seamless panties offer a smooth, invisible look under any fitted clothing. These panty fits are crafted to be like a “second skin” , preventing uncomfortable bunching and providing comfort, flexibility and breathability for all-day wear.
Shapewear Panties
Shapewears are also known as control briefs, as they are designed to provide a slimming effect by smoothing and contouring the stomach and hips. It is often made with stretchy materials like spandex for extra support. Some of the best options for shapewear panties are butt shaper and tummy tucker panties.
Panties can also be categorised based on the material;
Cotton
Known for soft,durable and breathability cotton panties are a very popular choice for everyday wear as they can absorb moisture and promote air circulation.
Lace
Lace panties are made with lace, which offers a delicate, feminine and elegant look. For utmost comfort, they are combined with a cotton or microfiber base.
Microfiber
They are soft, smooth and lightweight synthetic fabric that would provide a comfortable and a seamless fit under clothing. It also offers good stretch and moisture-wicking properties.
Matching your panties to your outfits and the occasion is an essential element for a polished look and an all-day comfort. The main key is to consider the outfits cut, fabric and the colour. This will help avoid visible panty, lines ensuring a smooth silhouette.
Outfit Type
Recommended Panty Styles
Form-fitting/Bodycon
Thongs, G-strings, seamless panties or boyshorts
Jeans and Trousers
Hipsters, bikinis, seamless panties or thongs are suitable choices to pick from to prevent VPL’s
Low-Rise Bottoms
Opt for hipsters or low-waist panties
High-Waisted Bottoms
Choose high-waisted briefs or shapewear.
Flowy Dresses/Skirts
For fuller coverage boyshorts or briefs can be a great choice.
Sheer or Light-Coloured Clothing
Any panty that is in nude or skin-toned panties
Workouts and Activewear
Opt for boyshorts or seamless bikinis that work well under leggings or gym shorts
Special occasions (Evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
Seamless panties, shapewear or thongs and silk or lace panties.
Here are some of the most important and primary functions of having panties.
Hygiene and moisture control
Panties provide a barrier against everyday discharge, perspiration and menstrual fluids which would help to keep the outer clothing clean. A crotch panel or gusset is often lined with a breathable material like cotton to help wick away moisture and prevent irritation.
Comfort and Protection
They give a protective layer between the body and harsher fabrics of outerwear which can prevent chafing and regular discomfort.
Modesty
A panty offers concealment, especially when you are wearing shorter garments like skirts and dresses.
Support and Shape
Some styles, like briefs, provide extra support helping smooth the body’s silhouette under tight-fitting clothing.
Holds hygiene products in place
Panties are essential for securing sanitary pads and pantyliners during menstruation.
The History Behind Panties
The concept of underwear goes back to ancient civilization, but modern panties began to shape in the 1920’s as women’s fashion evolved. Before this women typically wore drawers or chemises. The word “panties” itself is a diminutive word “pants”. As time went by textile technology and all the changing societal attitudes led to the wide variety of materials and styles that are available today.
Keep in Mind
Understanding the different types of panties simplifies the decision-making process by allowing you to match the right style according to your comfort, outfit and activity. By focusing on the essentials like fit, fabric and its purposes you can build a versatile wardrobe and a functional underwear drawer.
