What Kind of Underwear Should I Wear?

From bikinis and boyshorts to high waists and hipsters, there are so many choices when it comes to underwear. Understanding how different styles, fits, and fabrics work with your body type can help you choose pieces that enhance your natural shape and provide the comfort you need. Let’s explore the world of underwear so that you can find the perfect panties to flatter your body and keep you feeling fantastic and fashionable.

Understanding Body Types

Every body is beautiful, but understanding your specific body type can help you choose underwear that complements your silhouette and highlights your natural curves under your clothes. Here are the most common body types: 

• Pear: Hips are wider than shoulders and bust.
• Apple: Carry weight around the midsection.
• Hourglass: Shoulders and hips are roughly the same width with a defined waist.
• Rectangle: Shoulders, waist, and hips are similar in width.
• Inverted Triangle: Shoulders are wider than hips.

Types of Underwear and Their Benefits

While you should always wear whatever underwear feels best, some cuts may be better suited for certain figures, outfits, and scenarios.

Thong Panties

Thongs are a go-to for avoiding visible panty lines under tight clothing. They provide minimal coverage, making them perfect for form-fitting dresses and pants. Thongs come in numerous styles, including mid-rise and high-waisted cuts with compression to sculpt your tummy and sides.

Best For: Thongs work well for almost all body types, especially if you want to emphasize your curves without showing lines.

High-Waist Panties

High-waist panties smooth out the tummy. Some styles are made with special technology, like Leonisa’s MagicUp® technology, which has a natural butt lift effect. 

Best For: High-waist panties are especially beneficial for apple and hourglass shapes, as they provide support around the midsection and enhance a defined waist. They are also great for anyone looking to achieve a retro-inspired look.

High-waist underwear can even be a good panty option after abdominal or pelvic surgeries. With a waist that sits above the incision area, there may be less irritation and rubbing against stitches. 

Briefs

Briefs are known for their full coverage and maximum comfort. Although people commonly refer to briefs as granny panties, today's briefs are anything but old-fashioned and include everything from lace details and butt-lifting features to seamless technology that allows you to show off your curves and not your panty lines.

Best For: Briefs are an excellent choice for all body types, particularly for pear and rectangle shapes. Briefs offer a supportive fit and are ideal for everyday wear, providing comfort without compromising style.

Bikini Panties

Bikini panties are a versatile and popular option. They offer moderate coverage with a fit that sits well on the hips. Whether you prefer a low or mid-rise style, bikini underwear strikes a perfect balance between briefs and thongs, making it ideal for everyday wear.

Best For: Bikinis are a great match for hourglass, pear, and rectangle shapes, providing a fit that accentuates your natural curves without being too revealing. 

Boyshorts

Boyshorts provide more coverage and a comfortable, seamless look. Longer-style boyshorts can hide cellulite in the butt and sides of the thighs and prevent chafing between the legs.

Best For: Boyshorts are ideal for rectangle and pear shapes, as they add a bit of volume to the hips and provide comfort without digging into the skin. 

They are also great for lounging and wearing under skirts and dresses. Boyshorts work well with loose-fitting pants and shorts; panty lines may show under tighter garments.

Cotton Panties

Cotton panties come in many styles, but let's focus on the fabric: soft, highly breathable, and ultra-comfy. Wear them while lounging or pairing with your casual clothes. 

Best For: Cotton underwear suits all body types, particularly those with sensitive skin or who prefer natural fibers. They’re a staple in any underwear drawer for their comfort and durability.

Lace Panties

Lace panties add a touch of elegance and can be very flattering. They combine beauty with functionality, offering a delicate yet supportive fit.

Best For: Lace panties enhance any body type with glamour and femininity. Wear them for special occasions when you want to feel a little more luxurious.  

Shapewear

Shapewear helps to smooth out lumps and bumps, providing a streamlined look under clothing. It creates a more defined shape, accentuating your figure and boosting your confidence. Shapewear is designed to help you feel comfortable and polished, whether you're dressing up for an event or want a more put-together look in your everyday outfits.

Best For: Shapewear is especially beneficial for apple and hourglass shapes, offering extra support and a sleek silhouette under form-fitting clothes. However, it can be a great option for anyone looking to enhance their figure, regardless of body type. By creating a smooth and defined appearance, different shapewear brings out the best in different body types and helps you look and feel your best in any outfit.

Tips for Choosing the Right Underwear

Know Your Body: Understanding your body type is the first step in finding the perfect underwear. Identify the areas you want to highlight or smooth out to guide your choices.

Prioritize Comfort: Always choose materials and fits that feel good on your skin and allow for easy movement. For example, breathable, stretchable fabrics, like DuraFit®, Leonisa's signature ultra-light shaping fabric. It's cool and comfortable, plus it has minimal seams, so you feel like you're wearing nothing.

Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different styles to see what works best for you. You might be surprised by what you like.

Consider Your Wardrobe: Match your underwear choices with your outfits to ensure you have the right pair for every occasion. The optimal underwear can make or break an outfit by hiding undergarment lines and eliminating discomfort and distraction.

Your underwear should make you feel both comfortable and confident. By understanding your body type and the benefits of different styles, you can find pieces that enhance your natural shape as you move about your day and night. From thong panties to boy shorts, Leonisa offers a wide range of underwear and shapewear for every body type, outfit, and occasion. Explore our panty collection to find your body’s new best friends today.