The Girl’s Guide To Panty Styles
In the world of lingerie, some might say panties are just as important as bras — after all, they complete your set, ensuring everything from your favorite pair of jeans to your slinky cocktails dresses look just right.
Luckily, there are many different styles to choose from, which means you’re sure to find a cut that works, no matter what you’re wearing on top. Still, having so many options at your fingertips makes things a bit confusing.
You may find yourself asking questions like: “What’s the best style to wear under a pencil skirt that won’t show a panty line?” Or perhaps you’re wondering: “What’s the difference between a bikini and a brief?”
Fortunately for you, we’ve broken down the basics on each and every common panty style.
Bikini
Parfait Charlotte Bikini 6905 in Bronze
All about this style: As the name suggests, this moderate-coverage style is modeled after bathing suit bottoms. Think of the bikini as a compromise between briefs and thongs, with moderate coverage in the front and back. The waistband typically sits somewhat low on the waist, and the leg holes are cut high on the thigh.
Wear it with: Anything, from workout leggings to a T-shirt dress! The bikini is a pretty versatile style unless you’re sporting a skirt or dress that’s skin-tight.
Our top pick(s): The Lynn Bikini, if you’re looking for an everyday low-rise panty that’s super versatile, or the Matilda Bikini when you want something mid-rise that has a little extra allure from the scalloped lace on the sides.
High-Waist Brief
Charlotte High Waist Brief 6917 in Dusty Rose
All about this style: The only difference between this style and the traditional brief is that as the name implies, the high-waist brief sits further up on the waist. It offers the same full-coverage front to back for ultimate comfort. Adding to its practicality is the fact that it almost doubles as shapewear, creating a smooth silhouette near your mid-section.
Wear it with: High-waisted pants, full skirts and wrap dresses (as well as any other dresses that aren’t too form-fitting on the bottom).
Our top pick(s): The Charlotte High-Waist Brief, which has a vintage pin-up girl vibe and made with smooth satin for a super luxe feel.
Thong
Parfait Lynn Thong P13014 in Black
All about this style: This style features a triangle-shaped front and minimal backside coverage, which makes it a stellar option for avoiding VPL. The thong typically has a mid- to low-rise, and boasts a slightly thicker band than a G-string.
Wear it with: Low-rise jeans, body-hugging dresses and skirts, or anything else your heart desires.
Our top pick(s): The seamless Jeanie thong — it’s a practical basic that will disappear under any ensemble.
Brazilian Thong
Parfait Sandrine Brazilian Thong P5354 in Cameo Rose
All about this style: Essentially, the Brazilian thong is cut slightly wider in the back than a traditional thong, but still offers far less coverage than a bikini. This style is typically low-rise and has a lower-cut leg hole than a standard thong.
Wear it with: Almost anything — unless you’re primarily concerned with a VPL, in which case a G-string or traditional thong might be better.
Our top pick(s): The Sandrine Brazilian thong, which is a showstopper thanks to all-over sheer floral lace and an ultra-flattering fit.
Boyshort
Parfait Casey Boyshort 2805 in Wine Red
All about this style: Think of this style as the woman’s version of men’s boxer briefs. With longer sides that extend to the top of the thigh, the modest boyshort provides plenty of coverage.
Wear it with: A tank to bed as a comfortable alternative to PJs during the warmer months, or under somewhat shorter skirts on windy days.
Our top pick(s): The Casey Boyshort — it’ll flaunt your curves, but it’s also incredibly comfy due to a soft microfiber and stretch lace construction.
Hipster
Parfait Ellie Hipster P5085 in Pewter/European Nude
All about this style: The name says it all: This style sits lower on the hips with wide sides. Like a hybrid between a bikini and a boyshort, the hipster lends moderate coverage.
Wear it with: Your favorite low-slung jeans, shorts or a floaty skirt.
Our top pick(s): The Estelle Hipster, which boasts intricate architectural details and sheer lace panels for a panty that’s both elegant and eye-catching.
Brief
Parfait Lucie Brief P5203 in Mood Indigo
All about this style: With somewhat thicker sides, the brief offers pretty full coverage all the way around. The result? A smoother silhouette. As an added bonus, this style is known for providing maximum comfort.
Wear it with: Mid-rise or high-rise denim, dresses with fuller skirts, or voluminous, high-waisted skirts. The brief works with anything, unless you’re worried about a visible panty line.
Our top pick(s): The Casey Brief, which artfully combines smooth microfiber and stretch lace for a subtly flirty design.
Feeling a little more confident about your panty knowledge? By following this guide, you’ll never have to stress over which pair to wear.
