The A to Z of lingerie shapes Part 1 - Briefs
Our complete guide to briefs styles…
(This post was originally published on April 20th 2015 and updated on 22nd December 2021)
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Lingerie Shapes - The A to Z series! In this series, we will be taking a closer look at lingerie shapes and styles. From briefs and hipsters to balconettes and thongs, there are so many different types of lingerie out there, each with its own unique features.
Many women are unaware of the vast variety of lingerie shapes and styles available on the market. Our extensive research revealed that women in their 20s-30s typically own at least five styles of underwear, while women over 40 stock up on 8-10 styles. I
In this first part of the series, we will be exploring the world of briefs and delving into all the variations within this style. Whether you're a seasoned lingerie connoisseur or a beginner looking for guidance on finding the perfect brief, read on to discover everything you need to know!
1. classic Briefs
Classic briefs are the most popular traditional underwear. Most are designed with a low-rise waistband that sits below the natural waistline and designed with lower-cut legs. They are super comfortable as they cover the entire bottom, so no visible panty lines. Perfect to wear under leggings, trousers or any item of clothing where you want a smooth look.
2. High-Cut Briefs
The high-cut brief is similar to the classic brief; however, the legs are cut higher, which gives a more flattering shape. In the 1930s, this brief style was the most popular style of undergarment worn by Hollywood actresses, who wanted to give the illusion that they had longer legs than they did. It provides full coverage of the bottom and tummy and gives a more defined silhouette underneath clothes.
3. Control Briefs
Control briefs are for women who desire a streamline silhouette and smooth curves without having to go to the gym. We know who you are… these briefs contain stretch fabric or spandex and is ideal to wear under dresses and lighter fabrics, these briefs will hold you in all the right places. For those looking for a more natural tuck, Control Briefs are the perfect choice. Contouring your waist and butt, these briefs work with your body to create the illusion of a slimmer silhouette.
4. Hipster Briefs
Hipster briefs provide a trendier shape for women. Women are wearing more and more low rise jeans, but their underwear is still high up at the waist. This means that their underwear is exposed every time they sit down, which is not flattering.
Hipster briefs were developed to solve this problem. They provide a trendy shape for women and sit below the hips with a low rise waistline, flattering under mid-rise trousers or jeans and provides full coverage of your front and back.
5. Bikini Briefs
The bikini brief follows the same basic design as the bikini, but with more coverage in the back. They are becoming increasingly popular and offer a lower rise than the traditional bikini. Bikini briefs usually match their bra counterpart, though they are cut higher in the back, providing greater coverage for the buttocks and often for some upper thigh. Ideal for low-rise trousers, jeans and shorts.
6. Boy Shorts
Boy shorts are the perfect underwear for an everyday look and feel and is seamless, so there is no visible panty line underneath your clothing. Boy shorts offer full coverage front and back and also has a low-rise waistline, making it ideal to wear with any clothing that has a low waistline or low-rise jeans. The low-rise cut also gives you more room to move comfortably during your day or even to bed with a camisole.
7. Tanga
Tanga offers moderate to minimal coverage for your front and back. More than a thong but narrower than a bikini, it reduces the visible panty line under tight-fitting garments.
8. Thong
Thongs offer minimal coverage front and back, These briefs consists of a small cut of fabric at the back and a narrow pieces of fabric at the back. Designed to prevent visual panty lines, therefore ideal to wear with figure hugging clothes.
9. G-String
The G-string offers minimal coverage, consists of a triangle shape at the front and a very narrow string at the back. The string is designed to sit between the buttocks and reveals much of your bottom. Eliminates visible panty lines and ideal to wear under tight-fitting clothes.
Lingerie comes in a variety of shapes and styles that can flatter any body type. From high-cut briefs to G-strings, there is an option to suit every taste. Whether you are looking to smooth out your silhouette or add a bit of sultry style, the right lingerie shape can make all the difference. It’s important to choose the right shape for your body type and needs to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you are wearing.
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