How to choose your underwear: The complete guide to everyday comfort

Choosing comfortable underwear seems simple, yet many women wear underwear that slips, shows lines under clothing, or loses its shape after a few washes. The material, cut, size, and design make all the difference between a pair of underwear you forget you're wearing and one you constantly adjust.

This guide covers everything you need to know to choose underwear that suits your body, your daily life, and your clothes.

The Material: The Most Important Criterion

The material is the primary determinant of how underwear feels when worn. Underwear made from a fabric that is too thick, too rigid, or not breathable enough can become uncomfortable within a few hours, even if the cut is perfect.

Nylon and Spandex: The Ideal Combination

For comfortable and invisible seamless underwear, the nylon and spandex blend is the gold standard. Nylon provides lightness and softness, while spandex provides the necessary elasticity so the fabric moves with every motion without constricting.

At LICA Wear, seamless underwear is made from 63% nylon and 37% spandex, which gives them that second-skin effect often described as "forgetting you're wearing any."

Cotton Gusset: Essential for Intimate Health

Regardless of the main fabric material, the gusset, which is the lining at the crotch, must be 100% cotton. Cotton is naturally breathable and absorbent. It helps maintain a healthy environment and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.

According to the recommendations of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, breathable underwear with a cotton lining contributes to daily intimate health.

The Cut: Choosing Based on Your Clothes and Body Shape

There isn't one single "right" cut for underwear. Each style meets different needs depending on what you wear and how you feel.

The Thong: The Most Invisible

The seamless thong is the most minimalist cut. Its narrow back band and low-rise hip cut make it the number one choice for avoiding lines under leggings, fitted dresses, and tailored pants.

It also offers the greatest freedom of movement. For active women or those who wear a lot of form-fitting clothing, it is often the go-to underwear.

The High-Waist Thong: Gentle Support and Tummy-Tuck Effect

The seamless high-waist thong takes the classic thong cut and adds a higher elastic band that covers the lower abdomen. It offers a natural shaping effect without compression.

This style is particularly popular under crop tops, high-waisted clothing, and during pregnancy, where the band adapts to the growing belly without ever feeling tight.

The Brazilian: The Ideal Middle Ground

The seamless Brazilian covers more of the buttocks than a thong while remaining much more discreet than classic briefs. It's often the first style chosen by those discovering seamless underwear, because it combines comfort, discretion, and a flattering cut.

Its laser-cut edges ensure an ultra-flat finish, invisible under almost all clothing.

The Bikini Brief: Versatile and Modest

The seamless bikini brief is the most covering of the four styles. It offers a classic cut that fully covers the buttocks with a waistband sitting on the hips. It's the most versatile underwear for everyday wear, particularly appreciated under loose clothing, flowing dresses, and straight-leg pants.

The Size: The Most Common Mistake

Underwear that is too large slips, creates creases, and loses its second-skin effect. Underwear that is too small compresses, leaves marks, and becomes uncomfortable within a few hours.

How to Find the Right Size

The best way to choose your size is to refer to your numerical pants size, either the DENIM or US column in the size chart. This is more reliable than S/M/L sizes, which vary from brand to brand.

If you are between two sizes, opt for the smaller one. Seamless underwear adapts to the body due to its elasticity, and a size that is too large will eventually slip throughout the day.

For more information, consult our size chart as well as our complete guide to choosing your size.

Laser Cut: For True Invisibility

Traditional seams create a visible line under thin or fitted fabrics. Laser cutting eliminates this problem by creating ultra-flat edges that leave no trace.

This is a technical feature that distinguishes quality seamless underwear from ordinary models. Under leggings, a fitted dress, or structured pants, the difference is visible—or rather, not visible.

To understand everything about how to avoid underwear lines under clothing, consult our complete guide to invisible underwear.

Colors: An Often Overlooked Detail

The color of the underwear plays a concrete role in its invisibility. Under light-colored clothing or thin fabrics, white or beige underwear is more discreet than a bright color.

Beige, and specifically skin-tone shades, are the most effective under lightweight fabrics. For dark clothing, all colors work well.

Properly Care for Your Underwear to Keep it Like New

Well-maintained underwear retains its elasticity and softness for much longer. A few simple habits make all the difference.

Wash your underwear in cold water, on a delicate cycle or by hand. Use a laundry bag to protect the fabric in the machine. Avoid the dryer, which degrades spandex and reduces the lifespan of the fabric.

For all the details, consult our complete guide to caring for seamless underwear.

How Many Pairs of Underwear Should You Have in Your Wardrobe?

Most women underestimate how much underwear they actually use. Between daily wear, sports, and fitted clothing that requires a specific cut, having between 7 and 14 pairs allows for variety according to needs without ever running out.

Ideally, a few thongs or Brazilians for fitted outfits, bikini briefs for more relaxed days, and one or two high-waist thongs for occasions when extra support is desired.

FAQ

What underwear should I choose under leggings? Seamless thongs or Brazilian briefs are the most discreet options under leggings. Their laser-cut edges and second-skin fabric create no visible lines.

Is seamless underwear really more comfortable? Yes, for the majority of women. The absence of seams eliminates chafing, and the stretchy fabric adapts to movements without ever compressing. Many describe the feeling as "forgetting you're wearing any."

How do I prevent my underwear from slipping or riding up? Make sure to choose the correct size by consulting the size chart. If you are between two sizes, choose the smaller one. Well-fitting underwear stays in place naturally all day long.