From thong to maxi, the knicker drawer explained

Short answer: Knickers come in many cuts, and they differ in coverage, waist height and leg. Thongs and tai cuts cover the least, hipsters sit in the middle, and maxi sit high and cover the most. Names are used differently, so always read the description of cut and fit.

Names and cuts in short

The drawer can feel overwhelming because knickers have so many names. Still, the difference mostly comes down to three things: how high they sit at the waist, how much they cover at the back and how the leg is cut. Once you know them, you can sort the styles quickly and choose by what you are wearing.

Thong and tai

A thong has a very narrow back and covers the least. A tai has a low waist and narrow sides, so it sits low and is easy to wear under close-fitting clothes. Both are chosen when people want to avoid visible edges, but they do not suit everyone, so try a few and notice what is comfortable.

Hipster and midi in bamboo

Hipster and midi styles sit in the middle with more coverage and a slightly higher cut. Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo, and the fabric is soft against the skin. Look at bamboo knickers and read the description of cut and waist height, so you can choose the style that suits your body.

Maxi and high waist

Maxi knickers sit high at the waist and cover the most, both front and back. Many choose them for cold days or as a calm, covering option, and they can feel secure under high-waisted trousers. Remember that the waistband should lie flat and not cut in when you sit.

Choose by the day's clothes

Think about what you wear on top. Under close-fitting clothes you may want a cut without wide edges, and under loose trousers you can choose freely by comfort. For training, a close cut with a firm waistband can feel the most stable, while a day at home leaves room for what you like.

Fit and size

Whatever the cut, knickers should fit closely without squeezing. Measure your hips and waist and compare with the size guide for the individual model. A pair that is too small cuts in, and one that is too big gathers in folds, so take time to find the size that sits best.

What you use most

Most people end up with two or three cuts they wear every day. It is worth noticing which ones you reach for and thinking about why. Is it the waistband, the legs or the fabric that makes the difference? Use the answer when you choose new ones, so the drawer keeps suiting you.

Washing and the rest of your underwear

Wash the knickers according to the care label so they keep their shape. Look at bamboo underwear for women if you want to put the drawer together in the same style, and at bamboo tops for women for days when you want a soft layer under your clothes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a thong and a tai

A thong has a very narrow back, while a tai has a low waist and narrow sides. Both cover little, but brands use the names differently, so read the description.

Which cut gives the most coverage

Maxi sit high and cover the most, front and back. Hipster and midi sit in the middle, while thongs and tai cuts cover the least.

How do I choose a cut for close-fitting clothes

Choose a cut without wide edges, and try walking and sitting to see whether the waistband and legs lie flat. Notice what feels comfortable.