How to Choose the Right Underwear for Your Body Shape

Quick answer

The best underwear for your body shape balances comfort and confidence. For pear shapes, try high-rise bikinis to elongate legs. Hourglass figures shine in hipsters that accentuate curves. Athletic builds often prefer thongs for a sleek look. Focus on fit and fabric, not just style.

Your body shape is unique, and so should be your underwear drawer. Choosing the right underwear isn't just about looks—it's about feeling comfortable and confident all day. Whether you're curvy, athletic, or somewhere in between, the right style can enhance your natural silhouette and prevent common issues like rolling or bunching.

In this guide, we'll break down how to choose underwear for your figure, offering specific style recommendations and fit tips. We'll also highlight a few of our favorite picks that combine comfort, breathability, and style.

Understanding Your Body Shape

Before diving into specific styles, it helps to identify your general body shape. Common categories include pear (wider hips), hourglass (balanced bust and hips with a defined waist), athletic (straight up and down with less curve), and apple (weight carried in the midsection). Remember, these are general guidelines—your body may not fit perfectly into one category, and that's okay.

Your body shape influences how different cuts sit on your body. For example, high-rise styles can smooth the midsection, while low-rise options can elongate the torso. The key is to try different styles and see what feels and looks best on you.

• Take your measurements to know your size accurately.
• Consider your daily activities—what feels good for workouts may differ from office wear.

Best Underwear for Pear Shapes

If you have a pear shape, your hips are wider than your bust, and you may carry weight in your thighs and buttocks. To balance your proportions, look for underwear that sits at a medium rise and offers good coverage. High-rise bikinis are a great choice because they elongate the leg and provide a smooth line.

The bikini-68191e94f7ee9327ca469403-1041339">High Rise Bikini from our collection features a higher rise and higher-cut leg, which shows more hip and creates an elongated leg line—perfect for pear shapes. It also has a butt-contouring back cut that enhances your natural curves without digging in.

• Avoid low-rise styles that may cut into hips.
• Opt for wider side panels to prevent digging.

Best Underwear for Hourglass Figures

Hourglass figures have balanced bust and hip measurements with a well-defined waist. You can highlight your curves with styles that follow your natural shape without squeezing too tightly. Hipsters and boyshorts are excellent because they offer moderate coverage and accentuate the hips.

Our Hipster is a take on a boyshort with a deep side and cheeky bum. Its low-mid rise dips below the belly, reducing pressure around the abdomen—ideal for hourglass shapes that want comfort without losing definition. The single-layer design stretches with you, and the signature wide gusset ensures no uncomfortable seams.

• Look for stretchy fabrics that move with your curves.
• Mid-rise styles often work best to flatter the waist.

Best Underwear for Athletic Builds

Athletic builds often have a straighter silhouette with less waist definition. To create the illusion of curves, choose underwear with more coverage or details that add volume. Thongs are a popular choice for a sleek, no-VPL look, while bikinis can add a bit of shape.

The Low Profile Thong 5-Pack is a super-sleek, low-mid rise staple that lies flat under clothing. Its full-coverage gusset prevents any slipping, making it a reliable everyday option. For a bit more coverage, the Bikini 3-Pack offers a classic cut that adds subtle shape without bulk.

• Try styles with side ties or lace to add visual interest.
• Seamless options work well for workouts and active days.

Decision Rules for Your Body Shape

• If you have a pear shape: Choose high-rise bikinis or briefs that elongate the leg and provide full coverage. Avoid low-rise styles that may cut into hips. Try the High Rise Bikini for a flattering, elongating fit.
• If you have an hourglass figure: Opt for hipsters or boyshorts that follow your curves without squeezing. Mid-rise styles highlight your waist. The Hipster offers comfort and curve-friendly coverage.
• If you have an athletic build: Consider thongs for a sleek look or bikinis to add subtle shape. Look for seamless options for active days. The Low Profile Thong 5-Pack provides a smooth, supportive fit.

Featured Products for Every Shape

• High Rise Bikini: An evolution of our best-selling Bikini with a higher rise and higher-cut leg. Expect more hip on show, an elongated leg, and an ultra-flattering, butt-contouring back cut—with the same lightweight, single-layer design you know and love. The higher cut leg elongates the leg line, making it ideal for pear shapes or anyone wanting to balance wider hips.
• Hipster: The Hipster is our take on a boyshort with a deep side and cheeky bum. The single-layer, low-pressure design mirrors our fan-favorite Bikini with the perfect amount of stretch. The low-mid rise has a subtle curve that dips below your belly, avoiding extra pressure and stimulation around the abdomen. Its low-mid rise and cheeky cut flatter hourglass figures by highlighting curves without digging into the waist.
• Low Profile Thong 5-Pack: A five-pack of our fan-fave Low Profile Thong. A super-sleek, low-mid rise staple without any unnecessary bells and whistles. Lined throughout for a body-hugging feel and secured with a flexible zig zag stitch, this smooth & supportive thong is an everyday essential. The sleek, low-profile design is perfect for athletic builds or anyone wanting a no-show look under fitted clothing.

Fit Guidance

Best for

• Pear shapes: High-rise styles that elongate the leg
• Hourglass: Hipsters that accentuate curves
• Athletic: Thongs for a sleek, no-show look

Not for

• Pear shapes: Low-rise styles that dig into hips
• Hourglass: High-coverage briefs that hide curves
• Athletic: Boy shorts that may add bulk

Remember, these are starting points—the best underwear is what makes you feel amazing. Consider your body shape, but also your personal comfort and style. Explore our range of mineral-infused underwear designed for breathability and all-day wear. Your perfect pair is out there!