I bought + tried 14 pairs of undies + here’s what I found
It’s finally here, the 2021 #UndieEdit!!!!!
This highly anticipated blog took me wayyy more time, energy, and $$ to create than I expected!
I first polled my audience on their faves, then perused the websites, read real reviews, waited for them all to arrive, then try them on, and get familiar with the differences. Then I had to wear them, take notes, and then, re-wear them again on another day.
There was A LOT to learn – lingo, phrases, reasons for differences in stitching, seams, and even fabrics, which is why this blog is so thorough.
Still, I admit this review lacks information on how each pair holds up after a few washes!!
WHY I DID THIS
At the time of writing this original post, I’m pregnant. For the past few years, I’ve been wearing this pair from MeUndies, and overall, I’ve been satisfied! I like when my underwear is easy, comfy, and works with just about everything I could want to wear.
During pregnancy, I noticed the elastic waistband beginning to bother me (thanks to the growing bod). Sure, I could have gotten a bigger size, but I realized there was probably a better pair out there with more comfort, that felt a little bit less sporty, and maybe a brand out there that I felt more aligned with.
I also got curious about azo dyes, and materials used that are touching my most personal parts from a personal health (and environmental!) perspective. I imagine this conversation will get much louder as we realize the way that chemicals (from the fabric we wear) leach into our bodies and we learn more about the possible harmful effects.
My first instinct was to reach out to a few trusted fashion mamas I know and ask them, “Is there a pregnancy underwear you recommend?”
A few directed me to their favorites, most of which were the same undies they wore pre-preg, and a few people directed me toward over-the-bump maternity undies
I got recommendations for brands like Hanky Panky, Commando, and Cosabela. These are brands I’ve desperately wanted to work for my body since I was a teen- but ultimately never felt were made for me. Nonetheless, I realized that you don’t really NEED different underwear in pregnancy, you just need the right pair (and maybe a bigger size)
When I got the recommendations that felt soooo wrong for me, I began to wonder: do I have weird private parts? Why don’t these popular brands work for me? I decided not to spend too much time worrying about my anatomy. It might be weird, but if it is, I’m certain there are millions of bodies that are just as weird in the same if not different way.
Although written during pregnancy, this is not a pregnancy-specific underwear post. Yes, I’m looking for a bit more comfort and support during this time, but since I wanted below the bump anyway, I’m pretty sure my assessment of each pair can be generalized no matter what stage of life you’re in.
In this quest to find the PERFECT PAIR, I realized how ridiculous it is that no brand ever felt like it spoke to me.
Who is designing underwear? Do they have no regard for the woman’s anatomy? Or again, is it just my body that was weird?
I needed to know: what else is out there in the world of thongs!??!
I recently stumbled upon this article in WSJ called The Anti-Victoria’s Secret Underwear Revolution Is Here and it brought so much of my blurred thoughts into clarity.
(The article was shared by one of my oldest friends, stylist Jamie Mizrahi, who founded The Kit Undergarments. Truth be told, when writing this, I used mostly YOUR suggestions and accidentally left out The KIT– so perhaps expect #TheUndie Edit to be an ongoing thing as more brands enter the market!)
WSJ crystalized the issue and WHY we’re all so interested in this blog post. For as long as I have been wearing them, our female UNDERWEAR (and bras) have been reduced to 2 categories to choose from.
- Do you want a SEXUALIZED charged product DESIGNED to entice your partner? Or
- are you cool with cheap basics?
I don’t quite fit into either of these categories. Sure I want an everyday pair of underwear that makes ME feel sexy – but it’s rarely to attract the opposite sex. Plus, I’m definitely NOT willing to compromise comfort for that. Yes, I’d love to find a basic that allows for that allows me to buy enough so that I’m never waiting for my favorite pair to return from the laundry- but I hate the idea of a “cheap basic” for the most intimate thing I’ll put on my body as a 30-something-year-old woman.
Averaging $18 dollars a pair for underwear (according to the brands I tried) I realized most people probably never find their perfect pair!!! After doing this research and spending probably $500 on underwear just to do this review, I’m even more certain that most women SIMPLY settle-– and often feel uncomfortable and annoyed by their underwear.
It sounds funny, but our underwear should be a source of pride. It should make us feel good and supported.
It’s the first thing that touches our bodies in the am, in the most intimate of places, and TRULY, how it feels can make or break our day.
It should support you, not be a constant nuisance, and so, this work was far more important than I ever imagined it would be!
There are more brands out there to try. To begin, I asked you all what you love. I looked at the most mentioned, and then went to the brand’s website, read reviews, and selected styles I thought would work for me.
WHAT I LEARNED
After having Abby K Cannon on The Truthiest Life podcast talking about the toxic chemicals found in our clothing (hi plastic, microplastics), I began to think about the toxins I want touching my most sacred area – this episode is a MUST LISTEN.
My goal was to find a pair free of azo-dyes and microplastics that I could feel my healthiest wearing – but my research showed me that the things we add (at least fabric wise) have a FUNCTIONAL purpose and we lose a lot of what we’re looking for (stretch, comfort, staying in place) when we give them up. Abby came on board #THEUNDIEEDIT to review each pair in terms of fabric health safety and sustainability – thanks, Abby!!
All bodies truly are different and personal preference is dependent on you! So if my top pairs don’t work for you, that makes total sense! I included DETAILS on each pair, and photos as well.
Hopefully using the guide and notes I left on each one will help you decide which pair is worth giving it a shot for you.
I did my best to objectify and give you a good view of what each pair does — keeping in mind we all have a different idea of what truly is perfect because we all have different beautiful anatomies!
None of these pairs are gifted, I have no bias in the game 0 just a lot more underwear than I had before– most of which is a no for me, but a few pairs I just LOVE!
JARGON + ABBREVIATION KEY
Camel Toe (CT)
I couldn’t think of a better way to phrase it, SORRY FRIENDS 🤷♀️🤷♀️! Safe to say no one likes this, so if a pair gave me one, it lost points
Gussett
A crotch liner and extra piece of fabric found in the bottom part of the underwear. The liner can be in different shapes and sewn differently depending on cost, and function of the underwear. The material should be made of breathable fabric (not synthetic!).
Crotch Support
I don’t know about your lady parts, but I like to feel “tucked in” and supported, like I don’t have to worry about anything slipping out the sides or “vedgies.” I also like when there’s a bit of elastic and the fabric holds things up, and the fabric isn’t so thin that you can see an outline of the V, or it wrinkles or rides up.
Waistband Comfort
Does it lay nicely complementing the body, or does it dig in. I also noted in this section if it’s low rise, mid-rise, or high rise.
Seams
Seams can be bulky or uncomfortable, but not if properly placed and sewn in.
Visible Panty Line (VPL)
When there was a VPL, I tried to note it. Oftentimes it was more of a “bunching” or “fabric rolling” issue more than a regular VPL issue.
Size Diversity
I looked at what size range the brand offers as I think it says something about the inclusivity values of a brand, and can help better guide you to make sure you choose a brand that sees you.
Overall Feel on Body
This is just the cumulative experience of how they felt immediately after being placed on.
Versatile to Wear in Different Clothing
Like I said, I like one pair that can do just about everything. Go under my jeans, leggings, and even more form-fitting clothing.
Fabric Safety
What materials are used? Are they safe for the planet/our health? This section was rated by Abby K. Cannon.
Fabric Points Key
1 = 90-100% cotton/modal
.75 = 50-89% cotton/modal
.50 = plastic fabrics but cotton lining
0 = made with 100% plastic fabrics
Price Points Key
1 = < $12 per individual pair
.75 = $13-$18 per individual pair
.50 = $19-$24 per individual pair
0 = $25+ per individual pair
How the Grading Works
For every positive about the brand, they’ll get a point or a fraction of a point. In the end we’ll tally it up for the final ranking and you’ll get my total experience. The goal is to get as close to 10 as possible, and it’s graded in a way that allows me to remove my bias. The notes section are my free thoughts, which more accurately depict the experience.
Without further ado, #TheUndieEdit contenders (in no particular order)!
Brand: Soma
Product Name: Vanishing Retro 360
This is a very unique high-rise pair. The waistband is super thick. It has a !surprise! sticky material on the inside of the waist, intended to keep it from twisting and turning- this was a good idea, but only in theory.
The raw cut edges don’t stay in place and I hate the way it bunched in the crotch and I felt like a diaper in the front.
Seems thoughtfully designed but not good in reality or practicality. They stay in place when they’re on your body but if you have to pee, they bunch into a tiny roll thanks to that sticky material. They’re also not cute on.
Total: 5.25/10
Brand: Yummie
Product Name: Cotton Seamless Shaping Thong
NOTES
A very thick, high waist, compression cotton thong. The site says it’s “medium compression” which is probably true, but at the time of writing this I’m pregnant and it feels stronger. In pregnancy, I would not recommend it. Post or pre, this is a fantastic pair, given you understand they are high rise and compression style, and probably not your everyday look, especially if you like a minimal look. There are no seams, the cotton is thick and elastic, and the crotch support is fantastic!!! This is great for someone who has to get dressed up for work every day and needs a pair that makes them feel the most supportive.
Total: 7/10
Brand: Aerie
Product Name: Real Me Thong
NOTES
I see why a lot of you love these!! They are butter soft and comfy (thong portion too) at a great price point. BUTTTT, the fabric is so thin that the design feels immature – and the little stars on the side don’t help. Price is great, and I think most would be super happy with this as a thong option for a cheap basic (at least that’s what many of you and the other reviews say!) But as a 32-year-old woman looking for a pair that elevates my mood- this ain’t it for me personally.
Total: 7/10
Brand: Tommy John
Product Name: Second Skin
NOTES
The gusset isn’t super wide or super high YET it fits me perfectly. The fabric is stretchy and doesn’t wrinkle in crotch. Very soft to touch. I love the seam that goes all along the inner edge – it’s subtle and adds to the feeling of support. While this was close to perfect, I found that during my workouts it was folding, and I had to manually adjust it- URGGGG. That means although it’s a good pair, I won’t be buying again.
Total: 8/10
Brand: Negative Underwear
Product Name: Sieve
NOTES
Sexy on the model, for sure and love the simplicity. But constantly rode up on my walk, forcing me to make sure no one was around to readjust. Small gusset. Look pretty as a low rise, but not functional as an everyday pair. Not worth the price tag for me.
Total: 5.5/10
Brand: Negative Underwear
Product Name: Cotton Thong
NOTES
This pair is very deceiving to the eye. I didn’t think I’d like this pair as usually a plain cotton pair has no support underneath, but as soon as they were on, I liked it more! I love that they’re high on the thigh but not really too high! The gusset liner comes up higher than most- which I like. I think there’s a bit too much fabric overall which could be cut and make this fit a bit better but a good everyday basic thong unless wearing tighter clothing. I wore this with a bodysuit and the bunching and visible lines were awful. The fabric is so thin and delicate (which makes it comfy) but I’m not sure it will withstand after multiple washes. They run a bit big, so get your size or one smaller, even if pregnant.
Total: 6.25/10
Brand: Skims
Product: Terry Thong
NOTES
I’m not sure where one wears a Terry thong, unless you wear this as a bathing suit. They call it a “lounge” thong but unless you’re a Kardashian, you’re prob not lounging in a luxury thong on a day bed in your bedroom while eating a salad and reading a book. Sadly, would not recommend this for anyone as it has little versatility and practicality.
Total: 5.75/10
Brand: Skims
Product Name: Fits Everybody
NOTES
Fabric feels INCREDIBLE by hand- soft to touch, a nice stretch, but thin. This felt promising as an everyday thong. But the fabric rolls A LOT, especially under workout leggings. I love that the sides can be pulled up a little for a high-waist look or left to be more low-rise. The thin fabric is not good, for, errrr, any juices that may leak(sorry, I’m just being pregnant and honest here!!). I would wear this pair – but wouldn’t rebuy it. I think it would fit most bodies very comfortably, especially if not wearing leggings.
Total: 7.5/10
Brand: Skims
Product Name: Cotton Jersey Dipped Thong
NOTES
This has a “dipped front” with a high cut but truth be told style-wise it’s not too different than the fits everybody. The main difference is the fabric, which is mostly cotton and thicker. I like that it’s thicker, but the cotton doesn’t have as much stretch. I really thought I was going to love these. The cotton is soft- not a stretchy feel. But when exercising I found myself adjusting the A LOT. They are comfortable if you’re not in leggings, but you do remember you’re in a thong – and not in a good way.
Total: 8.25/10
Brand: Boody Wear
Product Name: G String
NOTES
A great price with a mission on sustainability! It has cool functions like block UV rays, prevent from moisture, keeps you cool, and a 4-way stretch. Boody products have successfully passed tests for harmful substances and contain no dangerous substances such as AZO dyestuffs, phthalates, formaldehyde, and extractable heavy metals. I dislike that they say “Boody” on the front, makes it immature and not versatile. Given price and mission, I’m very impressed!
Total: 6.75/10
Brand: True & Co
Product Name: True Body Thong
NOTES
Seams are similar to a lot of “no show” underwear -that super-thin raw edge fabric that I find, rolls, and does nothing to make me feel tucked in. For the price, I expected this to be different. They roll down on the waist while wearing, there’s fall out everywhere (eek!!), and the fabric feels like trash. The marketing is GOOD on this product, but I assure you the product is not.
Total: 1.75/10
Brand: Pact
Product Name: Thong
NOTES
Made with organic cotton, no toxic chemicals, and 91% less water used than conventional cotton. This brand is PERFECT on paper and I so wanted to love them for their “health benefits” and safety. But, this pair really highlights WHY underwear contains anything other than organic cotton when it comes to function and feel. The fabric feels immature- reminding me of your dad’s stiff cotton gym t-shirt. I don’t feel at all feminine. It fits nicely when you first place them on, but when you start moving around, things start to change –again, reminding us of WHY underwear contains things like elastic and things that stretch. Still, it is the best in terms of health/sustainability. All non-toxic, organic cotton, but can’t see myself buying again. To no surprise, this is @abbysfoodcourt go-to pair!
Total: 6.5/10
Brand: Parade
Product Name: Universal Thong
NOTES
Buttery soft and thicker fabric than most seamless pairs that come with those raw edges. I’m not a seamless raw edge girl, but if I were, this would be the pair! I wish the liner came up a little higher for more coverage and support. But incredible fabric and would wear as a seamless option for tighter fitting clothes when necessary. In sum, if you’re a seamless person no show person, this is the pair for you.
Total: 8.5/10
Brand: CUUP
Product Name: The Thong
NOTES
This is not a seamless pair, but the seams are not an issue for me and can work under just about anything, including my leggings. They’re sexy, flattering, comfortable, the fabric feels high quality. This is the perfect everyday pair for me. I love the branding, the packaging is nice, and it even comes with a little garment bag. Adjustable, can be worn high or low.
Total: 9.5/10
Brand: MeUndies
Product Name: Feel Free Thong
NOTES
The fabric is soft, the gusset is wide and comes up high, the waistband doesn’t move or dig in. The elastic band on my previous one started to bother me. I had one of these pairs and began to wonder what else is out there when I began this quest, as I never really related to the marketing/branding behind MeUndies. Despite the tour of undies, this remains a top pick, right next to CUUP for me.
Total: 9.75/10
RANKINGS (note: despite the rankings, my notes tell a better story of if I would buy again). My first contender is The Thong by CUUP, followed by MeUndies Feel Free Thong.
Despite finding the pair (s) that work best for me, it will probably be a while till I slowly invest in having enough of my favorite pairs that I’m not spending time sorting through looking for my faves. I’m still wearing a lot of the original Me Undies I have (just because I have so many!). But when I pull out a top pick for the day, it feels like a real treat!
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments what you like, and what speaks to you based on this review!
