Black or white underwear
Short answer: White underwear hides best under pale trousers and summer clothes, while black is more discreet under dark clothes and shows less dirt. Choose by the colour of your clothes, the thickness of the fabric and your washing habits.
The colour of underwear depends mostly on what lies over it
Underwear is rarely seen, but it can show through thin fabric, and that is where the colour matters. Dark against pale trousers makes a clear contrast, and pale against dark trousers does the same in reverse. So think first about the clothes on top, and then pick the colour that will be least visible. It is a practical decision more than a matter of taste.
White underwear: easy to hide under pale trousers
White or pale underwear suits white trousers, light chinos and thin summer fabric, where dark colours would show through. Many also find white looks clean and fresh. The drawback is that pure white against a skin tone can show through even mid light fabrics, and it shows stains and discolouration faster. A skin toned or light grey choice often hides better than sharp white.
Black underwear: discreet and practical
Black underwear is quiet under dark trousers and shows marks from sweat or washing less clearly. It is practical for travel, long days and dark clothes. The drawback is that it shows under pale trousers, and black can fade and turn grey after many washes if you wash too hot. Wash black underwear inside out at 30 to 40 degrees to keep the colour.
Colour, washing and care
White should not be mixed with coloured laundry, or it can turn greyish. Black should be washed with dark clothes and without strong stain removers that can bleach. Viscose from bamboo takes dye well, but like all viscose it is sensitive to heat and heavy rubbing, so choose a gentle programme. See bamboo underpants for men for styles in several colours.
And the top
The same considerations apply to the undershirt. Under a white shirt a pale, skin toned layer is often less visible than white, and under a dark shirt black works well. See bamboo tank top for men for a thin layer under the shirt. You can also look at Moodies if you want an overview of several styles and colours in the same category.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose black or dark underwear for dark trousers, travel and everyday days when you do not want to think about it. Choose white or skin tone for pale trousers, summer and thin fabric. If you are unsure, put both a light and a dark style in the drawer and choose by the clothes of the day. Change daily and air it if you cannot wash it straight away.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see black underwear under white trousers
Yes, often clearly. Under white or pale trousers, skin tone or light grey is less visible than both white and black.
Does black underwear fade faster than white
It can fade after many washes, especially at high temperature. Wash inside out at 30 to 40 degrees with dark laundry.
Is white underwear more hygienic
Not necessarily. White just shows stains more clearly. Hygiene depends on how often you change and wash.
See our range of Boody underwear.
