Classic high-waisted knickers
Short answer: The classic high-waisted brief covers the most, rolls the least and chafes the least on the thighs. It is the style many people return to after trying others, because it stays calmly in place all day.
Covers the most
A high waist and full coverage at the back mean fewer edges and less movement during the day. The brief lies over a larger area, so the pressure is spread out and no single edge carries it all. You notice this especially when you sit a lot and when you move around.
Does not roll
Because the waistband ends at a part of the body with little movement, it stays in place. A low brief often sits right where the stomach bends when you sit down, which makes the edge roll down. A high waistband avoids that problem. Read more about high-waisted bamboo knickers.
Under tight clothing
An even, high edge is often less visible than a low one sitting in the middle of an area with pressure. Under tight dresses and skirts, the high style can give a calmer line. Choose an edge that is soft and flat, so it does not show. See knickers under tight dresses.
For everyday
For many, it is the style worn on most days of the week. It needs no thought in the morning, and it works under jeans, dresses and loungewear. A soft fabric like bamboo viscose keeps it comfortable for many hours at a time. See the styles in bamboo briefs.
During pregnancy
A high waist without a tight edge is also the style many wear during pregnancy. A soft waistband can sit over the bump without cutting in, and it stretches as the body changes. Choose a style with a wide, elastic edge rather than a narrow, tight one, so it stays comfortable.
Against chafing on the thighs
The classic style often has a little more fabric at the leg than a low brief. This means the edge sits where the thighs do not rub against it all the time. Many notice fewer red marks and less irritation over a long day, especially in summer when it is warm.
Size
Choose by hip measurement, not by the size you usually buy. Sizes vary from style to style, and a high brief that is too small cuts in at the waist. One that is too big folds. Measure yourself and compare with the chart. See the size guide.
Colours
If you keep briefs in a few colours, it is easy to find a pair that suits the day's clothes. Black and nude cover most needs, and a high style in nude barely shows under light clothing. Stick to the colours you actually wear rather than buying many different ones.
Washing
Wash at 40 degrees without fabric softener and without a tumble dryer. Softener leaves a film on the fabric, and the heat from the dryer wears on the elastic in the waistband. Hang the briefs to dry, and they keep their shape longer. Read more in the washing guide.
When to replace them
When the elastic in the waistband goes slack, the brief starts to slip and fold. It then loses what made it comfortable. Check the waistband when you take the briefs out of the wash. If the edge has become wavy or loose, it is time for new ones, even if the fabric looks fine.
Frequently asked questions
Do high-waisted briefs roll down?
Rarely. The waistband ends at a part of the body with little movement, so the edge stays in place, even when you sit for many hours.
Do they show under tight clothing?
Often less than a low style, because the edge sits where there is no pressure. Choose a soft, flat edge so it does not show through the fabric.
Are they only for everyday wear?
They are mostly worn every day, but many also wear them under dresses and smarter clothes, because the high waistband gives a calm line under the fabric.
See our range of bamboo panties.
