Hipster or tai, what is the difference

Short answer: The hipster has straight sides and covers more of the hip, while the tai has narrower sides and a higher leg cut. The choice is mostly about how much coverage you want and what you wear on top.

The hipster

The hipster has straight sides and a lower leg cut. It covers more of the hips and bottom and lies flat across the hip without riding up. Many choose it for everyday wear, because it feels calm and stays in place. Read more about bamboo hipster knickers.

The tai

The tai is narrower at the side and has a higher leg cut. It takes up less room under clothes and gives the legs more freedom. Many see it as the classic pair of knickers, because the cut has been worn for many years. Read more about bamboo tai knickers.

Under tight clothes

The hipster gives a long, even edge across the hip, while the tai gives a shorter edge that runs up at an angle over the hip. Which one shows less depends on your body and your clothes. Try both under your tightest trousers and check in the mirror.

Comfort

The hipster covers more and rubs less on the thighs, because the leg cut sits lower. The tai is airier and feels cooler in the heat. If you walk a lot, or your thighs touch, the hipster is often the most comfortable over a whole day.

For exercise

For exercise, what matters is that your knickers stay in place. The hipster rarely rides up, because it covers more. The tai gives more freedom of movement at the legs and can be a good choice for running. Try both and feel which one sits best when you move.

See the range

Both models come in several colours, so you can choose by your outfit. Nude under light clothes and black under dark is a safe starting point. Once you have found the model that fits, it is easy to add more of the same. Both models are in bamboo knickers.

Size

Choose by hip measurement rather than trouser size, as the two rarely match exactly. Knickers that are too small dig in at the side, and ones that are too big wrinkle and slip. If you are between two sizes, try both if you can. See the size guide.

Washing

Wash your knickers at 40 degrees without fabric softener and without the tumble dryer. Softener leaves a film on the fabric, and the heat of the dryer wears the elastic at the edges. Air drying keeps the shape longest, so the edges keep lying flat. See the washing guide.

How many pairs you need

Ten to fourteen pairs let you get by with washing once a week. Once you have found the model that fits, it is easiest to buy several of the same at once, so you always have the same thing to put on. See the full range in bamboo underwear for women.

Combine the two

Many people end up with both models in the drawer. The hipster for days when you want more coverage and calm, and the tai for warm days or clothes with a high leg cut. There is no reason to choose one for good.