Panties with a high or low waist
Short answer: A high waist covers the stomach and stays put under dresses and trousers, while a low waist is almost invisible under low rise trousers. Choose by your clothes, your body and what you are doing.
The waist decides how they sit
The height of the waist is one of the most important differences between panties. It decides how much of the stomach is covered, where the edge lies in relation to your clothes and how well the panties stay in place. Both high and low waists have clear advantages, and the best choice changes with the day's trousers, dresses and activities. It is not about fashion, but about having something that sits comfortably all day.
High waist: coverage, calm and support
High panties cover the stomach and sit above the navel, so they stay in place when you sit, bend or walk a lot. They are good under dresses and high waisted trousers, where a low edge could chafe or roll. They also give a soft feeling of security around the stomach. The drawback is that they can feel warmer in summer heat, and the edge may show under a very close fitting top. See bamboo panties for styles in soft material.
Low waist: nearly invisible under low clothes
Low panties sit on the hip and are not seen under low rise trousers or jeans. They add very little bulk and suit summer clothes, when you do not want anything warm. The drawback is that the edge can cut in or roll if the size is too small, and that they give less coverage at the stomach. Choose a wide, soft edge to avoid marks on the skin.
Under dresses and slips
With a close fitting dress, a seamless, smooth edge is important so that no lines appear. A slip over the panties can smooth the silhouette and stop the fabric clinging. Between high and low waists there are mid rise panties, which many consider the best compromise. See bamboo slip for a layer that sits quietly between skin and dress.
Together with a bra and other layers
If you want a coherent base, choose panties and bra with the same softness. A bra without underwire gives a calm layer in the middle, and high cut panties fill in from below, so there is no gap between the layers. See bamboo bra without underwire. Remember that neither may pinch so much that it leaves deep marks in the skin.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose a high waist for dresses, high waisted trousers, cold days and when you want coverage over the stomach. Choose a low waist for low rise jeans, warm days and close fitting clothes. A mid rise is a good choice if you are unsure. Size matters more than shape, so choose one that sits without pinching. Wash at 30 to 40 degrees and avoid fabric softener so the elastic and fabric last.
Frequently asked questions
Which waist is the most comfortable
It depends on your trousers and your body. High panties give the most calm around the stomach, and low ones are least visible under low clothes.
Can you see high panties under clothes
The edge may show under a very close fitting top. Choose a smooth, wide edge and it is rarely visible.
How do I find the right size
The elastic should lie flat without leaving deep marks. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger for more comfort.
