Underwear for women, what belongs in a basic wardrobe
Short answer: A good starting point for women's underwear is a pair of briefs for every day, two or three bras in different shapes, socks and a vest or top for colder days. Count what you actually wear in a week and build from there.
What belongs in everyday underwear for women
Start with what you wear most days: briefs in a shape you feel comfortable in and a bra that sits without chafing. You wash underwear weekly, so the number should fit your laundry rhythm rather than the size of your drawer.
Briefs in shapes for different clothes
One shape does not suit everything, so think in twos or threes. A high cut suits high-waisted trousers, a low cut suits hipsters, and a seamless one suits fitted clothes. In bamboo underwear for women you can compare the shapes and mix them to suit the day.
Bras for everyday, work and sport
Keep at least one wire-free bra for everyday and a more supportive one for exercise. A wire-free bra is comfortable on long days, while the sports bra takes most of the load during movement. Measure yourself regularly, as the body changes and your size may follow.
Vests and tops as a first layer
A vest or a thin top is the first layer under shirts and knitwear and gives a smooth transition against the skin. It also keeps blouses away from sweat and rubbing. Keep one in white, black and a skin tone so you can choose to suit what goes on top.
Socks and tights for the seasons
Socks are as fundamental as briefs. Keep short ones for shoes, longer ones for boots and warmer ones for winter. If you move often between indoors and outdoors, choose breathable yarns so your feet do not feel clammy.
Loungewear as part of the basic wardrobe
After a long day many change into something soft. A set such as the bamboo jogging suit for women is an example of loungewear that also works for a short trip to the shop. The fabric just needs to be comfortable and not tight around the waist.
What you wear on top decides your underwear
What you wear on top decides which underwear to choose. Under a white T-shirt a skin-tone shade shows less than white, and a smooth edge stays invisible. A bamboo T-shirt for women is a simple way to get a soft top layer.
How many of each and when to replace them
As a rule of thumb, have enough for a week plus a few extra for when the laundry is running. Replace them when the elastic is loose, the fabric is worn thin or the seams no longer lie flat. Keep the oldest for wearing at home.
Frequently asked questions
How many sets of underwear should I have?
Enough for a week, typically seven pairs of briefs and three or four bras, so you do not wash every day. If you are active, add a sports bra.
How do I choose a wire-free bra?
Find a band that sits flat and cups without bulges at the edge. A fabric with some stretch follows the body, and the straps should be adjustable so they do not dig in.
When should underwear be replaced?
When the elastic is loose, the fabric is worn thin or the seams chafe. That usually happens after many washes, and following the care instructions can extend the life, so follow them.
See our range of Boody underwear.
