Underwear under thin fabric
Short answer: Choose seamless underwear in a skin-tone shade. Under thin fabric it is the edges that show, not the garment itself. The flatter and thinner the edge, the less it shows through the fabric.
What gives itself away
The elastic edge on briefs and the leg edge on boxers draw a line through the fabric. The thicker the edge, the more clearly it shows. That is why it is often the edge and not the colour that reveals what you are wearing underneath, especially in light and thin fabrics.
What to choose
Choose seamless styles with laser cut edges or edges that are sewn flat. Laser cut edges have no seam at all and therefore show the least. Flat seams are the next best thing and come in far more styles. Look at bamboo panties and bamboo underpants for men when choosing a cut.
Laser cut and flat edges
A laser cut edge is cut without being folded, so there is no extra layer along the leg or waist. A flat seam lies close to the skin and gives only a very faint line. Both are better than a wide, folded edge with visible stitching, which shows easily through thin fabric.
How to check it
Put the garment on and look at yourself from the side in daylight, ideally with the light behind you. Bend forward slightly, because that is the position where the fabric is stretched most over the edges. If you see a clear line, try another cut before you decide.
Colour matters less than the edge
A skin-tone shade helps, but it does not save a wide edge that shows clearly. On the other hand, a very flat edge in another colour can be almost invisible. So think about the shape of the edge first and the colour second. Together they give the calmest look under thin fabric.
Fit and size
An edge that sits too tightly presses into the skin and shows more, because the fabric above it pulls along. If the underwear is too loose, it can bunch into folds instead. Choose the size that sits comfortably without pinching, and try it while moving the way you do during the day.
Under dresses and long tops
Dresses in thin jersey follow the body, so anything underneath is quickly seen. Seamless underwear is especially useful here, and a slip can remove the problem entirely. Also look at bamboo t-shirt dresses if you want a dress that is soft against the skin and easy to combine.
Sports bras and other garments
The rule applies to all underwear, including sports bras and vests. Choose flat edges and a skin-tone shade, and check that straps and hems do not show through the top. Whatever sits close to the body for long stretches should be comfortable and hard to notice under clothes.
Washing and care
Follow the care label in the garment so the edges keep their shape. If an edge turns slack or wavy after many washes, it often shows more than before. Wash underwear in a bag or on a gentle cycle if the label allows, and avoid washing it with rough items that pull at the fabric.
Frequently asked questions
Does it help to go up a size
Sometimes, but not always. A tight edge shows more, so a slightly looser fit can help. If it becomes too loose, the underwear can bunch into folds, so choose the size that sits comfortably.
What about sports bras under thin fabric
The same rule applies: flat edges and a skin-tone shade, and check that the edges do not show through the top. Look at yourself in daylight and bend forward slightly before you decide.
Can you use a slip
Yes, it removes the problem entirely under dresses, because no edges rest against the thin fabric. Choose a slip in a skin-tone shade and make sure the hem is not longer than the dress.
See our range of Boody underwear.
