Visible lines from the underwear

Short answer: Edges from underwear show when the elastic is thick or when the briefs end in the same place as the waistband of your trousers. Both can usually be solved with a different cut, a different waist height or a different colour.

Thick edges

A strong elastic makes a clear line, because it presses into the skin and lifts the fabric on top. The stiffer the elastic, the sharper the edge. Choose a model with a thin, flat edge that lies close to the body without squeezing. For most people that makes the biggest difference. Read also about seamless briefs.

Double edge

If the briefs end in the same place as the trousers, two lines appear on top of each other and reinforce each other. The fix is a different waist height, so the edge sits clearly above or below the waistband. A high waist under low trousers, or a low waist under high trousers, gives one line instead of two. See waist height on briefs.

The fabric of your clothes

Thin, smooth trousers and skirts show everything underneath, including small folds and seams. Thicker fabric such as denim, wool or heavy jersey hides edges by itself, because it does not follow the body as closely. That is why the same briefs can be invisible under one pair of trousers and clearly visible under another.

The fit of the briefs

Briefs that are too small cut in and create a bulge above the edge, even when the elastic is thin. Briefs that are too large can fold and give uneven lines. The right size lies smooth without pressing. If you are between two sizes, the larger one is often better under close fitting clothes.

Choice of colour

Under light, thin clothes it is not only the edge that shows, but also the colour itself. White underwear often shows through white clothes, while a colour close to your own skin tone is the least visible. That is why many choose skin tone for summer trousers and light dresses. Read more about skin tone briefs.

Under dresses

Close fitting dresses are the hardest case, because the fabric lies against the body from waist to thigh. A flat edge, a high waist and a leg that ends where the dress does not pull all help. Check in a mirror in daylight before you go out. More on the topic in briefs under tight dresses.

For men

The same principle applies under smart trousers and thin chinos. Boxers with a strong leg edge can leave a line across the thigh, especially when you sit down. A model with a longer leg and a soft, flat edge lies more evenly, and a close fit avoids folds under the fabric. See bamboo underpants for men.

See the range

When looking for a model for close fitting clothes, note the edge at the leg and waist, the thickness of the fabric and how high the briefs sit. Close up photos of the edge often say more than a description. Compare a few models side by side before you choose. See the models in bamboo underwear for women.

Washing and edges

Elastic that is worn or has been tumble dried many times can turn wavy and give uneven lines. Wash underwear at a low temperature and let it air dry, so the edge keeps its shape longer. A wavy edge is a fair sign that it is time for a new piece to wear under close fitting clothes.

When nothing works

If the trouser fabric is very thin and light, even a flat edge will show. Then only a thong or a seamless model really helps, because there is no edge where the fabric pulls. Choose a model in soft fabric that feels good all day. See bamboo briefs.

Frequently asked questions

How do I avoid visible edges?

Choose a model with a thin, flat edge and a different waist height than your trousers. Then the edge does not sit on the waistband and gives one line at most.