Panties 101

As odd as it may seem, there are woman out there that have no clue when it comes to panties. Some women just don't know that there are different styles for different clothing and activities. Buying the right ones, and avoiding unsightly panty lines, is one of the most important things a woman can learn to do. Keep in mind, even if you do not wear panties, I know that there are certain times when you do or have to, so you should still read this. This entry is going to give you the basics of all types of panties and how to avoid panty lines, so there will be no excuses in the future.

PANTIES 101

G-STRING: Offers the minimal amount of coverage and can be found with even less coverage in front. A g-string is for someone who likes absolute minimal coverage and an almost not there feeling. These are very common as a lot of women find them most comfortable. They are also a good option when wearing anything form-fitting.

THONG: Offers a bit more coverage than a g-string, particularly along the sides and in back. The thong came out before the g-string and was available for minimal coverage for form-fitting clothing. Not always as comfortable depending on the fabric it is made of.

CHEEKY or LOW-RISE BRIEF: Similar to a brief but with less coverage in the rear and cut lower in front. Similar to a bikini with a little more coverage. For someone who shys away from "granny panties", but still would like the more coverage than a bikini offers.

BIKINI: A lower cut version of a brief. Higher cut in back along the leg and much lower in the front. The bikini is a very common option next to the g-string. It's what I like to call "a happy medium". Comfortable under all clothing with just enough coverage.

BRIEF: (below)This example is more of a "modern brief". A high waistline, wider along the sides and full coverage in the rear. A "common brief" usually has more coverage along the sides and the waist ends just bellow the belly button. The brief now is commonly known as "granny panties", due to the full coverage. These are built to hold it all in place and cover it at the same time.

HIP-HUGGER or HIPSTER: Fits similar to a bikini, but the sides are wider and drops lower on the hip. Can also be found to have a lower rise, but always sits on the hip. The hipster are for someone that prefers not to have the narrow strap along the side. It's a little sportier and offers more coverage than a bikini.

BOYSHORT: Fits similar to shorts. Same rise as a bikini, but wide along the sides and the legs drop down to high inner thigh. Usually determined by the drop rather than the rise, as they can come very low on top. Boyshorts are definitely a sporty option. They cover more along the bottom than a brief, but still have a lower waist for low-rise clothing.

Now that we are all aware of the different types of panties that are available to us and their fit, now lets talk about when each should be worn for proper fit under our clothing.

I don't know about you, but I am deathly afraid of panty lines. I see so many women out there with bubble butts and muffin tops partially due to their lack of knowledge about undergarments (bras are a whole other topic). So many of them go for comfort before looks, and they need to know they can have both! Every woman out there has a different body from the other. Some have flat tummies, but a little extra grabbin' on the sides. Some have flat butts, big butts, poochy bellies, etcetera. You need to look at yourself and decide what your "problem area" may be and from there determine which panty would be the best worn under your clothes. Now some of you may be thinking that if you are a size 14 you should stick to briefs, which isn't always true. I have seen woman that are larger and are solid, they can wear a thong and not get the bulge along the side from the strap. Just as I have seen size 2 woman out there that would be better off wearing a brief to avoid the 'cut line" they get along the sides from a g-string. You need to be your own judge.

HOW TO AVOID PANTY LINES

SKIN TONE: When you are picking out your outfit, you not only need to think about what you are wearing, but the under garments you will wear as well. If you are wearing light colored clothing, your best option is always nude or skin tone panties. If you are wearing white, white panties may seem like the right option, but you can still see them. I never buy white panties. I always say "when in doubt, always go for nude!"

THONG or G-STRING: These give you a bit of coverage if you prefer not to go without and are the least likely to give you unsightly lines along your buns. Just remember, if you are in need of a little firming up, if you wear a thong, you will jiggle quite a bit in loose fitting clothing like a satin dress or linen pants.

MICROFIBER: There are so many new panties out made of this fabric. You can find any style and just about any color. Some have flat seams and some are a little thicker and have no seams at all. Do keep in mind that if you are wearing something really tight, you still may see a bit of a line, so always check your back side before you leave the house.

HIPSTER: Lace hipsters are my fave for wearing under tight pants or under dresses. They lay virtually flat and are comfortable, sexy, and cover enough to keep you from jiggling too much.

BODY SHAPERS: These guys come in all different fabrics, with or without lace, seams and no seams, long or short, one whole piece with a bra, slip style or shorts, etcetera. You can also find them in black, nude, or white (not a good choice). I highly recommend trying them on before you buy, they all fit differently and usually come in S/M/L or bra size. You want a smooth fit, that's the whole point behind them. Sometimes women buy them too small or too tight and the end up with bulges. If you buy the shorts (like in the picture), you don't want your thighs bulging at the knees and you don't want your belly pouring over the top elastic. Be very careful!

NUDE: If all else fails and you feel that you aren't going to giggle all over, and your outfit isn't partially see-through, then go without! Sorry, no photo, I didn't find it necessary. Ha!

SOME OTHER WEIRD OPTIONS

COMMANDO'S: This little cotton disposable patch sticks to the crotch or "curved seam" of your jeans or pants. It allows you to go underwear free in with comfort and protects your clothing at the same time. They are offered in regular cotton fleece for your pants and jeans, soft cotton fleece for your knits and delicates, and also organic cotton! You can get a pack of 4 mix and match for $10 on up to 50 for $72.50. http://www.gocommandos.com/

C-STRING: A "C" shaped panty that is made to fit like a strapless g-string. It has a flexible inner frame that hugs the body and apparently fits comfortably. They can be worn as panties or purchased with a top to wear as a "C-kini". Hmmm... http://www.cstringbikinis.com/

STRAPLESS PANTY: These little gems are just like a panty, but instead of having a strap to hold them up (and cut into your hips) they have adhesive that holds them on. Just like the strapless/backless bras you see. They are made to hold on for up to 6 hours and come in black, nude and red. http://www.shibuecouture.com/

Glad you made it through, this was kinda a class, but I hope you learned something and will never have to worry about your ass looking silly in public again!