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A model in white panties
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Undergarment
Types
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Various styles of panties (thong and G-string: back view).

Panties are women's form-fitting underpants. Typical components include an elastic waistband, a crotch panel to cover the genitalia (usually lined with absorbent material such as cotton), and a pair of leg openings that, like the waistband, are often made of elastomer. Various materials are used, but are usually chosen to be breathable.

Panties are made of a variety of materials, including cotton, lace, latex, leather, lycra, mesh, nylon, PVC, polyester, rawhide, satin, and silk. Construction typically consists of two pieces (front and rear) that are joined by seams at the crotch and sides; an additional gusset is often in the crotch, with the waistband and leg-openings made from elastomer.

Terminology

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In the United States and Canada, "panties" is a common term to refer to female underwear bottoms.

In the United Kingdom and occasionally in other Commonwealth countries such as Australia,[1][2] New Zealand, and South Africa, panties may be referred to as "knickers", "undies", or simply "underwear". The last two of these are gender-neutral terms and can be used for either male or female styles of underwear bottoms, the American English equivalent being underpants.

In Australia, male underpants are often referred to as "undies",[3] although the word can also refer to panties.

History

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The earliest known use of underwear that resembles modern panties dates back to 4,400 B.C. during the Badari period in Egypt. [4] [5] [6] Around 3000 B.C. Sumerian women would start wearing underwear similar to briefs [7] In Ancient Greece women sometimes wore underwear, resembling panties, called a Perizoma. Ancient Roman women would wear ancient panties called a Subligaculum.[8] Underwear resembling modern day panties were first invented in the 1920s, when long drawers were shortened to be made less cumbersome, although they were heavily decorated and had to be fastened. The bows used for fastening still remain on some panties as a decoration to this day.[9][10]

Between 1930 and 1947, panties were shortened further and made with cotton instead of linen. By the 1960s, wide-legged panties were used instead of a slip by most women in the west and were often manufactured in vibrant colors and prints.[9]

Around the 1980s and 1990s, various bottom-enhancing panties such as thongs became a common sight and in the 2000s boyshorts and hipster styles were invented as well as more traditional types such as bikinis and briefs. These are the types of panties commonly worn today.[9]

Styles

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Panties are classified into various styles based on criteria such as the amount of rear coverage, width at the sides and height at which they are worn. These categories are not necessarily distinct and usage may vary somewhat among brands:[11]

Rear coverage Type Example Description
Minimal (thongs)[a] Adhesive / C-string Pink C-string, retained using underwires Adhesive panties are sometimes described as strapless/stick-on panties. They are a form of micro-panties that cover nothing but the genitalia. They are useful when women do not want a panty line to be visible, but still want to maintain basic hygiene.
T-front White T-front, obscured by trousers. The T-front is a type of G-string in which the string also reaches the front part. It provides almost no coverage while still maintaining the basic hygienic underwear functions and covering only the genitalia. Usually it is built by strings only, sometimes with more fabric or lace around the waist.
G-string White G-string, rear view The G-string has a vertical string at the back, which connects the crotch to the waistband, sometimes featuring a triangle of fabric which is sometimes referred to as a whale tail when it peeks out above the waistband of low riding pants.
Thong Rear view of a woman wearing a gray thong. Thongs have a waistband similar to tangas, but the rear coverage is mostly cut away. The crotch is triangle-shaped, as it narrows to a thin strip toward the back and sits between the buttocks, becoming wider towards the top where it connects to the waistband. Like the G-string, if the back fabric peeks out above the waistband of low riding pants, the result is also called a whale tail.
Moderate Tanga Woman wearing a tanga, also known as a Brazilian thong. Tangas can be considered as an intermediate step between thongs, which have minimal rear coverage, and bikinis, which have moderate to full rear coverage.
Bikinis Two women; one is wearing black conventional bikini underwear and the other is wearing white string bikini underwear. Bikinis, like hipsters, sit at hip level, but the fabric of the side sections is narrower. With the string bikini type, the side sections disappear altogether and the waistband consists of only string-like material. There may be less rear coverage with the bikini style.
Hipsters Woman wearing black hipster underwear. Hipsters are a blend between bikinis and boyshorts. They sit on the hips of the wearer and are worn slightly below the navel.
Boyshorts A model in white boyshorts Boyshorts cover the hips and are named for their similarity to boxer briefs, a variation on boxer shorts. Some resemble men's briefs, complete with fly and contrast trim. Unlike men's briefs, this style is usually lower cut. Boyshorts often cover most of the buttocks.[13][14]
Cheekies Rachel Starr wearing red cheekies at AVN 2011. Cheekies can be styled as a hipster, bikini, or boyshort in the front, but in the rear, they are designed to hug the buttocks, and have a seam or ruching to make the fabric sit partially between the cheeks to accentuate the shape. They leave the outer 1/3 to 1/2 of each cheek exposed and often have a lace or scalloped trim.
Full (briefs)[b] High-cut Two women wearing "Woxer" brand high-cut briefs and sport bras High-cut briefs sit higher on the waist, providing more coverage in the midriff region. They are designed with larger leg holes and narrower sides to show off more leg and allow more freedom of movement.
Classic Model dressed in lace-trimmed sheer classic briefs Classic briefs have the waistband sitting very high on the waist. The leg holes are small so the underwear cover as much area between waist and thigh as possible. Sometimes called "granny panties" because they were the standard underpants in previous decades and have a connotation of being worn by older women.
Control White control briefs with lace trim Control briefs are designed to offer support while giving a slimmer appearance. This type usually contains a stretch material such as spandex and may extend above the waist. Some have an extra firm panel to flatten the tummy. Some also compress the buttocks, while other control briefs are designed to avoid compression of the buttocks. Others merely lift the buttocks and have holes cut out for maximum fullness of the buttocks.
Full (loose pants) Tap pants Two women wearing tap pants Tap pants are short pants with a short inseam length.
Bloomers Bloomers are shorts with a variable inseam length and bloused leg holes.
Notes
  1. ^ Thongs provide a moderate to minimal coverage with back coverage that is less than a bikini, and the waistband is reduced to a narrow strip at the sides.[12]
  2. ^ Briefs rise to the waist, or just below the navel, and have full coverage in the rear.

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Panties

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from Grokipedia
Panties are close-fitting undergarments worn by women and girls, covering the pelvic region and featuring a closed crotch for hygiene and comfort. Typically constructed from materials such as cotton, nylon, lace, or synthetic blends, they provide a foundational layer beneath outer clothing while accommodating diverse body types and activities. The evolution of panties reflects broader shifts in fashion, technology, and societal norms regarding women's bodies. Early precursors appeared in ancient civilizations, including linen and leather undergarments from pre-dynastic Egypt around 4400 BCE, often serving protective or ceremonial roles. By the 19th century, Victorian-era innovations transformed these into "drawers" or pantalettes—initially open-crotched for practicality but increasingly closed to address issues like menstruation and personal hygiene, marking the birth of the modern panty as a discreet, functional garment. The 20th century brought rapid diversification: the 1920s flapper era popularized loose, silk tap pants aligning with liberated silhouettes; the 1940s introduced structured briefs influenced by wartime fabric rationing and utilitarian design; and post-1960s styles like bikinis, thongs, and high-cut varieties emerged alongside the sexual revolution, emphasizing sensuality and minimalism. Today, panties encompass a wide array of styles tailored to comfort, coverage, and aesthetics, including for full coverage, bikinis for moderate exposure, thongs and G-strings for seamless lines under tight , boyshorts for sporty appeal, and hipsters as a versatile mid-rise option. Innovations in fabrics, such as moisture-wicking synthetics and sustainable materials, continue to adapt to modern demands for inclusivity, health (e.g., period-proof panties), and environmental consciousness. Culturally, panties symbolize both everyday practicality and eroticism, influencing fashion industries, advertising, and discussions on and gender norms.

Terminology and Definition

Definition

Panties are close-fitting undergarments worn on the lower body, primarily by women and girls, that cover the genitals and area between the (or just below it) and the tops of the legs. They serve as essential intimate apparel for hygiene, modesty, and comfort, with variations available for men and non-binary individuals through gender-inclusive designs like briefs or options. Key characteristics of panties include an elastic waistband for secure fit around the hips or waist, elastic leg openings to prevent shifting during movement, and a closed panel that provides coverage and facilitates bodily functions without removal. These elements ensure functionality while allowing for a range of body movements. Panties differ from related undergarments such as men's , which are structured for with a front pouch for support; thongs, a minimal-coverage style of panties featuring a thin rear to reduce visible lines under ; and shapewear, which incorporates compressive fabrics for body beyond basic coverage. Panties emerged as a distinct garment in the , evolving from open-crotch drawers to closed designs by the 1870s for improved practicality and modesty.

Etymology and Synonyms

The term "panties" originated as a form of "pants," itself a shortening of "pantaloons," which referred to loose-fitting worn by men in the and later adopted for women's undergarments. The word first appeared in English in , initially denoting men's drawers in a derogatory sense, before evolving by to specifically describe women's or children's , often in the context of doll clothing patterns. In the , women's lower undergarments were commonly called "drawers," a term derived from their function as separate leg coverings made from or , reflecting the period's emphasis on and practicality. By the early , as garments shortened and became less cumbersome, "panties" emerged as a more euphemistic alternative to "drawers," aligning with shifting societal norms toward delicacy in language about intimate apparel. Common English synonyms include "undies" (an informal diminutive), "," "," and "knickers" (predominantly , originating from "" in the ). In British usage, "pants" itself denotes , distinct from where it means . Internationally, terminology varies, often mirroring cultural attitudes toward modesty and femininity; for instance, the French "culotte" serves as a general term for women's panties or knickers, evoking a sense of elegance. In Spanish-speaking regions, "bragas" is standard in Spain for panties, while Latin American variants include "calzones" in Mexico and "bombachas" in Argentina and Uruguay, with "pantis" used in some Central American countries as a direct borrowing. Terms like "lingerie" (from French, originally meaning "linen underwear") now often connote luxurious or sensual variants across cultures, distinguishing them from everyday undergarments and highlighting connotations of formality or allure.

History

Origins and Early Development

The earliest precursors to modern panties can be traced to ancient civilizations, where simple s served as basic undergarments for both men and women, though they were not direct ancestors of women's closed undergarments. In , women often wore a simple wrapped around the hips, providing minimal coverage beneath draped dresses, as evidenced by tomb depictions and textile artifacts. Similarly, in , women donned a perizoma, a triangular tied at the hips, functioning as underwear under chitons for and during physical activities. In , both genders wore the , a wrapped or short briefs made from or , secured with ties to prevent shifting under tunics, reflecting practical needs in a warm . These garments prioritized functionality over form-fitting design, influenced by societal norms around and labor, but lacked the structured, crotch-enclosing features of later developments. During the medieval and periods in , women's undergarments evolved from these ancient forms into layered pieces, with serving as the primary base layer. The , a loose-fitting shift reaching the knees or ankles, was worn by women across estates as direct skin contact with outer clothing was avoided for , often featuring practical slits for ease of movement. Women's open-crotched drawers—loose, bifurcated tied at the waist—emerged in the late for affluent women beneath chemises and corsets, designed for practicality in toileting without full undressing, though such items were not universal and remained controversial due to associations with men's attire. These open designs accommodated the restrictive corsetry of the era, which emphasized a conical , and were influenced by societal expectations of that confined women to indoor or sedentary roles, limiting innovation in women's lower undergarments until the . The marked a pivotal shift toward modern panties, driven by technological advancements and social changes that favored closed, practical designs. The , particularly from the onward, enabled of affordable undergarments through mechanized looms and innovations, making chemises and drawers accessible beyond the elite and shifting reliance from handmade to machine-woven for durability and breathability. A key invention occurred around 1876–1877, when open-crotched drawers evolved into closed-crotch knickers, closing the crotch seam while retaining a small front opening for dressing, enhancing hygiene and modesty for active women. This transition was accelerated by the 1890s bicycle craze, which popularized shorter hemlines and bifurcated undergarments to prevent accidents and allow , as women embraced for leisure and independence. Concurrently, the movement advocated for rational dress reforms, criticizing restrictive underlayers and promoting practical drawers that supported physical , such as marches and , thereby intertwining undergarment evolution with broader demands for gender equity.

20th and 21st Century Evolution

The introduction of elastic materials in the revolutionized women's by enabling more fitted and comfortable styles, transitioning from loose-fitting drawers to form-hugging panties that better accommodated the era's shifting toward slimmer silhouettes. By the , movement and rising hemlines on dresses demanded shorter, less bulky panty designs, often made from lightweight silk or cotton knickers that emphasized a boyish, liberated figure and facilitated freer movement for dancing and daily activities. Following World War II, the nylon boom in the late 1940s transformed panty production, as the synthetic fabric—first commercially available in 1939—offered lightweight, sheer, and easily washable options that became staples due to their durability and affordability post-rationing. The 1946 debut of the bikini swimsuit by French engineer Louis Réard, designed as a minimal two-piece amid fabric shortages, gradually influenced underwear trends, paving the way for bikini-style panties in the 1950s with higher leg cuts and reduced coverage to align with emerging beachwear aesthetics. The 1960s sexual revolution further liberalized designs, promoting sheer fabrics, bold colors, and playful patterns in panties that reflected growing female empowerment and a rejection of restrictive undergarments in favor of sensual, visible options. In the 1980s, the aerobics fitness craze popularized high-cut panty styles, inspired by neon leotards and leg warmers, which elongated the leg line and provided seamless integration under form-fitting activewear for women embracing workout culture. The 2000s saw innovations in seamless panties, building on 1970s knitting technologies to create tagless, invisible-under-clothing options using advanced elastane blends for comfort in low-rise fashion trends. Since the 2010s, has driven panty evolution, with brands adopting and eco-friendly dyes to reduce environmental impact, exemplified by GOTS-certified lines from companies like Pact and Knickey that prioritize fair-trade production and recyclability. Post-2015 innovations in period-proof panties, led by 's launch of absorbent, leak-resistant underwear capable of holding up to two tampons' worth of flow, have disrupted traditional menstrual products by offering reusable, machine-washable alternatives that align with zero-waste movements, although faced a 2023 class-action lawsuit over the presence of PFAS chemicals, resulting in a settlement as of 2024.

Materials and Construction

Fabrics and Materials

Panties are commonly constructed from a variety of fabrics that balance comfort, durability, and aesthetics. Cotton remains one of the most prevalent materials due to its breathability and absorbency, allowing air circulation and moisture management to prevent irritation during daily wear. Silk offers a luxurious, smooth texture prized for its softness against the skin and subtle sheen, enhancing the sensory appeal in intimate apparel. Lace serves primarily as a decorative element, adding intricate patterns and femininity while often being layered over more functional base fabrics for visual elegance. Synthetic options like nylon and spandex provide stretchiness and durability, enabling form-fitting designs that maintain shape through repeated use and washing. Advancements in fabric properties have introduced specialized features tailored to functionality. Polyester blends with moisture-wicking capabilities draw sweat away from the body, promoting dryness and reducing odor in active or warm conditions. and modal fabrics incorporate treatments or natural properties that inhibit , enhancing and extending wear comfort. These innovations allow material choices to influence both practical performance, such as temperature regulation, and aesthetic allure through varied textures and sheens. Sustainability has driven material shifts since the 2010s, with , recycled , and Tencel gaining prominence for their lower environmental impact compared to conventional synthetics. These eco-friendly options address concerns over water usage and chemical processing in traditional fabric production, appealing to consumers seeking reduced ecological footprints without compromising on softness or durability. Historically, 19th-century undergarments relied on natural fibers like , , and for their availability and washability, as seen in chemises and drawers designed for layering under voluminous skirts. The post-1940s marked a transition to synthetics, with and later revolutionizing construction by offering elasticity and lightness that improved fit and reduced bulk. This evolution from rigid, absorbent naturals to versatile synthetics has shaped modern panties' emphasis on seamless integration with outerwear.

Manufacturing Processes

The manufacturing of panties begins with the design phase, where pattern making is conducted using (CAD) software to ensure precise fits tailored to body measurements and style variations. Tools such as TUKAcad enable designers to create digital patterns, grade sizes, and optimize material usage, reducing errors and facilitating . Similarly, specialized software like PolyPattern supports seamless transitions from hand-drafted to digital patterns, enhancing accuracy for complex curves and seams. Following , the production advances to cutting and , where automated fabric cutting machines slice multiple layers of material with high precision to minimize waste. Systems like those from iGOLDENLASER employ computer-controlled blades to handle delicate fabrics, cutting up to 200 layers in a single operation for efficiency in high-volume runs. involves stitching to secure seams, preventing fraying on edges common in construction, while elastic application often uses heat-sealing techniques for seamless integration without traditional stitching. Automated machines, such as those from Alster Industry, bond elastics directly to fabric via ultrasonic or thermal methods, producing tagless and irritation-free finishes. Quality control is integral throughout assembly, with rigorous testing for , shrinkage, and colorfastness to meet industry standards. assessments, including abrasion and pilling resistance, ensure longevity under repeated wear, as outlined by protocols from testing firms like . Shrinkage tests, such as AATCC 135, simulate washing cycles to verify dimensional stability, limiting changes to under 5% for most fabrics. Colorfastness evaluations, including rub and wash tests per ISO standards, confirm resistance to fading or bleeding, preventing discoloration in end products. Post-2000s, ethical standards have emphasized fair labor practices, with certifications like those from the Fair Labor Association requiring audits for safe conditions and equitable wages in global supply chains. On a larger scale, of panties predominantly occurs in Asian factories, particularly in and , where integrated facilities handle end-to-end processes for brands worldwide. 's and provinces host major hubs, producing billions of units annually through automated lines that boost output efficiency. In contrast, artisanal production remains smaller-scale, often in or the U.S., focusing on hand-finishing for custom or luxury items. Recent trends, including 3D technologies since the , enable seamless, customizable without cutting or , integrating digital controls for sustainable, waste-reduced .

Styles and Variations

Common Styles

Common styles of panties encompass a range of designs that provide varying degrees of coverage and sit on the body, catering primarily to everyday and comfort needs. These mainstream options include , bikinis, hipsters, and boyshorts, each characterized by their anatomical coverage and typical applications in daily routines. Briefs offer full coverage across the front, back, and sides, typically featuring a high-waisted design that sits at or above the natural waistline for maximum support and modesty. This style is favored for its everyday comfort, making it suitable for prolonged wear under looser like skirts or , and it often incorporates elastic waistbands for a secure fit. Briefs are available in inclusive sizing, extending to plus-size ranges up to 36 or beyond, with adaptations like reinforced seams to accommodate diverse body shapes without sacrificing comfort. Bikini panties provide moderate coverage, with a low-rise cut that sits below the and narrow sides that follow the natural hip curve, offering a balance between visibility under and basic protection. Versatile for , this style pairs well with low-rise or fitted dresses, providing a streamlined without excessive bunching. Bikinis also adapt to inclusive sizing, with plus-size versions utilizing stretch fabrics to ensure smooth coverage across fuller figures. Hipster panties sit low on the hips, delivering moderate front and back coverage similar to bikinis but with wider side panels for added stability and a slightly fuller appearance. This design is popular for its low-profile fit under mid-rise pants or skirts, emphasizing comfort during active daily tasks. Like other common styles, hipsters incorporate plus-size adaptations, such as wider elastic bands to prevent rolling on larger hips. Boyshorts feature a short-leg that mimics the look of , providing full coverage over the and thighs with a low- to mid-rise waist. Ideal for athletic activities or those seeking comprehensive coverage without visible lines under or activewear, this style offers enhanced mobility and support. Boyshorts extend to inclusive sizing, with plus-size options featuring longer leg lengths to fit curvier thighs comfortably.

Specialized and Niche Variations

Specialized and niche variations of panties are designed for targeted purposes, such as minimizing visibility under clothing, providing body shaping, ensuring invisibility, or offering support during specific physiological stages or recovery periods. These types prioritize functionality over standard coverage, often incorporating innovative materials or constructions to meet unique needs. Thongs and G-strings offer minimal rear coverage with a narrow strip of fabric or string positioned between the buttocks, allowing for full freedom of movement and seamless integration under form-fitting garments. Their primary purpose is to prevent visible panty lines, making them ideal for wearing with tight pants, dresses, or leggings where traditional might show outlines. High-waisted shapewear panties evolved from and girdles, transitioning from rigid boned structures to more flexible, compressive garments that smooth the , hips, and for a streamlined . These panties feature elastic fabrics and higher rises that extend to or above the waistline, providing gentle compression without the restrictive lacing of earlier girdles, and became popular in the alongside sheath dresses and pants. Seamless or invisible panties utilize laser-cut edges and bonded fabrics to eliminate traditional stitching, creating a smooth, no-show profile under tight or sheer clothing. This construction prevents chafing and bunching while ensuring the underwear remains undetectable, particularly beneficial for activewear or professional attire where lines could distract from the outfit's design. Functional variants address specific health or life-stage needs, such as period panties with multi-layered absorbent gussets for menstrual management. For example, period panties, launched in 2013, incorporate four layers including and moisture-wicking materials that absorb up to six teaspoons of liquid, serving as a reusable alternative to disposable products, with later models offering up to 100ml absorption as of 2025. Maternity panties feature stretchy, soft fabrics with over-the-bump or supportive panels to accommodate a growing belly, providing gentle compression and preventing ride-up during . Post-surgical panties include built-in compression to reduce swelling and improve circulation, often with seamless designs and easy closures to avoid irritating incisions during recovery from procedures like C-sections or abdominal surgeries. Niche gender-neutral options extend panties-like designs beyond traditional women's wear, including variants adapted for men or non-binary individuals that offer supportive pouches with minimal rear coverage. Brands like TomboyX provide inclusive in extended sizes, emphasizing comfort and fit for diverse body types without gender-specific styling.

Cultural and Social Aspects

The debate over visible panty lines (VPL) emerged prominently in the , as tighter clothing silhouettes and sheer fabrics in women's amplified concerns about outlines, pressuring consumers toward seamless or minimal-coverage options like thongs to achieve a smooth appearance under garments. This shift reflected broader aesthetic ideals in the era, where VPL became synonymous with poor style choices, influencing the design of to prioritize invisibility. In the , cheeky styles gained traction in pop culture, particularly through shows that showcased these mid-coverage panties on models, blending flirtation with everyday wear and normalizing partial exposure as a trendy alternative to full-coverage . Panty trends have cycled through periods of liberation and restraint. By the , minimalism dominated, with seamless, laser-cut designs emphasizing simplicity and no-show functionality to align with and body-positive outerwear. Into 2024-2025, trends have evolved to include , such as visible bralettes and panties layered under sheer garments, alongside tech-infused sustainable fabrics like moisture-wicking organic materials and gender-inclusive designs. platforms like and accelerated micro-trends, such as lace-up side panties in the early , where influencers demonstrated adjustable side ties for customizable fit and visible styling, turning underwear into a personalized accessory. Marketing for panties evolved from print catalogs, exemplified by Victoria's Secret's quarterly mail-order publications starting in the late 1970s that built a fantasy-driven image through glossy imagery, to digital influencer partnerships by the , where micro-influencers on platforms like promoted inclusive and body-positive lines to niche audiences. Post-2020, sustainable trends gained prominence, with brands like The Big Favorite introducing upcycled panties made from recycled and , encouraging consumers to return worn items for remaking into new garments as part of circular fashion initiatives. Economically, the global market, encompassing panties as a core segment, reached approximately $95 billion as of 2024, driven by growth and demand for sustainable options, with projections indicating continued expansion through personalized and eco-conscious innovations.

Gender, Sexuality, and Inclusivity

Panties have historically been associated with feminine norms, serving as undergarments designed primarily for women to provide and support while aligning with societal expectations of . In the , their construction emphasized delicate fabrics and silhouettes that reinforced traditional roles, such as lace-trimmed bikinis and high-waisted that accentuated curves. However, since the , these norms have expanded to include men's in styles resembling women's panties, often termed "manties," which feature similar cuts like thongs and for enhanced comfort and aesthetic appeal. Brands have also introduced non-binary options, such as TomboyX's gender-neutral collections of and boy shorts designed for all body types and expressions, promoting inclusivity beyond binary categories. The eroticization of panties has played a significant role in their association with sexuality, particularly through media representations that blend modesty with allure. In the , pin-up illustrations and advertisements depicted women in bullet bras and high-waisted panties, transforming everyday undergarments into symbols of playful sensuality and post-war domestic fantasy. This trend evolved into modern ads, where brands like showcase panties as empowering yet seductive items, often featuring diverse models to appeal to broader audiences while maintaining erotic undertones. In fetish contexts, panties have been central to folklore like the panty raids of the to , where groups of male college students would storm women's dormitories to steal undergarments as a form of rebellious, sexually charged prank, reflecting mid-20th-century tensions around gender segregation and youthful desire. Efforts toward inclusivity in the panties industry have addressed longstanding gaps in representation, particularly through movements and diverse sizing. Since 2014, American Eagle's Aerie brand has pioneered unretouched campaigns featuring real women of varying sizes, ages, and abilities, boosting sales by 20% in the first year and fostering a shift toward authentic in marketing. These initiatives highlight underrepresented bodies, including plus-size and racial diversity, with brands like extending sizing up to 4X and showcasing models across ethnicities to challenge Eurocentric standards that previously dominated the sector. Such representations aim to make panties accessible and affirming for all, countering historical exclusions based on and race. Cultural variations in panties underscore differing views on and exposure, particularly between Western and Islamic traditions. In Western contexts, panties often prioritize visibility and sensuality, with styles like low-rise thongs emerging in the to complement revealing outerwear and align with ideals of body confidence. Conversely, Islamic modesty emphasizes full coverage to uphold 'awrah (private parts), leading to hijab-compatible such as high-waisted, opaque and long underskirts that ensure non-transparency under loose garments like abayas, reflecting of dignity and protection from . Muslim women in Western societies often navigate these by selecting modest inner layers that blend cultural faith with local fashion, promoting personal agency amid global influences.

Health and Practical Considerations

Fit, Sizing, and Comfort

Sizing systems for panties typically fall into two categories: numerical labels such as small (S), medium (M), and large (L), or measurement-based systems using and circumferences in inches or centimeters. Numerical is widely used for its simplicity but often corresponds to varying measurements across ; for instance, a size M might fit hips of 38-40 inches in one brand but 40-42 inches in another, leading to inconsistencies that frustrate consumers. Measurement-based , which relies on taking the at its narrowest point and hips at the widest, provides a more precise fit but requires accurate self-measurement, and even then, brand-specific charts can differ due to grading scales. Fit factors play a crucial role in ensuring panties stay in place and provide even coverage. Rise types—low-rise, which sits below the natural line on the hips; mid-rise, positioned at or just below the waist; and high-rise, extending above the waist to the mid-abdomen—determine coverage and suitability for different outfits and . Leg elastic tension is engineered to hug the thighs without digging in, often using stretch materials to prevent riding up during movement; innovations like grippers or laser-cut seamless edges further enhance this by providing grip without bulk. Comfort innovations address common irritants and inclusivity needs. Tagless designs eliminate internal labels to reduce itching and , particularly for sensitive , while wide gussets—an extra fabric panel in the area—offer , better moisture wicking, and reduced chafing for all-day . For plus sizes, brands have introduced inclusive sizing up to 10XL or beyond with adaptive fabrics that provide stretch and support without constriction, ensuring a smooth fit across curves. Adaptive fits for disabilities incorporate features like hook-and-eye side closures or magnetic fasteners for easier dressing, alongside tagless and seamless construction to accommodate sensory sensitivities and limited mobility. Selecting panties based on optimizes fit and comfort. For pear-shaped bodies, with wider hips and a narrower , high-waisted or hipsters provide balanced coverage without riding up on the hips. Apple-shaped bodies, characterized by fuller midsections and slimmer legs, benefit from high-rise styles that offer tummy support and a smoothing effect.

Hygiene and Health Impacts

Maintaining proper hygiene with panties involves daily changing to prevent the buildup of moisture, , and dead cells that can lead to infections. Medical guidelines recommend changing at least once a day, or more frequently during activities that cause sweating, to keep the genital area dry and reduce the risk of bacterial overgrowth. Cotton fabrics are preferred for their , as they allow air circulation and wick away , helping to prevent conditions like infections () by inhibiting the growth of fungi in damp environments. In contrast, synthetic materials such as or can trap heat and , creating a moist environment conducive to proliferation. Studies from gynecological sources emphasize that breathable supports vaginal balance and reduces recurrence rates compared to non-breathable alternatives. Synthetic fabrics in panties pose risks by trapping moisture and promoting , which can increase the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Non-breathable materials like create a damp microclimate that fosters pathogens such as , a common UTI cause, particularly in women prone to recurrent infections. Tight-fitting styles exacerbate these issues by causing friction and irritation, leading to conditions like or in the area. Dermatological reviews note that prolonged wear of constrictive can result in redness, chafing, and secondary infections due to impaired and pressure on sensitive . Innovations in panty design offer benefits, such as linings that reduce microbial and odor. Zinc-coated panty liners, for instance, have been shown in randomized trials to harbor fewer bacterial colonies per square centimeter than standard liners, potentially lowering infection risks without promoting antibiotic resistance. Seamless constructions minimize seam-related , decreasing chafing and for users with sensitive skin, as supported by dermatological recommendations for friction-free fabrics. Period panties with integrated absorbent layers provide menstrual benefits by containing flow, reducing leak-related anxiety, and using materials aimed at preventing during cycles; acceptability studies indicate high user satisfaction for their skin-friendly properties. However, 2025 research detected per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS, or "forever chemicals") in up to 33% of samples, linked to risks including endocrine disruption, cancer, and immune suppression; consumers should select PFAS-free options verified by third-party testing to minimize chemical exposure. Recent dermatological research highlights fabric allergies from dyes, resins, and synthetic additives in as a cause of , with textile dye allergies affecting 0.4-6.7% of patients in specialized patch-testing clinics. Proper care of panties is essential for , with recommendations to machine-wash in cold water using mild detergents to remove effectively while preserving fabric integrity. Avoiding is critical, as can degrade elastic components, leading to loss of shape and increased risk; non-chlorine alternatives or air-drying are advised instead. Regular after each wear, combined with line-drying in shade, maintains properties and prevents residue buildup that could harbor pathogens.

References

  1. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pantie
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