The best underwear styles for every body shape

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A Rectangular Body

As with all style advice, people with a rectangular body shape are the most difficult to advise because their shape varies greatly. In lingerie for all body types, bikinis are the ones that suit you best. Classic panties tend to have too much fabric at the back and can create a puffy appearance. High-waisted panties, on the other hand, will help you get rid of some of the extra fabric.

An “Apple” Body

For most so-called “apple” body types, especially those with a rounder belly, a higher waist is preferable. If you are comfortable with a very low waist, go for it, but anything in the middle is likely to slip down or roll. A higher panty is probably your best option. The other option is a high-waisted thong. It covers the front of the body but not the back.

“Hourglass” and “Pear” Bodies

These two body types can often be grouped together, as the differences mainly lie in the upper body, where underwear advice applies less. Both of these shapes mainly face the issue of underwear riding up, commonly known as a “wedgie”.

For these two types of body shapes, you need to keep in mind the rear coverage and leg openings. It is often said that boyshorts are perfect for women with a rounded lower body, but this tends to change in fashion. If you carry weight on the upper part of your thighs, you will have panty lines on your leg, and it’s probably not going to be very comfortable.

It is better to opt for a set with a fully covered back but more room at the leg opening. Classic panties are just right for most hourglass and pear shapes, but again, make sure that the leg openings are generous.

Often, women do not want to wear full coverage because they feel less sexy and poorly dressed. If you are rounder in the buttocks but prefer to be less covered, try going one size up. This often allows you to achieve the coverage you need while maintaining the style you want. 

Remember that the best underwear for your body is the one that makes you feel and look good. Some of you might say, “I don’t care how they look under my white skinny jeans, I’ll wear bikini thongs no matter what! Great, that’s the right answer. Others might say, “I don’t care how unsexy these underwear are, they enhance the clothes I wear, and you know what? That’s also the right answer. In a perfect world, you get a bit of both: you learn which styles suit you best and buy them in versions that make you feel like the sexy goddess that you are.

And to have style on the beach, don’t forget to check out our article on how to choose the right swimsuit for your body shape.