The Best No-Show Underwear for Every Outfit

We all know the feeling: you've finally found the perfect outfit to wear out, and then... you spot an underwear line. But what if we told you you never have to go through this again? Continue reading for a breakdown of how no-show underwear works, what kind to wear with different outfits, and what to look for when buying it.

What is no-show underwear?

No-show underwear is underwear that doesn't create panty lines — when the seams, straps, or silhouette is visible underneath clothing.

A pair of underwear can be "no-show" based on shape, material, or overall design, such as the flatness of the straps or lack of seams. It can also have to do with color. For instance, nude underwear won't be as detectable underneath a semi-sheer skirt as a bolder hue.

Top 5 types and styles of no-show underwear

There are a few different types of underwear styles that can be no-show, including:

• Thongs
• G-strings
• Seamless boy shorts or bikinis
• No-stitch high-rise briefs
• Nude underwear

Here's what to know.

#1 Thongs

A thong has a triangular fabric panel in the front and a thinner strip in the back. It's great for those who prefer more coverage in the front but want to avoid visible panty lines in dresses or pants. Thongs come in various styles and cuts, including high-cut, hipster, and compression (like a smoothing shapewear thong).

Best for: leggings, tailored pants, jeans, maxi dresses, tights, biker shorts, yoga pants

#2 G-strings

A G-string is a type of thong with a small fabric triangle in the front, string-like straps, and a thinner back strip. This underwear style offers super minimal coverage. If no-show is the goal, look for a string thong with straps that lay flat and aren't so tight that they dig into your hips. If you're unsure of which thong style to choose, read more on G-strings vs thongs to choose the best underwear for your needs. 

Best for: sheer fabrics, bodycon dresses, fitted skirts, special-occasion outfits

#3 Seamless boy shorts or bikinis

Thongs aren't your only option when it comes to no-show underwear. Seamless styles of boy shorts for women or laser-cut bikinis with bonded seams can be undetectable under tight clothing. Sometimes, the wider side panels can even be less visible than a string thong because they smooth your hips instead of digging in.

Best for: tailored pants, jeans, loungewear, activewear, skirts, maxi dresses, everyday wear

#4 No-stitch high-rise briefs

No-stitch high-waisted briefs, like Negative's Base High Rise Brief, can offer coverage in the back and sides, smoothing action at the waist, and a no-show look under body-skimming clothes — the best of all worlds.

And when you're not wearing clothes, the flattering cut can elongate your legs and highlight your curves.

Best for: slim-fit dresses, pencil skirts, high-rise pants

#5 Nude underwear

Sometimes, the color of no-show underwear matters too. Nude underwear in a shade similar to your skin tone can be the most inconspicuous option to wear under sheer fabrics or light-colored pants — 

Best for: think white trousers or an organza skirt.

Best fabrics for no-show underwear

The best no-show underwear is often made out of stretchy fabrics or light, breathable materials. Our picks for the best fabrics for underwear in no-show styles include options like microfiber, mesh, or cotton.

Stretchy Fibers

Seamless or laser-cut thongs, briefs, bikinis, and boy shorts are typically made of stretchy synthetic materials, often a combination of lycra (aka elastane or spandex) and nylon (polyamide).

These fabrics can be snug and flexible yet lightweight and thin with a barely-there feel. This means a waistband that doesn't dig, straps that lay flat, and a silhouette that's undetectable underneath clothing and shapewear.

Microfiber

Some no-show underwear is made from microfiber, which can be synthetic or natural. It's woven from extra-fine threads to create an exceedingly soft, light feel.

Microfiber tends to be smooth, making it ideal for staying hidden under clothes. Some people also appreciate that the moisture-wicking fabric can draw sweat away from your body.

Mesh

You'll also find different styles of no-show underwear with mesh, like the front triangle of a G-string or the back of a string bikini. As with our Sieve String Thong, the semi-sheer material is airy and breathable.

Cotton

No-show underwear can be made of cotton: an inherently breathable, naturally moisture-wicking fiber. Cotton is also hypoallergenic, meaning it likely won't cause irritation and tends to be a good option for sensitive skin.

No matter what primary fabric underwear is made of — no-show or not — it should have a cotton gusset. The gusset is the little piece of fabric sewn into the crotch of women's underwear to prevent irritation, chafing, and buildup of bacteria from sweat. Basically, it makes women’s underwear healthier and comfier to wear.

How to choose the best no-show underwear for you

When buying no-show underwear, first think about what you plan to wear it with. A nude-colored mesh string thong might be best under a sheer voile dress or a curve-hugging maxi, whereas a seamless thong or laser-cut bikini might be better for white linen pants.

You'll also want to consider your coverage preferences and what you find most comfortable. Do you want extra coverage in the front but no visible lines in the back? A regular thong might be the way to go. Do you prefer more fabric on your backside? Briefs in seamless styles may be more up your alley.

Why no-show underwear is a must-have

No-show underwear can be crucial when wearing tight or sheer clothing, like stretchy leggings, a bodycon dress, or a gauzy skirt. This type of underwear stays undetected so it doesn't distract from what you're wearing.

Of course, not all outfits call for no-show underwear. For example, pocketed jeans are often thick and structured enough that underwear lines aren't really visible, regardless of style.

If your lingerie drawer could use a refresh, consider this your sign to buy new underwear. Negative Underwear has uncomplicated luxury essentials that help you wear less better. Check out our never-uncomfortable underwear for women and bras and find the perfect pair today.