No Lingerie Collection Is Complete Without These 7 Staples

A vast majority of lingerie trends come and go, but knickers are for life, which is ironic, seeing as they’re the underwear style that is constantly overlooked.

Bras command most of the attention, likely because they can be styled in a way that makes them integral to your outfit—think a flash of lace underneath an unbuttoned blouse, or a jewel-tone satin strap peeking out from underneath a chunky cardigan. However, as knickers are, for the most part, going to be covered up (sheer and naked dresses aside), they’re all too often forgotten about. It’s a shame, seeing as there are so many beautiful briefs to be had out there.

Now, though, brands like Lonely and Love Stories Intimates are putting knickers back in the spotlight, making shopping for your smalls a more stylish endeavour than ever before. But do you know your Brazilian from your bikini? Your French from your short? Keep scrolling to see and shop the types of knickers every woman should have in her lingerie drawer…

Knickers don’t come more classic than full briefs. Bridget Jones did this underwear type an injustice with her beige iterations with a ’40s-style high waist. Look for styles that feature a cool print or luxe fabric and you’ll see just how glamorous they can be. Wear with short skirts and dresses for maximum coverage.

A cross between a bikini and a thong, Brazilian knickers (also known as hipsters) typically feature wide sides that sit low on the hips and thus inform an integral part of any curated underwear drawer.

Don’t be fooled—shorts can be just as sexy as any other underwear style. Much like full briefs, finding interesting finishes is key. What’s more is that they come in both high and low-rise cuts, making them a versatile option under a variety of trousers or skirts.

The ’80s silhouette might be a passing swimwear trend but as far as lingerie is concerned high leg knickers are—for many women—a staple. Featuring a semi-thick band that sits just above the hip bone, these are ideal for apple body shapes who have streamlined legs but may desire some extra support around the stomach.

Thongs are often considered the teenage lingerie of choice (when you’re allowed to start buying your own, and naturally, you opt for the most barely there style), but for grown-ups, they’re ideal for layering under formfitting clothes, as the chances of VPL are swiftly eliminated.

Bikini knickers tend to sit lower on the hips and have narrow (but not floss-like) sides that sit just below your hip bone, making them Ideal for wearing with low-rise trousers or skirts. They also give excellent bum coverage.

French knickers are another short style, only in this instance, they’re more floaty and lightweight than straight-up short briefs. Usually made with silk, satin or lace, they’re easily the most decadent knicker option out there, and are often designed with a matching camisole in mind.

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Now that you’ve got your knickers sorted, see how many other pieces you need to create the perfect lingerie capsule wardrobe.