The dreaded visible panty line - a.k.a., the VPL - is a major fashion faux pax in the world of all things panty related. Giving onlookers a sneak-peek at the outline of your delicates isn’t chic.
It’ll ruin a killer outfit with the force and speed of a bomb explosion. But, some options, fortunately, make VPLs a thing of the past.
Your panty game will be so discreet people will think you’ve gone commando. Pulling this off won’t even require donning a thong - unless that’s your cup of tea.
There are seamless, silky smooth panty options that will disguise unflattering lines while nestling your cheeks in divine comfort.
You just need the right pair of panties and a few tricks of the trade to elevate your knicker game. Here are eleven ways to avoid the indelicate appearance of an awkward VPL.
1. Wear textured fabrics
The key to pulling off a VPL-free look is to make sure you’re not wearing lightweight fabrics. Fabrics such as silk and satin will cling to your skin and tell all your Victoria’s Secrets.
Also, avoid tight pants and skirts that hug your curves like cling-wrap. Dodge slip dresses like the plague.
They can be notorious for riding up and creating more lines and creases. A much more agreeable alternative would be to wear quality denim and textured fabrics that keep underwear lines out of sight.
offer moderate rear coverage, 4-way stretch for comfort, and a construction that minimizes panty lines.
2. Blend lines with bold patterns
Take a walk on the wild side and embrace an animal print - or any print for that matter. The busier your print, the less your panty line will show.
Rocking bottoms with bold patterns is a great way to make a style statement while disguising your underwear game. Now that’s a two for one deal any trendy fashionista would be smart to embrace.
3. Go stealth with a slip
Back in the day, "proper ladies" wouldn’t be caught dead without a slip. It just wasn’t done. Although it added yet another undergarment layer, it served a powerful purpose.
This throwback piece was great at hiding panty lines. Vassarette's adjustable half slip drapes beautifully underneath dresses and skirts to hide VPLs. Pretty stretch lace borders the waist for easy customizing of the rise and length of the slip.
Just make sure you throw in fabric softener sheets or dryer balls in the machine when you wash your slip. It will keep those pesky shocks of static electricity from ruining your day.
4. Layer hosiery over your underwear
While we’re on the subject of layers, let’s dive into the wonderful world of pantyhose. Hosiery is phenomenal at smoothing undesirable panty lines so they disappear into nothingness.
The right design can add flair to any outfit. Your grandmother’s thick pantyhose have come a long way. Now styles drape your shapely gams in lace, polka dots, fishnets, and floral designs.
Vero Monte’s hosiery comes in a variety of fun styles that will send VPLs packing while giving you some extra swag.
But, if you’re considering wearing pantyhose in the summer, hold your horses.
The heat and humidity will make you regret it. Wait until the weather cools off to sport your sexy hosiery.
5. Embrace the thong
A classic thong is a girl’s best friend. Seamless thongs are great at vaporizing unwanted panty lines. Visible panty lines don’t stand a chance when a thong is on duty.
But not all thongs are created equal. Some make you feel like you have a constant wedgie. Opt for thongs in stretchy, microfiber so the material moves with your body.
The best thong for the job will be seamless. In terms of comfort, you should forget you’re wearing one. A great thong will be out of sight and out of mind.
Wealurre’s microfiber no show thong is seamless, smooth, and stretches with your body as you move. It does an excellent job of not showing a hint of lines.
6. Give seamless panties a whirl
Not all women can stomach a thong, even one that’s comfortable. Some just feel more secure knowing their cheeks are covered at all times.
If you find yourself in that boat, then don’t despair. Seamless panties are here to the rescue. They come in a variety of cuts. You can get briefs, bikinis, or hipsters.
Thin, lightweight fabric that lays against the skin will make the line less abrupt and noticeable. Cosomall’s seamless bikini is very soft, stretchy, and comfortable. Say goodbye to VPLs forever with this gem.
7. Shimmy into shapewear
Shapewear isn’t the most comfortable option, but it sure does take care of business. You don’t want to wear it every day.
But when a special occasion is on your calendar, you need this beauty in your life. She will smooth lines under your clothes while helping suck in that muffin top.
The best shapewear will snatch your waist, cancel panty lines, and support your frame without feeling restrictive. Spanx’s “undie-tectable” thong vanishes under clothes with elastic-free edges.
A higher-rise bonded waistband also smoothes unsightly tummy bulges. It holds back FUPAs like the Hoover Dam. Plus, it doesn’t feel restrictive.
8. Match your rise
Coordinating the rise of your panties to the rise of your clothing will ensure a comfortable fit that doesn’t divulge where your panty line begins or ends. For example, mid-rise styles call for mid-rise briefs.
Likewise, when you're wearing a high-waisted skirt or a dress you want to put on high-rise thong that provide seamless coverage. The name of the game is to avoid creasing while giving you the support you need.
9. Be color conscious
You want to make sure that in addition to not flashing your panty lines, you’re also not showing off the color of your panty. This is especially important when wearing a pair of white pants.
Sporting dark underwear under a light fabric will only make lines stand out more. Plus, it looks tacky.
Flesh-colored underwear that matches your skin’s color is perfect for any white or light outfit that is a bit see-through. Also, if you’re in the habit of wearing sheer leggings and yoga pants in public, do buy a thick, opaque pair that people can’t see through.
Bolivelan’s mid-rise seamless thong comes in a beautiful nude that will pair amazingly well with white pants, leggings, and yoga pants. Plus, the seamless style will keep any lines from showing.
10. Get the size right
Put on a pair of too-tight drawers and you’ll have the problem of underwear digging into your skin, creating unsightly visible panty lines. Conversely, anything too loose will appear lumpy and easily show on the outside.
The fit has to be perfect. Toss any underwear that feels restrictive. If the elastic bands are cutting into your skin, it’s time to relocate your panties to a new home - your trashbin.
On the other hand, if you feel unsupported in your panties due to extra fabric hanging down, it’s a sign that they’re too big for you. Give them the old heave-ho and let those puppies kick rocks.
If you're not sure what size to buy, check out our underwear size charts here.
11. Break out the boy shorts
Another underwear option for those who hate thongs, is the boy short. It serves up full coverage and does not cut across your butt.
As a result, it offers a much more seamless look than other styles of underwear. A seamless material will minimize VPLs. Opt for a comfy fit that won’t cut into your skin.
Calvin Klein’s seamless boy shorts offer moderate rear coverage, 4-way stretch for comfort, and a construction that minimizes panty lines.
