In my late-20s, early-30s, I owned so much lingerie.  Which is especially funny when you realize that I was a dedicated non-dater and celibate for the vast majority of that time.  But I loved how powerful lingerie made me feel when worn under a suit on important work days.  It was the ultimate proof that women dress for themselves and other women, not men.

Fast forward through the weight gain and body dysmorphia that comes with aging and having a child and the readjustments of the post-pandemic era, and my gorgeous Agent Provocateur pieces are in mothballs.  But lately, I’ve been thinking that, if I’m going to rebuild my wardrobe, I should start with my underwear drawer.

During IVF and pregnancy, I switched from the thong underwear I’d worn for nearly a decade to period briefs.  And now, even though my baby is 16-months old, I haven’t switched back.  Why?

First off, even though I never found thongs to be uncomfortable, briefs are more comfortable.

Second, now that brands have gotten serious about designing briefs that don’t cause VPL (thank you scalloped and/or lasered edges), thongs are not the only way to get a smooth look.

Third, light absorbency is a highly underrated quality in an undergarment.  I love that I never have to buy pantyliners again.  I also never have to worry about my cycle causing a wardrobe malfunction ever again. Absorbent underwear is a fantastic innovation.

But all of this being said, I decided to go hunting for a better mousetrap.  Just because I prefer to wear a comfortable undergarment doesn’t mean I can’t find one that is also pretty.  So here are some picks (some absorbent, some not) that give both comfort and pretty.

Mesh // I love these briefs from On Gossamer. The mesh gives it a sultry look, and the trim is a nice addition.  If you like these, you can pick up a discounted three-pack on Amazon.  Prefer a mesh accent?  Parade has these mesh-panel boy shorts (up to 5XL) and Target has these mesh accent cheekys.  Looking for an absorbent option?  Saalt has you covered.

Lace // If you want full coverage that looks sexy, an all lace option is for you.  These Free People boy shorts are gorgeous.  H&M also offers a five-pack of lace hipster briefs.  Need a bit of stretch?  Felina’s Finesse boyshort has a unique lace pattern and moves with you.

If you want less coverage, the VS lace cheeky is a good choice — enough fabric, but less coverage. Prefer something with lace trim as opposed to full lace? These Cosabella Dolce bikinis are pretty and practical.  Also, if you are looking for undwerwear that smooth your lower abdomen, Spanx Undetectable lace brief is for you.

Have an underwear recommendation to share?  Please leave it in the comments.

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