Nothing says “I have my shit together” like a pristine drawer of perfectly folded skivvies—and no matter your personal aesthetic, a fresh haul of the best underwear for women is the move. After all, a spruced-up intimates collection is as much a wardrobe essential as a great leather jacket, and it doesn’t matter if you’re dressed to the nines or staying breezy and just trying to beat the heat.
As for what to look for in your undies, fabric comes first. “Natural fabrics—such as cotton—are made of animal- or plant-based fibers, while synthetics are man-made and produced entirely from chemicals to create fabrics like polyester, rayon, acrylic, and many others,” says Monica Grover, MD, ob-gyn and chief medical officer at Vspot. Absorbent and quick-drying fabrics such as nylon, polyester, bamboo, spandex, and merino wool are great at wicking sweat—especially during the summer—which is why you’ll often moisture-wicking underwear made of these exact materials.
The same can be said for workout underwear, where experts recommend looking for breathable fabrics that can also absorb sweat. “In general, I encourage women to wear cotton underwear while working out, but the newer blends that wick away sweat are good too,” Mary Jane Minkin, MD, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University Medical School, told Glamour previously.
From buttery-soft briefs to cotton bikini cuts to comfortable thongs, there are ample underwear styles to choose from, each one a perfect fit for whatever’s on your agenda—thirst traps and catnaps alike. And the list ahead includes popular panties from essential lingerie brands plus new ones to have on your radar. With classic silhouettes from Calvin Klein as well as show-stopping designs from Cosabella, there’s something for every occasion (including period underwear for your time of the month, sweat-wicking workout undies, or maternity underwear if you’re expecting).
Ready to stock up? Clear out some space in your dresser, and shop the 19 best underwear for women in 2023.
Best Underwear for Women 2023:
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