courtesy / nastia kobza
No matter how incredible your outfit looks, it can be ruined as soon as you turn around and see those dreaded VPLs (that’s “visible panty lines” to you, friend). Yes, you can definitely go commando to avoid them, but not everyone feels comfortable sans ~skivvies~. Here, eight ways to achieve a seamless look without giving up your underwear.
1. Wear thick or textured fabrics.
When it comes to tight clothing, jersey, silk, and other lightweight, slinky materials are not your friends—they’re too smooth and clingy. Save them for looser silhouettes, and opt instead for thicker, more textured fabrics, which are better at masking subtle lumps.
2. Camouflage your VPL with a print.
When in doubt, opt for an item with a bold pattern—the busier the print, the better it will be at hiding your lines.
3. Layer tights or pantyhose over your underwear.
It might not be ideal for the summertime, but when the weather starts to get cooler, a pair of tights or pantyhose should smooth out any lines you might have otherwise. Plus, they won’t feel bulky underneath your clothes.
4. Try an old-school slip.
It’s retro but it works. Pro tip: run both the skirt and the slip through a wire hanger a few times before you put them on to prevent any annoying static electricity.
5. Use what the professionals use.
There’s a reason professional stylists use thongs and G-strings exclusively. They might not be as comfy as your high-waisted, cheeky, or full-coverage pairs, but they *will* eliminate pesky lines.
6. Stick-on thongs are also A Thing.
If you need to go even further than thongs, these underwear stickers exist—some styles are even washable and reusable. Since these don’t have any waistband, they come in handy if you’re wearing a super tight-fitting dress that also happens to have major side slits (à la Bella Hadid, here).
7. If you just can’t deal with thongs, try boyshorts.
Boyshorts are great because they go right under the curve of the butt cheek instead of cutting across it. A little lace hem is also good for making the line less abrupt and, thus, less noticeable.
8. Invest in some good shapewear.
Shapewear is great for creating a smooth line under your clothes but don’t torture yourself with anything too tight. It’s seriously not worth it.