Thongs may not be talked about often, but they’re loved for giving that smooth, no-show look under outfits. Should you wear them daily or for a special event? Well, thongs are perfect for both.
However, with so many styles, fits, and materials, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help make things easy, breaking down the different types of thongs and showing how to find the one that’s comfy, stylish, and perfect for your needs.
Let’s get into the details, shall we?
What Is A Thong?
A thong is a fun and minimalistic style of underwear. It’s known for offering little to no coverage in the back. The front usually has a triangular shape, while the back features a thin strip of string, leaving the rear exposed.
Thongs come in different materials, from comfy cotton to sexy lace, making them perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. Rudi Gernreich, an Austrian-American designer, helped make the thong popular in 1974.
Thongs are great for wearing under skirts, dresses, or tight pants when you want that smooth, seamless look.
A Quick Look at the History of Thong Underwear
Here’s a quick and easy guide to how thong underwear evolved from its humble beginnings to a fashion must-have.
|
Year |
Milestone |
|
200 BC |
The fundoshi, a Japanese undergarment, becomes popular with sumo wrestlers and divers. |
|
1939 |
NYC mayor asks dancers to cover up, sparking early thong designs at the World’s Fair. |
|
1974 |
Rudi Gernreich debuts the thong swimsuit, which quickly turns into a popular underwear trend. |
|
1990s |
Thongs become the go-to underwear to avoid panty lines with slim-fit jeans and skirts. |
|
1995 |
Victoria’s Secret features thongs in a runway show, igniting a thong frenzy among shoppers. |
|
2002 |
Thong sales soar in the US, with over 120 million pairs sold. |
|
2010 |
Thong popularity dips as boy shorts rise in trendiness. |
|
2016 |
Vogue declares the return of the thong, calling it a stylish essential. |
|
2019 |
Brands like Parade bring back the thong, focusing on inclusivity and fun styles. |
|
2023 |
The Y2K "whale tail" trend returns, with exposed thongs becoming a prominent look on runways and red carpets. |
Different Types of Thongs
Thongs come in a variety of styles, each offering different levels of coverage and comfort. Below are the details.
Brazilian Thong
The Brazilian thong strikes a balance between revealing and coverage. It provides slightly more fabric than a traditional thong but still leaves much of the butt exposed.
Undoubtedly, it’s a flattering fit; it enhances the shape of your curves while providing a sultry look. This style is perfect for you if you want a cheeky, flirty vibe without fully committing to a string thong.
Classic Thong
The classic thong is the go-to style for many, providing a barely-there look with minimal fabric at the back.
It offers a smooth, seamless appearance under clothing, which makes it a top choice for avoiding visible panty lines. The front gives moderate coverage, while the thin strip at the back makes it perfect for those who prefer a sleek silhouette.
String Thong
A string thong is one of the most minimalistic underwear styles. It consists of a narrow waistband, typically made from string, with a small triangular piece of fabric in the front and a thin string at the back.
This style provides the least coverage. So, yes, it is a daring option for those who want to feel like they are wearing nothing. It's a great choice for tight outfits, ensuring no panty lines or bunching.
Thong Tanga
A thong tanga sits between a thong and a bikini style. You will get slightly more coverage than a traditional thong but still maintain a cheeky, revealing vibe. The sides are typically wider, providing more comfort, while the back resembles the thong's classic minimal coverage.
This style is perfect for those who want a balance between comfort and sexiness.
High Waist Thong
Do you like a more flattering fit around the waist and want to accentuate their curves? A high-waist thong is what you need. It’s great for pairing with high-waisted jeans or skirts for a streamlined look.
The high-waist thong provides a retro-inspired look that combines style with comfort. The waistband sits higher on the waist, which helps smooth out the tummy area while offering minimal back coverage of a classic thong.
Seamless Thong
A seamless thong is designed to be virtually invisible under clothing. Made from soft, stretchy fabrics without noticeable seams, this style eliminates the worry of visible panty lines.
It’s ideal for wearing under-body-hugging outfits like dresses, leggings, or skirts. Seamless thongs are popular for their comfort and practicality, offering a smooth finish that feels like a second skin.
Shaper Thong
The shaper thong combines the benefits of shapewear with the minimal coverage of a thong. It is designed to smooth and sculpt the tummy area, providing support and control without sacrificing sexiness.
The front of this thong has a thicker fabric for added support, while the back stays like a regular thong. It's a great choice when you need a smooth, sleek look, especially for wearing under tight dresses or formal outfits.
V-String Thong
A V-string is a variation of the string thong with even less fabric involved. It features a tiny waistband that creates a V-shape at the back, connected to a small piece of fabric in the front.
This thong is one of the most revealing styles. Therefore, you will get minimal coverage and maximum freedom. It’s often worn for special occasions or under extremely tight clothing where no panty lines are desired.
Cheeky Thong
The cheeky thong offers more coverage than a traditional thong but still leaves part of the butt exposed, giving it a playful, flirty appeal. The front provides moderate coverage, while the back offers a “cheeky” reveal that enhances your curves.
This style is perfect for those who want something between a bikini and a thong.
T-Back Thong
The T-back thong is named after its distinctive shape. The back of the thong forms a T-shape where the waistband meets the vertical strip that goes down between the cheeks.
This minimalistic design ensures no visible panty lines, making it a popular choice for tight or thin fabrics. It’s both practical and sleek, offering a barely-there feel with enough coverage.
Also Read: Types of Bras: A Complete Breakdown for Every Outfit
Things to Consider When Buying A Thong
Comfort and practicality should be top priorities when buying a thong. From fabric to fit and style, each factor plays a crucial role in ensuring you find the perfect thong that suits your needs and preferences.
Fabric
Fabric is one of the most critical factors when buying a thong. Cotton is a popular choice for daily wear due to its breathability and softness, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
On the other hand, lace, satin, or synthetic materials like spandex may offer a more luxurious or seamless feel but may not be as breathable. Consider the fabric based on your comfort, skin sensitivity, and intended use.
For long hours of physical activity, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics are recommended.
Fit and Size
Ensuring the right fit is crucial for comfort when choosing a thong.
A thong that's too tight can cause discomfort or dig into the skin, while one that’s too loose might shift throughout the day. Always check sizing charts, as thong sizes can vary between brands.
Look for thongs with adjustable straps or elastic waistbands to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
Purpose and Occasion
The purpose for buying the thong should also guide your decision. Choose something comfortable, like a seamless or cotton thong, for daily use.
You might prefer a thong with no visible lines if you need it for a special occasion or under specific clothing, like tight dresses. Shapewear thongs provide light shaping under formal attire, while a lace or decorative thong might suit intimate occasions.
Style
Thongs come in various styles, from the classic thong to G-strings, V-strings, and cheeky options.
The style you choose should depend on your personal preferences and the outfit you plan to wear it with. For instance, a G-string provides minimal coverage and works well under very tight outfits, while a cheeky thong offers a bit more coverage with a playful vibe.
Understand the occasion and your style needs when picking the right thong.
Seam Visibility
If you’re planning to wear a thong under body-hugging or sheer clothing, seamless thongs are an excellent choice.
Seam visibility is a common concern with tight clothing, and the wrong thong can leave unwanted lines. Seamless options are made to be virtually invisible, using bonded edges or laser cuts to ensure a smooth finish.
Consider this factor if you often wear leggings, tight skirts, or dresses where panty lines can be an issue.
Waistband Height
Waistband height is another important consideration. High-waist thongs offer more tummy control and can be paired with high-waisted pants or skirts.
Conversely, low-rise thongs sit closer to the hips and are perfect for low-rise jeans or shorts. Choosing a thong with the right waistband height can ensure it aligns with your outfit and provides the desired level of comfort and coverage.
Material Breathability
Breathability is especially important for preventing discomfort, irritation, or infections.
Thongs made from synthetic materials may trap moisture, increasing the risk of bacterial growth, especially during hot weather or intense physical activity.
Cotton thongs are often recommended for their breathability, allowing air to circulate and moisture to escape. For sports or long periods of wear, consider moisture-wicking materials that keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
FAQs
How Do You Know If A Thong Fits?
Your thong should sit snugly on your hips without digging into your skin. The waistband should feel secure but not too tight. The back should lie comfortably between your cheeks without irritation. If it shifts, pinches, or leaves marks, it’s likely too small or too large. A well-fitting thong stays in place and feels comfortable throughout the day.
How High Should A Thong Sit?
A thong should rest where it feels natural, usually around your hips or slightly lower. Some styles, like high-waist thongs, will sit higher, but it’s all about what feels good to you. It might not be the right fit if it’s digging in or riding up. The goal is a secure fit that stays in place without discomfort!
Last Thoughts
In summary, there are many different types of thongs, offering various comfort levels and coverage.
From the minimalistic string thong to the more supportive high-waist and shaper options, there’s a thong for every occasion. Factors like fabric, fit, and style should guide your choice, ensuring comfort and practicality.
Understanding the different types helps you find the perfect match for your wardrobe and needs.