Buying underwear online may seem straightforward, but an attractive product photo doesn’t always tell you everything. You may not notice the wrong size, unclear fabric composition or a fit that shifts as you move until you’ve worn the item. With women’s underwear, men’s underwear, bras and sports bras in particular, small design differences can make a big difference to everyday comfort.
When shopping online, look out for these common pitfalls:
Many people find cotton underwear comfortable and choose it for everyday wear. Cotton can be blended with elastane to help the garment move with you. Modal, nylon and polyamide are also commonly used in briefs, thongs, bras and seamless underwear.
Always check:
A product description may, for example, refer to a soft or breathable fabric. Treat this as the brand’s description and check the fabric composition behind the claim. The Calvin Klein Relaxed Fit Trunk 3-Pack, for example, is listed as cotton with elastane. The product page also says it is machine washable and advises against tumble drying.
A comfortable fit shouldn’t be too loose or dig in. For briefs and boxer shorts, check the rise, leg openings and whether there’s an elasticated waistband. Flat or minimal seams can be useful in seamless underwear under tight clothing, but getting the right size is still important.
For bras and sports bras, check for:
Pay extra attention to styles that are described as coming up small. The Calvin Klein Unlined Bralette, for example, is listed as XS for EU sizes 32–34, and the product information says it may come up small. In this case, the size chart matters more than simply choosing your usual label.
Multipacks and neutral colours are practical for everyday wear. A set of three briefs or boxer shorts makes it easier to change throughout the week. Disposable underwear can be handy for travelling, as you won’t need to wash it while you’re away. Be sure to check the size, packaging and information about single use.
For sport, choose a style that the product description says is suitable for the intensity of your activity. A running or fitness bra should stay securely in place, while a less structured design may be enough for yoga or light exercise. Claims about moisture-wicking, shock absorption or support come from the manufacturer, so check the fabric, underband and sizing in particular.
Why it suits this shopper: A multipack of three black trunks is a practical starting point for everyday wear, work and leisure.
The product information lists cotton, elastane, an elasticated waistband and a fitted cut. That means you can base your choice on specific features, rather than just the brand name.
Three pairs per pack, black, cotton with elastane, and machine washable according to the product information.
Why it suits this shopper: This style is designed for anyone looking for a smooth bra to wear under T-shirts and fitted tops, with adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye fastening.
The product description lists smooth, seamless cups and size 70 D. Check the size and cup shape before ordering, rather than basing your choice on appearance alone.
Push-up style, smooth cups, adjustable shoulder straps and a neutral beechwood colour.
Why it suits this shopper: This style is designed for running, fitness and other high-intensity workouts, where a firm underband and close fit are important.
The product description says the bra has padding, a wide underband and nylon-spandex fabric. These features are claims made by the brand, so also check the size and choose a style that doesn’t dig in.
Padding, a wide underband, a nylon-spandex blend and available in black in size XL.
Why it suits this shopper: Individually wrapped boxer shorts are handy for travelling, gym bags or situations where you can’t wash clothes straight away.
The product information lists 100% cotton, three pairs and a waist measurement range of 107–117 cm for XXL. This lets you compare the pack and size with your own needs before ordering.
Individually wrapped, three pairs of boxer shorts per set and a specific waist measurement range in the product information.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the current European safety regulations.
Measure your waist, hips or bust with a flexible tape measure, then compare the results with the size chart for the specific product. Don’t automatically choose the same size across every brand. For bras, check both the band size and cup size. If a style is listed as coming up small, take that into account when choosing your size.
How long it lasts depends on the fabric, how often you wear it, and how you wash and dry it. Follow the care label, avoid unnecessarily high temperatures and don’t tumble dry items if this is advised against. Loose elastic, thinning fabric or lasting loss of shape are signs that it’s time to replace the garment.
A multipack can be practical and good value if you wear every item regularly. Compare the price per item and check whether the styles, sizes and fabrics are the same. A set is less worthwhile if some of the colours or fits don’t suit your clothes or everyday habits.