As an elder millennial, I’m thrilled that the late ’90s and early aughts styles of my youth have cycled back into fashion. String bikini-style undies were all the rage when I was young, but largely fell off the radar in recent decades. I had all but forgotten they were even an option until the actor who played Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette” wore a pair in the pilot episode of the show.
I was actually surprised at how difficult it was to find the perfect pair, but several weeks of research landed me on this six-pack of viscose-and-spandex blend underwear at Amazon — and despite my skepticism that they would be comfortable, they’re actually much comfier than the giant granny panties I’ve been living in since I gave birth almost two years ago. Best of all? All six pairs cost less than $20, which nets out to about $3 per pair.
Why These Undies Are a Game-Changer
I wear them daily no matter the occasion, and it turns out I’m not alone in my sentiments — one reviewer called them the “only underwear I buy!” The material is shockingly soft, lightweight and breathable, and they have a comfortable cotton gusset (a non-negotiable for me). I was initially nervous that they would be too thin and fall apart in the wash, but after several months of use each and every pair has held up like new.
My other concern was that the strappy sides would dig into my skin, as my weight is still fluctuating a bit, but I’m pleased to report they’re incredibly comfy with just the right amount of stretch — I truly cannot feel them when they’re on. The style is also unexpectedly sexy and sophisticated, which is a lovely additional detail feature of this silhouette, while remaining decidedly practical and providing just the right amount of coverage.
As reviewers also noted, these undies don’t give me a wedgie or slide around, I’ve yet feel any discomfort while wearing them. They also don’t give me a VPL, which is a nice change from the behemoths I’ve been sporting.
A Personal Transformation
I purchased a pack of this underwear in black and am now gearing up to add some colors into the rotation. I’ll never buy a different style of underwear again! I feel like a human being again when I wear them. It might sound silly, but this underwear drawer refresh has played a part in helping me reclaim myself. And it was an easy and affordable way to do it.
Everyone needs a pack of these cuties, just make sure you take a look at the size guide, which is a bit funky. I typically wear a size small and ordered them in a 5, but probably could size up to a 6 for a less skimpy-fit. Take a look at what other shoppers have to say and add these babies to your cart. They’ll have you tossing all your other panties in the bin.
What Other Shoppers Are Saying
Here are some promising reviews from satisfied customers:
- DarkFarg: “I had low expectations given the price, but I am pleasantly surprised! The fabric is super soft, the cut is comfortable, they’re cute, and they seem to be holding up well after several washings. They also stay in place (even through workouts).”
- Kim: “They are soft and fit just right. This is my second time ordering these.”
- Amazon customer: “Comfy and long lasting. Had mine for a few years now. They are my favorite. It says hand wash, honestly didn’t realize until I came to get another pack because I lost some. I’ve been washing them on cold for them the entire time. They are still as comfy as the day I bought them, no loose threads, and I don’t have the issue of my butt eating my pants or skirts.”
- Rachel Corona: “A steal. Flattering and comfortable. Makes legs look longer and covers the butt.”
- jody4president: “Adore these string bikinis. These are by far the most comfortable, soft, breathable knickers i have owned. The sit perfectly and are so well made. These are my go to.”
- Ty Creasy: “Fit perfect, good quality. Exactly what I was looking for!”
- Andy Lutton: “I never write reviews but these undies deserve it! I’ve been actually struggling for years to find cute, well made underwear that fit nicely, don’t ride up my rear or get baggy as you were them…. And don’t look like granny panties. These are them! I read a review about these that mentioned you’d like them if you’re a millennial who loved all the cute string bikini styles we had back in the day, Haha! Sold! That’s exactly what these are! They are so cute and comfy, they don’t give you a wedgie, the fabric doesn’t shift or get bunchy. The fabric is very nice and soft too. The sizing is correct. I’m 5’9, curvy/athletic build, usually wear a medium or large so I got size 7. They fit perfect! Before I started typing this review I was rereading some of their reviews and wondering why there were so many bad ones. Makes me wonder if they received the same product? Hopefully this next pack is just as great! Oh and one last thing, these have special delicate washing instructions but I’ve been washing them with the rest of my laundry and they are holding up just fine. So, if you want some cute undies that are flattering and sexy but also have booty coverage, these will be your new favorites!”
- Donna J Fusco Venglass: “Theses underwear are extremely comfortable, they move with you and don’t ride up and the seams are invisible thru your clothes.”
More Popular Underwear Options at Amazon
1. A 5-pack of full-coverage high-waist cotton underwear
These wildly popular cotton undies are made with a breathable, soft cotton-spandex blend with just the right amount of stretch to allow for freedom of movement. The packs are available in black, white, grey and multiple color options in sizes S-5XL. They feature a double-layered waistband that sits at the belly button, are sweat-wicking and won't cut into your limbs. They're also a great option for those who are postpartum, recovering from c-sections or other abdominal surgeries.
Promising review: “If you are anything like me you probably have a few products in your cart and you are doing your homework in the review section. This is your sign to ORDER THEM! I found a few brands I was interested in but ultimately came back and ordered these. There was a review that said “it feels like nothing is on.” At first I thought yeah okay.. but seriously it feels like nothing is on. I am blown away at the quality and comfort of these panties and highly recommend them. I’m usually not a repeat buyer because I find something wrong with any kind I get but I will definitely be ordering another pack in different colors! Love love love them! For reference I am 5’ 2” 230lb with an apron belly and love handles and bought an xl. The high waist band does not dig in and sits right above my belly button. They are super forgiving, super stretchy and have a wide crotch area that is perfect for pad use. So glad I spent the little extra $ and bought these.” — Amazon Customer
2. A 5-pack of Calvin Klein logo bikini briefs
Everyone looks great in a pair of Calvins, and these hugely popular bikini briefs are a testament to the brand's long-standing credibility in the undergarment sphere. Soft, comfortable and lightweight, they're the ideal everyday undies. The signature Calvin Klein waistband detail gives you just the right amount of '90s chic while the dreamy fabric, cut and silhouette will make you feel fabulous. You can get a five-pack in a range of assorted colors in sizes XS-XL.
Promising review: “I have these in so many colors and styles . I love the comfort of these panties . I love that they do well in the wash and they don't shrink . The size is always right . The price is good for what you get.” — Nicole
3. A 12-pack of Fruit of the Loom's most popular style
Designed to be fade- and shrink-resistant, this 12-pack of famously soft mid-rise briefs features a cotton-poly blend construction, cotton gusset and woven waistband and leg openings to help prevent panty lines. They're the ideal everyday undies, and are available in sizes 5-13 Plus.
Promising review: “These underwear are comfortable, fit well, and are breathable. They don’t ride up at all. Would definitely buy again.” — Hilary Hruby
