Not your grandma’s lace: A modern underwear guide

Let’s be honest: not all lingerie is created equal. Some pairs of underwear you wear because, well, you have to. They’re practical, they’re fine, they get the job done. And then there’s lace underwear, the kind of panties that instantly shift your mood from “I’m just getting dressed” to “I am the heroine of my own film!”

That’s the magic of lace. It’s delicate, yes, but it’s also powerful. Lace lingerie has been around for centuries, and it’s not going anywhere. Unfortunately, we all know that some lace panties are scratchy, uncomfortable, or “just for date night.” But the right pair can actually be your everyday favorite! Let’s dive into the what, why, and how of lace underwear, because chances are, you’ll never look at them the same way again.

Why lace underwear never goes out of style

Lace has been turning heads since the Renaissance. Back then, it was a luxury reserved for royalty and aristocrats, every inch handmade by meticulously intertwining tiny threads into intricate patterns. Needless to say, it was both rare and outrageously expensive! Fast forward a few hundred years, and now it’s machine-made and affordable for the masses. Yet after all these years, lace is still shorthand for elegance and romance.

Lace underwear has a unique way of walking the line between softness and strength. It’s the quiet confidence-builder you slip on under your work clothes, the showstopper you save for an anniversary dinner, or the delicate edge of an antique linen heirloom that’s been passed down through the generations. That’s why it never feels dated: Lace adapts to so many different times and places.

Unlike trendy lingerie fads that come and go (remember those neon mesh sets from the early 2000s?) lace knickers remain evergreen. Whether you’re into sleek minimalist thongs, vintage-inspired high waist undies, or comfy everyday bikini briefs, lace is the one detail that can make them all feel special.

Types of lace panties

Not all lace panties are cut from the same proverbial cloth! Here’s a quick guide to the main players, so you can choose your perfect match:

Classic lace briefs: Think of these as your dependable best friend, supportive, comfortable for every day, and perfectly pretty. Classic lace briefs give you medium coverage without sacrificing style, which makes them an easy go-to for daily wear.

String bikinis in lace: For those of you who want the sleek silhouette of a thong but without the tight creeping-up feeling of thongs, consider the string bikini! Offering moderate coverage at the back but graceful narrow sides, these hide well under clothing and still feel fancy. Pro tip: If you experience weight fluctuations or hormonal changes, try string panties with adjustable elastic sides that can move according to your daily needs.

Lace thongs and G-strings: Minimalist but not to be overlooked, lace thongs are perfect for when you don’t want VPL (visible panty lines) under a dress or fitted trousers. And no, not all thongs are torture devices. High-quality lace thongs are surprisingly comfy once you find the right fit!

High-waisted lace underwear: Retro glamour at its best, and these are not your granny’s undies! High-waisted lace panties are decidedly back in fashion, probably because they smooth, flatter, and add a bit of Old Hollywood drama to your lingerie drawer. They offer more of a statement than low-rise briefs, but they can still be an everyday option if you love the vintage vibe.

4 types of knickers from left to right: Classic brief, string bikini, thong, high-waisted brief.

Silk and lace combinations

Silk and lace: the Rolls Royce of lingerie. When silk and lace join forces, you get something that’s as soft as it is jaw-dropping. These are the kind of panties that make you want to lean back on a velvet chaise lounge in a floor-length robe and pearls, sipping tea or champagne. When you’re looking for something to turn the ordinary into extraordinary, add a touch of silk and lace to your outfit and your entire demeanor will shift!

The mixture of silk and lace together is the absolutely height of luxury!

Caring for your lace underwear (so it lasts!)

If you’ve ever pulled a beloved lace bra out of the wash only to find it stretched or snagged, you know the heartbreak... Lace does require a bit of TLC to keep looking its best, and we’re here to help you! Read our Expert Handwashing Guide for the full scoop, or here’s the quick version:

• Wash gently in warm or cool water. Hand washing is the gold standard for best results, but if you absolutely must machine wash, use a mesh lingerie bag to prevent snagging.
• Skip the dryer! Heat is lace’s mortal enemy, so air dry your lace underwear instead.
• Store smart. Keep lace pieces away from hooks, zippers, or anything that could catch.

Think of your lace underwear as an investment. Care for it well, and it will love you back for years!

Visit our expert Handwashing Guide for more tips

Where to buy lace underwear

Here’s where I’ll get real: Cheap lace lingerie is easy to find, but it usually feels scratchy and doesn’t last, leaving you feeling disappointed in money wasted. On the other hand, luxury lace panties are a completely different story. They’re softer, more durable, and beautifully crafted to last for years to come. Think of the initial higher price tag as an investment: When you buy something high-quality that feels lovely against the skin and lasts so much longer, it actually costs you much less per wear than something cheap and uncomfortable that only gets worn a few times before being tossed out.

Angela Friedman’s lace lingerie collections are beautifully handmade in England, with every piece ethically crafted with long-term durability and your comfort in mind. We use the kinds of luxurious French lace and real silk textiles that make you rethink what lingerie can feel like, elevating it from “just underwear” to something you’ll actually look forward to putting on. Prepare to spoil yourself, and browse our bestselling lingerie collections:

Angela Friedman's bestselling lace underwear

FAQs about lace underwear

Can lace underwear actually be comfortable?
Yes, if it’s made well. Scratchy, stiff lace is the cheap stuff. Luxury lace panties are soft, breathable, and often more comfortable than cotton basics.

What if I have sensitive skin?
Finding comfortable underwear is a struggle for those with skin sensitivities, and lace can be one of the worst culprits for itchy feelings. But it’s not a lost cause! Look for lace underwear designs that have lace as an overlay on top of another fabric (especially silk!), so that there’s a smooth textile directly against the skin. Avoid anything metallic, as metallic lurex threads tend to be itchier, and ask brands directly about their options for sensitive skin. Read more on underwear for sensitive skin here.

Can I machine wash my lace panties?
Technically yes, but only if you use a lingerie bag and a delicate cycle. Still, hand washing is the gold standard.

What’s the biggest difference between cheap lace and designer lace?
It comes down to quality. Luxury lace holds its shape, feels soft against the skin, and remains that way through many years. Fast-fashion lace tends to stretch, pill, and even tear after just a few wears. When shopping online, look for key terms like French lace (the finest in the world!) or European lace for the best quality. There are some good quality laces available from other markets, but European laces are widely considered the softest and finest.

Are lace thongs less comfortable than briefs?
It depends on your style preference. Many women find lace thongs surprisingly wearable, especially when the lace is soft and flexible. If you find you’re sensitive to that “wedgie” feeling, try sizing up to a larger size than you would usually buy for briefs, or select an adjustable-side style so you can customize the fit.

Our bestselling lace underwear style is a classic: The Dahlia Knickers

The takeaway

Lace underwear isn’t about impressing anyone else. It’s about how you feel wearing it! Some days that means classic lace briefs under a power suit. Other days it’s a high-waisted silk and lace set that makes you smile just knowing you have it on. Whichever is your favorite style of lace undies, find what works for you and enjoy every minute!

The bottom line is that lace panties will never go out of style because they’re more than a trend. They’re a little luxury, an everyday indulgence, and a reminder that beauty belongs in the smallest details. Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore Angela Friedman’s lace lingerie collections, and treat yourself to lace that feels every bit as good as it looks.