How to Choose Quality Lingerie

Date: 11 May 2026

High quality underwear is felt from the very first wear — in the way it fits the body, the softness of the fabric and how it feels throughout the day. When underwear is chosen correctly, you simply forget you're wearing it — and that is the best criterion.

Quality in underwear has two dimensions. The first is the feeling when worn — whether the fabric is soft and breathable, whether the cut follows the body, whether the seams irritate the skin. The second is durability — whether the underwear holds its shape and appearance after repeated washing, whether the elastic loses its stretch, whether the fabric loses its softness. Both dimensions depend on the same things: the right fabric, precise stitching and the correct size. We have been making underwear for 25 years — and in this article we share our expertise on the subject.

The Fabric — the Foundation of Quality Underwear

Fabric is the first thing that determines quality. Not just how the underwear looks, but how it feels, how it breathes and how long it lasts.

Cotton is the classic choice for everyday underwear. Natural, breathable and suitable for sensitive skin. The most appropriate cotton fabric for underwear contains elastane — usually between 5 and 10% — which allows it to stretch and return to its original shape. Cotton briefs and cotton Brazilian briefs are ideal for everyday wear — soft, breathable and easy to care for.

Microfibre is the fabric of modern underwear and lingerie. Smooth, lightweight and invisible under clothes — which is exactly why it is preferred under fitted garments and light fabrics. Quality microfibre is a combination of polyamide and elastane in varying ratios depending on the purpose of the style — soft to the touch, non-static and holding its shape after repeated washing. Microfibre briefs, microfibre Brazilian briefs and microfibre camisoles are the foundation of the collection for women who value comfort and a delicate look.

Lace is the fabric of luxury lingerie. High quality elastic lace is also polyamide-based and combines beautiful aesthetics with comfort — soft, flexible and pleasant to wear. Quality lace lingerie holds its shape and does not irritate the skin. Lace briefs and lace Brazilian briefs are suitable for special occasions, but with the right care can also be an everyday choice.

Elastic tulle is airy, lightweight and elegant — again polyamide and elastane. It is used for decorative details or as the main fabric in more special styles. Tulle lingerie requires more delicate care but adds femininity and lightness to any collection.

More elastane does not always mean better quality — what matters is the balance between elasticity and shape stability. Apart from cotton, viscose and modal, all other fabrics suitable for making quality underwear and lingerie are composed of polyamide and elastane. Never polyester.

Fabric and Elastic Elasticity — When Is It Good

Good quality underwear stretches evenly and returns to its original shape. This sounds simple, but it is one of the most important indicators of quality.

When choosing underwear, we do a quick check: we stretch the elastic and the whole garment. If it returns immediately and evenly — the product is good. If it stays stretched or deforms — the elastic is low quality and will lose its stretch after a few washes.

Seams and Finishing — How to Recognise Underwear with Quality Workmanship

Underwear with quality workmanship is tailored to the fabric, style and purpose — there is no universal formula, but there are clear signs by which we recognise it.

Good underwear has even, fine and tight seams with a high stitch density, which stretch together with the fabric without breaking. Sometimes double-reinforced seams are needed — for example in shaping underwear where strength is the priority, and sometimes the finest possible seam is needed, as in invisible underwear. In all cases there should be no loose threads and no rough edges that irritate the skin. A well-made style does not twist and does not lose its appearance quickly.

We pay attention to:

Flat seams — not felt when worn and leave no marks on the skin. Characteristic of precisely made microfibre underwear.

Elastic finishing — must be even and soft. Soft elastics do not press and leave no marks on the skin even with all-day wear. An elastic that presses or leaves marks is a sign of poor workmanship or the wrong size.

How to Choose High Quality Underwear Online

When we buy underwear and lingerie online, we cannot touch the fabric or check the seams. But there are several things that help us make the right choice.

Read the composition description — underwear made from quality fabric always states the exact composition. Cotton with elastane, polyamide with elastane — specific numbers. If the description is unclear or missing, that in itself is a signal.

Check the size chart — do not rely on S, M, L — there is no universal standard and there can be differences in the same size across different brands. Measure yourself and compare with the manufacturer's size chart. Sizes in underwear do not always follow the same logic as clothing sizes.

Choose a trusted manufacturer — read the reviews and pay attention to comments about the fabric, sizing and durability after washing. This is the most honest indicator of real quality.

Size — Why the Right Size is Part of Quality

Even underwear with quality workmanship will not feel right if the size is wrong. Underwear that is slightly too small leaves marks on the skin, causes irritation and loses its shape faster. Underwear that is too large shifts during wear and does not provide the necessary comfort.

Well-chosen underwear does not dig in, does not bunch up and follows the natural lines of the body. When in doubt between two sizes, it is better to choose the larger one — underwear that presses is not only uncomfortable but also harmful with all-day wear.

In underwear, size is determined by hip circumference, not by clothing size. A woman who wears a size M dress does not always wear a size M in underwear. In the online shop of SIA Underwear you will find women's underwear and lingerie in sizes from S to 6XL — for every figure, with equal attention to the precision of the workmanship.