ComScore

11 Pairs of High Waisted Underwear That Are More ‘Sexy’ and Less ‘Grandma’

You abandoned your low-rise jeans in the early 2000s, so let me ask you this: Why are you still wearing underwear that barely rises above your hip bones?

While you ponder the answer to this question, let me tell you about the benefits of wearing high-rise underwear. They are naturally smoothing for the belly area, without the tight, uncomfortable feeling of shapewear. And they give you a little extra coverage that can make wearing a short skirt or flirty dress feel like a confidence-boosting exercise. 

All this to say that high rise underwear is not just for grandmas, people. Today’s styles come in sexy cuts that are a throwback to the ‘90s or offer a cheeky peek of booty, all served up in slinky pastel satin or super comfy (and eco-friendly) cotton weaves.

Here, 11 pairs of high rise underwear that just might make you a convert. 

cuup
cuup

1. cuup The Highwaist

Featuring silky soft fabric and a no-roll waistband that won’t leave your abdomen looking awkwardly dented, these cheeky high-rises are proof that granny panties don’t have to be frumpy.

green
Parade

2. parade Boyshort

Made from recycled yarn, these cuties are from the current “it” lingerie brand (that’s gaining traction for their under $10 must-haves), and are perfect if you’re looking for maximum coverage in the hip and bum area. Equipped with mesh side panels, they still show a hint of skin and come in a slew of fun colors from pale green to merlot purple.

agent provacateur
agent provocateur

3. agent Provacateur Ayla High Waisted Brief

Barbie pink satin with an ‘80s Victoria’s Secret vibe? Yes, please. And permission granted to wear them under a power suit.

knix leakproof
Nordstrom

4. knix Leakproof High Waist Panties

You can throw them in the washer (and dryer), they’re leakproof (so you can wear them on your period) and they’re seamless (later, VPL). Plus, wearers note that the super stretchy fabric doesn’t cut off cut off circulation around your legs, even when you’re sitting down. If you haven’t already trued out Knix’s brilliant panties, you might want to start with this pair.

5. kiki De Montparnasse Intime High Waist Panties

These are like a sexy refresh on your guy’s Calvins...and he’s going to love them. These not-so-basic undies have all the attention to detail that Kiki de Montparnasse is known for, most notably elevated basics with understated sex appeal. Cut slightly higher on the hips, you’ll easily channel your best Marky Mark in these vintage-inspired briefs.

hanky panky x lindsi
Nordstrom

6. hanky Panky X Lindsi Lane Beach Mode Vikini Briefs

You know and love Hanky Panky for their low rise lace thongs that are just as comfortable as they are invisible. But you might want to branch out and try their high-rise briefs that are still sexy AF. Made from cotton with a touch of stretch, these guys will move with you, even if you have to run after a toddler. However, they’re pretty delicate, so they will need to be hand washed and hung to dry.

aerie satin high cut mighty bikini undie
Aerie

7. aerie Satin High Cut & Mighty Bikini Undie

These bad boys get their sex appeal from a revealing cut and subtle sheer details along the waist and legs. Consider this an everyday pair that have just enough flair to feel special. Shoppers note that the satin offers a luxe finish, but just the right hint of stretch.

ouenz cotton high
Amazon

8. ouenz Cotton High Waist Soft Briefs

For briefs that do more than just look cute, this full-coverage pair have racked up plenty of fans, especially those who are recovering from a C-section. The soft but supportive fabric is much more comfortable than Spanx, but still offers a smoothing effect that’s even perceptible even under thin leggings. Coming out to about $3 per pair, these stretchy undies are also the most affordable on this list. 

lonely hollie short black1
lonely

9. lonely Hollie Short Black

Here’s proof that you can still have that super sexy lingerie moment...and keep your hips covered. The details are what make this pair from Lonely stand out, from the trio of buttons running up the front to the lace panels that provide a cheeky finish. Made from an eco-chic bamboo fabric, you’ll feel extra confident knowing that they’re good for the environment, too.

fenty floral lace high rise brief
Fenty

10. fenty Floral Lace High Rise Brief

Don’t let the $6 price tag fool you; these high-rise briefs are both smoothing and comfy. Reviewers note that the ribbed waistband doesn’t roll down (which is the most annoying underneath a dress) and that the fabric doesn’t rub against your skin uncomfortably. Available in six colors and going up to a size 3X, these are truly the universal pair of high rise undies.

BUY IT ($6)

dora larsen bonnie high waist panties
Nordstrom

11. Dora Larsen Bonnie High Waist Panties

Can satin and lace be flirty, but not over-the-top? Survey says: Yes. Especially when the color scheme includes pale blue, olive green and cotton-candy pink. These sweet satin panties will pair well with your most feminine floral dresses, but will easily slide under high-waisted jeans, all while keeping you feeling young at heart.



dena silver headshot

Fashion Editor

From 2019-2021 Dena Silver held the role of Fashion Editor covering product recommendations, trends, and what you should be shopping this season.