Fashion Editors Agree: These Cotton Underwear Styles Are Worth Every Penny

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Woman wearing best cotton underwear.
(Image credit: @coucouintimates)
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For years, I felt like uncomfortable underwear was just another part of getting dressed. I leaned on formal and stylish pairs that involved lace and sometimes fit a bit too snug, but eventually, this became exhausting. I was spending way too much time thinking about adjusting my clothes and not enough time living life the way I wanted to. That was enough to make me rethink my underwear drawer entirely.

These days, I actually read the labels and pretty much always reach for cotton when it's time to refresh my collection. There's something about a good cotton pair that just feels better: It's breathable, soft against the skin, and comfortable enough to wear all day without a second thought. Cotton underwear might have a reputation for being boring and practical, but I've recently discovered that it can be cute too. The right pair can feel just as special as the lingerie I used to buy without sacrificing comfort in the process. I've tried so many different styles and collected the ones that my coworkers always rave about and I personally love myself. Below, find my top three cotton underwear styles and a few more pairs to know and love.

Editor Approved & Tested Cotton Underwear

1. Cou Cou Intimates

My Review: Cou Cou Intimates is a brand that quickly captured the hearts of It girls around the world. The brand had a mission to make everyday underwear still feel special, and it has certainly succeeded. One of the first styles it launched was the briefs. After wearing them for years, I can confirm they're equally comfortable and cute.

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The Details: 100% organic cotton voile; XXS–XXL; pretty but practical

2. Intimissimi

My Review: Anytime I'm having a day when I simply want to unwind, I reach for this pair of underwear from Intimissimi. This is by far the softest pair I own, yet it still looks put-together. Once you order it once, you'll have every cut and color in your cart. I've already gone back for seconds.

The Details: 90% cotton, 10% elastane; XS–L; best for lounging at home

3. Knix

My Review: It took me a while to get behind leakproof underwear, but now that I'm attached to it, I simply can't get enough. Period underwear is a recent phenomenon that has revolutionized how people experience their cycles. For me, it's made things surprisingly comfortable, and I now lean on it more than just that time of the month. If you didn't know there are cotton versions of this trend, now you do.

The Details: 96% cotton, 4% spandex; XS–4XL; best for periodcare

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Sierra Mayhew
Sierra Mayhew
Fashion Editor

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.