Dresses and Panty Lines

Alex's Boutique
Dec 8, 2025
3 min read

Nothing is worse than finding a dress you love, heading home, and realizing it’s either super see-through or requires that one pair of underwear you absolutely do not own. A nightmare! We’ve all been there…

But don’t worry — there are a few simple ways to avoid panty-line panic and feel confident in whatever you’re wearing.

1) If you bought your dress from Alex’s Boutique…

You’re already ahead of the game. When we curate dresses, we consider fabric weight, lining, and how they behave with underwear — so the panty-line situation is already in mind.

2) Wearing something fitted? Choose the right cut.

If you’re wearing something fitted, ribbed, or curve-hugging, the wrong underwear will announce itself before you even leave the house. Instead of a bikini or thong that may show more lines, opt for a boyshort cut or a seamless, laser-cut panty. These are designed to lay flat against the skin without creating ridges under the fabric.

If you’re dealing with a material that tends to cling (rayon, modal, jersey knits), seamless underwear will give you the smoothest silhouette. Shapewear isn’t always necessary — in fact, for everyday dresses, it can be overkill. What you really want is underwear that moves with the fabric, not against it.

3) Light colors require the right base layer.

When you're wearing lighter colors, the goal is always to blend, not brighten. White underwear might seem like the obvious choice, but in reality, it behaves like a flashlight under fabric. Instead, choose underwear in light tan, beige, or light gray — these tones disappear under most dresses, even sheer or sunlit ones.

A quick trick: Before wearing the dress out, hold the fabric up toward a window with your hand behind it. If you can clearly see the hand shape, you need a neutral tone underneath. This same rule applies to bras — a nude or soft gray bra will always read invisible, even under thin cotton or linen.

4) Still stuck? Turn basics into a solution.

If you’re still struggling, don’t forget the simplest option: a stretch tank or tube top turned into a slip. Most women already have one in their wardrobe. Slip it on under your dress, tuck it smoothly, and it becomes an instant liner that prevents show-through and panty lines.

This trick works especially well with dresses that are slightly sheer, clingy, or prone to static. Just be mindful of fabric: if the tank isn’t cotton, rayon, or a soft modal blend, it can trap heat when worn outdoors. The goal is to create a smooth layer, not turn your outfit into a sauna.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right dress is only half the battle — feeling confident in it is what really matters. With the right underwear, thoughtful layering, and a little know-how, you can avoid panty-line surprises and enjoy your outfit without a second thought. The goal is simple: smooth lines, comfortable fabrics, and a dress that lets you shine, not your undergarments.

And remember — if you ever feel unsure, we’re here to help you find pieces that fit well, feel good, and make getting dressed effortless.