The tai brief explained, who it suits

Short answer: Tai briefs are the middle ground between hipster and thong. They have a higher leg cut than a hipster and a narrower side panel, but cover more than a thong, both at the front and back.

What tai looks like

Tai has a curved leg opening that sits higher on the thigh than classic briefs. It looks more open without losing coverage at the front. The side panel is narrower than on a hipster. See the soft basics in our bamboo jogging suit.

Who chooses tai

Tai is often chosen by those who feel the hipster covers too much of the thigh but do not want a thong. It is a calm choice if you want freedom at the leg and still feel covered. See more in bamboo slips.

What to wear it with

The higher leg cut gives a softer line under fitted skirts and dresses, because the edge does not sit across the middle of the bottom. Under loose trousers the cut matters less. Compare the layers in bamboo sweatshirt for women.

How it differs from a hipster

The hipster has a wide side panel and a low, straight leg edge. Tai has a narrower side and an edge that runs up towards the hip. That makes tai easier to move in and less visible under fitted clothes, while the hipster covers more thigh and hip.

How it differs from a thong

A thong has only a narrow strip of fabric at the back. Tai covers most of the bottom and feels more like ordinary briefs. Many who dislike the feel of a thong wear tai instead when they want to avoid visible edges.

Fit decides comfort

Tai in the right size lies flat along the leg opening without digging in. Too small, and it pulls up and rides. Too large, and the fabric folds at the back. Use the size you wear in other briefs and check the feel at the leg.

The colours cover most needs

Tai comes in black, cream and tan. Black suits dark clothes, cream suits white and light clothes, and tan sits close to skin tone, so it shows least under thin fabrics. With all three you have briefs for almost any outfit.

Soft fabric at the leg

The leg opening is where you feel tai most, because the edge sits where you move as you walk. In a soft fabric like bamboo viscose the edge lies smoothly against the skin and gives with every step, so it does not chafe.

Tai for everyday wear

Many wear tai as their everyday briefs because they are easy to wear and suit most outfits. They work at the office, on the bike and in the evening. With several of the same style, changing daily takes no thought.

Washing and care

Wash tai at 40 degrees with other underwear, ideally in a laundry bag. Air dry them so the elastic at the leg keeps its shape longer. Avoid the tumble dryer and fabric softener, and change briefs daily.

Frequently asked questions

Is tai the same as Brazilian

They are very similar. Tai usually has a little more coverage at the back, while Brazilian styles are often cut slightly higher and narrower.

Does tai ride up

Rarely, if the size is right. A style that is too small rides up whatever the cut, so adjust the size if the briefs will not stay put.

Which colours does tai come in

Black, cream and tan. The three shades cover most needs, from dark clothes to white and thin fabrics, where skin toned briefs show least.