Why most basics are knitted

Sep 20, 2026

Short answer: Basics need to sit close, follow the body and go on and off without fastenings. Only knit can do all three at once, which is why almost all underwear and loungewear is knitted.

Movement needs stretch

The body changes shape with every step, bend and lift of the arm. A fabric without stretch would either pull tight or hang loose. Knit gives and returns, so the garment moves with you without getting in the way. This applies to everything from a bamboo bra to trousers, where movement is greatest at shoulders, hips and knees.

No fastenings needed

Because knit stretches over shoulders and hips, there is no need for buttons or zips. That makes clothing simpler, softer and quicker to put on. Fewer fastenings also mean fewer hard points against the skin. It is one reason a bamboo jogging suit is so easy to pull on after a long day.

Comfort against the skin

Knit has a soft surface without sharp thread crossings, and you notice it after a full day. The loops lie gently curved and form a round, pleasant surface. Woven fabric can feel smooth but often stiffer. Browse the most chosen styles in women's most popular, where knit appears again and again.

Fit becomes more forgiving

Because knit stretches, it suits more body shapes within one size. The fabric settles to the body instead of forcing it into a fixed form. You do not have to hit the size exactly to get a good fit. If you are between two sizes, your preference for a close or relaxed fit decides.

Are there woven basics

Yes, but they need fastenings or a very loose fit. A classic woven boxer short, for example, has a button or a roomy cut so it can go on. It therefore sits differently from a knitted style. Woven basics have their fans, but for close fitting clothing, knit is the obvious choice.

Knit can be thin or thick

Knit has no single thickness. It can be very fine for underwear and t-shirts or thick and full for sweatshirts and loungewear. Thickness depends on the yarn and how tightly the machine knits. That makes knit flexible, so the same principle works for a light top and a warm set for cool evenings.

Why knit curls at the edge

One drawback of knit is that the edge tends to curl. This happens because the loops pull together on the back. That is why knit edges are finished with a rib, a hem or a band that keeps them flat. When you see a rib at the waist or cuff, it is there for exactly that reason.

Caring for knitted clothes

Wash knit at a low temperature, use a mild detergent and avoid wringing hard. Dry it flat, especially thicker pieces, so the weight does not pull them out of shape. Avoid high heat in the dryer. With these habits, knit keeps its stretch and softness, and your clothes fit well for many seasons.