Because of my ridiculous torso length and the smiley face on my lower tummy from the car accident, I always scope out new high waist underwear. At the start of the year, I had a Bare Necessities gift card and coupon code and decided on the Bali Essentials Double Support Brief. Some of my clothes fit tighter across the tummy, and I prefer more smoothing without resorting to real shapewear. Consequenetly, I was excited to see how these worked.

Size & Fit

My current measurements are 31.5” waist and 38” hips, and I generally wear a size medium in most underwear. I purchased the 6/M in the Bali Essentials, and they fit perfectly. The underwear hug my curves without cutting into the softer bits.

Furthermore, the firmer tummy panel does what I wanted. It pulls in the less firm tissue without being binding or uncomfortable. I like the height of these with their 11” rise. With such a long torso, even mid-rise options sometimes fall dangerously low for me and do the dreaded “undie roll.” Y’all, I cannot emphasize enough how much I despise this.

Materials & Price

The Bali Essentials Brief utilizes a classic Nylon/Spandex blend. Those wanting cotton will need an alternate style as these do not even have a cotton gusset. Allegedly, the fabric wicks away moisture. Allegedly. I have not found this to be true; however, I did not purchase them for this feature.

Both the leg and waist openings sport a tight elastic band. As a result, the waist does not roll down even during active days nor does the back ride up. I never have to discreetly adjust these—always a bonus in my book!

The obvious concern with an elasticized leg versus a laser-edge, fabric glue, or stretch lace is that it will show lines under thinner clothes. Since they offer complete rear coverage, the leg openings cover the full cheek rather than angle diagonally across the back. I have some pretty thin and tight clothes, and these never show lines.

At $12 per pair or three for $38, these are affordable, everyday underwear. I’ve worn them frequently since purchasing, and the quality is impressive, easily as high if not higher than some brands offering $20+ styles. Mine still look brand new.

For care, I machine wash in a lingerie bag and then air dry. PSA: Anything you own which has an elastic content whether it is underwear, yoga pants, dresses, or even jeans will last you much longer if you do not put them in a dryer. Heat deteriorates elastic, meaning the garment stretches much faster.

Aesthetics

Okay, let’s be honest folks. These are granny panties. Now do I care? Nope. I will say that the beautiful detailing on the sides livens up the design without compromising discretion. Personally I like the way they hug my natural waist, and I prefer to think of them as “vintage inspired.” Comfort and smoothing were my primary goals here, and the underwear succeeds.

Overall

Those looking for a quality, affordable everyday underwear, especially one with light support and shaping, should definitely consider the Bali Essential Support Brief!