Boy Shorts vs Boxers vs Hipsters

Women's Boy Shorts vs Boxers vs Hipsters: Find Your Perfect Everyday Underwear

The best daily underwear strikes a balance between comfort, coverage, and style. What you want is to feel comfortable and confident all day, every day. No pulling, no rolling, and no riding up.

Today, we’re breaking down the essentials of boy shorts, women’s boxers, and hipsters—where these styles came from, how they're shaped, how they feel, and exactly when to reach for each one. Because, from lounging at home to presenting at work or slipping into a sleek dress for weeknight happy hour, the right pair makes all the difference.

First up: Women’s Boy Short Underwear

Boy shorts have become the girls’ favorites. The boy short silhouette comes from a mix of references, from ‘80s athletic shorts to the tomboy aesthetic. Think hot shorts and Jane Fonda workouts meets ’90s casual denim cut-offs and loose jeans. They have the easy, containing coverage of boys’ underwear, but have evolved into a fashion-forward staple with clean lines and a flattering silhouette.

Cut InformationBoy shorts resemble very short shorts. They feature a low-rise to high-rise, with full coverage across the hips and around the seat. Their straight-cut sides glide down the hips, and the low-sitting, full-coverage cut sits below the curvature of your bottom and leg.

Comfort InformationThese are all about secure comfort. The wide panels prevent digging or riding up, and SKIMS styles are cut from soft, stretchy fabrics like modal or microfiber for a “barely there” feel. They stay put whether you’re on the couch or running errands.

Boy Shorts are Best For…

• Everyday wear for both coverage and cuteness
• Activities that involve bending, walking/running, stretching, or lounging
• Dresses, pants, or skirts where invisible panty lines are essential—they also serve as extra-coverage mini-shorts under a short skirt or dress
• Anytime you’re craving a comfy, easy, hug-your-curves feel
• Try the Fits Everybody Boy Short to get a feel for how this cut works for you, then get a stretch lace Boy Short to keep this “boyish” cut feeling extra feminine and sexy.

Up Next: Women’s Boxers

OriginInspired by traditional men’s boxers, women’s boxers offer a fun and girly twist on the classic masculine look. Think: iconic boy boxer vibes, but designed to flatter a woman’s shape. SKIMS versions come in cute colors every season, offer total coverage, and are beyond comfortable.

Cut InformationWith more of a straight cut than fitted, they sit at the waist and have longer legs than boy shorts, with plenty of room in the leg and hip area. They also work under loose jeans (the way men’s boxers are invisible under their looser jeans). 

Comfort InformationBoxers can feel just like your softest lounge shorts—super breezy and forgiving. Our relaxed fits mean there’s lots of airflow; you can move and let your body breathe. Plus, you can wear them with a matching t-shirt or tank and look totally dressed and coordinated, even though you’re only wearing underwear.

Women’s Boxers are Best For…

• Lazy weekends, low-key days, and lounging around the house with maximum ease, the Boyfriend Loose Boxer is going to be your best (boy)friend
• Long skirts, wide-leg pants, or breezy dresses
• Sleepwear, for those who love the relaxed structure of sleep shorts with underwear-level convenience
• Doing chores in “shorts” which are really boxers, letting you feel completely comfortable while doing laundry, etc.
• SKIMS’ classic Cotton Rib boxer offers the best of all worlds: fitted enough to wear under clothes, short-y enough to wear as shorts on its own, and comfy and breathable as sleepwear

Last but littlest: Hipster Underwear

OriginHipster panties emerged in the early 2000s as a hybrid between bikini and low-rise styles—they’re cool, versatile, and slightly cheeky. That mix of comfy and sexy has made them a go-to for the sweet spot between comfort and style. 

Cut InformationHipsters sit on the hips—they’re higher than low-rise, lower than mid-rise—and offer moderate back coverage that grazes the top of the butt. They’re narrower in the leg opening than boy shorts.

Comfort InformationThis cut gives you a chic, sleek fit that’s also smooth and supportive. Modern fabrics like cotton-spandex or silky stretch lace keep it breathable, soft, and flattering under everything from high-waisted jeans to slinky skirts.

Hipsters are Best For…

• Comfortable coverage that’s still a little cheeky and flirty
• Form-fitting clothing where you want just the right amount of (but not too much) coverage
• Mini shorts where you don’t want any edge of your underwear to peek out
• As extra coverage underneath bodysuits (perfect because their petite cut isn’t bulky)
• Everyday wear with a bit more style edge, like the Ruched Back Hipster, which has ruching and a little bow to accentuate your curves
• Try a Lightweight Cotton Hipster as an everyday answer under your everyday mid-rise jeans

So which one fits you: Boy Short, Boxer, or Hipster? Final Notes

The best underwear is one that fits your style vibe while also serving the right comfort and coverage for everyday wear.

If you want easy coverage that stays in place, try boy shorts. If you’re all about ultimate comfort and love lounging, throw on some boxers. And if you’re after a sleek, smooth, everyday look with a modern flair, stock up on modern classic hipsters.

Layer smart, move freely. Whatever styles you wear, SKIMS is here with fits that flatter and fabrics that breathe, to make you feel your best.