How to Stop Leggings from Showing Lines

What is the definition of an awkward moment? An awkward moment is stepping out feeling your best, only for a kind stranger to give you a tap on the shoulder and inform you that your underwear lines are showing. Embarrassing, right?

Underwear lines are as old as time. Sometimes they show up as camel toe; other times they appear as visible panty lines. But regardless of how these lines emerge, one thing we can all agree on is that they are distracting and unflattering.

As someone who used to struggle with camel toe in leggings, I understand how frustrating unwanted lines can be. That is why we put together this guide. Here, you’ll find practical ways to keep your leggings looking smooth all day long.

What Causes Underwear Lines in Leggings?

Underwear lines are caused by various factors. So, before getting into the details of how to prevent them, it helps to understand why they happen in the first place. Here are some of the most common culprits to look out for.

1. Thin fabrics

Thin leggings tend to become opaque or see-through when worn. Even when they look good on the rack, the moment you put them on, it’s another story entirely. And because they are so thin, they highlight every line, curve and seam underneath.

2. Wrong size

When it comes to preventing lines, size matters. If your leggings are too small, you are basically forcing the fabric to expand beyond its limit. When this happens, underwear becomes visible and waistbands become the star of the show. Sizing isn’t always taken seriously when choosing leggings, but trust me, when you pick the wrong one, it’s a wardrobe disaster waiting to happen.

3. Seam placement

As someone who is quite prone to camel toe, I quickly understood that middle seams were not the best fit for me. A seam running directly through the centre front of your leggings can draw attention to the crotch area. It can also press into the skin underneath, which may make lines more noticeable. 

4. Bulky underwear

Sometimes the leggings are not the problem at all; it’s the choice of underwear. A pair of underwear with thick edges, raised seams or a bulky waistband can show through stretchy fabric. If you want a smooth look in leggings, you have to choose the right type of underwear.

How to Stop Leggings from Showing Lines

To stop leggings from showing lines, all you need to do is pay better attention to your wardrobe. A few thoughtful choices when shopping and getting dressed can help create a much smoother look. Let’s go through these tips step by step.

1. Choose quality leggings

The first step to preventing visible lines is choosing leggings that are made well. You do not have to spend a fortune, but pay attention to the fabric and construction instead of choosing a pair based only on the colour or design.

When shopping online, words such as “opaque,” “squat proof,” “double layered,” “seamless” and “flat seams” can give you useful information about the construction. For workout leggings, moisture wicking fabrics can also be useful because they are designed to move sweat away from the skin.

If you are shopping in a physical store, turn the leggings inside out and inspect the seams. Hold the fabric up to the light and gently stretch it with your hands. You can also try them on and move around, bend your knees or do a squat to see how the fabric behaves.

2. Invest in seamless thongs

For a worry-free day, prioritise what you wear underneath your leggings. Traditional underwear with thick edges or seams can create visible lines beneath stretchy leggings, even when the leggings themselves are made from good quality fabric.

A seamless anti-camel toe thong can help reduce the amount of fabric and bulky seams sitting underneath your leggings. The Camelnot Anti Camel Toe Thong is designed with a front insert that helps create a smoother barrier between your body and the leggings. It is also made with a soft cotton and spandex blend for everyday comfort.

If visible panty lines and camel toe are both concerns for you, choosing underwear specifically designed for leggings can save you from having to adjust your outfit throughout the day.

3. Wear the right size

Choosing the right size is about finding leggings that sit properly on your body without pulling, bunching or sagging. Start by measuring your waist and hips with a soft measuring tape. For your waist, measure around the narrowest part of your middle while keeping the tape level. For your hips, measure around the fullest part.

Once you have your measurements, compare them with the brand’s own size chart. Do not assume that a medium in one brand will be the same as a medium in another. If your measurements fall between sizes, check the brand’s specific guidance rather than automatically sizing down. Remember that leggings are supposed to stretch. You should not need to choose a smaller size to make them look more flattering.

4. Opt for a gusseted design

A gusset is an extra piece of fabric sewn into the crotch area of a garment. You will often see it in activewear because it adds allowance to the hips. It can give you more room to move while reducing the appearance of camel toe.

A gusseted design also provides balance that prevents riding up. If you are buying leggings for workouts, yoga or any activity that involves a lot of movement, check the crotch construction before buying. It is a small detail that can make a huge difference.

5. Go with dark colours

Colour can affect how lines appear. Darker leggings, especially black and other deep shades, tend to be easier to wear when you want underwear and body lines to be less obvious. Lighter colours, on the other hand, can be more revealing because the fabric may show shadows easily.

This is not a reason to avoid colourful leggings altogether. It simply means you may need to pay closer attention to the fabric and what you wear underneath. If you are unsure about a light coloured pair, test it under bright lighting before buying to ensure that the fabric will hold up.

6. Avoid middle seams

If camel toe is one of your main concerns, take a close look at the centre front of the leggings. A seam running straight from the waistband down through the crotch can create a visible line in the exact area you are trying to keep smooth. Instead, look for leggings with a seam free front or a design where the centre seam does not run directly through the crotch.

Some brands specifically advertise “no front seam” or “seamless front” designs. This is one of those details that can be easy to miss when shopping online, so check the product photos carefully. If you are shopping in person, turn the leggings around and inspect the front before heading to the fitting room.

7. Put on your leggings properly

Even the best leggings can bunch or ride up if they are not positioned correctly. Pulling them up from the waistband and leaving the fabric gathered around the crotch can create unnecessary folds.

Start by putting one leg in at a time and gently pulling the fabric upward from the lower leg. Work your way up rather than immediately yanking the waistband. Once both legs are in, gently smooth the fabric over your legs and hips.

Before you leave the house, take a quick look from the front, side and back. Bend your knees, sit down and walk around for a few seconds. This small check can help you catch bunching or shifting before you head out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get rid of lines in leggings?

Choose seamless underwear and leggings without bulky seams. Wearing the right size can also help prevent bunching and visible lines.

How to avoid V line in leggings?

To get rid of V line aka camel toe, choose leggings with a gusset or a seamless front. Wear a Seamless anti camel toe underwear and avoid going commando.

How to fix see-through leggings?

Choose thicker, opaque leggings that stay covered when stretched. You can also wear seamless underwear in a shade that blends with the fabric.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for the next tap on your shoulder; take charge of your wardrobe. The right combination of good quality leggings, great stitching, correct sizing and suitable underwear can take things from awkward to confident real quick. If you need help getting started, check out our article on flattering leggings for every body type and shop The Camelnot Seamless Anti Camel Toe Thong below.