11 Cute & Affordable Alternatives To Pricey Undies

The babe of all rocker babes, Mick Jagger, sings that famous line "you can't always get what you want" but when it comes to finding affordable undies that are both cute and affordable — I dare to disagree. If the last thing you always tend to update is your underwear drawer (simply due to the fact that pretty and budget-friendly panties that are quality are nearly impossible to find), then you came to the right place. I've rounded up 11 pairs of underwear that are great alternatives to pricey pairs, which give you all the same benefits: comfort, style, and moisture-wicking technology for workouts.

If you haven't tried out performance underwear under your gym clothes because they're out of your price range, you'll definitely want to try a pair of affordable quick-drying underwear that you can machine wash. They'll instantly take your exercise game up a notch. If you've been wanting to surprise your partner with a sexy new undergarment but haven't had the time or money to search for a new lingerie piece, you'll both love a pretty ombre lace and mesh thong by Betsey Johnson. After snagging a few of these pairs, you'll be more excited about panty shopping than you ever thought possible — and you'll still have money to grab your morning latte and treat yourself to a new style staple.

Lacy Boyshort That Won't Bunch Or Rub

FelinaLush Lace Cheeky Panty (S izes S-XL), $11-$30, Amazon

If you've ever been hesitant about buying lacy boyshorts because of the chance that they'll irritate you in all of the worst places — this is the pair of panties for you. Their comfortable cheeky cut is finished up top with a flat, soft waistband that won't twist or bunch, while stretchy lace slides over your curves. One user praised this panty for being a pair that isn't scratchy "and can actually be worn out of the bedroom under day-to-day clothing."

Lace Ombré Thong Keeps Even Your Undies On-Trend

Betsey Johnson Ombre Lace Thong (Sizes S-L), $12, Amazon

A quality lacy thong can be pricey, making it a rare pair to be found in your drawer. Not only does this Betsey Johnson thong have a pretty lace front and mesh back for stylish comfort, but its cool blue ombre design keeps these undies looking awesome. Every other piece of your wardrobe is on-trend, why should your undies settle for anything less? Pro Tip: Hand wash this thong to keep it looking gorgeous and feeling comfortable.

Printed Low-Rise Panty That's Pretty And Comfy

Victoria's Secret PINK Panty Palm Print (Sizes XS-L) , $16, Amazon

If you're a fan of the patterned panty with a bit more coverage, but you're not so much a fan of their climbing price tags, this pair of cotton low-rise panties is for you. Their adorable palm print is perfect for getting into that summer state of mind, while the classic and comfortable cotton fabric has nine percent elastane for more movement and stretch. Plus, the elastic waistband won't dig in, and the fun PINK logo is proudly on display. These are totally affordable and a good match for carefree days when you don't want to settle for granny panties that sacrifice under-the-clothes style.

Stretchy Silk Undies That Won't Show Or Ride Up

Mulberry Silk Lace No-Show Panties (Sizes M-2XL), $7-$12, Amazon

Underwear that feels rough and shows under clothes is the worst. This pair of 100 percent natural mulberry silk panties gives you that luxurious softness without the luxurious price tag — and their material will stay put with stretchable fabric and soft lace edges. With its lightweight material, these will be the underwear you want to throw on for no panty lines — even under a tight skirt or leggings. One user raved about how well these silk undies hold up against many machine washes and dries.

Printed Boyshort With Pretty Lace Detailing & Comfy Coverage

Lunaire Plus-Size Barbados Boy Short (Sizes S-2XL) , $11-$20, Amazon

Reviewers say this leopard print boyshort is super soft and silky, and that the quality is top notch — from the fabric itself to the finishing. One fan of the undies said they offer "magnificent fit and design with wonderful strategically placed lace," and these panties have great coverage, a stretchy mesh body, and thoughtful detailing on the waist and legs.

Breathable Micro Mesh Thong Keeps You Dry

Adidas Climacool Thong (Sizes XS-L), $8-$12, Amazon

If you've never owned a pair of athletic underwear, you're missing out on a total game changer. The Climacool technology in these performance undies make it a comfortable (instead of super-irksome) experience. The micro mesh body fabric is soft and breathable to keep you dry, in addition to preventing moisture-related irritation. This thong also has a smooth finish to prevent panty lines under your tightest workout pants. Bonus: These are tagless for added comfort.

See-Through Back Bikini With Comfy Stretch

Wacoal Embrace Lace Panty (Sizes S-XL) , $9-$34, Amazon

When you're looking to dress up your undies without shelling out the big bucks, turn to these pretty mesh back undies. The nylon fabric has give, so you won't feel constricted all day, while the floral front detailing blooms into a scalloped edge at the top. A cotton crotch keeps you comfortable, and one fan of the panties said, "That kind of quality is lacking in most underwear; I hate flimsy underwear (which is most of what is on the market, ugh)! I will be buying more of these panties!"

Machine-Washable, Quick-Dry Fabric That Stays Put

Champion Absolute Brief (Sizes S-L) , $6-$10, Amazon

A pair of underwear that stays in place during your run, evaporates moisture, and is machine-washable? It's the perfect trifecta of active undies. This pair of stretchy, no-show sport panties by Champion have moisture management technology that wicks sweat away from the skin. Plus, they're designed with expertly-placed ventilation for better breathability when and where you want it. It's just one less thing to distract you from a killer workout.

Peek-Through Back Detail Boyshort

Paramour by Felina Captivate Bikini (Sizes S-XXL) , $5-$16, Amazon

If you want a wink of playfulness without going overboard, try out the peek-through detail panty. These undies have an opaque mesh back and bow accents in front, and their nylon and spandex material mix will let you bend and turn without feeling anything tug. Fans of the undies like the fit of the panty, and many point out that the matching bra makes for an excellent addition.

Leak-Proof Period Undies Provide Worry-Free Protection

Intimate Portal Cotton Leak Proof Brief (Sizes XXS-6XL), $12-$19, Amazon

These worry-free cotton panties are leak-proof tested to protect you from unexpected leaks that can happen on your heavier days. While some brands offer expensive versions of this life-changing underwear, this one is wallet-friendly and even features a wide waistband, which will keep you comfortable when you're dealing with those annoying cramps. Select your fave set of two from five different color ways. Pro Tip: Machine wash these cold and don't tumble dry.

Or Sport Waterproof, Cotton Hipsters In A Print

Pack of 3 Striped Cotton Period Panties (Sizes S-XL), $28, Amazon

On days when you're spotting and don't want to be distracted by constant trips to the bathroom, pull on a pair of waterproof, leak-free panties disguised to be just another pair of cute and bright underwear. This pack comes with three pairs of printed hipster undies in blue, purple, and tan, that are all breathable and hypoallergenic.

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Images: Fotolia (1); Amazon (11)