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Best organic cotton knickers: Cou Cou Intimates, Nudea and more
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The cloud-like touch of cotton makes it a go-to choice for underwear.
Washable, comfortable and breathable, the popular material is frequently used for women’s underwear collections.
Cotton is as versatile as it is comfortable. From delicate white briefs to sweet pointelle designs and high-waisted wonders for sucking it all in, there’s not much the natural fibre can’t be fashioned into.
However, it’s no secret that cotton is one of fashion’s greatest anti-heroes. While it is a natural material, it’s far from sustainable. Cotton requires huge quantities of water to grow. According to Sustain Your Style, in some places, inefficient water use means that up to 20,000 litres of water are needed to produce 1kg of cotton. And 99.3 per cent of cotton grown globally is not organic, meaning chemicals and genetically modified seeds are used during production. The WWF also highlights how cotton can severely degrade soil quality.
That’s not to say cotton is all bad. On the contrary, when farmed ethically and produced organically, cotton is a highly meritable fabric. In 2016, a life cycle analysis of organic cotton conducted by PE International found that organic cotton uses 91 per cent less fresh water and far less energy than non-organic cotton.
Plus, the material is hypoallergenic for those with sensitive skin and highly durable, meaning organic cotton garments will stand the test of time and help consumers avoid excessive purchasing.
When it comes to cotton underwear, it’s a case of shopping mindfully and preserving your pants, using delicate washes and opting for organic cotton pieces.
Not sure where to start? Have no fear; we’ve done the hard work for you with an edit of the best cotton knickers to browse and add some organic goodness to your underwear drawer.
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Cou Cou Intimates The High Rise Organic-Cotton Brief Pack of Three
Cou Cou Intimates is an underwear brand to have firmly on your radar. Feminine pointelle designs are married with classic neutral colourways to create durable pants to stand the test of time. Each adorable pair is finely crafted from 100 per cent certified organic cotton, which is kinder to your skin and the planet.
Fruity Booty Buttercup Lace Brief
All the It-girls are wearing Fruity Booty; here’s why. Not only are the brand’s glamorous designs the ideal blend of sultry and sweet, but they are also eco-friendly too.
The majority of the brand’s pieces are crafted from surplus fabrics, and for the pants that aren’t, Fruity Booty sources sustainable, high-quality materials for their creation. The packaging is 100 per cent recycled and the brand employs a zero-plastic policy when making the pretty pants.
With their sunny hue and comfort-forward fit, the brand’s Buttercup Briefs are the perfect addition to your spring wardrobe.
Monki Printed Rose Thong
Underwear is always surprisingly expensive. Stick to your budget with Monki’s organic cotton thong which is available in two colourways. Choose from lavender pointelle or a ditsy rose floral design and allow the affordable piece to liven up your lingerie collection.
Hanky Panky Stretch-Organic Cotton Boyshort Briefs
Opt for a playful, boyish brief to contrast your pre-existing thong collection. Hanky Panky’s lace-trimmed briefs are primed for weekend mooching and laid-back lounging. Made in the USA from 96 per cent stretch-organic cotton, the all-black briefs are a lovely, lightweight pick for those who prioritise comfort.
Baserange Heart Bell Pants
The only extra-marital love affair we’ll be having is with these pants. Offered by sustainable label Baserange, these organic cotton briefs are a welcome alternative to thong designs. A sweetheart cut-out at the back makes for a cheeky detail to fall for.
Nudea The Mini Organic Cotton Briefs Pack of Three
Nudea's organic cotton collection will leave your skin feeling coated in comfort. Offering three pairs for under £40, Nudea undies are made from 97 per cent organic cotton and feature soft ribbing with mid-low coverage and a high leg cut for silhouette sculpting.
Pico Low Rise Knicker
Pico’s underwear consists of super-soft pieces to gently caress the body. Enjoy a guilt-free browse knowing the brand works directly with a small, living-wage paying factory in Southern India that uses organic cotton sourced from farmer’s cooperatives, in turn employing the local community.
BOUJO HAKE Simple Briefs
We really mean it when we say BOUJO HAKE has every corner of lingerie covered. The fastening and hooks of the pieces are nickel-free, the cotton is grown without chemical pesticides, the packaging is recyclable and all features are sourced in Europe to reduce the brand’s carbon footprint. The brand’s Basic Briefs in pretty pink salt will become your go-to knickers for day-to-day wear.
Petit Bateau Women's Openwork Cotton Briefs
Need a new dollop of lingerie for easy-breezy everyday wear? Petit Bateau has got you covered. The brand’s trio of 100 per cent organic cotton briefs with sweet openwork detailing are free from harsh GMOs and ethically made. Add yours to your online basket and sink into plush comfort with each wear.
Dora Larsen Angie Organic Cotton High Waist Knicker
Make them go green with envy. Dora Larsen’s vibrant Angie knicker isn’t only made from 93 per cent organic cotton and recycled nylon, but comes in three colourpop tones to inject your wardrobe with some freshly hued fun.