The lacy way to banish VPL: Knickers designed to be worn under tight trousers and clingy dresses

It can be the most eye-catching part of a woman’s outfit – but for all the wrong reasons.
Now the dreaded visible panty line, or VPL, could become a thing of the past thanks to knickers specially designed to be worn under clingy summer dresses and tight trousers.
But unlike traditional big briefs – which give no VPL but can resemble the unattractive flesh-coloured briefs sported by Bridget Jones – the lacy underwear looks good when the dress is off, too.

Cheeky cut: The lace Bandeau knickers are flush with skin and right, the vanishing act, which shows no lumps of lines

Take note, Trinny and Susannah: You too can avoid VPL thanks to M&S

The knickers, called the Bandeau, have a wide band of lace which sits snugly on the hips but will not dig in – unlike thongs, which not every woman finds comfortable to wear.
They are also cut higher on the leg than boy-short style pants, giving a feminine look which flatter legs by making them appear longer.

 The knickers, which cost £5 each or £10 for three at Marks & Spencer, come in black, white, nude, hot pink and marine blue and go on sale next month.

Soozie Jenkinson, head of lingerie design at M&S, said: ‘It’s time to chuck out those greying Bridget Jones big pants and say hello to the newest knicker on the block, the Bandeau.
‘Using stretch lace and slinky microfibre, we’ve designed this new knicker to be not only flattering and stylish but incredibly comfortable to wear.’

Unlike traditional big briefs - which give no VPL but can resemble the unattractive flesh-coloured briefs sported by Bridget Jones (above) - the lacy underwear looks good when the dress is off, too