What Is Mesh? The Light Fabric for Underwear

Mesh is not a single fibre, it is a construction: a fine, net-like knitted fabric, usually made from polyamide with a little elastane. That makes it light, stretchy and fine. Here you will find out what mesh is made of, how it wears and when it is the right choice.

So what exactly is mesh?

Mesh (English for "net") is not a material, it is a way of knitting. Typical is the fine, regular net structure with many small openings. Those openings make mesh light and, depending on the density, semi-transparent. It is usually made from polyamide (also called nylon), combined with elastane for the stretch. Because the fibre determines the properties, mesh comes in very different qualities: from coarse and sporty to fine and delicate.

What is mesh made of?

In underwear and lingerie, mesh is almost always a blend of polyamide and elastane. Polyamide gives the fabric its tear resistance and its smooth, light feel. Elastane provides the stretch and the recovery, so that nothing goes out of shape.

An example from our range: our Iconic Mesh collection is made from 79% polyamide and 21% elastane. On the briefs and thongs, the gusset is additionally made from 95% organically grown cotton, right against the skin. (Iconic Mesh is the name of the collection, not a material name. The exact composition is given on every product page.)

Properties: the advantages and the limits

What mesh can do:

Light: the net structure barely adds bulk.
Stretchy and shape-retaining: it adapts and springs back into shape.
Easy to care for.

Where the limits are:

Mesh is fine and, depending on the colour and the density, semi-transparent, so not opaque.
It barely warms: a summer and layering fabric, not a winter fabric.
As a fine fabric it is more delicate than sturdy cotton basics and likes a gentle wash cycle.

Mesh, lace or smooth microfibre?

All three are fine fabrics, but they feel different. Lace has a pattern and looks more decorative. We explain what defines lace as a fabric and how it is knitted in a guide of its own. Smooth microfibre is closed, more opaque and lies flat under clothes. Mesh sits in between: net-like, semi-transparent. If the difference between the fibres interests you, read our guide to elastane and spandex, which is in mesh too.

When mesh is the right choice

Mesh is something for you if you like it light. Under smooth, close-fitting clothes, fine mesh hardly shows. And if you fancy something finer than your everyday basics, it is an uncomplicated option that feels lovely on the skin. Whether you wear it discreetly under your jumper or as lingerie you have deliberately chosen, you decide, for yourself. Our Iconic Mesh collection combines this light fabric with a cotton gusset and flat-finished edges that do not dig in. You will find more underwear for women in the overview.

Caring for mesh properly

Fine mesh lasts longer if you wash it gently:

At 40 °C on the delicates cycle, ideally in a laundry bag.
Detergent for delicates instead of heavy-duty detergent, no fabric softener.
Not in the tumble dryer, simply air dry.

When in doubt, always check the care label on your specific style, because fabric blends can carry different instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Is mesh underwear see-through?

Mesh is fine and, depending on the colour and the density, semi-transparent, so not completely opaque. Dark colours and more densely knitted mesh cover more than light, very fine versions.

What is mesh made of at erlich textil?

Our Iconic Mesh collection is made from 79% polyamide and 21% elastane, and on briefs and thongs with a gusset of 95% organically grown cotton.

How do you wash mesh properly?

At 40 °C on the delicates cycle, ideally in a laundry bag and with a detergent for delicates. Not in the tumble dryer. To be safe, check the care label on your style.