What Is Pointelle Cotton? A Guide to Soft, Everyday Lingerie

There is something quietly lovely about pointelle cotton. Look closely and you’ll see a pattern of tiny openings, giving the fabric a delicate texture and a slightly nostalgic feel. It brings a little detail to even the simplest underwear.

If you’ve spotted pointelle bralettes and knickers and wondered what makes them different, here’s a closer look at the fabric behind them.

What is pointelle cotton?

Pointelle cotton is a knitted cotton fabric with small, decorative openings worked into its structure. These little eyelets form repeating patterns, adding texture and a lace-like appearance.

“Pointelle” describes the construction, while “cotton” describes the fibre. The two words tell you different things about the fabric: how it is made and what it is made from.

Pointelle can also be produced using other fibres or blends, so it is always worth checking the fabric composition of an individual garment.

Why choose cotton pointelle underwear?

For us, the appeal starts with the balance of simplicity and detail. Cotton pointelle can feel relaxed and familiar, while its openwork pattern gives everyday lingerie something special.

A soft cotton knit is a lovely choice when you enjoy a light, breathable feel against your skin. The tiny openings also give pointelle an airy character, although the overall feel depends on the fabric’s weight and construction.

There’s a visual softness to it, too. In ivory, the texture becomes the detail: small patterns, a gentle finish and very little fuss. If you enjoy understated lingerie, pointelle is an easy fabric to fall for.

How is pointelle different from plain cotton jersey?

Plain cotton jersey has a more uniform surface, like the fabric you might recognise from a favourite T-shirt. Pointelle introduces a pattern of small openings into the knit.

Both can be used for comfortable everyday underwear. The choice is often about the texture and appearance you prefer.

If you like simple, smooth-looking fabrics, plain jersey may appeal. If you want a little pattern without a bold print, pointelle offers a subtle alternative. It can also bring a lace-like quality to cotton lingerie, while keeping the main fabric a cotton knit.

Is pointelle cotton stretchy or see-through?

Knitted cotton pointelle usually has some give because of its looped construction. That doesn’t automatically mean it contains elastane: check the composition if you have a particular preference.

The amount of stretch varies between fabrics, so a pointelle garment should still be chosen for its fit rather than stretched tightly into place.

The small openings can also reveal glimpses of skin. How sheer a piece looks depends on the pattern, fabric weight, colour and how closely it fits. Think of pointelle as a textured, openwork fabric when deciding how much coverage you would like.

A closer look at our Fleur ivory set

Our Fleur Ivory Bralette and Brief Set pairs 100% cotton pointelle fabric with pretty picot edging.

We love the way the small edging detail sits alongside the pointelle pattern. Together, they give the set a feminine, slightly vintage feel, while the ivory colour keeps the look simple.

The soft bralette and matching briefs are handmade to order by Luva Huva in our Brighton studio. It’s a set for those who enjoy cotton next to their skin and thoughtful details in their everyday underwear.

Choosing a comfortable fit

Fabric is only part of what makes lingerie comfortable. The fit should feel right when you sit down, move around and get on with your day.

For knickers, look for a waistband and leg openings that sit comfortably without pinching. For a soft bralette, choose the level of coverage and gentle support that suits you.

Our bras are soft styles with minimal support. If you’re unsure which size to choose, start with our size guide. We also offer custom sizing, so you can contact us with your measurements and usual size for help.

How to care for cotton pointelle lingerie

Always follow the care instructions for your particular garment. Our Fleur ivory bralette is listed as machine washable at 30°C.

As a gentle approach to caring for delicate underwear:

• Use a mild detergent and the recommended wash setting.

• Place pieces in a lingerie wash bag to help protect them from catching.

• Keep them away from exposed zips, hooks and rough fabrics in the wash.

• Reshape gently after washing and allow them to air dry.

A little attention at wash time helps you look after the texture and finishing details you chose the garment for.

Explore our Fleur ivory set, or browse our handmade knickers to find the fabrics and shapes you enjoy wearing.