30+ Underwear Manufacturers in the World

The global underwear market is a vast and intricate industry, encompassing a diverse array of manufacturers from every corner of the world. These underwear companies range from heritage brands with centuries of expertise to nimble custom underwear manufacturers leveraging cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

Understanding this global landscape is crucial for businesses aiming to source wholesale underwear efficiently and for consumers seeking specialized or ethically produced intimate apparel.

How to Manufacture Underwear

The process of manufacturing underwear involves several key stages, transforming raw materials into finished garments ready for retail. From initial design to final inspection, each step requires precision and attention to detail. Understanding this process is beneficial for anyone involved in the apparel industry or interested in how their clothing is made.

Step 1. Design and Pattern Making

The underwear manufacturing journey begins with design. Designers create sketches and technical drawings, specifying styles, sizes, and material choices. These designs are then translated into patterns, which serve as templates for cutting fabric. Accurate pattern making is crucial for ensuring the final garment fits correctly and maintains the intended design.

Step 2. Material Selection and Cutting

Once the patterns are finalized, appropriate fabrics and elastics are selected based on the design requirements. These materials are then spread in layers, and the patterns are laid out to maximize fabric utilization. Automated cutting machines or skilled operators precisely cut the fabric pieces according to the patterns.

Step 3. Sewing and Assembly

The cut fabric pieces are then passed on to the sewing department, where skilled workers use various sewing machines to assemble the underwear. Different stitches and techniques are employed to join seams, attach elastic leg and waistbands, and incorporate any additional components like linings or embellishments.

Step 4. Quality Control and Finishing

After sewing, each garment undergoes a thorough quality control inspection to identify any defects in stitching, sizing, or overall construction. Once approved, the underwear goes through finishing processes, which may include trimming loose threads, attaching labels and tags, and pressing or folding the garments.

Step 5. Packaging and Distribution

The final stage involves packaging the finished underwear, often individually or in sets, according to customer specifications. These packaged goods are then prepared for distribution to retailers or directly to consumers, marking the completion of the underwear manufacturing process.

30 Underwear Manufacturers in the World

The American underwear industry boasts a diverse range of companies, each catering to different consumer needs and preferences. From established brands with decades of history to innovative newcomers focusing on sustainability and customization, underwear manufacturers in the USA are constantly evolving.

Understanding the landscape of these underwear companies is crucial for businesses looking to source wholesale products or consumers seeking specific qualities like organic materials or custom designs from custom underwear manufacturers. This guide explores 30 prominent players in the American underwear market.

Jockey International

Jockey International, an established underwear manufacturer, has a rich history dating back over a century. The company is headquartered in Wisconsin and operates globally, recognized for its commitment to comfort, quality, and innovation in intimate apparel. Jockey maintains a strong brand presence through diverse marketing initiatives and a wide distribution network.

Jockey offers a comprehensive range of underwear for men, women, and children, including briefs, boxers, trunks, and more. Their product lines also extend to loungewear and activewear, all designed with a focus on fit, durability, and everyday comfort, solidifying their position among leading underwear companies.

Hanes

Hanes, another well-known underwear manufacturer, is synonymous with affordable and accessible basic apparel. The company focuses on providing comfortable and everyday underwear options for the entire family. Hanes boasts a significant market share and broad consumer recognition across the United States.

Hanes’ product categories include a wide variety of men’s and women’s underwear styles, such as briefs, panties, and undershirts. They are also known for their hosiery, socks, and t-shirts, all emphasizing value and comfort for daily wear, making them a staple among American underwear companies.

Friendtex Underwear

Friendtex Underwear is recognized for its dedication to crafting comfortable and stylish underwear using high-quality materials. This underwear manufacturer focuses on incorporating modern designs with a comfortable fit for everyday wear. Their commitment to quality has established them as a notable player in the intimate apparel market.

Friendtex Underwear provides a diverse selection of underwear styles for women, including various cuts, fabrics, and designs. Their offerings often feature attention to detail and a focus on providing comfortable yet fashionable options for a wide range of preferences, distinguishing them within the landscape of underwear companies.

Fruit of the Loom

Fruit of the Loom is a long-standing underwear manufacturer recognized for its value-driven and dependable basic underwear. The company has a strong heritage in providing affordable garments for men, women, and children. Fruit of the Loom products are widely distributed through various retail channels.

Fruit of the Loom’s primary product category is basic underwear, including briefs, boxers, and panties in various materials. They also offer casual wear like t-shirts and sweatshirts, all focused on providing reliable and budget-friendly options for everyday use, maintaining their status as a prominent underwear company.

Maidenform

Maidenform has a long history as a significant underwear manufacturer, specializing in women’s intimate apparel. The company is known for its bras, shapewear, and panties designed with a focus on support, fit, and style. Maidenform has established itself as a trusted brand for women’s undergarments.

Maidenform’s product range includes a diverse selection of bras in various styles and sizes, as well as shaping briefs, camisoles, and other intimate wear. Their focus remains on providing comfortable and figure-flattering options for women, cementing their role among leading underwear companies.

Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein is a globally recognized brand and a prominent underwear manufacturer, renowned for its modern designs and iconic branding. The company’s underwear lines for men and women are known for their premium materials and fashion-forward aesthetic. Calvin Klein has significantly influenced the perception of underwear as a fashion statement.

Calvin Klein offers a wide array of underwear styles for both men and women, including briefs, trunks, bikinis, and thongs, often featuring the brand’s distinctive logo waistband. Their product categories also extend to apparel, fragrances, and accessories, all embodying a sleek and contemporary style, making them a leading underwear company.

American Apparel

American Apparel previously operated as a vertically integrated underwear manufacturer, emphasizing domestic production and ethical labor practices. The company was known for its basic, stylish clothing, including a range of comfortable underwear all made in the USA. American Apparel cultivated a distinct brand identity.

American Apparel’s underwear offerings included various cuts and colors for men and women, often made from cotton and known for their simple, comfortable designs. Their broader product range encompassed t-shirts, leggings, and other basics, all produced with a focus on American manufacturing, distinguishing them as a unique underwear company.

Thunderpants USA

Thunderpants USA focuses on producing comfortable and ethically made organic cotton underwear. This custom underwear manufacturer prioritizes sustainable practices, with their garments milled, printed, and sewn in the United States. Thunderpants USA is committed to providing wedgie-proof and comfortable designs.

Thunderpants USA’s primary product is organic cotton underwear for women and men, known for its comfortable fit and playful designs. They emphasize using sustainable materials and ethical production methods, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers seeking unique underwear companies.

KENT

KENT is an underwear manufacturer specializing in skin-friendly underwear made from 100% GOTS organic pima cotton. The company focuses on creating breathable and comfortable intimate wear without the use of harmful chemicals. KENT prioritizes the health and well-being of its customers.

KENT’s product line consists of organic pima cotton underwear for men and women, designed for exceptional softness and comfort. Their commitment to natural and non-toxic materials caters to individuals with sensitive skin and those seeking sustainable options from underwear companies.

Proclaim

Proclaim is a custom underwear manufacturer creating inclusive and sustainable underwear and bralettes for women. The company uses a blend of organic cotton, hemp, and TENCEL, with all garments ethically made in Los Angeles. Proclaim focuses on representing diverse body types and skin tones.

Proclaim’s underwear and bralette collections feature a range of sizes and styles made from eco-friendly materials. Their commitment to ethical production and inclusivity resonates with consumers seeking responsible and representative underwear companies.

Object Apparel

Object Apparel handmakes underwear in Detroit, Michigan, using organic cotton and non-toxic dyes. This custom underwear manufacturer offers a variety of sizes and unique designs, emphasizing comfort and quality craftsmanship in small batches. Object Apparel values local production and environmental consciousness.

Object Apparel’s product range includes organic cotton underwear for women and men, featuring distinctive patterns and comfortable fits. Their dedication to handmade, local production and the use of natural materials sets them apart from other underwear manufacturers.

BGreen

BGreen offers USA-made organic cotton underwear for men and women, typically blending organic cotton with a touch of spandex. This underwear manufacturer focuses on providing comfortable and eco-friendly options for everyday wear. BGreen is committed to sustainable and domestically produced intimate apparel.

BGreen’s underwear selection includes various styles made from organic cotton, prioritizing comfort and breathability. Their commitment to American manufacturing and the use of organic materials appeals to consumers seeking environmentally conscious underwear companies.

Blue Canoe

Blue Canoe manufactures its underwear entirely in America, utilizing blends of organic cotton, organic bamboo, and spandex. This underwear manufacturer is dedicated to domestic production and the use of natural and sustainable fibers. Blue Canoe prioritizes creating soft and comfortable intimate wear.

Blue Canoe’s product line features underwear made from organic cotton and bamboo, known for their softness and comfort. Their commitment to American manufacturing and natural materials makes them a noteworthy underwear manufacturer.

Brook There

Brook There produces GOTS organic cotton underwear, with the fabric milled and dyed in California and sewn in Massachusetts. This American underwear manufacturer specializes in high-quality, comfortable organic cotton intimate wear. Brook There emphasizes ethical and local production processes.

Brook There’s underwear collection is made entirely from organic cotton, focusing on simple yet comfortable designs for women. Their dedication to domestic production and the use of certified organic materials distinguishes them from other underwear companies.

City Threads

City Threads primarily offers underwear for children, with some men’s options, largely manufactured in Los Angeles using 100% organic cotton and low-impact dyes. This American underwear manufacturer prioritizes comfort and safety for sensitive skin. City Threads is committed to local and ethical production.

City Threads’ main product category is organic cotton underwear for girls and boys, known for its softness and durability. Their focus on children’s wear and commitment to organic materials make them a specialized underwear manufacturer.

Pansy

Pansy sources its organic cotton from Texas, has it milled in North Carolina, and designs and sews the underwear in California. This American underwear manufacturer uses a blend of organic cotton and recycled spandex with non-toxic dyes. Pansy emphasizes local production and sustainable practices.

Pansy’s underwear collection for women is made from organic cotton and recycled materials, focusing on comfortable and ethically produced designs. Their commitment to a localized supply chain sets them apart from other underwear companies.

Rawganique

Rawganique offers a range of organic cotton underwear, with some produced in the USA and others in Europe. This American underwear manufacturer prioritizes natural and chemical-free materials for individuals with sensitivities. Rawganique is dedicated to providing pure and sustainable textile products.

Rawganique’s underwear selection includes various styles made from organic cotton and hemp, catering to those seeking natural and undyed options. Their focus on chemical-free production distinguishes them within the landscape of underwear manufacturers.

Pico Manufacturing

Pico Manufacturing has been a family-owned and operated underwear manufacturer in the USA since 1931. They offer comprehensive garment and brand-building services, producing high-quality underwear and sleepwear for all ages. Pico Manufacturing is a versatile and experienced American manufacturer.

Pico Manufacturing produces a wide range of underwear for men, women, and children, alongside sleepwear, catering to diverse market needs. Their extensive experience and manufacturing capabilities make them a significant player among underwear companies.

Lefty Production Co.

Lefty Production Co. in Los Angeles provides lingerie design and manufacturing services, acting as a custom underwear manufacturer. They offer comprehensive production solutions for intimate apparel, from initial design to the final product, catering to various brand needs.

Lefty Production Co. specializes in producing custom lingerie and underwear, offering design, pattern making, and manufacturing services. Their expertise in intimate apparel makes them a valuable partner for emerging and established underwear companies.

Innovate Apparel

Innovate Apparel operates as a custom underwear manufacturer, specializing in creating tailored and high-quality intimate apparel. They focus on personalized design and exceptional craftsmanship, often utilizing premium materials like organic cotton. Innovate Apparel emphasizes ethical manufacturing practices.

Innovate Apparel provides custom underwear manufacturing services, working closely with clients to create unique designs and ensure high-quality production. Their focus on ethical practices and premium materials distinguishes them as a custom underwear manufacturer.

Mega Sports Apparel

Mega Sports Apparel is a custom underwear manufacturer in the USA, known for producing high-quality athletic and everyday underwear. They emphasize ventilation and comfort, collaborating with various brands to create functional and stylish designs. Mega Sports Apparel offers private label customization options.

Mega Sports Apparel manufactures custom athletic and everyday underwear, offering features like specialized waistbands and moisture-wicking fabrics. Their focus on performance and customization makes them a valuable partner for various underwear companies.

Private Label Apparel

Private Label Apparel offers manufacturing services for various clothing items, including underwear, acting as a custom underwear manufacturer. They provide brands with the opportunity to create their own unique lines of intimate apparel, overseeing production from design to completion.

Private Label Apparel facilitates the creation of custom underwear lines for brands, offering design assistance, fabric sourcing, and manufacturing services. Their comprehensive approach supports businesses looking to establish their own underwear company.

Sewn in the USA

Sewn in the USA connects businesses with American apparel manufacturers, including those specializing in underwear. They help brands find reliable domestic partners for their production needs, emphasizing the benefits of USA-made goods.

Sewn in the USA serves as a resource for finding American underwear manufacturers, streamlining the process of connecting with domestic production facilities. They support businesses committed to producing goods within the United States.

Indie Source

Indie Source is a Los Angeles-based company offering apparel development and production services, including underwear manufacturing. They cater to independent designers and brands, providing support throughout the entire production process.

Indie Source assists in the creation and production of underwear lines for independent brands, offering services from design to sourcing and manufacturing. They play a crucial role in supporting emerging underwear companies.

Suuchi Inc.

Suuchi Inc. is a technology-driven apparel manufacturing platform that connects brands with a network of factories, including those producing underwear. They offer a streamlined approach to production and supply chain management.

Suuchi Inc.’s platform facilitates the manufacturing of underwear by connecting brands with vetted production partners and providing supply chain management tools. They offer a modern solution for businesses in the apparel industry.

Manufacture in LA

Manufacture in LA is a directory and resource for finding apparel manufacturers in the Los Angeles area, including numerous underwear companies. They aim to support local production and connect brands with qualified factories.

Manufacture in LA helps businesses locate underwear manufacturers within the Los Angeles region, promoting local sourcing and production. They serve as a valuable resource for brands seeking American-made goods.

MakersValley

MakersValley is an online platform that connects fashion brands with apparel manufacturers in Italy, but some may offer underwear production for brands seeking international options with specific design aesthetics and material sourcing.

While primarily focused on Italian manufacturing, MakersValley can potentially connect brands with factories capable of producing underwear with a European design influence, expanding sourcing options beyond domestic underwear manufacturers.

Foursource

Foursource is a global sourcing network for the fashion industry, connecting brands with suppliers and manufacturers worldwide, including those specializing in underwear. The platform facilitates the sourcing process and supply chain management on an international scale.

Foursource provides a platform to find underwear manufacturers globally, allowing brands to explore a wide range of production capabilities and price points beyond just American underwear companies.

SRI Performance

SRI Performance is a manufacturer and distributor of impact racing underwear shirts and flame retardant pants for race car drivers. Based in North Carolina, they focus on specialized performance apparel for motorsports.

Their product offerings include full-length underwear pants designed for safety and comfort in high-performance racing environments. SRI Performance is a unique example of an underwear manufacturer catering to a very specific athletic niche.

Gary Wear

Gary Wear is a manufacturer of incontinence underwear, including reusable pants, briefs, and diapers. Based in California and making products in the USA, they offer custom options, providing practical solutions for individuals with specific needs.

Gary Wear’s product line focuses on reusable incontinence underwear made from specialized materials like polyurethane laminated fabric. They are a dedicated underwear manufacturer serving an important and specialized market segment.

EBY

EBY is an underwear manufacturer that operates on a subscription model, providing comfortable and seamless underwear. The company also has a social mission, contributing a portion of its proceeds to empower women through microfinance. EBY is known for its inclusive sizing.

EBY offers a range of seamless underwear for women, including thongs, briefs, and bikinis, focusing on comfort and fit. Their subscription service and commitment to social impact distinguish them among underwear companies.

Thinx

Thinx is a leading underwear manufacturer specializing in period-proof underwear. The company offers innovative and sustainable solutions for menstruation, combining comfort with advanced absorbent technology. Thinx has gained significant recognition for breaking stigmas around period products.

Thinx’s product categories include various styles of period underwear, designed to replace or complement traditional feminine hygiene products. Their focus on innovation and sustainability makes them a unique and impactful underwear manufacturer.

Knickey

Knickey is an underwear manufacturer committed to producing sustainable and organic cotton underwear. They prioritize ethical production practices and offer a recycling program for old underwear, promoting a circular economy in intimate apparel.

Knickey’s product range includes a variety of organic cotton underwear styles for women, emphasizing comfort, breathability, and eco-friendly materials. Their dedication to sustainability positions them as a responsible choice among underwear companies.

Dear Kate

Dear Kate is an underwear manufacturer known for its innovative line of leak-resistant underwear and activewear. The company combines style with functionality, providing solutions for everyday comfort and light leaks. Dear Kate focuses on high-performance fabrics.

Dear Kate’s product offerings include underwear with a patented fabric technology designed to be leak-resistant and moisture-wicking. Their focus on innovative solutions for women’s intimate apparel makes them a distinctive underwear manufacturer.

Tommy John

Tommy John is an underwear manufacturer focusing on men’s and women’s underwear, loungewear, and apparel, emphasizing comfort, fit, and innovative features. The company is known for its proprietary fabrics and designs that prevent discomfort.

Tommy John’s underwear collection includes briefs, boxers, trunks, and women’s panties, often featuring non-rolling waistbands and quick-drying fabrics. Their commitment to solving common underwear discomforts sets them apart from other underwear companies.

Considerations to Choose Underwear Manufacturers

Choosing the right underwear manufacturer is a critical decision that impacts product quality, cost, and ultimately, your brand’s reputation. A thorough evaluation process ensures you partner with a manufacturer that aligns with your business goals and ethical standards, whether you’re looking for mass production or specialized custom underwear manufacturers.

• Production Capabilities & Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ): Assess if the manufacturer can handle your desired production volume and if their MOQ matches your business scale. Some custom underwear manufacturers cater to smaller runs, while larger underwear companies require higher MOQs.
• Quality Control & Materials: Inquire about their quality assurance processes and the types of fabrics and components they use. Ensure they meet your desired standards for durability, comfort, and safety, especially for sensitive items like underwear.
• Ethical & Sustainable Practices: Investigate their labor practices, environmental impact, and certifications (e.g., GOTS for organic cotton, Fair Trade). Partnering with ethical underwear manufacturers resonates with conscious consumers and can enhance your brand image.
• Pricing & Payment Terms: Obtain detailed quotes, understand their pricing structure (per unit, tooling costs, etc.), and clarify payment schedules. Compare costs across several underwear companies to ensure competitive pricing.
• Communication & Responsiveness: Evaluate their communication channels, response times, and clarity in discussions. Effective communication is vital for smooth production, especially with custom underwear manufacturers where precise details are crucial.
• Lead Times & Logistics: Understand their typical lead times for samples and bulk production, and discuss shipping options and logistics. Timely delivery is crucial for inventory management and market entry.
• Design & Customization Capabilities: If you require unique designs or private labeling, confirm their ability to translate your vision into tangible products. Some custom underwear manufacturers specialize in bespoke solutions.
• Experience & Reputation: Research their history, client testimonials, and industry reputation. A manufacturer with a proven track record can offer valuable insights and minimize production risks.

Conclusion

This extensive overview of 30+ underwear manufacturers highlights the vast and varied global market. From major international brands to specialized custom underwear manufacturers, the industry offers a spectrum of choices reflecting diverse consumer demands for comfort, style, sustainability, and specific functionalities. The presence of numerous underwear companies underscores a commitment to quality and innovation.

The market continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on ethical production, organic materials, and inclusive sizing, regardless of geographic location. This detailed list provides valuable insights for businesses seeking reliable partners and for consumers looking for transparent and responsible sourcing in their intimate apparel.

For those looking to acquire wholesale underwear, collaborating with established and emerging underwear manufacturers from this list or similar reputable sources is key. You can get wholesale underwear from us, ensuring access to a wide array of high-quality products that meet contemporary market trends and consumer expectations, supporting your business’s needs efficiently.