French knickers

French knickers (also known as tap pants in the United States) are a type of women's underwear or lingerie. The term is predominantly used in the United Kingdom and Australia to describe loose-fitting underpants resembling shorts. French knickers sit at the hips, covering the upper thigh and fully concealing the buttocks. They feature an 'open leg' design, meaning the leg openings are loose rather than elasticated, allowing for a more comfortable fit. The straight-cut cuffs may be plain or adorned with decorative trimming, and the fabric is often bias-cut to improve drape and movement.

French knickers are not to be confused with other underpants styles such as hipsters, briefs, bikini bottoms and boyshorts, all of which feature elasticated leg openings and fit snug to the body.

French knickers are ideally accompanied by full, flared, and A-Line skirts, trousers, and dresses, as they can add bulk and produce a visible panty line (VPL). The item is an elegant and comfortable alternative to more fitted forms of underwear and luxury fabrics such as silk are often used in their production.