A Review of the UltimateS and Foundation Lines from Universal Standard

If you follow me on TikTok, you might have seen my recent video highlighting the new UltimateS and Foundation lines from Universal Standard. While video is a great tool for assessing fit, it’s not always the best medium for conveying more detailed information about a product, so I thought I would pair that short video with a mini-review today, so you can get the best of both worlds.

This post is not sponsored, however, I was gifted the products shown today by Universal Standard. This post contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links - at no additional cost to you.

On March 29, Universal Standard simultaneously launched two complementary lines: UltimateS, the brand’s very first line of underwear, and Foundation, a relaunch of the brand’s collection of base layers garments. Both are intended to be worn comfortably and discreetly beneath the brand’s clothing – whether under a cashmere sweater or high-rise denim. I recently received two pieces from each line, and thought I’d break it down a bit further and share my take on each:

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UltimateS by Universal Standard

Not only does UltimateS by Universal Standard offer the largest size range in underwear on the market, but they spent over two years developing the product to ensure each size is functional and reliable. To accomplish this, Universal Standard’s team tested and fitted over 100 people in each available size. They landed on three styles (a Mid Rise Bikini, High Rise Brief, and High Rise Thong), and three colors (Black, Nutmeg, and Sky). All come in a breathable, antimicrobial Lenzing Modal/cotton/elastane blend with a 100% cotton gusset, and are designed to not dig into the skin.

UltimateS High Rise Brief

The UltimateS High Rise Brief is my first pair of high-rise briefs, and I’m pretty smitten. The rise lands just an inch shy of my belly button, and in a size 2XS (comparable to a size 6-8), the seat manages to cover almost my whole bum. I get the slightest hint of VPL in tight pants, but not enough to swap them out because they don’t dig into my skin. US graded the width of the cotton gusset along with the size, and it feels just right in this pair. The fabric feels ultra-breathable and is also supposed to be moisture-wicking (but the temps here are cool enough that I haven’t had the chance to test that feature).

UltimateS High Rise Thong

Unfortunately, the UltimateS High Rise Thong I received was a size 4XS, so I’m unable to review the fit and comfort of this pair. But they are made of the same soft fabric as the UltimateS High Rise Brief I received. I am really glad the size range for the UltimateS is so vast, however, I’d personally love to see a line of skin-tone underwear (in a vast range of shades) as well.

Foundation by Universal Standard

Although they launched simultaneously, Foundation by Universal Standard is actually a separate line from their UltimateS intimates. This line features products intended to be worn underneath your favorite US pieces, as they are designed with the necklines, rises, and lengths of Universal Standard’s garments in mind – though of course they can be worn under other garments as well, as I demonstrated on TikTok.

The Foundation pieces come in tees, tanks, dresses, and shorts (an item I’m particularly eyeing as summer approaches!). Like the underwear in the UltimateS line, the Foundation garments are made with Lenzing Micromodal, but in a much higher percentage. The result is a soft, cool fabric that stretches to grace the skin in a made-for-me hug.

Here is a quick look at the Foundation pieces I received:

Foundation Short Sleeve Square Neck Tee

The Foundation Short Sleeve Square Neck Tee arrived in a size 2XS, and the silky-soft fabric slipped right out of the packaging and into my hands. The fabric is deceptively stretchy – although the tee appears pretty narrow, it easily stretches to accommodate my curves. I’m comfortable in the 2XS but think I would have been just fine in a 3XS as well.

The wide, square neckline is a fun touch, and it makes it a little easier to pair with v-neck garments. Like many tops from Universal Standard, the sleeves are on the longer side; if you plan to pair this with a slightly shorter-sleeved top, you may need to fold the sleeves on the base layer to shorten them (alternatively you could have them altered).

I especially like layering sleeved garments like this tee under delicate fabrics like cashmere and silk as it reduces the number of times the garment needs washing. While I’ve washed and line-dried this top once so far, time will tell if the ribbed fabric stays secure or pills. In the meantime, I plan on wearing this top on its own; the fun neckline deserves to be shown off!

Foundation Camisole

I received the Foundation Camisole in a size 2XS in a pale, icy blue they call Sky. It’s just as soft as the square neck tee, but on my 5’4″ frame, it’s almost absurdly long (Michael: “Oh, they sent you a dress?”). If you wear a lot of tunics, the length could really be in your favor; I don’t, so I’ll likely hem this for ease of tucking. The straps are adjustable, which is a huge benefit compared to my other camisoles – I like the option of raising or lowering the neckline depending on the top I’m pairing it with. Because of the highly stretchy fabric and sleeveless nature of this tank, I think I would size down if given the chance for a slightly tighter fit. The cut is a bit more generous in the body than the tee, and there’s no need to fret over potential constriction in the arms when sizing down.

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Although I haven’t had extensive time to put these pieces to the test, my initial perception is that they are high-quality base layers designed with fit and comfort in mind. We often place the top drawer on the back burner – after all, it is more fun to purchase clothes that the world is going to see rather than the pieces we wear underneath. But, from experience, dedicating time and a little money toward underpinnings can make a huge difference in the way the rest of our clothes perform.

Find all of my favorite Universal Standard styles in one place!

To make it all even easier? You can save 10% on your next US purchase with code INFS-AMBWAYWARD (including sale items!).

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Have you tried layering a camisole or tee under your most delicate garments? If not – I encourage you to give it a try, especially on your next trip!