I like the hi-cuts. They're comfy without being too "grannypanty" like. Prefer cotton for daily use, satiny and lacy for special occasions. Mostly solid colors, with an occasional wild print.
My favorites are a pair of black mesh hi-cuts with a pattern made from blue and green glittery thread. Of course, they must be worn with the matching bra.
Oh, and I call them underpants usually. Panties seem too girlie for what I wear.