If you or your teen are looking for the same "invisible" look without opting for a thong, consider these alternatives available from retailers like Victoria's Secret or Aerie:

For many teenagers, the decision to wear thongs is driven by practical and social factors:

Experts recommend an "authentic ask" approach—parents should ask why the item is important to the teen and listen to the answer without immediate judgment. Finding a compromise, such as allowing them for specific outfits or occasions, can often resolve the conflict while respecting both the teen's autonomy and the parent's boundaries. The Thing About Thongs - Videos Index on TIME.com

These use laser-cut edges to lay flat against the skin.