No matter how far we’ve come on the issue of gender equality, it seems that there are still (and will always be!) things that men and women will never understand about each other. For men, women’s underwear is one of these mysterious things – and something they often voice questions about! These results, taken from an informal survey of my female friends, are the top undergarments that (most) men don’t (seem to) understand, followed by examples you can use to educate members of the masculine persuasion.
1. Shapewear
He says:
“You’re not overweight, so why do you need Shapewear?”
You say: Shapewear doesn’t just slim the body, it creates a streamlined torso. No bumps or bulges from panties, stockings, or leggings. Women of any shape and size can appreciate that!
Example: Panty Girdles With Reinforced Front Panel by Naturana Lingerie will show him that a long, shape-fitting controlwear creates a smooth, sleek torso under even a thin dress.
2. Garter Belts
He says: “They’re sexy, but what the heck are they for?”
You say: I’m glad you like them, but for centuries they served a very useful purpose. In the past, stockings only went up a little past women’s knees. Women attached stockings to the garter belt so that they would stay up. A man might reply (as my boyfriend did): “Aren’t they tight enough that they stay up on their own?” The answer is no, they need something to hold them up. (Stay-Ups do have a silicone band inside to “stay up” by themselves, but thigh-high nylons/stockings don’t.)
Example: If he can focus long enough to get the explanation, the Naked Envy Semi Sheer Eyelash Lace Garter Belt by Blush Lingerie illustrates how garter belts attach to mid-thigh length stockings.
3. Basic Panties
He says: “These are boring. Why do you have them?”
You say: There are certain times in the month (or anytime, really!) that women want simplicity and coverage from their underwear. It’s not always the goal to look hot – comfort is key!
Example: Prove the point that basic underwear can still be exciting with Elita’s 8825 Silk Magic Microfiber Brief, a perfect blend of practicality and luxurious comfort. The super-soft material will convince anyone that basic underwear is a necessity.
4. Convertible Bras
He says: “I don’t know what that is. And it sounds like a type of car.”
You say: It’s a bra with straps that you can remove or move around into different configurations (such as single strap, strapless, halter-neck, racer back style, one strap across the back, etc.) It’s very useful because women can wear it with many different outfits that a traditional bra would not work with, like a strapless dress or one-shoulder dress.
Example: The 1693 This Is Not A Bra Strapless Bra by Warner’s shows how versatile this type of bra really is. Pair it with one-shoulder or strapless tops so he gets the point.
5. Sports Bras
He says: “Do you really need that? I work out without a jock strap.”
You say: YES! Sports bras offer much greater comfort and support than regular bras. Though some women might be able to pull off yoga or Pilates in an everyday bra, most women find it extremely uncomfortable or even painful to run or use a cardio machine without a sports bra. (Plus, you don’t want to get a nice bra gross and smelly if you’re working up a sweat.) Try telling him that a badly fitting or non-supportive sports bra will only make your breasts sag earlier, and a great sports bra prevents that from happening as quickly, preserving your bustline longer.
Example: The 4490 Active Max Sports Bra by Shock Absorber offers great support and comfort. Women will feel the difference when working out… but men will just have to take our word on that.
Has another clothing item caused confusion for a man you know? Tell us by commenting below, or connect with us on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page!
Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com
4 COMMENTS
Sara J. Tol
13 years agoWhat about types of undergarments your mother doesn’t understand?
For instance, THONGS- My mother comments, “You could floss with those! How do you walk with a string up your ___!” Hahaha! WHat could I say back????
admin
13 years agoHahaha! Great point, and I’m sure she’s not alone in her saying so (I’ve heard many other ladies say the exact same thing)! To “How do you walk with a string…” I’ve previously responded: “carefully”.
Another reply I’ve used in the past is “sometimes less is more” … although it lacks “sass”! Anyone else have a good quip for this?
Sangina Ahmed
10 years agoI have a question about 3 unusal bras. What is a peep hole bra, u bra, cup less bra and what is the point of them, and one more this i should of found out my self but couldnt what is a adhesive tape bra and what is it used for. thank you
admin
10 years agoHi Sangina,
A peep hole bra is also like a keyhole bra, and has a hole in the center of the breasts for a sexy look. A cupless bra has no cups and is also for sexy wear.
A U bra is made for plunging tops and is very low in the center.
An adhesive bra sticks to the body and typically has no straps or back, is usually worn when a regular bra cannot be worn underneath the top.
Click here to check out all bras at NTL.
I hope this helps.