National Underwear Day

Young man and woman showcasing various underwear styles and colors in a vibrant, fun-filled fashion show, surrounded by a colorful backdrop and high energy atmosphere.. — National underwear day illustration

Ah, National Underwear Day! It's quite a panty-dropping moment, not literally, of course. A day for all to recognize the unsung hero of our daily attire -- the simple yet crucial item of clothing that comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. So, secure your seams and buckle up your briefs as we dive brief-first into the fascinating history of this peculiar celebration.

When is Underwear Day?

It's national underwear day on the 5th August.

A Brief Introduction

The talk of trousers, the whisper of waistbands; National underwear day has been celebrated by thousands of fun-loving, comfort-appreciating individuals all over the globe. With an astounding 28725 mentions online on August 5th, 2015, it was clear that this day was not just an ordinary day, much like how underwear is not just an ordinary piece of clothing.

The Uncovered History

Though you're probably scratching your head (no pun intended), wondering who dreamt up such a day, the origins of National Underwear Day trace back to a company named Freshpair, who initiated the day in August 2003. Their aim? Perfectly simple -- to promote body positivity and a love for the often overlooked undies.

Unveiling The Celebration

The celebration is chuck full of fun, comfortable awareness for everyone. Don't worry though, it doesn't involve running around your neighborhood in your underwear. However, it does involve acknowledging the comfort, style, and necessity of the humble underwear while educating others about its evolution and importance. It's seen as a day where we can let our guard slips and giggle about these hidden garments which usually don't see the light of day.

Highlight of National Underwear Day

The year 2015 saw the most online mentions of underwear day. The buzz reached its peak on August 5th and we can only presume social media must've resembled an online laundry line. People proudly waved their knickers in the clean fresh scent of the internet world, but don't worry, all with a PG rating in mind!

History behind the term 'Underwear'

1300s

The Beginnings

During the 1300s, the term 'underwear' had not yet come into existence. Instead, people referred to these undergarments as 'drawers' or 'breaches'. These early undergarments were made from linen and were typically worn by both men and women to serve as a protective layer between their bodies and the outer garments. They were loose-fitting and often tied at the waist with a drawstring.

1600s

Transition to Cotton

In the 1600s, the fabric used for underwear began to transition from linen to cotton. Cotton became increasingly popular due to its comfort and affordability. The loose-fitting drawers were now called 'shirts' and 'shifts'. These undergarments were still mainly practical rather than fashionable in nature.

1800s

Evolution of Styles

During the 1800s, fashion began to influence the design and style of underwear. Corsets became popular for women, reshaping their figures and emphasizing the hourglass silhouette. As a result, the term 'corset cover' was adopted to refer to the undergarment worn on top of the corset to protect it from sweat and body oils. Men's underwear, on the other hand, began to evolve with the invention of the union suit, a one-piece undergarment combining a shirt and drawers.

1900s

Rise of Modern Underwear

As the 1900s dawned, significant advancements were made in underwear design. Elastic waistbands were introduced, providing a more secure fit and greater comfort. With the rise of cinema and Hollywood's influence on fashion, underwear began to be marketed as a symbol of sensuality and allure. Lingerie, a term derived from the French word 'linge' meaning 'linen', emerged to describe women's elegant and provocative undergarments. This era also witnessed the introduction of briefs for men, revolutionizing their underwear choices.

Today

Continued Evolution

In the present day, the term 'underwear' encompasses a wide range of undergarments for both men and women. From classic boxers and briefs to thongs, bras, and shapewear, there are countless options available to suit individual preferences and styles. Underwear has become not only a functional necessity but also a fashion statement, with various materials, colors, and designs catering to diverse tastes. The cultural significance of underwear continues to evolve, reflecting changing societal norms and attitudes towards body image and self-expression.

Did you know?

Did you know, for National Underwear Day in 2013, Freshpair attempted to set a Guinness World Record for the most people gathered in their underwear? The party crashed the record with a whopping 800 attendees!