Underwear

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Braies

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Underwear is a category of clothing worn beneath outer clothes, usually in direct contact with the skin, although they may comprise more than a single layer. They serve to keep outer garments from being soiled by bodily secretions and discharges, to shape the body, and to provide support for parts of it. In cold weather, long underwear is sometimes worn to provide additional warmth. Underwear comes in a variety of styles and materials, and what is worn may depend on physical or social considerations.

Types of Underwear

Underwear can be divided into two types: upper body and lower body garments. For the upper body, the most common items include undershirts, bras, and camisoles. Lower body garments include underpants, panties, boxer shorts, boxer briefs, briefs, thongs, and g-strings. Special types of underwear, such as long underwear, are designed to provide additional warmth in cold climates. Lingerie is a term for fashionable and possibly alluring undergarments.

Materials

Underwear is made from a wide range of materials, including but not limited to cotton, silk, lycra, polyester, and lace. The choice of material depends on the desired comfort, breathability, and appearance. For instance, cotton is prized for its comfort and breathability, while materials like lycra and polyester offer more stretch and can be designed to wick moisture away from the body.

History

The history of underwear is as old as human civilization itself, with the earliest forms being loincloths worn by ancient peoples. In the Middle Ages, underwear consisted of simple garments like chemises and braies, evolving over time with fashion and technology. The invention of elastic in the 19th century revolutionized underwear design, leading to the development of more form-fitting styles. The 20th century saw the introduction of synthetic fabrics, which further diversified the types and styles of underwear available.

Cultural Significance

Underwear can have significant cultural and social implications. In many cultures, it is considered private attire, not meant to be seen by others. The design and choice of underwear can also reflect personal style, gender identity, and social status. In some cases, underwear has been imbued with erotic significance, becoming a key element in fashion and sexual attraction.

Health and Hygiene

Wearing clean underwear is important for maintaining good personal hygiene. Underwear can protect the wearer from chafing and irritation, and also serves to absorb bodily fluids, reducing the risk of skin infections. Some types of underwear, such as supportive briefs, can also offer health benefits by providing support and reducing strain on the body.

See Also

• Clothing
• Fashion
• Lingerie
• Personal hygiene