Under There

It’s funny how certain topics are brought to mind by something trivial, which inspires deeper thoughts and realizations. I received an email from a company I subscribe to pertaining to the April offers and it made me think of a personal journey I’ve been on. It’s a secret, intimate quest, which may bring laughter and shakes of the head. I’m referring to my love affair with… underwear.

That probably induced a shake of the head, but bear with me. When I was a kid, my mother bought my underthings, which were all-white items referred to in most circles as “tidy-whities.” I absolutely hated them. For one, they offered no room for movement or growth, and I couldn’t wait until I was old enough to purchase my own things, because I vowed that not only would they not be briefs, but they would be in a multitude of colors, none of which would ever be white!

I wanted to be comfortable, of course, but then again, as time moved forward, I wanted to be somewhat stylish, just in case someone was observing me remove my outerwear. I invested in Joe Boxers, satin Disney boxers with buttons, which at that time were only available from their store on Michigan Avenue downtown, and I loved the different feel and look. No briefs, and no ‘open-toed’ undies for me. I was happy with my choices.

And then boxer briefs came into existence, and I absolutely embraced them. Fruit of the Loom and Hanes were my go-tos for a long time, and I was content. Then about three years ago, I was reading an ad for a company called ‘Savage Fenty’ and I looked through their selection for men. The first thing that impressed me was the models were men who looked like me, not models or anything. I decided to give them a try and signed up for a subscription. I’ve never regretted that decision.

This is not advertisement for that company, but simply a glimpse into a funny yet poignant example of a personal journey. A couple of years ago, I packed a suitcase, then had to do it over because I changed my mind about whatever my clothing colors would be. I usually pick two pairs of shoes, then build my vacation wardrobe around them. Somehow, there was a mishap in the process, and I ended up in Tybee Island without undergarments. Oops. My friends made fun of my situation and I was forced to buy emergency replacements from Wal-Mart.

Other than those three, all of my purchases have been from the above-mentioned company. Boxers and boxer briefs in all colors, and I have close to a hundred pair, enabling me to pack for multiple trips without running short, especially since I don’t wear them at work. For my job, the old Hanes and FTL ones work fine enough. These are referred to as “work drawers.” Lol.

However, I’m facing a new dilemma; those specified for work are more than three years old, except for the emergency purchase. Which means that they have become frayed, or the elastic isn’t the same, or they are no longer viable choices. I don’t think it makes sense to replace them with similar products, so I’ve been quietly throwing them away as their time is up.

I no longer have designated work underwear, and I’m comfortable with that. My mother will be pleased to know that if an emergency occurs, I’m in good shape so far as that. Because for some reason, mothers often warned to “wear clean, good underwear, in case you’re in an accident.” Lol, because wouldn’t such an occasion make the undies a victim too? Be comfortable beneath your clothes and be kind to yourself. Start with whatever’s best for you, whether male or female. Have fun, and remember, it’s your business.

P.S. I have a dresser full of underwear.