fashion n trends

Mens underwear has progressed in recent years. From a simple choice between boxers and briefs, there are now hundreds of styles, brands and fabrics to choose from. In recent years there has been as much attention paid to developing new styles for men's, as there has in women's lingerie. Now that there is a style to suit any man, traditionalist, sportsman or trendsetter, the sky is the limit in the under clothing department.

Men's needs and wants are now considered as high priority in the male underwear world with stylists and designers recognizing the gap in the market. They see that the trendsetters seeks colour, pattern, style and fashion, the sportsman is looking for performance-enhancing style and moisture-wicking fabrics, whereas the traditionalist buys plain colours such as black, grey or blue in a basic brief or boxer.

Consider your outer clothing as you choose your under clothing. Wearing loose boxers under skinny low-rider jeans is going to make any man uncomfortable. Remember that you are only supposed to show your underwear when asked. More form-fitting trunks or low-rise briefs would be a better idea under tight jeans. Keep your boxers for formal trousers or cargo pants which are looser.

Traditional briefs have a waistband that sits high at the waist, sporting either an overlap fly or a contour pouch and offers full coverage. Also available is a mid-rise or low-rise garment, each sitting slightly lower on the hips. The bikini brief is cut higher on the leg, with form-fitting design and the support of the regular brief. Less likely to ride up than other styles, they are favoured for comfort and support. The brief is suited to be worn under any and all types of trousers and shorts.

Boxers are loose fitting, comfortable and cover the body from waist to mid-thigh. Offering a working fly front, they are also available in a full cut version which is longer and looser. The tapered boxer is designed with a slimmer fit usually with small slits on the leg allowing for freer movement. Some styles will have a shaped panel between the legs to allow for more comfort and also reduce chafing.

Trunks, or boxer briefs, are currently one of the most popular styles. They are form-fitting and cover from waist to upper thigh, combining the comfort of a brief, with the coverage of the boxer. The fly front is a design feature that is frequently included. The style of the trunk is loosely based on the swim trunks that were so popular in the fifties and are now highly sought after by both sexes. Men desire the fit and comfort and women find them visually appealing.

The restrictions of functional and uncomfortable fabrics used for men's underwear are over. These days the silk blends, high tech sports fabrics as well as eco-friendly fibres on offer all have benefits. Athletes and sportsmen will choose the fabrics echoing their athletic clothing, which offer the flexibility, support and absorption qualities that they need. Ecological fabrics such as bamboo, soy and organic cotton tend to be softer than the usual choices, as well as being super-absorbent and wicking away moisture.

Don't be put off by the large selections that are now available to you when you step inside an Underwear store. Remember that you are the person most likely to be affected by your choices and select comfort above all else.