Snapshot: Men’s lingerie is no longer a niche curiosity. From lace briefs and mesh underwear to corsets, bodysuits, and stockings, this guide explores the styles, fabrics, fit, brands, and cultural trends that make men’s lingerie a bold, confident choice.
Men’s Lingerie Is Gaining Popularity
The market is booming. In 2023, over 13.2 million men purchased lingerie-style underwear, including lace boxers, mesh briefs, and transparent designs — a 24 % increase from the prior year. It’s clear men are increasingly experimenting with fashion, comfort, and self-expression.
Men’s lingerie has historically been dismissed or relegated to fetish wear. That’s changing, and fast. Today, lace briefs for men, sheer bodysuits, and silk robes are worn confidently by celebrities, fashion influencers, and everyday style-conscious men.
Timothée Chalamet has made sheer tops a red carpet statement, while Harry Styles has normalized men wearing lace, leather, and sheer fabrics without being perceived as less masculine.
Lace Boxer Briefs & Mesh Styles
Everyday lingerie-inspired underwear blends comfort with style, making it approachable for beginners. Lace boxer briefs offer a sensual twist on traditional men’s underwear, while mesh briefs add airflow and daring appeal.
Tips & Opinions:
- Start with subtle lace trims or mesh panels; they make a statement without being over-the-top.
- Opt for softer, breathable fabrics like modal or cotton blends with lace overlays.
Cultural Context: In Japan and South Korea, it’s not uncommon for men to wear subtle lace or mesh panels as a fashion statement under everyday clothes, especially in urban youth culture.
Recommended Brands:
- Skims (Men’s Range) – Minimalist, comfortable, and modern.
- MeUndies – Playful prints, soft fabrics, occasional lace accents.
Reimagined Jockstraps
Once purely athletic, jockstraps are now being reimagined as fashion-forward lingerie. Soft fabrics, lace accents, and decorative straps turn a classic staple into a style statement.
Tips & Opinions:
- Wear jockstraps for casual confidence or under tight pants for a subtle show of personality.
- Don’t be afraid of color or texture — reds, metallics, or lace overlays can elevate the look.
Cultural Note: Jockstraps are iconic in LGBTQ+ fashion scenes, especially in nightlife or pride events, where they double as functional and expressive pieces.
Recommended Brands:
- PUMP! Underwear – Comfortable with a bold, modern aesthetic.
- Nasty Pig – Edgy designs and mesh silhouettes.
Sheer & Strappy Bodysuits
Bodysuits combine daring design with practical fit. Sheer panels, lace overlays, and straps create visually compelling silhouettes.
Tips & Opinions:
- Start with a bodysuit that has partial coverage or removable straps if you’re experimenting for the first time.
- Pair with hosiery or jockstraps to complete a cohesive look.
Cultural Note: Fashion editorials and European designer shows increasingly feature bodysuits for men as part of avant-garde runway trends.
Recommended Brands:
- Candyman Fashion – Mesh, lace, and strappy bodysuits that are daring and stylish.
Stockings & Hosiery
Fishnets, sheer tights, and garter-attached stockings allow men to explore lingerie in a stylish and subtle way.
Tips & Opinions:
- Match stockings with underwear or bodysuits for a polished look.
- Sheer tights can also be layered under shorts or skirts for fashion-forward urban styling.
Cultural Context: Hosiery for men is gaining traction in streetwear and K-pop inspired outfits, influencing youth fashion globally.
Recommended Brands:
Sleepwear & Loungewear
Silky robes, satin kimonos, and babydolls extend lingerie aesthetics to comfort and relaxation.
Tips & Opinions:
- A silky robe over lace briefs adds a subtle but luxurious layer of sophistication.
- Choose fabrics like satin or modal blends for daily wear and longevity.
Cultural Note: In French and Italian fashion, lounging in luxurious men’s sleepwear has long been a style statement among young urban adults.
Recommended Brands:
- Derek Rose – High-end loungewear with sleek cuts.
- Brooklyn Tall – Inclusive sizing and luxurious comfort.
Fabrics & Fit
Men’s lingerie uses classic fabrics (lace, silk, satin, velvet, mesh) with adjustments for male anatomy. Features like double-layered pouches, reinforced stitching, and higher leg openings are standard.
Keep in mind:
- Comfort matters first even the most striking piece will remain unworn if it doesn’t fit well.
- Check brand-specific size guides and consider stretch or adjustable features.
Breaking Stigma & Building Confidence
Men wearing lingerie was once stigmatized. Today, social media, LGBTQ+ communities, and celebrities have helped normalize lingerie as a tool for confidence and self-expression. Men report increased self-esteem, mood elevation, and body positivity when wearing lingerie pieces they love.
Men’s lingerie is evolving into a confident, stylish, and expressive category. From everyday lace briefs and mesh underwear to corsets, bodysuits, stockings, and coordinated sets, the options are vast and accessible. With thoughtful brands, quality fabrics, and increasing social acceptance, now is the time to explore, experiment, and find pieces that make you feel stylish, empowered, and fully yourself.
Want to learn more about lingerie? Check our quick guide on how to choose lingerie. It’s more oriented towards women, but it we have awesome tips & tricks for sizing and fabrics that apply to all genders.
