Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Underwear: Codpieces, Loin Cloths & Thongs
Sep 24, 2024
Nina Edwards, an author known for her exploration of underwear history, joins the discussion to unravel the fascinating tales behind our undergarments. She dives into the evolution from playful codpieces to practical bloomers, shedding light on their cultural significance. The talk highlights how underwear has shaped women's identities and societal roles, especially during the Victorian era. Edwards also considers modern trends and how they reflect our current attitudes towards modesty and self-expression.
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Underwear's Secretive Dual Role
- Underwear has a hidden, secretive function celebrating modesty and flamboyance rather than mere practical use.
- It conceals items and reveals intimate aspects of personality and status beneath ordinary clothing.
Codpiece: From Protection to Fashion
- The codpiece began as practical genital protection, not sexual display.
- It evolved to signify masculinity and even served as a handy pocket during the Renaissance.
Bloomers Innovated Underwear Design
- Women's bloomers were designed with a closed crotch for modesty and practicality in sports and daily life.
- Open-crotch underwear had inconveniences, influencing changes in underwear styles over time.