It would be nice if every clothing store along the Wasatch Front hired a “Transitioning Mormon consultant” in their underwear section. Until that idea catches on, here are some suggestions crowdscourced from clients in similar situations (shared with permission):
Disclaimer: I do not work for nor know/am related to anyone who sells these alternatives. This is simply the list many wish they’d had when they’re navigating post-orthodoxy and garments, if it’s been awhile:
General Guidelines:
- 100% cotton is most breathable and reduces risks of infections (yeast, UTI), for everyday wear especially. Silk and lace tend to reduce underwear lines and folks like them for special occasions, but you can buy regular cotton ones that are seamless too, or mostly cotton lasar cut type.
- Target, Walmart, Costco/Sams Club have better prices and big selections, tend to last longer, Nordstrom/Sears/Victorias Secret etc have pricier but more for special occasions.
- It’s important to get fitted for bras, Victorias Secret will do so for free for instance. When you wear garments, over/under bras, the fit is very different from skin-to-skin. Finding out your true size for ultimate comfort is pretty crucial and often we don’t think to do this for ourselves. Self-care is important.
- To prevent thigh rubbing*: Jockie Skimmies , biker shorts
*For some, the initially chafing from inner thigh skin rubbing (for example, skirts, dresses that bottom garments were usually there for) diminishes over time as your skin gets used to skin-on-skin contact, though initially it may be raw from being used to material there. Depends on the body, perhaps try with regular panties for awhile in case your skin will get used to it. If not, the above products work great as alternatives that cover inner thighs.
If you’re a Costco Shopper:
- Champion brand boxer briefs
- White Kirkland T shirts are a nice, higher-quality substitute for what men may have been used to
Adidas Sport Climalite Boxer Briefs
If the symbols are important to you, you can have iron-on label transfers. Also, I have met some for whom wearing the symbols on jewelry or in a locket are meaningful for them. Or you can sew them on yourself with plain thread.
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