Mark Twain is credited for a certain fashion statement when he began wearing white suits late in his career in 1906. He wrote: “Clothes make the man.” Of course, the clothes we choose may be considered a reflection of our personality. But what about lingerie?

Lingerie began in the late 18th century and has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry. What’s the fashion psychology behind lingerie? Some feel as is if it’s an extension of feminine expression. Wearing enticing, silky undergarments may empower people to put on a show to arouse their partner’s desire, whereas others feel it enhances internal self-esteem or your self-view as a sexual being. Some like to get out of their comfort zone and try something new to add novelty to the sexual experience. There may be some truth to adding a dose of novelty during sexual experiences, as it may also release the neurotransmitter oxytocin, aka the cuddle hormone.

The skin is the largest sexual organ. Many enjoy the feel and touch of delicate lace or silky fabrics on their bodies. In a recent scientific article, more than 350 women were surveyed and reported using intimate apparel to feel sexy, desired, or aroused. Results also showed that women used lingerie to prepare for sex with their partners.

While many women enjoy frills, lace, and silky undergarments, they are not the only ones who enjoy wearing lingerie. Many straight and heterosexual men enjoy wearing lingerie. Some of the reasons being soft fabrics like nylon, lace, and silk feel great against the skin. In my opinion, some men consider wearing certain lingerie styles “taboo” and find it fun to blur what they consider to be gender lines. Other men report wearing lingerie makes it enticing for both partners by sharing this little secret.

For some, the experience of buying lingerie may cause more anxiety than excitement. It’s important to remember that lingerie is all about how it makes you feel, regardless of how you identify or what “section” of the store it came from. If you like how it looks on you and it makes you feel amazing, that’s all that matters! People come in every shape, size, and color. Everyone’s body is unique, special, and sensual.  Choose a piece that may accentuate your sexy assets and while easing any concerns about areas you don’t want to highlight. Be empowered, be confident, and be sensual in the way you choose to express your sexuality. Going to a boutique may be a daunting task, so online shopping offers the benefit of privacy coupled with diverse selections.

The mystery of lingerie is now debunked. It can be considered a form of sexual self-expression, an adjunct to your sensuality. Add some stimulating passion to your sexual journey and see what happens next!

Michael Krychman
Michael L. Krychman, MDCM, is the Executive Director of the Southern California Center for Sexual Health and Survivorship Medicine located in Newport Beach California. He is the former Co Director of The Sexual Medicine and Rehabilitation Program at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer. He also is a clinical sexologist and has completed his Masters in Public Health and Human Sexuality. Dr Krychman has a degree in Erotology, Sexual Education and Forensic Sexology. Dr Krychman is also an AASECT certified sexual counselor. He is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California Irvine, Division of Gynecological Oncology and the Medical Director of Ann’s Clinic, a high-risk program for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Survivors.

His special interests include menopausal health, hormone therapy, sexual pain disorders, and loss of libido, chronic medical illness and medical devices and their impact on female sexual function. He is a well-known speaker who is featured locally, nationally and internationally. He has published many articles in peer-reviewed journals and has been featured in many scientific journals and lay magazines. Dr Krychman is an active reviewer for the Journal of Sexual Medicine. He was the Scientific Chairman for the 2010 International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health annual educational meeting. He is an active member in good standing in North American Menopause (NAMS), International Society sexual Medicine (ISSM), European Society Sexual Medicine (ESSM), International Society Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH), American Society of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). He was a member of the Standard Committee for ISSM and has been a guest professor at the ESSM Sexual Medicine Summer School in Oxford, England. He was the creator of the recent WISH Initiative (Women’ Initiative on Sexual Health: www.yourvoiceyourwish.com) and the 2013 recipient of the WISH Outstanding Achievement award given by the ISSWSH. He is also on the professional advisory board for the Patty Brisben Foundation.

Dr. Krychman’s has published 7 books including his most recent one: The Sexual Spark, 20 Essential Exercises to Reignite the Passion, 100 Questions & Answers for Women Living with Cancer: A Practical Guide to Female Cancer Survivorship has been recently published, 100 Questions and Answers about Women’s Sexual Wellness and Vitality and Breast cancer Sexuality, Sensuality and Intimacy. He has been featured on the Today show and in the New York Times and US News and World Report World Report, The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Health Magazine and many others. He was named one of Orange County Top Doctors for 2015 and 2016 in Menopause, Sexual Dysfunction and Vulvar Pain. In 2019 and again in 2020, he has been named an Orange County Physician of Excellence by Orange Coast Magazine in Survivorship, Sexual Medicine and Menopause.