IN THIS BODY

Finding the right underwear is a common struggle, but trans and gender diverse people have it even harder. Four individuals from the community unpack their needs and expectations from gender-affirming intimate wear

- NIDA NAEEM

Clothing has a deeply emotional quality for almost everyone because it interacts tangibly with the body. Depending on who you ask, underwear is one category of clothing that can be both a touchy topic and a liberating one. We all have very specific preferences; but the comfort factor of underwear transcends size, style, and cut for many trans and gender diverse individuals. The right intimate wear can help affirm their gender identity and ensure safety when out and about in the world. Most underwear, however, is made for cis people, leaving trans folks grasping at straws attempting to get the fit and look that feels the most authentic to them. While many international and homegrown lingerie brands have staked a claim in the Indian market in recent years, there continues to be a glaring lack in gender affirming intimate wear that serves a spectrum of bodies. This goes beyond cute lacy intimates or boxers - while the aesthetics are a part of it, underwear designed with functional features for trans and gender non-conforming people can be a gamechanger in terms of mobility and physical and mental comfort.

NOTHING TO SEE HERE

The practice of tucking, where the testicles and penis are pushed up into the inguinal canal in order to smoothen the appearance of the groin, is something that many trans women undertake to feel more comfortable in their outward gender presentation. Tucking is not a requirement to affirm one's gender, and depends on one's fashion choices, but also on the need to 'pass' as a cis woman in public.