National Underwear Day

National Underwear Day takes place annually on August 5. In 2026, this date falls on a Wednesday. It is a day to feel proud of your underwear, no matter what style or brand you prefer. From boxers and briefs to sports bras and lingerie, these foundational garments support, cover, and express personal style. Whether you refresh your drawer, try a new style, or simply appreciate the comfort beneath your clothes, this day invites everyone to celebrate the often-overlooked staple of daily wear.

History of National Underwear Day

National Underwear Day was originally created by the brand Freshpair in 2003 as a campaign promoting positive body image. Although men were part of the initiative, the focus was more on women and how society perceives their body image. At a time when being confident in one’s bare skin was a relatively new concept, the movement went viral. National Underwear Day has been celebrated on August 5 every year since, encouraging people to embrace their underwear choices and feel good about themselves.

The history of underwear itself stretches back to prehistoric times, when humans wore loincloths. During the Middle Ages, men wore linen shorts or ‘braies,’ and women wore a ‘shift’ under their dresses. Women’s knickers did not appear until the 19th century. While underwear primarily protects clothing from sweat and stains, rising demand for lingerie led to more fashionable varieties. Lady Duff-Gordon of Lucile was the first to create lingerie that freed women from tight corsets. Breakthrough brand Victoria’s Secret, founded in 1977, made underwear and nightwear both fun and functional for daily wear.

Why is National Underwear Day important?

Underwear is more than just a layer of fabric; it provides essential warmth and protection. Long Johns, for example, are life-saving garments for mountaineers and those living in cold climates. Underwear also has your back in wardrobe malfunctions, ensuring you are covered even when your outer clothing fails. Beyond practicality, underwear is a form of self-expression, coming in countless colors, patterns, and styles that allow you to have fun with your look.

Celebrating National Underwear Day reminds us to appreciate the comfort and confidence that the right undergarments bring. It also highlights the importance of regular replacement for hygiene and elasticity. The day encourages everyone to take pride in their underwear, whether it’s a favorite superhero pair or a luxurious set. Here are a few reasons why we love this day:

• Wearing underwear keeps you warm in cold weather and provides a layer of protection.
• Underwear has got your back-side during wardrobe malfunctions, literally covering you.
• Underwear is fun, with many colors and patterns to choose from.
• It reminds us to replace old underwear for better hygiene and comfort.
• The day promotes positive body image and self-confidence.

How to Celebrate National Underwear Day

Treat yourself to a new set of underwear. Nothing says confidence like fresh undergarments, even if no one else sees them. You can also recruit friends for a National Underwear Day parade in your backyard or check online for an officially sanctioned parade. Another fun activity is to check out a burlesque show, where extravagant undergarments take center stage with glitter, dance, and music.

You can also host a collection drive for new underwear to donate to local shelters, as this is one of the greatest unmet needs for people experiencing homelessness. Clean out your underwear drawer and replace old pairs. Rank your favorite brands on a comfort scale, or simply wear your favorite underwear around the house. Share your celebration on social media with #NationalUnderwearDay.

• Treat yourself to new underwear
• Host a backyard parade with friends
• Attend a burlesque show
• Donate new underwear to a local shelter
• Clean out your underwear drawer and replace old pairs

National Underwear Day Dates