Right undies can boost your feel-good factor

CONFIDENCE: Jess Reid, 35, says people don't pay enough attention to what underwear they're wearing. Photo/Stuart Munro

You may not have realised it, but yesterday marked National Underwear Day - a day dedicated to briefs, panties, knickers and all manner of undergarments, no longer the "unmentionables".

Freshpair, a large American underwear franchise for men and women, launched the day as an unofficial holiday and used underwear models in New York City's Time Square to promote the inaugural event in 2003.

National Underwear Day is now in its 11th year and this year has extended its reach to people around the world.

In Victoria Ave, Wanganui Top Draw lingerie boutique store assistant, Jess Reid, 35, told the Chronicle that people needed to feel good about the kind of underwear they choose to wear.

"I think a lot of people don't pay enough attention to what they're wearing underneath and quite often it can really boost your day if you're wearing something cute, if you're well-supported and feel comfortable.

"The vast New Zealand public need to embrace their undies," she said.

Miss Reid, who appreciates great underwear and has always had an interest in lingerie, thinks New Zealand trends don't always measure up to global trends.

"We like our tracksuits and ugg boots too much.

"I think if women were wearing something cute, it would radiate through their personality."

"I reckon we should bring back undie 500," Miss Reid suggested as a way of marking the national day.

Ten years ago, Wanganui had a brief encounter with the "undie 500" race when people ran through the city streets in nothing but underwear to promote self-confidence.

National Underwear Day follows the mantra that "confidence is the by-product of believing in oneself".

Akuino Olaaiga is an AUT journalism student on work experience at the Chronicle.