Men’s undies soiled (and torn) are apparently the ones to wear

Fetish wear takes an unexpected turn. We’re not talking about leather and latex. They are not filthy enough. We are taking about fetishism with the unwashed. After dirty jeans and dirty sneakers, including those seriously soiled and tattered, you’d think nothing else would be left begrimed, especially one considered to be an ‘intimate’ garment. Well, American designer Willy Chavarria has done the unthinkable: He is selling men’s underwear that looks like it has been worn for a very long time by an active individual who have no laundry facility at home or do not believe in using it. The briefs appear very used and are stained yellow, not due to the effects of prolonged exposure to humid conditions, but from urinary discharge. Charming, isn’t it? If you are rushing out to buy a pair, be prepared to part with US$350 (or S$465)!

We have no idea why Mr Chavarria, who has designed menswear for Calvin Klein, would want to sell Y-fronts that could have been bought off a rebellious teen with questionable personal hygiene or a homeless man disadvantaged by circumstances. The total antithesis to Prada’s pristine pair. There is, of course, a market for fetish fashion, especially underclothes. Mr Chavarria, who has experience as an underwear designer at Joe Boxer, probably thinks wearing seemingly soiled and torn underpants—with “Willy” (someone might want this pair) emblazoned on the waistband—give the impression of raw, unclean allure. Fetish fashion is not usually for public admiration. Rather, in private arrangements, it can be sexually explicit, instead of doubtful hygienic respectability. Still, we are not sure what the erotic value of these briefs could be, if they are just pretend dirty.

Willy Chavarria ‘Dirty’ briefs, USD350, are available on the brand’s website. Photo: Willy Chavarria