Why do pop stars love singing in underwear? They're not exactly new to the industry, but they're becoming increasingly common
For years, popstars have been rocking bodysuits, miniskirts, and shorts on stage, but recently another garment has been gaining popularity in this realm, which the Atlantic – with a bit of sarcasm – calls «fashionable diapers». Essentially, these are high-waisted briefs with a not-too-high cut, visually resembling bulkier hot pants. Recently, performers like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, and Dua Lipa have worn them during their live shows, among others. «Their appeal depends more on the awareness that something is missing to cover them, like pants or a skirt, and that they are actually very short, rather than on their shape,» explains the Post in an article on the topic.
This type of garment is highly appreciated by performers because it allows great freedom of movement: it lets them dance and move on stage without obstacles, especially while singing; it also enhances the figure of the wearer, creating a more elongated effect, and at the same time is practical for quick costume changes during shows. Such pieces also function as part of the visual storytelling of the concert – not surprisingly, they are sometimes covered in sequins.
The fact remains that this garment is not entirely new: artists like Madonna, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Lady Gaga have already worn it on stage. The difference compared to the past is that today it has become a much more widespread and recognizable element. In general, the choice to appear on stage or in public wearing only underwear instead of pants is a trend that has gained traction among many celebrities in recent years, sparking a lot of curiosity. Among the figures most associated with this style is actress Emma Corrin, a Miu Miu ambassador – and it is no coincidence: Miuccia Prada herself has previously experimented and played with the idea of the absence of pants, presenting looks almost entirely devoid of this piece.
The Trend of Briefs Among Male Popstars
In recent years, some male popstars have also begun experimenting with more revealing and theatrical stage outfits, approaching an aesthetic that until recently was perceived as almost exclusively feminine. In particular, the use of briefs and extremely minimal costumes – often custom-decorated – has become quite common in certain contemporary pop contexts, especially where the look is an essential part of the performance. Singers like Lil Nas X or Damiano David (especially with Måneskin) have helped normalize the idea that wearing a minimal garment, showcased as a true stage element, is now more related to the language of performance than to a concept of gender.
During performances, wearing such an essential garment on a male body becomes a way to introduce a more fluid and openly genderless aesthetic. Especially in shows where the body is a central part of the staging, this choice amplifies the performative dimension, suggesting that an artist's wardrobe does not necessarily have to adhere to a specific gender, but can instead move freely across different codes.
@finalcamboy charli xcx performing guess at sweat tour #sweattour #brat #charlixcx #sweattoursandiego original sound - finalcamboy
For men as well, this garment is not entirely new: already in the 1980s and 1990s, artists like Prince, Bowie, or some glam-rock frontmen had explored the idea of wearing very minimal costumes on stage. The difference today is that this choice is no longer seen as an isolated provocation but reflects greater – stylistic and performative – freedom within contemporary male pop.
