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Men Trade Crunches for Corsets

Spandex briefs and belly compressors are a hot market

By Katherine Thompson,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 15, 2008 12:39 PM CDT

(Newser) – Undergarments that tuck the tummy and boost the butt are enjoying a surge in sales—and not just in the women's department. The male "shapewear" industry is growing by leaps and bounds as men discover that they don't have to lunge and crunch to get that taut shape. Say hello to "support boxers" and "compression shorts." Just don't use the "G-word," the Wall Street Journal warns.

Some say the new body-shaping creations are part of a men's liberation movement; others maintain that girdles are for grandmothers. Either way, more and more men are jumping into sculpting garments like the "Waist Eliminator" and "Flashback Butt Lifting Technology Boxer." The current trend toward leaner, more tailored looks demands "a much more fitted silhouette," explains a fashion director.

For many modern men, a simple pair of boxers doesn't give enough of a confidence (or anti-gravity) boost.
For many modern men, a simple pair of boxers doesn't give enough of a confidence (or anti-gravity) boost.   (Flickr)
Male corsets may help hide that unseemly beer belly.
Male corsets may help hide that unseemly beer belly.   (Shutter Stock)
Body-shaping undergarments aren't just for the ladies anymore.
Body-shaping undergarments aren't just for the ladies anymore.   (Flickr)
An ad in 1899 tried to tap into the male corset market, but real interest wasn't to surface for another 11 decades.
An ad in 1899 tried to tap into the male corset market, but real interest wasn't to surface for another 11 decades.   (Flickr)
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