Gateway to Sustainability in Japan

3 wellness-focused Japanese lingerie brands with sustainable style

Have you ever experienced chafing and vaginal irritation from wearing tight undergarments? Wearing clothes that feel comfortable not only helps you avoid these unnecessary troubles but also puts you in the right mental space. As you spend more time at home during the global pandemic, going for comfort as well as style may help you get things done more efficiently in the right mood. Here are three examples of Japanese underwear brands that prioritize your well-being in addition to environmental sustainability.

Okaeri shorts make you feel at home

The idea for Okaeri shorts underwear came from Chika Ezure, a university student who wanted to provide empowering underwear that helps women prioritize their wellness. Ezure experienced several health problems growing up, and she learned about the concept of wellness, which emphasizes active choices towards a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Moreover, she found that overly tight, ill-fitting undergarments can cause health problems, and she decided to produce roomy underwear that protects women’s bodies gently.

(Image: i-for.me/pages/lp-okaeri)

Okaeri shorts are one-size lounge shorts that accommodate women of different sizes. Made from breathable and elastic cotton, this underwear provides next-to-skin softness and chafe-free comfort. The crotch areas feature non-dyed cotton, lowering the risk of any skin irritation. For those who want to keep their underwear dry and free from stains, cotton liners are also available for sale. Okaeri means “welcome home” in Japanese. Ezure hopes that users can rely on this comfy underwear when they come home tired and need to relax.

Liv:ra’s colorful plant-dyed lingerie

Liv:ra is a brand of plant-dyed lingerie started by Yumi Komori, who also runs the made-to-order apparel brand TSU.NA.GU.. With the concept of “wearing the life of flowers,” Liv: ra’s bras and panties are dyed using extracts from plants often used in traditional Chinese medicine. For example, marigold is believed to be beneficial for better blood circulation and digestion, while also producing a bright yellow dye. Furthermore, each garment is carefully hand-dyed individually, helping Liv:ra’s lingerie to give you a connection with nature throughout the day.

[Related article] Interview | Connected with nature: ethical lingerie fashion from Liv:ra

UNDERSON UNDERSON featuring Washi paper

UNDERSON UNDERSON is a clothing brand that prides itself on the fine selection of sustainable materials used in its clothing, including the brand’s predominant fabric that is made from traditional Japanese Washi paper. Washi fabric provides a comfortable, soft and flexible feel to the underwear as you wear it over time. Their bras and panties also control sweat and odor while offering great coverage without making you feel in any way constricted. Therefore, they provide perfect comfort for various lifestyles and activities, such as working from home, exercising or even breastfeeding.

Narrow triangle bra top (3,960 yen) and narrow bikini shorts (2,970 yen)
(Image: PR TIMES)
Written by
Misato Noto

Misato Noto is a translator & writer based in Trinidad and Tobago. She covers travel, technology, and entertainment. She loves yoga, (the idea of) hiking, cooking, and traveling.

View all articles
Written by Misato Noto