Have you ever wondered why women’s panties have a pocket? We did some research to clear things up and found out that there are silly videos and gifs floating around on social media with different explanations, which heightened our curiosity, so do not worry, we have the truthful answer.
The pocket is called the Gusset, and it is there for one reason and one reason only: comfort!
Origin of the word Gusset
Did you know that the English term ‘Gusset’ comes from the Norman French word ‘gousset’, which means ‘hollow of the armpit’? Originally, it referred to a small piece of chainmail armor used during the transition from chainmail to plate armor in the early 15th century.
Today, the Gusset is just as powerful yet an often-overlooked feature in textile manufacturing! This unassuming piece of fabric can alter the fit and feel of a garment, yet it remains unknown.
What Is The Purpose Of A Gusset?
The Gusset is more important than you may think; it is an amazing feature that helps keep your sensitive area dry, cool, well-ventilated and helps prevent irritation and infections.
Plus, the Gusset can serve as a protective barrier against less comfortable underwear materials. For example, Gussets are always included in lace undies to provide additional comfort, but they are not always necessary in cotton underwear.
It also extends the lifespan of your underwear! The Gusset, which is an extra piece of fabric, reinforces the crotch area so that delicate fabrics are less likely to be damaged.
Open or closed gusset? What's the Difference?
Have you noticed that there are two types of Gussets: open and closed?!
Some underwear manufacturers use open Gussets to cut costs, as they require less fabric. However, there is no significant difference in functionality between open and closed Gussets.
Are Gussets only in underwear?
It is not just panties that have Gussets; leggings and tights often have added Gussets too.
Usually, when used in these garments, they are triangular or diamond-shaped pieces of fabric that make up the crotch area and they serve multiple purposes in leggings or tights.
They reinforce the seams and prevent the seams from the front, back, and sides from connecting at one point. Without the buffer of the Gusset, the seams meeting in the crotch area would be more likely to tear or rip with movement! But wait, there is more! The Gusset helps distribute the pressure equally among the different seams, preventing tears!
Eliminate Camel Toe. The piece of fabric sewn into the crotch serves as a flat layer, reducing the appearance of camel toe! This is especially ideal for women who prefer wearing leggings or tights without panties.
Provide freedom of movement. The Gusset maintains a tight fit while still providing ample freedom of movement. The crotch area is reinforced and designed with flexibility in mind.
Evolution of the Gusset
It is no secret that women’s fashion is designed to fit white bodies, which, according to research, have wider hips, smaller bums, and narrower thighs than Black women. Is this applicable to underwear?!
The Gusset, which is designed to add strength and integrity to garments, has not kept up with the diverse range of body shapes and needs! Many have questioned its effectiveness and placement, and discussions have highlighted its shortcomings.
But do not worry, some direct-to-consumer brands offer hope with promises of better materials and thoughtful design to fit different body shapes! Even though challenges such as production costs prevent widespread adoption of customizable Gussets, we can still celebrate the progress that has been made so far.