There Are Real Benefits To Going Commando
The first time that I ever found myself concerned with the visibility of a panty line was during my 8th-grade graduation. I found the most beautiful dress that unfortunately highlighted the lining of my undergarments. My mom made me wear a thong under that dress, even though I would have preferred to wear no underwear at all.
Walking around with a thong a.k.a. a semi-permanent wedgie drove my nuts after just a few minutes.
At that age, I never even thought of it as a possibility to actually not wear underwear at all. It was something that “we" just don't do as the elder women in my family would say. Little did they know, it may have just been the best thing that they've never tried.
By the time I was in high school, that “only nasty girls go outside without panties on" mentality that was embedded in my head since I was a preteen slowly started to wither away. In fact, I became very close friends with someone whose views of going commando was totally opposite from what I had been taught all of my life. In fact, her mom is a true commando connoisseur, opting out of wearing underwear most days. Getting a better understanding of what life was like “free-balling" from people who have actually done it is what got me to try it out for myself. It's actually pretty damn amazing if you ask me.
Like most women, when I'm faced with the many wonder of life, I turn to my circle of friends. Here were the responses I got on the big question at hand. To go commando, or not to go commando.
"That sh*t is a lifestyle for me. It's freeform...freedom. And if need be easy access. It's breathable. I feel like it's especially great when I wear a dress or skirt or some loose fitted pants." - Melissa
"I like not wearing panties some times. I wear panties with jeans though. I definitely don't wear panties at night. My mom tried to tell me to (not wear panties at night) and I would have a fit. Like...I have to wear panties!" - Tonya
"I'm scared of sweating (if I'm outside). I usually go commando at home and when I sleep though." - Shauna
"At first I thought it was something that fast. Nasty girls did and I was just like heck no. But one day drastic times called for desperate measures and I realized what I have been missing all of this time." - Michelle
"I personally don't do it because I think way too hard. What if I sweat and it leaves a stain? What if aunty flow makes an unexpected appearance? Yeah, I'll pass on that one." - Kori
"I think it depends on what you have on. I don't really go commando unless it's something that requires it like a dress or skirt where you will see the pantyline. But I would never go commando in pants. That just seems uncomfortable to me. Or short skirts." - Danielle
It seem like it may be some hope for going commando after all. Yet and still, some women feel going outside without panties is utterly disgusting, while others are all for letting their vajayjays get some fresh air at least every once in a while. One gynecologist, Dr. Alyssa Dweck, M.D. in fact stated that “if [the area] is constantly covered—especially by a fabric that's not moisture-wicking or absorbent---moisture collects...That's a perfect breeding ground for bacteria or yeast." Yikes, that's a bit frightening.
If that's not enough to get you to try it, here are some other things for you to keep in mind:
It's SUPER comfortable
I barely can describe the feeling in words. I can tell you personally, when you have a little bit more junk in your trunk most cuts of underwear feel super uncomfortable, especially with pants. Thongs can be irritating to the skin. Others give you unwanted bumps and bulges. No underwear, no problems. There are even panty liners made specifically for going commando.
No more panty lines
You probably once in your life had on a bomb dress and while you're checking yourself out in the mirror, you realize that your panty line is trying to make a statement. ANNOYING. No panties---you guessed it---no panty line. Of course you could opt for thongs or another type of butt floss underwear with less coverage for you're rear end, but the absence of constant chaffing may push you to do otherwise.
It does more good than harm
There is no direct correlation between not wearing underwear and contracting infections. Generally speaking, you are safe when going commando as long as you are wearing breathable fabrics such as cotton. This is a rule of thumb even when wearing underwear. Go for cotton!
It may make you feel somewhat sexy
Some women admit to feeling sexy when they have on cute underwear, even if no one ever gets to see them. No underwear may heighten those feelings. May just a bit.
If you're thinking about going commando but are a little reluctant to try it out, just take baby steps. Start by doing it at night then when you're sleeping. Next, try it when you are just chilling in the comfort of your own home. If you feel comfortable enough to take it to the great outdoors, just try it. You'll never really know if it's for you unless you try it first. Take it from me.
Try it just once and let us know if you give going commando a thumbs up or if it's still getting the side eye from you. We want to know about your experiences!
Featured image by jacoblund/Getty Images
- 6 Things You Must Know Before You Go Commando ›
- Are there really benefits to going commando? ›
- 'I Went Commando for a Week—Here's What It Was Like' | Women's ... ›
- 8 Benefits Of Going Commando Once In Awhile (Or All The Time) ›
- The Right Way to Go Commando | Women's Health ›
- Advantages and disadvantages of going commando - Read Health ... ›
- Going Commando: The Only Way To Live | Thought Catalog ›
- Going commando is healthy for your vagina | New York Post ›
- Benefits of Going Commando | POPSUGAR Love & Sex ›
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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ItGirl 100: Get To Know Some Of The Most Inspiring And Empowering Women On Our List
The ItGirl 100 List, in partnership with Hyundai, is a celebration of 100 Black women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table.
We often see lists featuring amazing women who are seasoned in this thing called life, and our ItGirl 100 List gives flowers to the people they’ve passed the torch to: young millennial and Gen Z women who are innovating and disrupting in today’s world of advancement.
xoNecole has partnered with Hyundai for its inaugural ItGirl 100 List to give these women their flowers today. It’s a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who have built their own tables, launched new businesses, and redefined what it truly means to be blessed, booked, and busy.
Here’s a snapshot of fun facts from a few of the women listed on the ItGirl 100, representing the East, West, Midwest, and South:
EAST
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DJ 9AM: DJ & Curator
Representing: Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "On My Mama" by Victoria Monét
Favorite OG It Girl: Nia Long
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Taurus Moon, Pisces Rising
Favoring open-format, multi-genre mixes, this DJ has created a winning reputation for rocking a crowd with seamless transitions and selections, always representing Southwest musical and cultural influences.
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Tiffany James, Founder, Modern BLK Girl
Representing:Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Lucky Girl" by Carlina
Favorite OG It Girl:Naomi Campbell
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Virgo Rising
Modern BLK Girl is one of the leading investment groups among women of color, and the founder serves as an avid investor, community builder, and advocate. Tiffany James is also a mentor, utilizing her unique combination of financial and fashion expertise.
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Kat Mateo, Casting Director
Representing: New Jersey
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Princess Going Digital" by Amaarae
Favorite OG It Girl: Kelis, Eve, Lil Kim
Zodiac Big Three: Aries Sun, Cancer Moon, Cancer Rising
Thriving as a casting director and stylist, Kat Mateo offers a unique point of view that has shaped New York Fashion Week shows, ad campaigns, and editorials. She has also been a major contributor to cultural conversations related to fashion and inclusivity.
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Denise Stephanie Hewitt, Photographer
Representing: Brooklyn
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Experience" by Victoria Monét
Favorite OG It Girl: Hannah Montana
Zodiac Big Three: Taurus Sun, Aquarius Moon, Aquarius Rising
This Gordon Parks Foundation scholar is a full-time student who has been working to expand her freelance career in photography. Denise is also been featured among Essence'sinaugural list of "Top 10 Creators Under 30," for her unique aesthetics and perceptions through her art.
WEST
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Nayamka Roberts-Smith, Aesthetician
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Tomorrow 2" by GloRilla & Cardi B
Favorite OG It Girl: Meagan Good
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Capricorn Rising
Nayamka Roberts-Smith is an award-winning professional in the skincare industry and serves as an educator, offering knowledge on beauty culture. She also is a well-sought-after speaker on beauty and women’s issues, with a following of more than 1 million on social.
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Desiree L. Talley, Esq., Vice President, Legal & Business Affairs, Revolt TV
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Nice" by The Carters
Favorite OG It Girl: Issa Rae
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Scorpio Moon, Cancer Rising
An attorney and storyteller, Desiree L. Talley meshes relatability with her legal smarts for the culture. She advocates for cultural advancement and societal change through her POPLAW Podcast while balancing her executive duties at Revolt TV.
Marley Rae
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Marley Rae, Organizer, WalkGood
Representing: Los Angeles
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Nice For What" by Drake
Favorite OG It Girl: Mariah Carey
Zodiac Big Three: Capricorn Sun, Taurus Moon, Leo Rising
Marley Rae is a Nike Athlete, certified yoga instructor, COO, and Director of Health and Wellness for WalkGood LA, a family-founded non-profit organization. She is dedicated to fostering understanding and care in local and global communities.
MIDWEST
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Shawnee Dez
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "FreeBody Freestyle" by Shawnee Dez
Favorite OG It Girl: Toni Morrison
Zodiac Big Three: Cancer Sun, Aquarius Moon, Cancer Rising
Shawnee Dez is an artist who's all about captivating her audience through encouragement and empowerment. Her music features fluid harmonic layering, live instrumentation fused with digital production, and her unique multi-talented voice in an alto melodic tone.
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Bianca Pastel, Visual Artist
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: Anything by Whitney Houston
Favorite OG It Girl: Grace Jones
Zodiac Big Three: Taurus Sun, Leo Moon, Sagittarius Rising
Bianca Pastel's artistic portfolio includes fine art, illustrations, and animation, and she's worked with clients including Disney Pixar, and the NFL, to name a few. Her focus is "empowering the experience of being a Black child and dealing with mental health issues."
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Donyale Walton, Founder, Hoop Mobb
Representing: Detroit
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Yeah I Said It" by Rihanna
Favorite OG It Girl: Aaliyah
Zodiac Big Three: Virgo Sun, Libra Moon, Capricorn Rising
Donyale Walton's brand Hoop Mobb, celebrates the Black and Brown fashion and cultural impact and presence of hoop earrings. It's grown to earn more than seven figures in annual revenue and a nationwide community of loyal consumers.
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Ticara Devone, Content Creator
Representing: Chicago
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "She's a Bitch" by Missy Elliott
Favorite OG It Girl: Ananda Lewis
The Zodiac Big Three: Libra Sun, Taurus Moon, Virgo Rising
A trusted sneaker enthusiast and content creator, Ticara Devone uses dynamic storytelling to hold space for others with a passion for sneakers. A published writer, she’s worked with brands including Nike and Footlocker and inspires us all by ensuring women are vocal and seen in the multi-billion dollar shoe space.
SOUTH
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AllyiahsFace, Content Creator
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "Go Off" Doja Cat
Favorite OG It Girl: Gabrielle Union and Halle Berry
Zodiac Big Three: Gemini Sun, Leo Moon, Scorpio Rising
AllyiahsFace's YouTube channel has more than 830,000 subscribers, and she's been hitting the ground running since 2015. Her content creation, which centers on beauty, fashion, and lifestyle, has led to a lucrative career and drawn a close-knit social and real-life community to view and be inspired.
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Jaycina, Executive Director, Tender
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "All I Got" by Amel Larrieux
Favorite OG It Girl:Tracee Ellis Ross
Zodiac Big Three: Leo Sun, Sagittarius Moon, Sagittarius Rising
Jaycina is a signed model with a nonprofit that works to provide support and community for single mothers in Atlanta. She's also appeared in campaigns for brands including Fenty and GAP as well as features in all your favorite magazines and on billboards across the country.
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Asha Christian, Founder, Coily App
Representing: Atlanta
Ultimate ItGirl Song: "It's My Life" by Mariah Carey
Favorite OG It Girl: Toni Childs (Girlfriends)
Zodiac Big Three: Sagittarius Sun, Leo Moon, Leo Rising
Asha Christian created Coily to provide beauty recommendations utilizing social data. It offers a more personalized, AI-driven experience for users and part of her mission is to provide solutions related to diversity and put the focus back on the consumer. Meshing tech and culture, Christian is innovating with options that exemplify the Black girl magic needed in tech.
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Featured image by FG Trade/Getty