As much as we love swapping tips and tricks to solve our biggest fashion and beauty dilemmas, there are some questions we may not feel comfortable asking our friends about, let alone Google without going incognito. Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. In this series, we’re tackling those embarrassing queries by turning to experts in the field to get you the answers you need — minus any awkward feelings.
Now that we’ve properly debunked exactly how to combat camel toe, it’s time to turn our attention ’round back to the not-so-glamorous issue of the wedgie or as we’re calling it — hungry butt. Just like the camel toe, this very common fashion fail has happened to everyone. Tall or short, flat caked or bootylicious, the wedgie doesn’t discriminate against any size, shape, or derrière. So, before we gave up flowy silk skirts, polyester stretch pants, and mom jeans altogether, we decided to do some digging to find out exactly which fabrics cause wedging and how exactly to avoid having your a** eat your clothes.
What causes clothing to wedge?
We’ve all experienced the discomfort of having to discretely pick a wedgie in public. And whether it happens post-Vinyasa or pre-dinner party, hungry butt can be embarrassing and annoying. So why do some bottoms fail while others triumph? The not-so-simple answer is equal parts fabric and fit. Stretched out undies, silky garments, and low-quality high rise denim can all be the culprits of this often uncomfortable occurrence.
How do I avoid hungry butt?
There are a few things you can do to steer your booty clear. When wearing skirts and dresses, avoid unlined styles. “Lined garments help avoid this embarrassing situation because the lining creates a buffer between the thin fabric and your skin,” says Maggie Wu, founder of Maggie Wu Studio. “You can also wear tights and leggings which not only keep you warm but also help avoid this situation.”
Additionally, be sure to throw out old, stretched undies, and replenish your supply frequently. “Choose pairs that have more coverage and that won’t slide around as much (such as those made primarily with cotton fabric content), or try out thongs to avoid the problem altogether,” says Karrie Meiklereid, creative director for The Style Room, Zappos Fashion Experience. “Always make sure the underwear fits snugly, but not too tight to cause lines.”
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WAIT, ARE WEDGIES TRENDY?
Yes! Ultra high-waisted jeans and pleated, mom-style pants have certainly made the case for a very on-trend — and very hungry — butt. Designers, stylists, and fashion girls the world over agree that a good wedgie can be really flattering. “I encourage each and every butt to don a vintage pair of Levi’s 501, the original wedgie jean,” says San Francisco Bay Area-based stylist Amy Soderlind. “The older construction of these jeans alongside the fabric give every bum the perfect hug and lift, and the fabric between each cheek is welcomed.”
If you’ve already embraced this look or are planning to start, there are actually a few tricks to achieving the comfiest wedge possible. Avoid cheaply made clothing, opt for credible denim designers, and find a good tailor. “I’ve brought heaps of pants I’ve found at flea markets to the tailor to fit just right,” says Soderlind. “It’s amazing what they can do.”
Have more awkward fashion or beauty questions you’d like debunked? Tell us @BritandCo!
(Photo via Getty; Illustrations by Casey Callahan)
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