Can Men Wear Women’s Lycra Thongs—or Men’s Lycra Thongs That Look Like Them? The Rise of the Unisex Thong
Not long ago, the idea of a man slipping into a Lycra thong—especially one resembling women’s lingerie or swimwear—was considered taboo or at the very least “out there.” But times have changed dramatically. Today, the once-provocative thong has evolved into a modern, unisex staple of both men’s underwear drawers and beach bags. Whether it’s women’s Lycra thongs, or men’s versions that mirror the feminine aesthetic, these sleek, body-hugging garments are gaining popularity across genders and sexual orientations alike.
The Evolution of the Thong: From Risqué to Runway
The thong first gained traction as a bold women’s fashion statement, often associated with lingerie, daring swimwear, and runway shock value. But as social norms shifted and comfort took priority in intimate apparel, thongs started earning respect for their practicality—no panty lines, minimal fabric, and a liberating feel. And it didn’t take long for men to take notice.
While women were blazing trails in cheeky swimwear throughout the ‘90s and early 2000s, men’s fashion started to flirt with the idea. Lycra—known for its clingy, second-skin feel—offered the ideal fabric for form-fitting garments. It was only natural that men would eventually explore the sexy, supportive, and boldly minimal world of Lycra thongs.
Are Women’s Thongs and Men’s Thongs Really That Different?
Interestingly, many men find that women’s Lycra thongs already fit well—particularly those with smaller frames or a love for snug, stretchy styles. With Lycra’s forgiving elasticity, some men opt for women’s thongs outright, while others turn to men’s styles that intentionally mimic the look and feel of their feminine counterparts. Thin straps, low rises, high leg cuts, and sleek silhouettes are no longer “female-only” territory.
Some brands even blur the lines further by offering “unisex” thongs with universal fits—essentially neutral designs that suit any gender while leaning into the aesthetic of sensuality and body confidence.
Thong Underwear: A Mainstream Men’s Trend
Today, men’s thong underwear is widely available, worn by gym rats, underwear enthusiasts, fashion-forward guys, and even comfort seekers. What was once niche—reserved for gay subcultures or fetish scenes—is now crossing into mainstream wardrobes. The appeal lies in Lycra’s comfort, support, and sex appeal.
Popular brands offer everything from ultra-minimal G-string cuts to thicker-sided fashion thongs—all in Lycra blends designed to contour the male form. And while function plays a role (no bunching, no wedgies under tight pants), it’s the form that’s breaking boundaries. Thongs aren’t just about practicality anymore—they’re about empowerment, self-expression, and, yes, showing off.
Lycra Thong Swimwear: From Gay Beaches to Global Trend
In the world of swimwear, Lycra thongs made their first splash in the gay community decades ago. Known for boldness and body pride, gay men embraced thong bikinis early, pushing boundaries in places like South Beach, Sitges, and Fire Island. But the visibility of these styles—combined with changing attitudes toward masculinity—has led to an explosion of thong swimwear for all men.
Nowadays, it’s common to see straight men confidently rocking Lycra thong swimsuits at beaches, resorts, and on social media. This isn’t just about sexual identity—it’s about style and confidence. From Brazilian-style cuts to high-rise, cheeky designs, men are embracing the same swimwear freedoms women have long enjoyed.
Props to Women: The Original Thong Trailblazers
It’s important to acknowledge where this movement began. Women normalized the thong. In the early days, thong bikinis were seen as risqué—even scandalous. But over time, women’s embrace of thong swimwear turned it into a cultural norm. Whether it was through pop culture icons, Instagram influencers, or bold beachgoers, women turned the thong into an everyday beach look. Today, thong bikinis are more popular than traditional bikini bottoms—proving that minimalism has become mainstream.
Thanks to their influence, men now feel empowered to join in the trend, and Lycra thongs—whether worn as underwear or swimwear—are seen as bold, sexy, and totally acceptable for anyone, regardless of gender.
The Future of Thongs Is Unisex
We’re living in an era where gender boundaries in fashion are being challenged and redefined. The Lycra thong, once a symbol of taboo or queer rebellion, is now becoming a symbol of self-confidence, sensuality, and style across the gender spectrum. Whether it’s a woman’s thong worn by a man, or a men’s thong designed with a feminine twist, the message is clear: it’s not about who it was made for—it’s about how it makes you feel.
In the end, thongs are for everyone. And Lycra, with its ability to hug, lift, and accentuate, remains the fabric of choice for those ready to show off and feel great doing it.