Style-ish Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Myth-busting 5 Underwear 'Rules'
Host/Author: Shameless Media
Release Date: August 5, 2025

Introduction and Announcements

The latest episode of Style-ish kicks off with hosts Madison Sullivan Thorpe, Joanna F.L. Fleming, and Annika Joshi Smith discussing exciting updates. Joanna announces that every second Friday, the podcast will feature new episodes with Rhiannon Joyce, the Head of Business Development at Shameless Media, who will delve into brand and marketing discussions. Madison shares her personal connection with Rhiannon, highlighting their collaborative synergy. The hosts encourage listener interaction through social media, inviting suggestions for future topics and questions.

Notable Quote:
Joanna F.L. Fleming [00:44]: "We thought why not do one about something that we all wear every single day... underwear."

Segment 1: Debunking Underwear Myths

The trio transitions into the main segment, focusing on five common underwear myths. They emphasize the importance of underwear in daily comfort and outfit building, aiming to clarify misconceptions with expert insights.

Myth 1: Not Wearing a Bra Causes Breasts to Sag Prematurely

The discussion begins with the pervasive belief that foregoing a bra leads to premature sagging of breasts. Madison initially agrees with the notion, citing gravity as a factor. However, expert Dr. Raelia Lu from Women's Health Melbourne clarifies that there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim.

Notable Quotes:
Madison [12:26]: "I think true... Well, gravity."
Joanna F.L. Fleming [13:22]: "Not wearing a bra causes breasts to sag prematurely... it's more around the aging."

Dr. Lu explains that factors like breast size, collagen types, genetics, and life events (e.g., pregnancy, breastfeeding) play more significant roles in breast sagging than bra usage alone.

Myth 2: You're Probably Wearing the Wrong Bra Size

The hosts reveal that many women unknowingly wear incorrect bra sizes, often too small. Joanna emphasizes the importance of regular fittings, especially after life changes such as pregnancy or weight fluctuations. Dr. Raelia Lu advises reassessing bra size periodically, considering that sizing can vary across brands and countries.

Notable Quotes:
Joanna F.L. Fleming [22:24]: "I would highly recommend getting fitted... my bras are so much more comfortable because I'm actually in the right size."
Madison [22:27]: "I was wearing a back size bigger than what I should have been in a cup size bigger."

Annika shares her challenges with outdated bra sizes and underscores the necessity of professional fittings for better comfort and support.

Myth 3: Sleeping Commando Is Always the Healthiest Option

The hosts explore whether sleeping without underwear is beneficial for intimate health. Annika humorously shares her preference for wearing period-proof underwear, highlighting brands like AWA that offer comfort and inclusivity. Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydum from Intimate Ecology notes that there is no definitive research proving that sleeping commando is universally healthier. Instead, the best choice depends on individual preferences, hygiene practices, and climate.

Notable Quotes:
Madison [26:04]: "A healthy habit and letting the vulva breathe is a good thing."
Annika [27:53]: "I wear... these really beautiful modal PJs from Papa now... really lightweight."

Dr. Lu adds that opting for breathable fabrics and looser-fitting nightwear can be advantageous if one chooses to wear underwear to bed.

Myth 4: Cotton Is Always the Best Choice for Underwear

The discussion shifts to fabric choices, particularly the belief that cotton is the superior material for underwear. While Dr. Strydum acknowledges that 100% cotton is beneficial, especially in warmer climates due to its moisture-wicking properties, she also suggests alternatives like bamboo for enhanced breathability and odor reduction. Dr. Liu agrees, recommending natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo, or hemp, coupled with cuts that prevent chafing.

Notable Quotes:
Joanna [33:05]: "Not day to day, but I have heard this and I think this myth is true."
Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydum: "Natural fibres with high percentages and less than 6% elastane when you can, so you can avoid trapping any dampness."

The hosts discuss various brands and their preferred fabrics, emphasizing the importance of the gusset's material in preventing infections.

Myth 5: Underwire Bras Can Cause Breast Cancer

The final myth addressed is the claim that wearing underwire bras increases the risk of breast cancer. Hosts reference the book Dress to Kill (1995), which originated this myth by suggesting that underwire bras impede the lymphatic system, leading to toxin buildup in the breasts. However, oncologist Dr. Lauren Wayne from Women's Health Melbourne debunks this claim, confirming that there is no scientific evidence linking underwire bras to breast cancer.

Notable Quotes:
Joanna F.L. Fleming [35:20]: "There's no credible research or evidence to support any links between bras and cancer."
Dr. Lauren Wayne: "There is no scientific basis for the claim that underwire bras increase the risk of developing breast cancer."

Madison expresses relief at the debunking of this myth, acknowledging that many listeners might have held this belief.

Segment 2: Listener Questions and Recommendations

The hosts address a listener query from Akira in Brisbane, seeking advice on refreshing her underwear collection with comfortable styles. Annika and Joanna recommend several brands, including Uniqlo's Airism line for affordability and comfort, Skims for a variety of cuts and durability, and Calvin Klein for seamless options. They also discuss the importance of choosing styles that align with personal comfort preferences, such as avoiding G-strings if they're uncomfortable.

Notable Quotes:
Annika [39:29]: "Airism seamless briefs... they're about $9.90 per piece... a good, affordable option."
Joanna F.L. Fleming [40:18]: "I have a couple of nice lacy ones from Cut the Label as well."

Madison adds tips on sales and online deals, while the hosts share personal anecdotes about their favorite underwear choices, emphasizing the balance between comfort, style, and functionality.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, the hosts reiterate the importance of debunking common underwear myths to help listeners make informed choices about their intimate apparel. They thank their team and invite listeners to engage through emails and social media for future episode suggestions. The episode concludes with a brief mention of land acknowledgment, honoring the Wurundjeri and Aboriginal land.

Notable Quote:
Madison Sullivan Thorpe [43:37]: "This podcast was recorded on Wurundjeri Land. Always was, always will be."

Key Takeaways

1. Scientific Evidence vs. Myths: Contrary to popular belief, not wearing a bra does not scientifically cause premature sagging, and underwire bras have no link to breast cancer.

2. Proper Fit is Crucial: A significant number of women wear incorrect bra sizes. Regular fittings can enhance comfort and support.

3. Fabric Matters: While cotton is beneficial for its breathability, alternative natural fibers like bamboo can offer superior moisture-wicking properties in certain climates.

4. Personal Comfort: Choices regarding wearing underwear to bed and selecting specific styles should prioritize individual comfort and health needs.

5. Brand Recommendations: Trusted brands for comfortable and stylish underwear include AWA, Uniqlo, Skims, Calvin Klein, and Intimo.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Joanna F.L. Fleming [00:44]: "We thought why not do one about something that we all wear every single day... underwear."
• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [12:26]: "I think true... Well, gravity."
• Dr. Raelia Lu [13:22]: "Not wearing a bra causes breasts to sag prematurely... it's more around the aging."
• Joanna F.L. Fleming [22:24]: "I would highly recommend getting fitted... my bras are so much more comfortable because I'm actually in the right size."
• Annika Joshi Smith [33:05]: "Not day to day, but I have heard this and I think this myth is true."
• Dr. Lauren Wayne [35:20]: "There's no credible research or evidence to support any links between bras and cancer."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, expert insights, and personal anecdotes from the Style-ish podcast episode, providing valuable information for listeners interested in fashion, health, and personal comfort related to underwear.