Paul Frank

It’s a typical hot and steamy August day here in the middle of the bustling Times Square, site of the 5^th annual National Underwear Day sponsored by Freshpair.com. Many onlookers, tourists and natives alike, have been intrigued by the male and female models (in nothing but their skivvies!) strutting across the runway in the area known as Military

Island. Today’s event wouldn’t be possible without a number of other sponsors including Chantelle, Le Mystere, and Wacoal, all of which were represented at the CILA awards last night (but more about that later!).

Here in Times Square the festivities began at 11 am with a runway show featuring both male and female models. This show truly proves that men and men’s underwear are carving a niche in the intimate apparel industry. Brands such as Diesel, Ginch Gonch, and Report Collection are displaying the latest trends such as colorful patterns and playful designs in variety of cuts to match the needs of men. And the models aren’t so bad to look at either! In addition to their undergarments, the models are donning freshpair.com temporary tattoos on their arms and across their abs.

Only in New York will you not only find underwear being modeled, but also be able to get your own “fresh pair!” Just another block down, a consistent line has been snaking in and out of a Freshpair.com tent. Despite the heat, those waiting know it will be worth it. In the meantime, Freshpair representatives are bringing cold bottles of water out to the crowd.

I spoke to a few people waiting in line. Merrill, who lives close to the city, ventured into the city for a few hours. When asked how she found out about the event, she commented that she saw an ad in a magazine offering free underwear and was fascinated.

Friends Rebecca, Julie, Felicia, and Tiffany, from Long Island, happened to be passing through Times Square when they were approached about the event and decided to check it out.

Another gentleman, visiting from Washington with his son, saw people in underwear and decided to do some investigating.

Upon entering the tent, visitors are directed to one of three changing pods, graciously held by the handsome models, in which they can then change into a “fresh pair.” On the way out of the tent, the visitors are also the lucky recipients of 10% off their next purchase at freshpair.com as well as some samples from Anthony for Men and a copy of Shape magazine.

While talking with the crowd, I found a number commenting that they are not regular online lingerie purchasers. Hopefully today’s event will bring them to Freshpair.com not only for the site’s great customer service and wide selection, but also for their commitment to giving back to the community described in my interviews with Michael Kleinmann, President of Freshpair.com and Founder of National Underwear Day and Scott Millstein, Chief Operating Officer of Safe Horizon, who have recently established Freshpair, Freshstart, the charitable entity of Freshpair that provides basic necessities for victims of violence.

I also interviewed a number of industry insiders who commented on the trends in both women and men’s intimates.

Overall the day here has been lots of fun! Hopefully, I have been able to recreate the experience for you. More coverage will be available soon as I receive more up close and personal photos. In the meantime, check out the following video footage.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4-lYtgBPd8[/youtube]

Hope you enjoyed! For more information, continue to check TLP, the Freshpair site, and the sites of the other sponsors listed on the site. So, where ever in the world you are, celebrate today and go get yourself a fresh pair!