In these uncertain economic times, some people may be willing to try anything to protect their feeling of well being.
In Japan, some "salary men" seem to be taking cues from a small, but growing number of peers who have found a new way to maintain a sense of stability as they navigate the treacherous waters of competitive business and modern life.
How are they doing it? Believe it or not, by seeking support from a new kind of undergarment known as the "man bra."
No, these aren't transvestites--they're regular guys who've discovered that wearing a bra makes them feel secure, and moreover, helps improve their concentration (some overweight men have taken to the garments to combat "man boobs" as well).
Surprisingly, this is not exactly a new phenomenon.
Almost a decade ago, stories about Japanese men wearing bras for emotional comfort made their way into the Japanese media. In the intervening years, bra converts have kept in touch with peers through Internet chat rooms and online forums, but most are still reluctant to make a clean breast of things (so to speak) to colleagues, family and friends--so the phenomenon had been largely forgotten.
That is until last year, when several internet companies began selling bras made especially for men (previously guys had to make do with women's garments).
While rumors are that sales are way up, it's still doubtful that the items will go mainstream anytime soon. While the use of cosmetics and styling products has been embraced by a significant portion of younger Japanese men, taking to wearing a bra remains, perhaps ironically, a little too unrestrained for most.
