: Underwear is often the first step in a transition or an exploration of gender identity. It represents a private alignment with one’s internal sense of self.

: Just as anyone has preferences for style and comfort, trans women and "ladyboys" may choose specific styles, such as TomboyX boyshorts or more traditional feminine styles like G-strings, to feel comfortable in their own skin.

: Research, such as a study from Northwestern University , suggests that a significant number of men attracted to trans women identify as straight, indicating that the visual presentation of femininity (including clothing) plays a major role in their attraction.