A codpiece (from Middle English cod, "scrotum") is a flap or pouch that attaches to the front of the crotch of men's trousers to provide a covering for the genitals. It was held closed by string ties, buttons, or other methods. It was an important item of European clothing in the 15th and 16th centuries, and it is still worn today in performance costume and in the leather subculture.

 

The equivalent of the codpiece may be a brassiere for women. It has a function (support the breasts) but can also be padded and underwired to enhance and exaggerate the breast size. And just as women may sew a coin in thier bras in case they ever need to make a phone call, men used to use their codpieces as a purse to carry small coins.

 

Women's clothing has been the primary focus of fashion magazines, talk shows, costume history, and controversy. But what about men? While women have the freedom to wear the popular sheer garments with nothing underneath or the opportunity to wear their foundation garments on the outside rather than hidden underneath their clothing, all men have had to be excited about is the length and width of their ties. In the media, the male body is deftly avoided. The most risque the TV media gets is showing Marky Mark with his boxer shorts above his Calvins.

 

This is an unfair bias towards women and demonstrates the need for a fashion change for men.

 

The codpiece is the ultimate fashion accessory for men!

 

It's time to "Bring Back the Codpiece" and celebrate International Wear a Codpiece Day on June 28th!