Meet Cosy Charlotte: Underwear Designed for Swelling, Bloating, and Sensitive Bodies
When I first started designing the Cosy Charlotte shorts, I wanted to solve a problem I faced every day: finding underwear that was comfortable enough for lounging at home, supportive enough for sports, and stylish enough to wear under any outfit—without ever feeling restricted.
My Inspiration
As someone who plays golf, tennis, and padel, I needed shorts that could double as underwear—something soft, breathable, and discreet under sports outfits. I also wanted something I could wear around the house, and then quickly throw on a skirt or trousers to dash out for errands. (And I do a lot of those: post office trips, picking up printed goods that should have arrived by post, but ended up at Ryman’s instead!)
What Makes Cosy Charlotte Shorts Different
- Triple-layered gusset (first edition): I originally made the gusset with three layers for extra absorbency—think period pads. While this was great for protection, it did make the shorts a bit bulky, so I refined the design for a sleeker, more comfortable fit in the second edition.
- Enclosed waistband elastic: After feedback from customers, I started enclosing the waistband elastic in soft fabric for even more comfort—no digging or irritation.
- Adaptive fit: The shorts stretch and move with your body, making them ideal for swelling, bloating, or just relaxing at home.
- Learn more about the benefits of modal underwear for sensitive skin.
Customer Stories
I knew I had designed something well when so many people loved Cosy Charlotte as much as I wanted them to—and that they kept coming back. That’s when I first learnt what lipoedema was, after reaching out to Jessie. Jessie, one of my earliest customers with lipoedema, wears them under her compression leggings for extra comfort. Sarah, who lives with chronic illness, has made them part of her bedtime routine, wearing them to sleep after a relaxing bath.
If you’re looking for more support, check out our guide to the best underwear for lipoedema.
If you’re looking for more support, check out our guide to the best underwear for lipoedema.
Why Traditional Underwear Doesn’t Work for Everyone
Most mass-produced underwear is designed for “the average” body, with little thought for those of us who experience swelling, bloating, or chronic discomfort. Comfort and adaptability are rarely priorities—speed and cost are. That’s why seams dig, waistbands roll, and fabrics irritate.
If you need something truly gentle, browse our collection of gentle underwear for sensitive skin.
If you need something truly gentle, browse our collection of gentle underwear for sensitive skin.
Cuurve is different: every design starts with real needs and real feedback.
Problem-Solving Tips
My advice for readers: pick shorts that are stretchy and gentle to the skin, so they don’t leave red marks and are breathable. Avoid bulky seams and synthetic fabrics if you have sensitive skin or fluctuating body needs. Don’t settle for “one size fits all”—find brands that listen to feedback and evolve their designs.
