a chat about hi-tech undies with Kristy Chong, founder of ModiBodi

Who is ModiBodi and how did the company come about?

Modibodi is fashionable, sustainable, hi-tech, super comfortable underwear (and now swimwear) that totally replaces the need for disposable hygiene. It’s pee, period and perspiration proof as well as pregnancy prefect! We’re breaking taboos, opening minds and offering a reusable, sustainable option that’s not just for women, but for the benefit of all bodies on this planet. Because we believe that making a positive impact should be as easy as changing your undies and swimwear. It all started in Seattle, after the birth of my second child. I was doing a lot of running and travelling and came to the realisation that my underwear was failing to protect me from sweat and the occasional bladder weakness. I started to think about all the times woman’s underwear fails us.

It’s such a fantastic concept. Why do you think no one had really done it before?

We had a lot of patience and commitment in developing the product. Modibodi’s patented Modifier Technology is exclusive to our brand and you won’t find it in any other collection. Our products are also more absorbent and more comfortable than other brands on the market. Fabrics we use include Sports Merino and Organic Bamboo that are both breathable, naturally antibacterial and sustainable products, which means they are also better for the environment and your skin than cotton. This is contributed to months of trials and testing that brought us to the finished product.

How does running a business differ from what you thought it would be like?

While I’m driven by a challenge, running a business and growing at the rate we are without extra funds, can really stretch your capacity. Throw four kids under 10 and a busy husband on top of that and some days it can be overwhelming. But what I do know, is those times of anguish and fear are there for a reason, and while they’re hard, I now understand that I’m capable and while hard it will work itself out! In addition, lots of forecasting, time management, as well as support when it comes to family. Also, knowing the positive impact Modibodi is making in people’s lives around the globe is amazing and makes it all worth it.

Tell us about the product development process, how long does it take?

It took me about 18 months to develop the product, which involved a lot of investigation and time spent speaking to textile engineers and conducting scientific tests, as well as prototyping. Financial and marketing planning were also part of the process.

How important is the sustainability message when introducing consumers to ModiBodi?

Sustainability is one of our one top priorities. We’re breaking taboos, opening minds and offering a reusable, sustainable option that’s not just for women, but for the benefit of all bodies on this planet. Because we believe that making a positive impact should be as easy as changing your undies.

Favourite product in the range?

Seamfree bikini on moderate heavy.

What’s the one thing you hope women feel when they wear ModiBodi?

Trust that they’re protected!