Photograph: Roxana Marroquinn

Laura
23, actor
On getting the job done: “I won’t let them fumble around forever, because ultimately it just stalls the situation.”
On fancy underwear: “I don’t know what the big deal is, it’s just a bra—it’s not rocket science.”
Past blunders: “A guy once ripped off a hook with a big tug. It didn’t bother me at the time, but I was annoyed afterward.”

Drew
27, assistant editor at TONY
In the past: “My fragile male ego would never allow me to admit to the unlucky girl that I didn’t have the situation under control.”
Today: “I’ve since learned that it’s normal for guys to have no clue as to what they’re doing, and I seek instruction and direction—with bras and other things—at every opportunity.”
Likes: Drew says much of his underwear isn’t in “pristine” condition, so he is open-minded about these kinds of things.
Dislikes: Padded bras.

Noah
29, environmental markets broker
In the past: “When I was younger I wasn’t any good at it. College was where I got all of my experience and practice.”
Today: “When I first started living with my girlfriend, I was afraid to touch her bras—they were like contraband.”
Likes: “If the tops and bottoms match, that’s great, but it rarely happens.”
Dislikes: “One time a girl had a wire sticking out of her bra and it poked me while we were hooking up. It’s a turn-off if a bra is ripped, torn or falling apart.”

Dara
22, travel writer
On getting the job done: “I laugh about it, but it’s definitely impressive when they can take it off quickly.”
On fancy underwear: “I think guys like to see things that make boobs look nicer—a sports bra can be a buzzkill.”
Past blunders: “One guy couldn’t get my bra off and he got so indignant—like it was the bra’s fault. Then I took it off really quickly with one hand to show him how it’s done.”

NEXT: BRA NO. 1 »