James McCoy, consumer analyst at market researchers Mintel:
"The popularity of trousers was largely responsible for the dominance of the thong, which originally had the practical purpose of avoiding a visible panty line. But there has been something of a backlash against this style of pants, which is now often seen as uncomfortable, unflattering and for some, a bit on the brash side. What is more, this year skirts have experienced something of a renaissance and this is partly responsible for this trend towards larger 'boy shorts', which are more comfortable under skirts and leaves the wearer feeling less vulnerable than a thong."
So now you know. And maybe you'd like to know more.