FASHION Year of the rear

WATCH out. You're about to be tanga'd! The tiny triangle tied up with string has shrunk to new micro proportions - and is taking off in a big way.

The tanga is cut high at the front and even higher at the back and first started raising men's blood pressures on the the steamy beaches of South America.

Now swimwear designers here are copying the styles worn by the tall and tanned girls from Ipanema. So being called a beach bum this summer will definitely mean you've reached the height of fashion.

Swimwear designers at Triumph sold out last year when they first tried G-string styles on one and two- piece costumes. Now other manufacturers are going for bikinis more itsy and bitsy than ever before.

The tanga is available in just about every size, print and colour - including new, eye-catching shades in acid neons and tropical tones.

It also comes in florals, spots and paisley prints. Not bad for a style that used to end up in the bargain bin not so many years ago.

And for topless sunbathers there's the advantage of being able to buy packs of two bottom halves in different colours. Since there isn't much of them, fashion for once comes cheap. But there are still some new bikini- top shapes for the not so showy - like the "Ultra- lift" bikini, bottom right.

It's guaranteed to give you a youthful cleavage even when you're lying flat on your back.

ABOVE: Underwired microfibre paisley print two-piece, pounds 45. Semi-transparent printed blouse in matching print, pounds 65, by Triumph, from major department stores (01793 720 330).

NEAR RIGHT: Bright floral patterned G-string with frilly back, pounds 13, by Triumph.

TOP, MIDDLE RIGHT: Navy and white thong-back bikini, pounds 52, Aquasuit by Gruppo La Perla, from major department stores. Enquiries: 01494 775450.

BOTTOM, MIDDLE RIGHT: Bright pink underwired "Ultra-lift" satin bikini top and tiny briefs. Style No: BQ6728, pounds 19.99, from Choice catalogue. Tel: 0800 269 396.

FAR RIGHT: Gathered front tanga, cut-away back, pounds 12.99, for pack of two. Style No: RC 6843, Empire catalogue. 0345 200 400.

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