The rise and fall and rise of the Y-front

One of the more surprising fashion trends to arise during the recession has been the return of the Y-front as the most popular choice for men's underwear. Last year, slim-fitting briefs started to outsell boxers for the first time in 10 years, a turnaround that commentators have claimed is due to a number of factors.

Some psychologists have claimed that the preference for tighter Y-fronts over loose-fitting boxers demonstrates a greater need for security during these difficult financial times, whereas other analysts believe it may be linked to a desire for all things retro, with the Y-front being an iconic image of bygone fashions.

Not that today's big-selling Y-fronts bear much relation to the original brown polyester underwear with cream piping, developed in the 1930s. Now, the distinctive 'Y' is sewn into cotton of more tasteful hues, the most popular shades being varying degrees of black, white and grey, rather than more garish colours.

Sports stars are also playing a role in boosting the popularity of the clothing choice, with football stars such as David Beckham and Freddie Ljungberg stripping down to their bare essentials in advertisements designed to show off their assets. Some men may think they are immune to such influence, but sales bear out the fact that both men and women can be heavily influenced by their peers as well as their idols when it comes to all forms of clothing choice.

We can look into the world of fashion itself to identify more reasons for the rebirth of the Y-front, which may be a factor in the increasing popularity of male grooming. Although previously mocked or viewed as underwear for older men, tighter briefs are now often seen as more attractive than ill-fitting shorts, particularly among the gay scene. It may also be a direct result of other clothing choices, with some fashion experts believing that the current surge in popularity of the Y-front may be due to the growing prominence of low-slung jeans, as men look to display their waistline rather than cotton.

Whatever the reason for Y-fronts enjoying a resurgence among the younger generation, the well-fitting and stylish pants are now the optimum choice of mens underwear among style-conscious men wishing to look their best out on the street or in the nightclubs.

Only time will tell whether Y-fronts will stay on top as underwear chic, or once again head to the darkest recesses of the pants drawer.

Janine Barclay writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.