Men get in to girdles

A new line of male underwear in Japan that flattens the stomach and lifts the hips proved so popular when introduced on a trial basis last month that some stores quickly sold out.

Triumph marketed two different types of "long girdle" - one from the navel to the knees, and the other a "hip hugger" version to be worn with low-waisted pants.

Both sold so well that it plans to raise production and develop new variations, including a version for summer wear.

Other firms intend to launch similar products, according to business daily Nihon Keizai Shimbun.