It's so common you've probably barely registered it. But browse the knicker section at any lingerie outlet and aside from the pretty designs something else may well catch your eye - virtually every pair will have a pretty ribbon bow attached to the centre front.
Did you ever wonder why? Yes, decoration does play a part. There's no doubt a pretty ribbon does add a bit of extra oomph to what is a fairly mundane and utilitarian piece of essential clothing.
But it seems that historically there is a good reason why women's knickers sport a decorative little ribbon tie, reports the Manchester Evening News.
