Designer Ann Sofie Back's thong-a-licious Fall '08 collection (which featured sleeves, trims, accessories, and even an entire skirt made from lacy thong underwear) was a concerted -- albeit unsuccessful -- attempt at exposing the thong as a cheap, overexposed bit of ass candy. With the full coverage panty becoming the preferred unmentionable, the thong has surely lost it's steam over the past year. But, as most of you would agree, creating sleeves out of butt floss totally misses the mark.

Enter the "skong" -- the full coverage skirted thong that leaves a little mystery in the front while showing all [or most] of the goods in back. A definite nod to the days of Raquel Welch wearing little more than strips of dead animal in One Million Years BC. (Now if we could just convince Sisqo to record the "Skong Song," all would be right in the world.)

Felina 'Julianna' Skirted Thong at barenecessities.com

Princesse Tam-Tam Mesonge Black Thong at graffitipink.com

Carol Malony Peek-a-Boo Skirted Thong at gigiscloset.com

La Perla Black Label 'Lacche' Skirted Thong at barenecessities.com

Fredericks of Hollywood Malibu Skong at frekericks.com

Skirted Mesh Applique Thong Set by Leg Avenue

Parah Black & Nude Thong at fairefroufrou.com

Alys Low Rise Skirted Thong at amazon.com

Nicole Miller Signature Heirloom Skirted Thong at barenecessities.com