Thousands attempt underwear world record bid in New York's Times Square

Crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the scantily-clad, future world record breakers. Credit: REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz

Thousands of people gathered in New York's world-famous Times Square last night, dressed down to their underwear, to celebrate National Underwear Day - and to try to write their names in the history books.

The mass gathering of people were attempting to break a Guinness World Record for having the most scantily-clad partygoers in one place - in an effort to beat Salt Lake City’s Utah Undie Run of 2011.

Mass crowds participated in the event held in Times Square. Credit: REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz

Several local media outlets threw their weight behind the record attempt in an event which also celebrated self-confidence and body image.

A man joins the Guinness Book of Records attempt in New York. Credit: REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz (UNITED STATES