Crossword Genius

Host not right to appear in minimal attire? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thong

'minimal attire?' is the definition.
(skimpy underwear)

'host not right' is the wordplay.
'host' becomes 'throng' (both can mean a large group of people).
'not' indicates named letters should be taken away.
'right' becomes 'r' (common abbreviation).
'throng' with 'r' taken away is 'THONG'.

'to appear in' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for thong that I've seen before include "Skimpy garment" , "article of clothing" , "Leather strip fastener" , "Sandal" , "Thin leather strip" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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