Petticoat

A petticoat (also known as underskirt in the UK or slip in the US) is an article of clothing for women; specifically an undergarment to be worn under a skirt, dress or saree. The petticoat is a separate garment hanging from the waist (unlike the chemise).

Related Topics:
Slip - Clothing - Women - Undergarment - Skirt - Saree

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The practice of wearing petticoats was well established by 1585. Petticoats were worn throughout history by women who wanted to have the currently fashionable shape created by their clothing. The petticoat(s), if sufficiently full or stiff, would hold the overskirt out in a pleasingly domed shape and give the impression of a smaller waist than the wearer actually had. It would also complement the desired large bust. The petticoat was not worn to hide the legs, as twentieth century commentators later claimed; it actually enhanced the stylish figure in the centuries before female attractiveness was defined in large part by how much naked leg was showing, as has been the case since 1960. Petticoats were revived by Christian Dior in his New Look of 1947 and remained extremely popular during the 1950s, especially with teenage girls.

Related Topics:
1585 - Naked - 1960 - Christian Dior - New Look - 1947 - 1950s - Teenage

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By the middle of the 20th century, the petticoat was somewhat rare, having been commonly replaced by modern undergarments. The underskirt or slip is a more simplified, modern replacement.

Related Topics:
20th century - Slip

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Lately the petticoat has made a small come-back in the alternative subcultures, especially the gothic subculture. Although the traditional purpose for the petticoat is no longer in fashion, the general design has stayed the same with minor alterations including ripping and/or the usage of bright or generally non-traditional colors. Also, people who dress in period costumes have began wearing petticoats for a more authentic look. Petticoats are also commonly worn by squaredancers.

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The practice of wearing petticoats as the main undergarment is still practiced in Asia, when one wears a sari, sari petticoats usually match the color of the sari and made of satin or cotton.http://www.indiangarment.com/myshop/buyinless/lesspetticoats.php3, A notable difference between the western petticoat and sari petticoat is that the sari petticoat length is almost always at least ankle height.

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