Petticoats have long been a staple in the world of vintage fashion, particularly during the iconic 1950s era. These voluminous underskirts not only served a functional purpose but also played a significant role in shaping the silhouette of the era's dresses and skirts. To shop our Petticoat Emporium click here!
Petticoat Discount Code: Use code NOW20 for 20% off all Hell Bunny, Collectif and Banned petticoats when you shop with Lemonie Boutique plus get free UK postage!
Read more about petticoats as we delve into the history of petticoats, their evolution in fashion, styling tips, and everything else you need to know to incorporate them into your wardrobe seamlessly.
Different Types of Petticoats
Petticoats come in various styles, each designed to achieve a specific silhouette and aesthetic. From the structured elegance of crinoline petticoats to the romantic charm of layered designs, understanding the different types of petticoats can help you choose the perfect one for your outfit.
Crinoline Petticoats: Crinoline petticoats, named after the stiffened fabric from which they are made, rose to prominence during the mid-19th century. Constructed from horsehair or stiffened cotton, crinoline petticoats were instrumental in creating the voluminous skirts and bell-shaped silhouettes that characterized Victorian fashion. These petticoats provided significant volume and structure to dresses and skirts, allowing women to achieve the desired fullness without the need for multiple layers of fabric.
Hoop Petticoats: Hoop petticoats, also known as hoop skirts or crinolines, were a staple of Victorian fashion and were favoured for their ability to create dramatic, bell-shaped silhouettes. Unlike traditional petticoats, hoop petticoats featured a series of hoops or wires inserted into the hemline, which supported the weight of the skirt and maintained its shape. This innovative design allowed for maximum volume while minimizing the amount of fabric required, making hoop petticoats both practical and fashionable.
Layered Petticoats: Layered petticoats emerged as a popular alternative to traditional crinoline and hoop designs during the 1950s. Consisting of multiple layers of lightweight fabric, such as tulle or organza, layered petticoats offered a softer, more romantic look that was well-suited to the feminine aesthetic of the era. These petticoats provided gentle volume and movement to skirts and dresses, creating a dramatic silhouette that epitomized 1950s glamour.
Long or Short Petticoat are available, and each brand offers a slightly different length (usually to be the most flattering for their specific dresses) however I have never had an issue using different brands of petticoats with the many brands of dress in my wardrobe (even being quite a short person at 5'2!)
Petticoat FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Are petticoats only worn under dresses and skirts? While petticoats are primarily designed to be worn under dresses and skirts to add volume and structure, they can also be styled as outerwear for a bold, statement look. Consider pairing a colourful petticoat with a fitted top or jacket for a playful twist on retro fashion.
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How do I choose the right size petticoat? When selecting a petticoat, it's essential to consider both your waist measurement and the length of your dress or skirt. Choose a petticoat that corresponds to your waist size and falls to the desired length to ensure a comfortable fit and proper proportion.
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Can I wear a petticoat with a pencil skirt? While petticoats are traditionally associated with full skirts and dresses, they can also be worn underneath pencil skirts to add subtle volume and shape. Choose a lightweight petticoat with minimal volume to maintain a sleek silhouette without adding bulk.
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How do I care for my petticoat? Most petticoats can be gently hand washed or machine washed on a delicate cycle using a mild detergent. Hang the petticoat to dry or lay it flat to prevent wrinkles and maintain its shape. Avoid ironing or using high heat, as this can damage delicate fabrics.
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Can I customize my petticoat to achieve a specific look? Yes, many petticoats are designed with adjustable waistbands or removable layers, allowing you to customize the volume and silhouette to suit your preferences. Additionally, consider adding embellishments like lace trim or ribbon accents for a personalized touch.
Best Petticoats to Wear With a 50s Dress
I am going to put forward my top three picks for petticoats that look best with 50s style dresses and skirts. The first is, of course the Lifeforms Petticoat by Banned Retro.
Lifeforms Petticoat by Banned Retro
This petticoat is so "fluffy" and soft it is truly a joy to wear and is made from layers and layers of a polyester-viscose blend with plenty of stretch. No slipping or rubbing from this gorgeous petticoat - even when worn for a long event on a Summers day (like weddings!) You can shop the full range of Lifeforms Petticoats here and receive a 20% off discount with code NOW20
It is easy to take care of and maintains its beautiful shape very well even when being stuffed into a corner of a drawer between uses (I speak from experience). The other great thing with the Lifeforms petticoat is it is available in so many different colours - not just your usual red, white, black meaning you can really play with colours for your 50s style outfit and honestly a petticoat can add a lot - especially if you're looking to add a bit of flirtation fun or A Rockabilly twist to your outfit.
Consider Your Dress or Skirt Style: One of the most crucial factors to consider when choosing a petticoat is the silhouette of your dress or skirt. Different styles of petticoats are designed to complement specific skirt shapes, so it's essential to match the petticoat to the style of your outfit:
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Full-Circle Skirts: If you're wearing a full-circle skirt with a wide, sweeping hemline, opt for a voluminous petticoat that provides ample lift and shape. A petticoat with multiple layers of tulle or organza will help create a dramatic, princess-like silhouette, accentuating the fullness of the skirt.
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Pencil Skirts: For sleek, form-fitting pencil skirts, a more subtle petticoat may be preferable to avoid adding unnecessary bulk. Look for a petticoat with a slimmer profile and minimal volume, such as a single layer of lightweight tulle or crinoline. This will provide subtle support and structure without overwhelming the streamlined silhouette of the skirt.
Fabric and Construction: In addition to considering the style of your outfit, paying attention to the fabric and construction of the petticoat is essential for both comfort and functionality:
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Fabric: Choose petticoats made from lightweight, breathable fabrics to ensure comfort, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods. Nylon, tulle, and organza are popular choices for petticoats due to their airy texture and ability to provide volume without weighing you down.
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Construction: Look for petticoats with sturdy construction that will maintain their shape throughout wear. Reinforced seams, adjustable waistbands, and secure fastenings are essential features to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Additionally, consider the length of the petticoat relative to your skirt or dress to ensure proper coverage without peeking out from underneath.
By carefully considering the style, fabric, and construction of the petticoat, you can choose the perfect undergarment to enhance the silhouette of your outfit