Petticoat – Yes or No?

Modern petticoats have little in common with the versions from decades past. Today’s designs are made from smooth, soft fabrics that cool the body in summer and prevent visible lines or clinging.

When does a petticoat make sense?

The most common reason to wear a petticoat is to counteract the transparency of modern clothing. Many brands no longer line dresses or skirts in order to cut production costs. As a result, garments are often lighter – but also more see-through. This is especially noticeable in summer collections. A sheer summer dress may feel wonderfully airy, but can look inappropriate in certain settings. A petticoat keeps your underwear hidden while maintaining the dress's lightness. Thanks to innovative fabrics, it can even have a cooling effect.

Another benefit of smooth-fabric petticoats is that they help dresses fall more elegantly, particularly when tights create static cling.

What should you consider?

The key is choosing a petticoat that suits the occasion. A plain, nude-coloured petticoat is ideal under a pencil skirt for a business look. For an evening dress, a shapewear-style petticoat can help smooth the silhouette and prevent underwear lines.

And let’s not forget what our grandmothers already knew: petticoats aren’t just practical – they can be part of a refined and seductive look, adding a touch of vintage glamour.

The petticoat as a fashion statement

That even a simple petticoat can attract attention was proven by supermodel Kate Moss in the 1990s. Who could forget her appearance at the “Elite’s Look of the Year” party in a sheer, silver-coloured petticoat? What caused a scandal back then would barely raise an eyebrow today. For many bloggers, the petticoat – or slip dress – has become a key fashion piece. During the day, it can be worn over a T-shirt or turtleneck. In the evening, it stands on its own.