underskirt

An underskirt is a garment worn under a skirt or dress to provide opacity, modesty, and shaping. It can be a separate piece, such as a slip or petticoat, or a lined layer integrated into the outer garment.

Underskirts vary in length from knee to ankle and in fabric, including cotton, satin, nylon, and blends. They may be smooth or multi-layered, sometimes with tulle or mesh to add volume, and may feature built‑in shorts or shorts panels for coverage during movement.

Functions include preventing transparency, smoothing the silhouette, adding warmth, and helping skirts hang evenly. They are commonly worn for formalwear, professional attire, or modest daily wear.

Common variants include half-slips (to mid-thigh or knee) and full-slips (to the ankles). Some underskirts have elastic waistbands, side slits, or a zipper, while others are designed as standalone slips worn beneath dresses.

Historically, the underskirt evolved from the petticoats and waisted slips of the 19th century, which supported fuller skirts and crinolines. In contemporary fashion, slips and underskirts remain used for modesty, layering, and to improve dress drape.

Care typically follows the fabric label: cotton or synthetic slips are often machine washable on a gentle cycle, while delicate fabrics may require hand washing or dry cleaning. Air drying helps prevent shrinkage and fabric damage.