Comments on: Reducing Petticoat Layers So Your Waist Looks Small

By: Miriam

Miriam — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:36:39 +0000

In reply to Karen Ann. I do this as well!

By: chaik

chaik — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 04:04:32 +0000

There are contemporary patterns for knitted Victorian petticoats with a yoked top.

By: Sam Benton

Sam Benton — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 02:52:30 +0000

I’ve read that in the first half of the Victorian era, the bodices actually ended just above the natural waist so that the petticoat waistbands/drawstrings bulk was below the dresses’ waistline, eliminating the build-up. Since those women had grown up wearing corsets everyday, their figures could still produce a small waistline at that level, something most women today cannot, even if they are waist-training. Also, said petticoats weren’t necessarily sitting exactly at the natural waist, but worn slightly loose to rest on the hips more (only about an inch or so). It’s only quilted petticoats that I’ve ever seen with any kind of yoke, and that’s usually more like 12 inches, if the majority of the petticoat is quilted (some were reversed, 12″ quilted at the hem and the rest plain to the waist). When we get to the Natural Form Movement, then we start seeing shaped waist-bands for the sleeker silhouette, but still not true yoked petticoats. Funny thing, the 1876 fashion shift was inspired by Revolution-era gowns, which also often had shaped waistbands on their petticoats to help the pointed bodice lay smoothly.

By: K Winter

K Winter — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 14:37:45 +0000

In reply to Karen Ann.

That’s almost exactly what I do! I also make sure that each petticoat is tied a bit higher than the one below it, since I prefer drawstring waists for my petties. So if I’m wearing three, I’ll wear a shortened one tied at the hip, a slightly longer one tied higher on the hip, and my best (and longest!) one tied at the waist. That way, the fullness stays on my hips and butt, where I want it, and there’s only one layer – the prettiest one – at waist height. Sure, nobody is likely to be seeing any more of my petticoats than perhaps a hint of lace when I need to raise my skirts for climbing stairs and the like, but I love pretty underthings! Nobody’s supposed to be seeing my corsets either, but I still make them from silk, with plenty of lace, ribbon, and embroidered trim, just like I love beautiful, lacy modern lingerie. A love of pretty undies is timeless. 🙂

By: Jennifer Rosbrugh

Jennifer Rosbrugh — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 20:30:21 +0000

In reply to Diane Ullman. You want petticoats over your wired bustle or hoop to disguise the wires and present a smooth skirt. For modesty in larger hoops an under-petticoat is a good idea.

By: Kaitlyn Sutherland

Kaitlyn Sutherland — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 19:53:42 +0000

I make Ren costumes mostly for fellow actors. I have issues with hoops putting to much strain on my back. I think I can incorporate this idea into supporting the fullness I need for my skirts. I’m going to give it a try anyway. Thanks so much!

By: Diane Ullman

Diane Ullman — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 17:37:35 +0000

It’s a great idea. Now, do the petticoats go over or under the bustle/hoop?

By: Gina White

Gina White — Tue, 29 May 2012 22:47:47 +0000

Ok, thank you for this. I am collecting patterns, materials and other such things for when I make a “Romantic” era dress…so this will help a lot as my middle is not so little anymore! Wonderful post! Thank you!