Understanding Wedding Underskirts
Source: brides.com
Underskirt for wedding dress – Choosing the right underskirt is crucial for achieving the desired silhouette and enhancing the overall look of your wedding dress. This guide explores various underskirt types, selection criteria, construction, styling, and alternatives to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Wedding Underskirts, Underskirt for wedding dress
Wedding underskirts come in a variety of fabrics and styles, each impacting the volume and shape of the gown. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the perfect complement to your dress.
- Fabrics: Tulle provides a soft, airy fullness; satin offers a sleek, smooth finish; and silk creates a luxurious, flowing drape. Other options include organza for a crisper look and cotton for comfort and breathability.
- Styles: Petticoats offer gentle volume, crinolines provide significant structure and fullness, while slip dresses offer a smoother, more streamlined silhouette. Each style contributes differently to the overall shape of the wedding dress.
- Volume and Shape: A petticoat creates a subtle A-line shape, while a crinoline with multiple layers or hoops can achieve a dramatic ballgown effect. A slip dress provides minimal volume, ideal for sheath or mermaid styles.
| Fabric | Price Range | Suitability | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tulle | $30 – $150 | A-line, ballgown | Light |
| Satin | $50 – $200 | Sheath, mermaid | Medium |
| Silk | $100 – $300+ | A-line, flowy styles | Medium to Heavy |
| Organza | $40 – $180 | Ballgown, princess | Light to Medium |
Choosing the Right Underskirt
The ideal underskirt depends on several factors, including the wedding dress silhouette, fabric, and desired volume.
- Silhouette Matching: A-line dresses pair well with petticoats or crinolines for added volume. Ballgowns benefit from crinolines with multiple layers or hoops. Mermaid and sheath dresses often look best with a simple slip dress or minimal underskirt.
- Fabric Considerations: Lace dresses might require a less structured underskirt to avoid bulkiness. Chiffon dresses can handle more volume, while satin dresses benefit from a smooth, supportive underskirt.
- Length Impact: The underskirt’s length should be slightly shorter than the dress hem to prevent it from showing. A longer underskirt can create a train effect, while a shorter one can subtly alter the dress’s hemline.
A flowchart for underskirt selection would begin with assessing the dress style (A-line, ballgown, mermaid, etc.), then move to the dress fabric (lace, chiffon, satin, etc.), and finally consider the desired level of volume (minimal, moderate, maximum). Each decision point would lead to a recommendation for a specific underskirt type (petticoat, crinoline, slip dress).
Underskirt Construction and Features
The construction of an underskirt significantly influences its performance and the final look of the wedding dress. Key features contribute to the desired fullness and shape.
- Construction Techniques: Petticoats are typically made with gathered or pleated fabric layers. Crinolines often incorporate hoops or a structured cage for significant volume. Slip dresses are constructed like a simple slip, offering a smooth, close-fitting layer.
- Features: Hoops create defined volume and shape. Multiple layers of fabric increase fullness. Boning provides structure and support, preventing the underskirt from collapsing.
- Embellishments: Some underskirts include lace trim, ribbon details, or delicate embroidery to add a touch of elegance. These embellishments should complement the wedding dress’s design.
- Common Issues and Solutions: Bunching can be addressed by ensuring a proper fit and using appropriate layers. Slippage can be prevented with a secure waistband or straps. Wrinkles can be minimized by careful handling and storage.
Styling and Care of Wedding Underskirts
Source: brides.com
Proper styling and care ensure the underskirt maintains its quality and contributes to the wedding dress’s overall appearance.
- Altering Drape and Movement: A full crinoline will create a dramatic, swirling effect, while a simple slip will allow for a more fluid, natural movement. A petticoat will create a gentle, flowing movement.
- Cleaning and Storage: Hand-washing or dry cleaning is usually recommended, depending on the fabric. Store the underskirt in a garment bag to protect it from dust and damage.
- Preventing Problems: Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive heat when cleaning. Hang the underskirt to air dry to prevent wrinkles. Inspect the underskirt before wearing to address any potential issues.
- Layering Guide: The underskirt should be smoothly layered under the wedding dress, ensuring no bunching or visible seams. Start by putting on the underskirt, then carefully put on the wedding dress over it, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases.
Alternatives to Traditional Underskirts
Several alternatives can achieve similar results without a traditional underskirt, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Shapewear: Shapewear provides a streamlined silhouette but might not create significant volume. It’s suitable for dresses that require a smooth, close-fitting look.
- Boning: Boning in the dress itself can provide structure and support, minimizing the need for an underskirt. This is often incorporated into structured gowns.
- Other Techniques: Using layers of fabric within the dress construction itself can create volume. This is a common technique in high-end gowns.
- Impact on Comfort and Movement: Shapewear can be constricting, while boning can provide structure but may limit flexibility. Internal layering offers a good balance between structure and comfort.
Questions Often Asked: Underskirt For Wedding Dress
Can I wear an underskirt with a sheath wedding dress?
Yes, a simple slip or a lightweight petticoat can enhance the drape of a sheath dress without adding excessive volume.
How do I prevent my underskirt from showing?
Ensure the underskirt is the appropriate length and carefully layer it under your dress, checking for any visible edges or seams.
Where can I buy high-quality wedding underskirts?
Many bridal boutiques, online retailers specializing in bridal accessories, and even some department stores carry a selection of wedding underskirts.
How should I clean my wedding underskirt after the wedding?
Check the care instructions on the garment label. Many underskirts can be dry-cleaned or hand-washed gently.
