Fabrics, Fits, and Colors: A Guide to Matching Petticoats with Sarees

Sarees are timeless and elegant, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of India. However, an often overlooked but crucial aspect of wearing a saree is the petticoat. The right petticoat can enhance the saree's look and comfort, making it essential to choose wisely. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the nuances of selecting the perfect petticoat based on fabrics, fits, and colors to elevate your saree game.

Understanding the Role of Petticoats

A petticoat, also known as an underskirt or inskirt, is worn under a saree to provide support and structure. It ensures that the saree drapes well, stays in place, and gives a polished look. Choosing the wrong petticoat can ruin the saree's fall and make it uncomfortable to wear. Therefore, understanding the different aspects of petticoat selection is essential for achieving the perfect saree look.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The fabric of the petticoat significantly affects the overall appearance and comfort.

Cotton Lycra Petticoats

• Ideal for: Daily wear sarees, casual sarees, and even heavyweight sarees like silk, Banarasi, and Kanjeevaram.

• Characteristics: Cotton Lycra petticoats provide the perfect balance between comfort and flexibility. The breathable nature of cotton combined with the stretchability of Lycra ensures a snug, body-hugging fit that enhances the saree's fall while allowing freedom of movement. The fabric is lightweight yet supportive, making it suitable for both long wear and hot climates. Its stretchy nature ensures that it can comfortably accommodate and support the weight of heavier sarees without adding bulk.

• Recommendation: You can use Cotton Lycra petticoats, such as those offered by I AM Store, for a range of sarees, from lightweight cotton to heavy silks. They provide a flattering fit that supports the structure of heavier sarees while keeping you comfortable throughout the day or evening. For weddings, traditional events, or casual outings, these petticoats are a versatile and practical choice.

Decoding Petticoat Fits and Styles

Fit and style are just as important as fabric when choosing the right petticoat. The traditional drawstring petticoat is not the only option anymore; modern versions offer comfort and style in one package.

• Traditional Fit:

◦ Features: A basic A-line silhouette with a drawstring waist.

◦ Advantages: Easy to wear and adjust, suitable for most body types.

◦ Best For: Traditional sarees and casual, everyday wear.

• Mermaid or Fish-Cut Petticoat:

◦ Features: Tapered at the knees and flared at the bottom, mimicking the shape of a mermaid’s tail.

◦ Advantages: This fit enhances the saree's fall, creating a slim and sophisticated look. It is particularly flattering for chiffon, georgette, and other flowy sarees.

◦ Best For: Cocktail sarees, pre-draped sarees, and formal occasions.

• Shapewear Petticoat:

◦ Features: Provides a structured and smooth silhouette while supporting the saree.

◦ Advantages: Popular for its slimming effect, shapewear petticoats are designed to contour the body, ensuring that the saree falls perfectly without bulk.

◦ Best For: Special occasions and contemporary sarees, such as pre-stitched or designer drapes.

Mastering Color Matching

Color matching is a critical aspect of selecting the right petticoat. The right shade can enhance the saree's beauty, while the wrong one may stand out unpleasantly. Here are some tips for matching colors effectively:

• Same Shade Matching:

◦ The safest choice is to match the petticoat with the exact color of your saree. This creates a uniform look and ensures that the petticoat doesn’t show through any transparent areas of the saree.

• Contrasting Colors:

◦ For a more vibrant and playful look, you can choose a contrasting color for the petticoat. For example, a gold or deep red petticoat under a black saree can add a pop of color and intrigue to your outfit.

◦ This works best with plain or semi-transparent sarees where the contrast adds visual interest without overpowering the saree’s design.

• Neutral Colors:

◦ Neutral shades like beige, nude, or white work well when you don't have an exact match. These shades are versatile and blend in well, especially under pastel sarees.

◦ Pro Tip: Always have a few neutral petticoats in your wardrobe for those last-minute saree choices when you can't find an exact color match.

Tips for Styling and Comfort

To ensure that your saree looks stunning and stays comfortable, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Check for Length: Petticoats should always be ankle-length. If they are too short, they may cause the saree to bunch up or appear uneven. A well-fitted petticoat should allow the saree to fall gracefully without any awkward bunching.

• Petticoats with Extender: These petticoats come with an adjustable extender at the bottom, adding extra length or volume to suit various saree styles, including those with broader borders. They are ideal for tall individuals or sarees that require additional layering for a fuller, more dramatic drape, ensuring the saree falls elegantly without compromising on comfort.

• Experiment with Textures: For sarees that are heavily embellished or embroidered, opt for a smooth petticoat fabric like satin or crepe to avoid unnecessary friction. This helps the saree drape beautifully without getting caught in the petticoat.

• Elastic Waistline with weaved Drawstrings: Elastic waistband accompanied with weaved drawstrings ensure that it does not cause any bruises/ rashes around the waist.

Matching the right petticoat with your saree is more than just a functional decision; it’s a way to elevate the entire outfit. By carefully choosing the right fabric, fit, and color, you can enhance your saree's beauty, comfort, and style. Whether it’s a traditional silk saree for a wedding or a lightweight chiffon for a casual day out, the right petticoat can make all the difference. So, next time you drape a saree, remember—paying attention to the details of the petticoat will help you achieve that flawless, elegant look you desire.

For a variety of petticoats tailored to fit different saree styles, visit I AM Store to explore an exclusive collection that combines comfort and style for every saree lover.