Choosing the Right Petticoat for Your Saree

The petticoat (also called an underskirt or inskirt) is the foundation of a good saree drape. The wrong one can make pleats bulky or show through light fabric. Here's what to know.

Types of Petticoats

• Cotton petticoat: Breathable and comfortable – the best everyday choice, especially for cotton sarees and hot weather.
• Satin petticoat: Smooth and slippery, helping silk sarees fall well, but warmer and less breathable.
• Shapewear petticoat: A fitted, stretchy style that gives a slim silhouette and reduces bulk – popular for modern drapes.
• Mermaid / fish-cut petticoat: Flared at the bottom for a sleek, glamorous fall.

Which to Wear with Which Saree?

• Cotton handloom: Cotton petticoat with a slight A-line.
• Silk and tussar: Cotton or satin, depending on comfort.
• Sheer or light sarees: A shapewear or fitted petticoat to avoid bulk.

Matching the Colour

Match the petticoat to the colour of the saree's body, especially for lightweight fabrics. If you can't find an exact match, choose a slightly darker shade or one that matches the border.

Getting the Fit Right

• Tie the drawstring firmly at your natural waist or slightly below.
• The petticoat should be long enough to reach your ankles with your footwear on.
• Avoid petticoats that are too wide – they make pleats bulky.

Care

Wash petticoats separately at first, as dark colours may bleed. Keep a few basics in black, white, red, beige and navy.

Find your next saree in our Odisha Sarees collection.

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