Crinolettes meaning

Crinolettes definitions

Crinolettes were a popular type of underskirt worn by women in the late 19th century. These garments were designed to give the illusion of a full, bell-shaped skirt without the bulkiness of multiple petticoats. The crinolette was typically made of a cage-like structure of hoops or wires that supported the outer skirt and gave it volume.

History of Crinolettes

The crinolette was developed as a more lightweight and flexible alternative to the crinoline, which was a stiff, bell-shaped underskirt made of horsehair and fabric. The new design allowed women more freedom of movement while still maintaining the fashionable silhouette of the time. Crinolettes became especially popular during the mid-1860s to the early 1870s.

Construction and Materials

Crinolettes were constructed using a combination of hoops, wires, and fabric. The hoops were often made of steel or other lightweight materials and were connected by vertical tapes or fabric strips. The fabrics used for crinolettes varied, but they were usually lightweight and allowed for airflow to prevent overheating.

Benefits of Crinolettes

One of the main benefits of crinolettes was that they provided structure and shape to the outer skirt without adding too much weight or bulk. They also allowed for easier movement compared to earlier undergarments like crinolines. Crinolettes were particularly favored by dancers and those who needed to move around freely.

In addition to their practicality, crinolettes also contributed to the fashionable silhouette of the time. They helped to create the desired bell-shaped skirt that was popular during the Victorian era while still allowing for a certain degree of movement and comfort.

While crinolettes eventually fell out of fashion as styles changed, their impact on women's fashion during the 19th century cannot be understated. They represented a shift towards more practical and functional undergarments while still maintaining the desired look of the time.

Crinolettes Examples

1. The fashion designer showcased a stunning crinolette dress on the runway.
2. She wore a crinolette skirt to the elegant gala.
3. The historical costume featured intricate crinolettes.
4. The actress twirled in her crinolette gown on the red carpet.
5. Victorian era ladies often wore crinolettes under their dresses for added volume.
6. The costume designer meticulously crafted the crinolettes for the period drama.
7. The museum displayed a collection of ornate crinolettes from the 19th century.
8. She felt like a princess in her beautiful crinolette ball gown.
9. The seamstress expertly tailored the crinolette petticoat for the bride's dress.
10. The vintage store had a selection of crinolette-inspired skirts for sale.

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