Choosing The Right Petticoat

Choosing the right petticoat for your dress doesn't have to be daunting.

Just follow a few simple steps:

1. First, you will need to decide what type of petticoat or hoop you require. If your bridal gown already comes with layers of tulle or netting, then you may only need a hoop to help push out the bottom of the dress. If your gown does not have any tulle or netting, you will need a petticoat with a few layers of ruffles and / or tulle to give your gown some fullness.

2. Second, you will need to measure the circumference of the gown hem. To do this, take a measuring tape and measure around the hem from one side seam to the other along the front of the gown. Now double this measurement - this is the circumference of the gown. For example: if the measurement you have taken is 150cm, then your circumference is => 150 x 2 = 300cm

If you need to convert the circumference to inches => divide this measurement by 2.54

For example: if your total circumference is 300 cm, then this measurement converted to inches is 300 / 2.54 which equals 118 inches

3. Choose your Petticoat Range. Remember that the petticoat circumference SHOULD NOT exceed the circumference of the wedding gown.

Circumference Range: Up to 318 cm Very Little Fullness

These are best suited to slim A line wedding gowns, or gowns which already have a built in petticoat but still require some structure, especially toward the bottom of the dress. These petticoats are also suitable for bridesmaids dresses.

Circumference Range: 319 cm to 400 cm Medium Fullness

These petticoats are best suited to a wedding gown needing structure from the hips towards the hem of the gown. Suitable for A lines, and dropped waist styles.

Circumference Range: 400 cm to 480 cm Very Full

Works well with full style gowns, especially those which widen towards the hem. Depending on the number of hoops and ruffles, these petticoats are suitable for both wide A lines and Ball Gowns.

To Use Ruffles or Not

Ruffles can give you that little bit extra oomph when you're looking for just a little bit more fullness, but not enough to warrant a wider hoop.

The ruffles can also hide the hooping. Some wedding gowns are thin and consequently the hooping may show through. The ruffles will act like an extra piece of lining between the gown and the hoop.

Number of Tiers

You will need to determine where you would like the fullness to begin - this will help you work out the number of tiers you require and where on the petticoat they should begin.

Plain Hoops

These have a bell shape form with non wire shape supports. These have no ruffles and can provide fullness without feeling heavy.

If In Doubt What To Do?

If you are unsure of the style, feel free to send us an email along with a photo of your gown and we will help determine the best style for you.