Why Do Women Wear Slips?

Slips come in all colors.

A slip is a piece of clothing that women usually wear underneath dresses and skirts. It falls into the category of lingerie. Throughout the years, new styles have emerged and slips can be found in just about any color and size. Generally, they are not too expensive, but they are not quite as popular as they once were due to the variety of undergarments now available to women.

History

It is nearly impossible to tell when lingerie first came into use by women, but it is speculated that it might have begun in Egypt around 3000 B.C. "Lingerie" didn't become a widespread term until around 1850 in France. The slip was derived from the petticoat slips that women used to wear. It was made of much smoother and more comfortable fabrics as it was meant to protect a woman's body from the chaffing and irritation of some harsher dress fabrics.

Types

There are three types of slips. A full slip hangs off of the shoulders and is more fitted at the top. The bottom extends into a skirt, which is available in a variety of different lengths. A half slip fits under a skirt and starts at the waist, usually held by a thin elastic band, with the bottom flowing downward. The half slip may be worn with a camisole slip top. The camisole wears like a thin shirt with adjustable straps holding it up.

Materials

Slips are made from soft and silky fabrics. They caress the skin and keep it safe from the irritation of some dresses and skirts. Silk, satin and tricot are among the most popular choices for the fabric. As the slip is also meant to provide women with more modesty, they come in a variety of colors in order to blend in under transparent clothing, much the same way an undershirt works for a man. Patterns on slips are also available, as some women like to wear slips as a sexy intimate.

Modern Usage

These days, slips are not as popular with women. Some are less modest about their bodies than their mother's generation might have been. Fashion trends are constantly changing and many new designs do not require the use of a slip. Dresses made from rough fabrics are almost always lined now, so they do not scratch or irritate. Women have also found other alternatives to slips, such as form fitting undergarments that shape the body or even t-shirts and tank tops.

Sizes and Locations

Slips are available in all sizes. The varying lengths, colors and styles make it easy for a woman to find one that suits her needs. Any lingerie store or department store will carry slips, usually in regular and plus sizes. Slits, lace trim and elasticity are some of the features that might influence a woman's decision about where to buy one.

References

• History of Lingerie
• Petticoat Demise