A petticoat is a type of undergarment worn beneath a dress or skirt. Traditionally, it is a lightweight, often frilly garment that adds volume and shape to the outer clothing. Petticoats can be made from various materials, including cotton, silk, or lace, and they come in different lengths and styles to suit different fashions. In historical contexts, petticoats were essential for women's wardrobes, especially during the Victorian era when fuller skirts were in vogue. They served not only as a fashion statement but also provided warmth and modesty. Today, petticoats are still used in some formal attire, such as wedding dresses and costumes.