What is a slip

Short answer: A slip is a smooth layer worn under a dress or a skirt. It stops the outer fabric from clinging to your skin or tights, and it reduces see-through when the fabric is thin or light.

A smooth layer between skin and clothing

Many dresses and skirts are made from fabrics that tend to cling, especially in dry air or when you wear tights. A slip adds a smooth layer in between, so the outer fabric glides freely over the body instead of sticking. The dress then falls more calmly and hangs the way it was designed, see bamboo bra.

It reduces see-through

Thin and light fabrics can be more see-through than you expect, especially against the light or in strong sunshine. An extra layer under the dress makes the fabric less transparent without switching to a thicker style. It is a simple way to wear a light summer dress in more situations, including at work.

Length decides the use

A short slip suits short styles, and a long slip suits long ones. The slip should end a little above the hem of the outer layer, so it does not show when you walk or sit down. Measure your dresses and skirts before choosing. If you own many lengths, both a short and a long slip can make sense.

What the fabric means

A slip sits against the skin all day, so the fabric decides how it feels. A soft and smooth fabric glides easily under the outer layer and feels comfortable on the skin. A fabric that absorbs a little moisture can also make a warm day more pleasant, because it clings less than one that absorbs none.

Shoulders and straps

Most slips have thin straps, so they work under dresses with and without sleeves. Check that the straps sit in the same place as your bra straps, so you do not end up with several visible straps at the shoulder. Adjustable straps let you set the length, so the slip sits right and does not slide down.

In winter and in summer

In winter, a slip makes it easier to wear a dress with tights, because the outer fabric does not stick to the nylon. It also adds a thin extra layer that holds a little warmth. In summer, it is mostly about see-through and a layer that takes moisture from the skin, see bamboo socks for men and women.

Washing and care

Wash the slip on a gentle cycle at a low temperature, ideally in a laundry bag, so the straps do not tangle with other clothes. Let it dry flat or on a hanger instead of in the tumble dryer, so it keeps its shape. Skip fabric softener, as it can leave a film on the fibres.

The slip in an everyday wardrobe

A slip is not only for special occasions. It lets you wear the dresses you already own more often and in more situations. If you have a dress you rarely put on because it clings or feels too thin, a slip may solve it. Pair it with soft clothing for the rest of the day, such as bamboo sweat clothes.

Frequently asked questions

What is a slip

A smooth layer worn under a dress or skirt, so the outer fabric glides freely and does not become see-through in strong light or against the sun.

When do you need a slip

When the outer fabric clings to your skin or tights, or when the fabric is so thin that it becomes see-through in strong light or against the light.

Which colour should you choose

A skin tone if the outer layer is light, because it will not show through. Under dark clothing, you can freely choose black or another dark colour.