Shop petticoats in Australia at Poison Arrow Retro, with fluffy vintage-inspired styles made to add shape, volume and movement under your favourite rockabilly dresses, swing skirts and circle skirts.
A good petticoat can completely change the look of an outfit. Wear one under a 1950s-style swing dress for extra fullness, add shape to a circle skirt, or give your pin-up outfit a proper retro silhouette without looking like you are wearing a costume.
Rockabilly Petticoats for Dresses and Skirts
Our rockabilly petticoats are designed to sit under retro dresses and skirts to create that classic full shape. They are ideal for rock 'n' roll dancing, car shows, vintage events, weddings, photoshoots, parties, or anytime you want your outfit to have more lift and movement.
- Adds volume: Gives swing dresses and circle skirts a fuller 1950s-inspired shape
- Easy to style: Wear under dresses, skirts or vintage-inspired outfits
- Great for dancing: Adds movement for rock 'n' roll and swing dancing
- Colour options: Choose classic colours or a contrast shade for extra attitude
- Retro outfit essential: A simple way to make dresses and skirts look more finished
How to Style a Petticoat
For a classic 1950s look, wear your petticoat under a swing dress or circle skirt and pair it with a fitted top, cropped cardigan or wide belt. For a bolder rockabilly look, choose a contrast colour that peeks out from underneath the hem.
You can also keep the look more subtle by choosing a petticoat close to the colour of your dress or skirt. It will still add shape, but the overall outfit will feel softer and easier for everyday wear.
What Length Petticoat Should I Choose?
The best petticoat length depends on the dress or skirt you are wearing it with. As a general rule, your petticoat should sit slightly shorter than the hemline unless you want the colour to show underneath. Always check the garment length before ordering so the proportions work properly.
Care Instructions
To keep your petticoat looking full and fresh:
- Hand wash or use a gentle cold machine cycle where suitable
- Do not bleach
- Hang to dry
- Shake out before wearing to help restore volume
- Store hanging or loosely folded so the layers do not flatten too much
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a petticoat used for?
A petticoat is worn under a dress or skirt to add volume, shape and movement. It is commonly worn with rockabilly dresses, swing dresses, circle skirts and 1950s-style outfits.
Do I need a petticoat under a swing dress?
No, you do not have to wear one, but a petticoat will give a swing dress a fuller vintage-inspired shape. Without a petticoat, the dress will usually sit softer and flatter.
Can I wear a petticoat under a circle skirt?
Yes. Petticoats work well under circle skirts and swing skirts because they help create a fuller shape and add movement when walking or dancing.
Should my petticoat show under my dress?
That depends on the look you want. For a classic neat finish, choose a petticoat that sits just above the hem. For a bolder rockabilly look, choose a contrast colour and let a little show underneath.
Do you ship petticoats Australia-wide?
Yes, Poison Arrow Retro is based on the Gold Coast and ships petticoats, rockabilly clothing and vintage-inspired fashion Australia-wide.
