By Kelly Anne Fitzpatrick on December 28, 2011 in
Ladies, you may think you have your New Year's Eve ensemble planned all the way down to the hosiery (textured tights, anyone?), but make sure you are not forgetting one of the most essential elements. No matter how pulled together you look on the outside, appropriate undergarments are crucial. And a dress slip--though it may be a blast from the past--is sometimes a must. The New York Times even points out that the slip is no longer worn exclusively by old ladies; it's back in fashion--as underwear, not just outerwear--for women of all ages.
We talked to Anne Fritz, About.com's 15-Minute Fashion Guide, for a few pointers when it comes to under-dress skivvies.
When you need it. A slip isn't always essential, by any means. For example, lined dresses are usually perfectly fine on their own, and a slip may just add bulk. Fritz argues that there are a few exceptions: See-through dresses, for instance, require some extra coverage. And whether or not a dress is see-through may not always be obvious in the mirror; as celebs have proven on the red carpet, camera flashes can reveal more than we realize (and there will be plenty of those on this particular night of the year). If a dress isn't lined, have a friend take a photo of you in it with flash, Fritz suggests. If your undergarments are visible, it's time for a slip-tervention. Another must-have situation is when wearing an itchy dress. With all the sequins on New Year's Eve party dresses, as well as the woolly, warm dress fabrics, a slip might be especially necessary on this particular night.
What to look for. Fritz says style and fit are both important. Leave lingerie detailing like contrasting trim or over-the-top lace for the bedroom and keep your slip simple. It shouldn't distract from your dress. It also shouldn't fit like a bag (that's what leads to the dreaded bunching under your dress). Look for something body skimming with some stretch that doesn't cling uncomfortably.
How to get the most out of it. For a dress that's especially unforgiving, or if you have problem areas you're concerned about (love handles, under-bra-strap bulge), opt for a shaper style. Real Simple recommends a full-length slimming slip under dresses so as not to reveal bulges where the undergarment begins or ends. Shapers can do a whole lot more than a standard slip, though. They also alleviate dreaded visible panty lines and in some cases substitute for a bra, simplifying all the undergarment madness. Plus, they can be worn far more frequently than a standard slip, since they won't bunch or ride up under any style.
What you need. According to Fritz, every woman should have two slips--one in black and one in nude. While a mid-length skirt slip is most versatile, a full dress slip is best for women who wear dresses frequently. A full-dress slip is especially appropriate under party dresses this New Year's Eve.