Dressing up in a saree is one of the most elegant and ageless ways of dressing, but then it also depends on what you have underneath. The plain petticoat has much to do with your saree's appearance and your confidence in carrying it off. If you want to appear thin in a saree, selecting the proper petticoat can make a huge difference.
1. Opt for a well-fitted, shapewear petticoat
One of the greatest new saree fashion inventions is the shapewear petticoat. Shaped like a body-fitting skirt with tummy control and stretchy waistband, this petticoat ironed out bulges and sculpts your curves. It adheres just enough to provide additional shape without obstructing movement. Shapewear petticoats, which come in a variety of colors and sizes, are perfect for smooth, structured drapes, especially beneath silk, georgette, or chiffon sarees.
Why it works: It removes extra layers, hugs the waist, and provides a sculpted appearance.

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2. Select Proper Fabric
To appear slender in a saree, don't use bulky or stiff fabric as your petticoat. Instead, use light, flowing materials such as satin, cotton-satin mix, or lycra. These materials drape without adding bulk and provide the saree with a clinging appearance.
Avoid: Baggy cottons or flared petticoats with large amounts of loose fabric since these make you look wider.

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3. Buy a Straight-Cut or Mermaid-Style Petticoat
Straight-cut petticoat hugs your thighs and hips and lets the saree glide smoothly along your body's natural contour. For extra slimming, opt for a mermaid-cut petticoat that is fitted up to knees and flares slightly. This shows off curves and provides a streamlined look under flowing sarees.
Tip: Ensure the petticoat is equal in length to your saree so that there is no untimely sagging or bulging at the hem.

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4. Steer Clear of Drawstrings; Opt for Elastic Waistbands
The old-fashioned petticoats with drawstrings tend to bulge the waist. Opt for petticoats that have narrow elastic waistbands or zip fronts. These provide a flat, smooth waistline and appear finer under the saree.

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5. Petticoat Color Match to Saree or Skin Tone
Whereas color won't do anything to your silhouette, having a petticoat that approximates your saree or your skin tone (for simple sarees) ensures a flowy look. This prevents startling breaks in the fall that make your silhouette appear wider.

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Conclusion
The key to appearing slender when wearing a saree is in the foundation—your petticoat. Whether you're dressed up in a classic silk saree or a fashion-forward designer saree, a crisp, light, body-slender petticoat makes you look and feel your best. Spending money on trendy shapewear petticoats or slim-fit petticoats actually makes your entire saree shine. So the next time you're all dressed up, notice what's underneath—it makes all the difference.
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