Can Can Skirt for Lehenga
The lehenga is one of the most iconic and elegant traditional outfits worn by women across India and South Asia. Whether it’s a wedding, engagement ceremony, festive celebration, or cultural event, a well-fitted, beautifully flared lehenga can make anyone feel like royalty. However, behind the majestic twirl and voluminous silhouette of a lehenga lies a hidden hero—the can can skirt.
The question that often arises is: Can can skirt for lehenga—Is it necessary? Is it worth it? What are the benefits, downsides, and best ways to use one? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything there is to know about using a can can skirt for a lehenga, from the basics to styling tips and practical considerations.
What is a Can Can Skirt?
A can can skirt, often simply referred to as “can can,” is a stiff, netted underskirt designed to add volume and structure to lehengas, gowns, and skirts. Originally popularized in Western ball gowns and wedding dresses, can can has now become an essential part of ethnic fashion.
Made of layers of crinoline or stiff net fabric, a can can skirt is usually worn underneath the lehenga to lift the outer fabric and create that much-desired flared appearance. It is either sewn into the lehenga or worn as a separate petticoat-style underlayer.
Importance of Can Can Skirt for Lehenga
The use of a can can skirt for lehenga is not just a passing fashion trend. It serves multiple purposes that enhance the look and feel of the outfit:
1. Enhances Volume and Flare
The primary function of a can can skirt is to provide volume. A lehenga without can can may appear flat and lifeless, especially if the fabric is light. Can can helps create the desired puffed, princess-like effect.
2. Adds Structure to the Outfit
Lehengas made from flowy materials like georgette, chiffon, or satin often lack natural stiffness. Can can adds structure, allowing the outfit to retain its shape throughout the day or night.
3. Improves Silhouette
For brides and fashion-forward individuals, silhouette is everything. A can can skirt lifts the lehenga evenly, giving a balanced, hourglass look that is both flattering and photogenic.
4. Helps in Twirling
Everyone loves a perfect twirling lehenga shot! Can can dramatically enhances the twirl effect, making it perfect for wedding photoshoots or dance performances.
Types of Can Can for Lehengas
There are two main ways to incorporate can can into a lehenga ensemble:
1. Attached Can Can
Many designer lehengas come with the can can already stitched inside. This is convenient, but it means the can can is tailored specifically for that outfit.
Pros:
- Custom-fitted for the lehenga.
- Saves time and effort.
Cons:
- Adds permanent weight to the lehenga.
- Difficult to manage or remove for lighter wear.
2. Separate Can Can Skirt
This is a standalone petticoat-style skirt worn underneath any lehenga. It can be reused with different outfits.
Pros:
- Reusable with multiple lehengas.
- Easy to wear or remove as per need.
Cons:
- May require adjustments to fit with different lehenga cuts.
- Not as seamless as attached can can.
Fabric and Density: Choosing the Right Can Can
Can can skirts come in varying layers and densities. Here’s how to pick the right one:
- Light Can Can (2-3 layers): Ideal for small functions or lightweight lehengas.
- Medium Can Can (4-6 layers): Suitable for semi-formal events or moderately heavy lehengas.
- Heavy Can Can (7+ layers): Best for bridal lehengas where a dramatic flare is required.
Note: More layers mean more volume but also more weight and less comfort. Balance is key.
Can Can Skirt for Different Lehengas
Different lehenga styles pair differently with can can skirts:
1. A-Line Lehengas
Moderate can can works well to retain the sleek silhouette without making it too puffy.
2. Circular/Flared Lehengas
This style looks best with a heavy can can, as it amplifies the fullness of the flare.
3. Panelled Lehengas
Choose a light to medium can can to avoid overwhelming the design and embroidery.
4. Mermaid or Fishtail Lehengas
Usually, can can is not required as these are body-hugging styles. However, a light can can at the bottom can add a subtle flair.
Comfort and Drawbacks
While can can skirts offer visual appeal, they can have drawbacks:
1. Heaviness and Heat
Multiple layers of net can make the lehenga heavy and hot, especially during long events or in summer.
2. Itchiness
Some can can materials can be rough on the skin. It’s advisable to wear a cotton lining or slip underneath.
3. Mobility
Heavy can can may restrict movement and make sitting or walking difficult. Choose according to the duration and nature of the event.
Bridal Lehengas and Can Can
For bridal lehengas, can can is almost a must-have. It enhances grandeur, makes the bride stand out, and photographs beautifully. However, brides should consider:
- Testing the weight before the big day.
- Practicing walking and sitting in the outfit.
- Keeping backup flat shoes if heels become too difficult.
Styling Tips for Wearing Can Can with Lehenga
- Match Length: Ensure the can can skirt is slightly shorter than the lehenga to avoid peeking out.
- Right Waist Fit: Can can should fit snugly at the waist to avoid slipping or bunching.
- Color Coordination: Choose neutral colors like white, nude, or beige unless the lehenga is sheer.
- Storage: Hang can can skirts vertically to avoid flattening the layers.
- Ironing: Never use direct heat. Steam or hand-press to retain fluff.
Budget Considerations
Can can skirts range from ₹500 to ₹3000 or more depending on quality, brand, and number of layers. Investing in a high-quality reusable can can can save money over time, especially if you frequently wear lehengas for weddings or cultural functions.
Renting vs. Buying Can Can
Renting
- Ideal for occasional wear.
- Cost-effective for one-time use.
- Available at bridal boutiques and rental stores.
Buying
- Long-term investment.
- Tailored to your comfort and size.
- Better hygiene control.
Alternatives to Can Can Skirts
Some alternatives exist but don’t offer the same level of volume:
- Cotton petticoats: Comfortable but lack volume.
- Tulle underskirts: Softer and lighter but not as firm.
- Horsehair braid trims: Sewn into the lehenga hem for subtle volume.
FAQs About Can Can Skirt for Lehenga
Q1. Is can can skirt necessary for lehenga?
A. Not mandatory, but highly recommended for fuller and more flattering silhouettes.
Q2. Can I add can can to an old lehenga?
A. Yes, a separate can can skirt can be worn underneath or sewn in by a tailor.
Q3. Does can can make the lehenga heavy?
A. Yes, especially with multiple layers. Choose the density according to the event type.
Q4. Can can skirt or attached can can—which is better?
A. Depends on usage. Attached looks seamless; separate offers flexibility.
Q5. Can I wear can can in summer?
A. Yes, but go for light versions and breathable fabrics to avoid discomfort.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question once and for all—Can can skirt for lehenga? Absolutely! It is one of the best accessories you can add to elevate the look of your ethnic ensemble. Whether you are a bride looking for that perfect twirl or a guest aiming for a photo-ready outfit, a can can skirt adds the right amount of drama, volume, and elegance to any lehenga.
However, balance is essential. Too little, and the lehenga might look flat; too much, and it can become difficult to manage. With the right fit, fabric, and flair, a can can skirt can transform even the simplest lehenga into a showstopper.
