How much fabric for an inner slip (shameez)?

A slip is not the same as lining

Lining is sewn into the kameez. A slip is a separate, simple garment worn underneath, usually a plain sleeveless or strapped shape in an opaque fabric. It suits sheer chiffon, organza and net, and it has real advantages: one slip can go under several sheer outfits, it is easy to wash, and it lets air move between the layers. The trade-off is that it can shift a little as you move. Our article on whether a kameez needs lining covers the attached option.

Length, shape and straps

Most slips are cut 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) shorter than the kameez so the hem never peeps out, though some people prefer it the same length for full cover behind a sheer hem. If the kameez has side slits, the slip needs slits too, in the same place or a little lower, or it will hold the kameez closed when you walk.

Thin straps use the least fabric but show through a sheer kameez. A sleeveless slip with broad shoulders covers bra straps, and a slip with short or elbow sleeves gives more cover under sheer sleeves. Keep the slip neckline at or above the kameez neckline so it does not show.

Typical amounts

On narrow fabric the front and back of a slip are usually too wide at the hip to sit side by side, so two lengths are cut, each the slip length plus about 10 cm. On wide fabric they normally fit in a single length. Figures below are for 44 to 45 inch fabric, with 58 to 60 inch in brackets.

• Hip-length slip for a short kurti: 1.6 to 1.8 m (0.9 to 1 m).
• Knee-length slip: 2 to 2.25 m (1.1 to 1.25 m).
• Calf-length slip: 2.4 to 2.6 m (1.3 to 1.4 m).
• Short sleeves: add 0.3 to 0.4 m. Elbow or full sleeves: add 0.5 to 0.75 m.
• A-line slip under a flared frock: add 0.5 to 1 m. It rarely needs the full flare of the frock, only enough to move freely.
• Straps or binding: a strip of 10 to 20 cm, often cut from the leftovers.

Choosing the fabric

Look for something soft, opaque and comfortable against the skin. Cotton lawn and cambric are cool and breathable; viscose and satin-finish fabrics slide well under chiffon and georgette. Match the colour to the kameez, or choose one close to your skin tone so it disappears. Our comparison of chiffon, georgette and organza shows how sheer each fabric is, and our guide to choosing lining covers colours.

To have a slip made with a sheer kameez you are sending, use our Stitching Only service and mention the slip in your quote request. We confirm the shape, the fabric and whether there is enough of it before you post anything.