Pannier (clothing)

Pannier

Pannier or hoop skirt, English, 1750–80. Plain-woven linen and cane.
Type	Undergarments
Place of origin	Spain
Introduced	17th century

Panniers or side hoops are women's undergarments worn in the 17th and 18th centuries to extend the width of the skirts at the side while leaving the front and back relatively flat. This provided a panel where woven patterns, elaborate decorations and rich embroidery could be displayed and fully appreciated.