Quick answer: A can-can (also called a kalidar underskirt or petticoat) is a stiffened net underskirt worn beneath a lehenga to give it volume and flare. It's what makes a bridal skirt stand out in that full, sweeping shape rather than hanging flat. The amount of can-can controls how dramatic the flare is — and at AÏNN London the right underskirt is built into a bridal set so your lehenga falls exactly as it should.
Ever wondered why a bridal lehenga has that beautiful, full sweep? The secret is usually the can-can. Here's what it is and why it matters.
What is a can-can?
A can-can is a stiff net underskirt worn under the lehenga. Layers of firm net hold the skirt out, creating volume and that signature flared silhouette. Without it, even a beautiful lehenga can hang flat and lose its drama.
What it does
| More can-can | Less can-can |
|---|---|
| Fuller, dramatic flare | Softer, gentler drape |
| Grand, regal bridal look | Easier movement and dancing |
| More structure in photos | Lighter to wear all day |
How much volume should you choose?
- A grand bridal entrance: more can-can for full drama.
- An all-day or dance-heavy event: a little less for comfort and movement.
- A balanced look: medium volume — elegant but easy to manage.
It's worth thinking about alongside the event itself — see heavy vs light bridal.
It's part of a complete bridal set
At AÏNN London the can-can is considered as part of the whole — see what's included in a bridal set. The fabric of the lehenga matters too; a net or raw silk skirt behaves differently over a can-can. And for storing all that volume afterwards, see how to store your lehenga.
Browse the bridal collection, the lehenga collection, or ask us about volume for your design.
Frequently asked questions
What is a can-can underskirt?
It's a stiffened net underskirt worn beneath a lehenga to give it volume and a flared shape, so the skirt sweeps out beautifully rather than hanging flat.
Why does a lehenga need a can-can?
The can-can creates the full, dramatic silhouette a bridal lehenga is known for. Without it, the skirt can look flat and lose its shape.
Does more can-can make it harder to move?
More volume gives a grander flare but a little less makes dancing and all-day wear easier, so it's worth matching the volume to your event.
Is the can-can included with the outfit?
At AÏNN London the underskirt is considered as part of the complete bridal set, so your lehenga falls exactly as intended.
AÏNN London builds each bridal lehenga to measure with the right underskirt volume for your look — confirmed on video before dispatch. Ask us about your design.
Last updated: June 2026
