What is a "crinoline"?

Crinoline is a stiff and structured underskirt made of horsehair or other synthetic materials. It was popularized in the mid-19th century as a support garment for women's skirts to create a bell-shaped silhouette. Crinolines were typically worn with a hoop skirt to provide additional support and volume. The use of crinolines declined in the late 19th century, but they remain a staple of historical and period costumes. Today, crinolines are also used in ballroom dancing and other formal events to add volume and drama to skirts.