Back in the mid-19th century, it would have been common to see upper-class women wearing skirts that extended outward in a wide shape. This distinctive silhouette was achieved through a structured garment known as the “hoop skirt,” which was designed to be worn under another skirt to give volume to the outer layer of a woman’s outfit. Though hoop skirts of some form were first worn in the 16th century, their peak in popularity came during the 19th century in Victorian England. Commonly constructed from rigid materials such as whalebone or steel, hoop skirts enabled women’s outfits to adopt a shape that emphasized a slender waist and wide hips. Prior to the invention of the hoop skirt, women would rely on wearing multiple petticoats under their skirt to get the desired silhouette. However, these petticoats were heavy and thus restricted movement. The hoop skirt provided a lighter and more manageable solution to achieving a fashionable look. For women in Victorian England, wearing a hoop skirt was an indication of high social status. On top of that, these skirts offered several practical benefits. In addition to providing comfort and ease of movement, they also served as a barrier to others, giving women a greater radius of personal space. This attribute was particularly valuable in crowded places. It should be noted that the hoop skirt design had several drawbacks, including the risk of catching fire, especially near open flames or fireplaces, or becoming entangled in machinery. Nevertheless, its popularity endured for many years due to its stylish appeal and relative comfort. Today, hoop skirts are recognized as a significant stage in the evolution in the history of women’s clothing, illustrating how fashion, comfort, and social status can be balanced.