#2360  Muslin Chemise  c. 1800-1820 

  United States 

Materials: Plain weave white cotton, cotton twill, cotton lacing.

Condition: Perfect.

Measurements:  Sh-Sh, 15"; B, 46"; Slv L, 8.5"; Hem C, 72"; L, 47".

Comments: Prior to 1800 the loose fitting, knee-length cotton or linen garment a woman put on before anything else was commonly called a "shift". After 1800, "chemise" became the accepted term. The chemise was very versatile. It was worn under the corset as it was the easier garment to launder. The same chemise that was worn all day might also be worn to bed as a nightgown. Standard period construction details - square underarm gussets, lined armscyes, and long inverted V inserts at side seams to give extra fullness at the hem. This square-neck chemise has incredibly tiny, precise hand-stitching throughout. The square neckline has a draw-string front while the back is gathered onto a narrow twill tape. French seams throughout. The quintessential early 19th c. woman's undergarment.