Under Pinnings

      Undergarments served many purposes. Not only did they help to achieve the "look" of the period, but they protected the clothing from the body oils and odors. With the difficulty of laundering and the non-existence of dry-cleaning, clothing had to be protected more from the human body oils on the inside than the spill and stains that could occur on the outside. As heavy coats were not common, many women wore extra layers under their dresses or flannel and wool underpinnings in the cooler weather, to help keep them warm. Drawers or pantalettes as they were often called, were worn for modesty.

      To be historically correct your undergarments should be made of 100% cotton. Linen, batiste and flannel were often used. Almost all underpinnings were white, although there are references to red and other colored taffetas. These were worn mainly by the very wealthy, and mostly under evening wear. Red flannel petticoats were also worn. A word of caution: red flannel bleeds terribly, and will require special care so that you do not have pretty pink underpinnings.

Materials Used:  I use a Classic Muslin that is a 100% cotton. It has been my experience that this is easy to launder, keeps its' shape and wears well. I use satin and gross-grain ribbons in white and pastel colors and flat lace trims in either eyelet style or cotton or poly-cotton blends.

Hand-made laces are available at an additional cost.
All the garments can be made in other fabrics - ask for a quote