In a message dated 5/16/2007 9:37:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time,  
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

Would  there be a difference between an under dress (it doesn't look as 
though it was  ever lined) and an actual chemise? 
I was thinking perhaps someone would  wear a simple chemise, then perhaps a 
corset, and then the under dress, and  finally a dress?



You are on the right track.  In the period, the underdress was called  a 
slip, but it was cut very similarly to the dress.  If the overdress has  darts, 
use them in the underdress; otherwise, I would cut the front bodice on  the 
bias 
and gather at waist and neck with drawstrings.  I have seen one  sleeveless 
one.  However, if it has sleeves, and the oversleeves are a  little flimsy, the 
puffed undersleeve would give it some support.  
 
As to color, some were flesh-toned, to give the "nude" look.  One  other I 
have seen was white.  Colored underdresses seem to come in around  1817 or so, 
but I may be wrong--they may be earlier.  But, in that case,  the overdress 
would probably have trim of the same color.
 
Good luck!
 
Ann Wass
 
Ann Wass



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