Chemises

          Developed from the Roman tunica the chemise first became popular in the European Middle Ages, designed to cover the bosom: providing warmth and modesty originally with button fastenings. Women wore shifts or chemises underneath their gowns or robes. Lingerie used to consist of layering not just one or two pieces it usually is today.

         First a chemise was worn; next a corset with garter and stockings attached. Then women would put on drawers or knickers; a camisole over the top and finally the petticoats, sometimes up to six put on before the dress goes on. Later as fashions and lingerie became simpler, chemise has varying size straps and no fastenings.