By Shari Swanson
Women wore several layers of material back during the time of the Civil War that made up the complete ensemble each day. At all times being appropriately covered up was important regardless of the surrounding conditions. These garments were highly fashionable and certainly demanded attention, they were very elegant Civil War gowns.
Each layer of a gown provided a special purpose. The first in which could be the most comfortable was the pantalets, also known as the bloomers. These were made of nothing other than cotton and would reach below the knee. Depending upon a women's age the length would then be determined. An older women would wear her pantalets to her ankles.
Next, a woman would wear a chemise. This was designed to keep body oils from penetrating the corset, and to ensure that surrounding materials remained comfortable while wearing the dress. It prevented the dress from pinching and restricting the woman wearing it.
The most restricting layer was the corset that was worn next to the chemise. Corsets provided mostly support, but were worn to create a smooth line from the waist to the bust. These were essential to the gowns to help create the appropriate look and were made of whale bone and cotton.
Next, a camisole was worn to help reduce wear and tear on the corset. With corsets being so complex and intricate washing was something not preferred and keeping them clea
Next, a woman would wear a chemise. This was designed to keep body oils from penetrating the corset, and to ensure that surrounding materials remained comfortable while wearing the dress. It prevented the dress from pinching and restricting the woman wearing it.
The most restricting layer was the corset that was worn next to the chemise. Corsets provided mostly support, but were worn to create a smooth line from the waist to the bust. These were essential to the gowns to help create the appropriate look and were made of whale bone and cotton.
Next, a camisole was worn to help reduce wear and tear on the corset. With corsets being so complex and intricate washing was something not preferred and keeping them clea
The most restricting layer was the corset that was worn next to the chemise. Corsets provided mostly support, but were worn to create a smooth line from the waist to the bust. These were essential to the gowns to help create the appropriate look and were made of whale bone and cotton.
Next, a camisole was worn to help reduce wear and tear on the corset. With corsets being so complex and intricate washing was something not preferred and keeping them clean was essential. Following the camisole a woman would wear a petticoat that provided her with comfort and modesty.
Lastly, a hoop skirt and over petticoats would be worn before the actual dress would be put on. Highly vibrant Civil War Gowns made with fine linens would indeed prove a woman's place in society. The patterns and colors of the material were very radiant and exquisite making it impossible to be noticed.
Next, a camisole was worn to help reduce wear and tear on the corset. With corsets being so complex and intricate washing was something not preferred and keeping them clean was essential. Following the camisole a woman would wear a petticoat that provided her with comfort and modesty.
Lastly, a hoop skirt and over petticoats would be worn before the actual dress would be put on. Highly vibrant Civil War Gowns made with fine linens would indeed prove a woman's place in society. The patterns and colors of the material were very radiant and exquisite making it impossible to be noticed.