Definition of Chemise, and A Short History
The dictionary defines a chemise as follows: 1. A woman’s loose, dress-like undergarment. 2. A loose fitting dress that hangs straight, a shift.
Chemise of the Middle Ages
HISTORY:
The chemise can be traced back to the Roman tunica, an adaptation of the Greek toga. Loose in style, sleeved or sleeveless, extending to the knees and worn by both men and women. It gained popularity in Europe during the middle ages. The chemises, or shifts, were worn underneath women’s dresses, robes and gowns. It was probably the only garment washed regularly. Chemises fell out of style as a support garment with the advent of the full slip, brassiere, bra, and girdle.
Currently the chemise, or slip, is worn as a negligee, sleep attire, and under a business suit for a feminine touch, to name a few. It typically has thin, spaghetti straps, falls straight off the shoulders, and has lace or embellishment details for trim. It can be found constructed out of the simplest cottons to the most expensive silks. Cups are sometimes sewn into place and some times are not. As modern designers push the envelope we will see more and more changes to this ancient style of clothing.
'Straight' Designed ChemiseChemise with Cups
Chemise with Cups
