Civil War Gowns were highly fashionable, elegant garments that demanded attention. It was very important to remain modest and covered up at all times no matter the conditions and each ensemble was constructed of several different layers. This ensemble was part of a ritual followed each day.
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.
The fourth layer consisted of a camisole, which thwarted off all possible colors rubbing off onto the corset. Since a corset was so difficult to launder it was imperative to keep it as clean as possible. Next, a woman's petticoat. This was worn to provide modesty and comfort.
A Hoop skirt, over petticoats, and lastly the actual gown would finally be donned and shown off for all to see and admire. The vibrant colors and patterns of most dresses were very eye catching and lustrous. These Civil War Gowns also did indeed prove rank in society and established a woman's place amongst her peers.
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.
The fourth layer consisted of a camisole, which thwarted off all possible colors rubbing off onto the corset. Since a corset was so difficult to launder it was imperative to keep it as clean as possible. Next, a woman's petticoat. This was worn to provide modesty and comfort.
A Hoop skirt, over petticoats, and lastly the actual gown would finally be donned and shown off for all to see and admire. The vibrant colors and patterns of most dresses were very eye catching and lustrous. These Civil War Gowns also did indeed prove rank in society and established a woman's place amongst her peers.
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