Examining an Original 1860s Chemise & Nightgown

 

I recently had the extraordinary luck of finding an antique chemise and nightgown set on Facebook Marketplace for $10! I believe the set dates to the 1860s. Both garments are decorated with tatted lace and drawn thread work, and the nightgown is additionally ornamented with pintucks.

Remarkably, both the chemise and nightgown appear to be made of linen, and the side seams - like in 18th century shifts - take advantage of the linen selvedges by having the selvedges whip stitched together.

If you're interested in seeing more of the technical and decorative details of these garments, please watch my video, below!