Comments on: Fabrics for Undergarments

By: I Can See Sheerly Now - Natania Barron's Mad Pursuit

I Can See Sheerly Now - Natania Barron's Mad Pursuit — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 15:37:07 +0000

[…] – Second sources: https://historicalsewing.com/fabrics-for-undergarments https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veil […]

By: Susan

Susan — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 19:39:50 +0000

In reply to Lex. I sew first, leaving room for shrinkage then wash after. It has always worked out well for me that way .

By: Susan

Susan — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 19:30:11 +0000

In reply to Sewing. I love muslin, it's very versatile, different weight, easy to dye, soft and light and very affordable. With so many pros how can one go wrong!!

By: Simplifying the Search for Undergarment Patterns – Chemise & Drawers

Simplifying the Search for Undergarment Patterns – Chemise & Drawers — Wed, 02 May 2018 15:01:40 +0000

[…] Use this list of the many patterns available for the most basic of period clothing pieces. Please note that this list is not exhaustive. For suggestions on fabrics for undergarments read this post. […]

By: Julie

Julie — Sat, 05 Apr 2014 02:21:58 +0000

I have yet to find a linen that doesn’t irritate my skin so I’ve been sticking with cotton next to the skin.

On a side note I’ll purposely select the most obnoxious cotton print I can find. Then friends get together after hours and have an ugly undies contest. You wouldn’t believe some of the ugly fabric out there.

By: K. Winter

K. Winter — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 03:23:56 +0000

In reply to Jennifer Rosbrugh.

Mmmm…. Habotai… My favourite weave to paint and embroider on. 😀
I’ve always assumed that the buckets I sweat when I wear kimono and other Japanese historical clothing had more to do with the number of layers of heavy, heavy silk that proper wear requires. A heavy triple layered obi wrapped at least twice around the ribcage can indeed get warm!
Though, now I’m considering the fact that I live in Toronto, it is currently -27 C, and warmer underthings might be a decent idea for nights like this… Oh, the rationalisation that can go on over a fabric that I’m in love with…

By: Jennifer Rosbrugh

Jennifer Rosbrugh — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 02:34:30 +0000

In reply to K. Winter. I have a China silk (habotai) slip for 1920s dresses and it's lovely. I wouldn't, however, wear it (or any silk) under my corset as a chemise as silk can be hot. Makes nice petticoats though!

By: K. Winter

K. Winter — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 01:19:33 +0000

I’ve just started my first historically accurate undies in a soft white cotton gauze, and I love them already – the gauze is so soft and lovely I can’t wait to wear them! But I’ve also fallen in love with some very reasonably priced silk chiffon at the amazing fabric store around the corner from my place, with the idea of making some super-sheer undies in provocative colours for when I’m feeling scandalous… The chiffon is so very lightweight, blissfully soft, and floats like a cloud. I can imagine it as the sort of thing the great courtesans would have worn when entertaining. (Also, I am a silk addict.)
Has anyone tried silk chiffon as undergarment material? Was it breathable and comfy, or did you sweat buckets? I’d hate to shell out for the bright cerise chiffon only to find it a sweaty mess once I take off my gown, since I intend them to be a sort of Victorian Victoria’s Secret type garment – underwear meant to be seen!
Any ideas or advice would be most welcome!