Dressing the Late 19th Century Woman

Stockings, Shoes and Drawers

Our model for this exercise, Chelsea, makes her appearance wearing a pair of cotton drawers that feature ribbon and embroidery detail at the hem. Drawers come in two styles, open and closed, refering to the crotch. When you see how many other layers get worn over them, the open crotch drawers seem far more pratical. This being a PG rated site, we had Chelsea model a pair of closed drawers.

Drawers are often referred to as pantaloons (a term that correctly refers to men's pants) or bloomers.

You'll also notice that Chelsea already has her stockings and shoes on. If you've ever worn a corset you'll understand why it is important to get the stockings and shoes on before the corset. Back in the 1800s the lady had help to get dressed so maybe it wasn't that important then.

1. Drawers
2. Chemise
3. Corset
4. Petticoat
5. Corset Cover
6. Bustle
7. Underskirt
8. Skirt
9. Bodice
10. Bodice (back)
11. Capelet
12. Hat, Parasol & Fan