A camisole or chemise was originally intended as a soft layer underneath a corset. An additional layer was also often worn over the top of the corset as well called a corset cover. Based on the drawstring waist this is most likely a corset cover. Holes have been made at shoulders and bust line for a decorative ribbon of your choice to be threaded through. The waist has a drawstring casing, if you wanted to add a ribbon to gather the waist too. It falls straight from bust to waist in a cropped length. Today, this pretty antique cover doubles as a summer top. This beautiful hand made piece features a decorative hemming feather stitch and a floral motif crocheted yoke and white cotton bodice. Remnant pieces of cream silk evident below the mismatched lace pieces suggest this was loving handmade from salvaged lace and crochet. Crochet was a popular domestic past time in the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Many magazines of the time would supply patterns to crochet decorative yokes for dresses and underwear.
Fits like modern size XS
Measurements (lying flat):
Underarm to underarm 43cm
Waist 42cm
Shoulder to hem 43cm
Label: Handmade
Provenance: Sourced from New Zealand
Condition: Excellent – some crochet fray at the drawstring holes and at edges.
