Sheer Petticoat Gown or Half-Bodice Under Petticoat 1795 - 1818

In 2007 this garment was purchased by a private collector from the collection of Tasha Tudor sold by Charles A. Whitaker Auction Company.

The half-bodice is made from cotton and does not cover the bossom but criss-crosses in the back which allows the waistband to be adjustable up to an additional 2”. The fabric of the skirt is made from a loose weave, sheer muslin with the stripes being made from thicker warp threads. The frills at the bottom are plain shirred fabric which is more finely woven than the skirt fabric. There are pocket slits on each side. The whole skirt is made from three widths of fabric which vary 32” to 34” wide for a total circumference of 96”. 

FIT: The very high period waist is higher than what a woman in the 21st century would wear and cannot be easily achieved without some form of corsetry. As a sheer over dress would have been worn under a Spencer or Shortgown and worn over a dress, a chemise, corset, and with at least one petticoat. 

FABRIC: The original fabric is a sheer, light cotton with self stripe and soft drape. The ruffles are made from unfigured sheer cotton. The half bodice is a lightweight cotton.

CHOOSING SIZE: When deciding which size is correct for you to use, measure your rib cage under your bust, preferably with your corset and underpinnings on. This is the single most important measurement. This waistband has 1” ease and is meant to fit snugly to your body. Since the cross over back is tied with drawstrings, it can accommodate a variety of bosoms.