"Hand-stitched from muslin or fine-spun lawn, a chemise was that intimate garment worn next to a lady's skin. During the Victorian era, it was often meticulously monogrammed in dainty script. Today, A Lady's Chemise is the perfect nightgown or simple summer dress.
Our flattering chemise was worn during the mid to late 1800's and we offer a sewing pattern for two appealing versions. Both views have short gathered and ruffled cap sleeves and can be cut low knee-length or at the hip to be worn as a blouse. Delicate pleats accent the center front and back of the neckline, which is adjustable with feminine ribbon drawstrings. The neckline for View A drops just off the shoulder in the late 19th century style and uses purchased eyelet beading and lace or eyelet ruffles at neckline and sleeve. The neckline of View B sits on the shoulder, as in earlier eras; it featured a self-fabric ruffle casing for the ribbon drawstring."
Suggested Fabrics: Light-weight cottons and blends such as batiste, lawn, voile, gauze, or eyelet; handkerchief linen; silks such as crepe de chine; rayon challis. Originals were made of lightweight muslin or linen.
Great tips for this pattern from Folkwear website: https://www.folkwear.com/products/223-a-ladys-chemise?_pos=1&_sid=d8d107ceb&_ss=r&variant=41609071198274
