Luxurious lingerie is only a sexy chemise away

Today's chemises are soft and luxurious, whether worn as undergarments, nightwear or even outerwear. Like many of today's hot lingerie items, however, chemises have a long and much more practical history. Provided here is a brief history of chemises through the ages.

Ancient Cultures

In Ancient Greece and Rome, tunic-style garments were worn by both men and women. These simple gowns are believed to be the prototypes of modern chemises. However, the garments were worn alone, therefore functioning as outerwear.

Middle Ages

The medieval period marked the true beginning of chemises' use as undergarments. At that time, chemises were unisex garments. Women wore them long, underneath skirts and bodices or full-length gowns. Men wore them as somewhat shorter undershirts, paired with braies (a form of leggings) and covered by doublets, robes or other garments.

At that time and for many centuries to follow, chemises served an extremely practical purpose. The chemise was one of the earliest incarnations of underwear. It protected expensive outer garments from sweat and bodily oils. In those days, the chemise was the only piece of clothing that was regularly washed.

Evolution of the Chemise

Chemises remained an important and practical undergarment until the early 20th century. As fashions changed, so did the chemise. Women's styles evolved into the camisole (once used to cover the corset) and full slip. Men's chemises gradually became shorter and more fitted, eventually becoming the undershirt of today.

Homemade Chemises

Chemises were traditionally made at home. A home seamstress could create each chemise from a single piece of cloth, which lessened waste dramatically. Working class people of both genders wore simple, rough chemises that were generally made of linen or other common fabrics. Wealthier people enjoyed supple chemises made from silk or other luxurious fabrics.

Chemises Today

Today's chemises are luxury items, crafted of rich materials such as silk and designed to enhance sex appeal. Some chemises retain practical value, offering a sleek, clean line under thinner dresses and blouses. Others are designed strictly as nightwear or naughty lingerie, offering such daring options as lace and fishnet.

Today, there is little difference between chemises and camisoles, and many people use the two terms interchangeably. Chemises may also resemble negligees, particularly the babydoll style. Chemises historically provided sleeves, although many of today's more risqué styles are sleeveless.

Fitting chemises is extremely easy, making them popular gift items. A chemise is designed for a loose and flowing fit, as opposed to the precise measurements that are required for pieces such as corsets. Chemises are generally sized according to dress size, although some are marketed as "one size fits all."

Chemises have undergone many changes since their debut in Ancient Rome, but the basic structure of the garment remains the same. A comfortable, thin piece that can be worn as naughty lingerie, underwear or sleepwear, the chemise of today is a luxurious and multifunctional addition to any woman's wardrobe.