Chemises Are Simple, Sexy And For Everyone

The chemises of today are hot lingerie items. Soft and
luxurious, they can be worn as nightwear, undergarments or even
outerwear. Like many of today's naughty lingerie pieces,
chemises were once practical, functional pieces. Provided here
is a guide to chemises through the centuries.

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

Throughout much of the history of the chemise, women made these
garments at home. A reasonably talented home seamstress could
create a chemise out of a single piece of cloth, lessening
waste. Working class people of both genders generally wore
rough, simple chemises in linen or other common fabric.
Wealthier aristocrats enjoyed supple, voluminous chemises in
luxurious fabrics such as silk.

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 can be traced to Ancient Rome, although they have
undergone many changes since that time. The chemises of today
are luxurious and multifunctional. Today's chemises are thin,
comfortable and appropriate for sleepwear, naughty lingerie or
simple underwear, offering a range of uses for any woman.

Sexy chemises are perfect for everyone no matter your shape of
your style.


About The Author: Amanda Cotterill has been involved in the
silk lingerie market for many years. This article outlines the
benefits of women wearing chemises of the type shown on
http://www.maryjanelingerie.co.uk/chemises/. Please include this
credit if you use this article.