Medieval Style Chemise Dress for Women

Throughout the Middle Ages clothes were worn in layers, with a light, linen tunic forming the foundation over which additional linen or wool garments were worn. The exact nature of these earliest garments is unknown, but by the 13th century, the man's tunic had evolved into a simple, relatively short, white linen shirt. Unfortunately, the exact nature of women's undergarments is far less clear. Women generally being depicted in period illuminations either fully clothed or stark naked.

Vintage Trumpet Sleeves Medieval Chemise Dress

White Lace Medieval Underdress Chemise

What is clear is that some sort of undergarment was worn, and it had to be designed to work with the tight sleeved gowns and cotehardies fashionable during 14th century ladies. In the Bohemian King Wencesclaus IV Bible, it depicts repeated examples of serving women at work, stripped to a simple, sleeveless chemise. Experimentation has shown that this chemise fits beautifully under reconstructions of 14th century gowns and smooths the lines of the overdress, creating the elegant silhouette shown in artwork of the period.
The medieval style chemise dress for women are light-weight, white linen, sleeveless or long sleeves with a square neckline. They are comfortable and in a very loose design. Ankle length on most women, the chemise will help improve the lay of your gown without interfering with your train.