Victorian Nightgowns
From LoveToKnow Lingerie
There are few better ways to create a romantic, old-fashioned feeling when preparing for bed than by putting on a Victorian nightgown. Traditionally long and floaty with lots of fabric and lace or ruffles, this sleepwear is the ultimate in timeless elegance.
History of Victorian Nightgowns
Up until the Victorian era, there had really been no concept of clothes meant only to sleep in. Both men and women, from the wealthiest to the poorest, slept in the shifts or shirts they wore as underwear during the day. The wealthy might change them more frequently, but they were still dual-purpose garments.
In the 19th century, however, increased prosperity and a new interest in hygiene combined to make nightclothes a necessity for those who could afford it. The voluminous style of women's nightgowns that are associated with so much romance today actually reflect the excessive modesty of the period. There was always a concern that the body may be too obvious and so even at rest, it should be covered by a lot of fabric. Many women slept in their corsets to maintain their shape, but even still, it was important not to show much skin. Likewise, the excess of fabric kept the body warm in unheated houses. Conversely, the pure cotton or silk could help cool the body during the summer months, especially in areas where it was too dangerous to keep the windows open.
Victorian Styles
The most common style of Victorian nightgowns is that often used for peignoir sets: a long, flowing gown with long sleeves and a lot of ruffles or lace. Many actual Victorian nightgowns also sported high necks, but this is considered less romantic, as well as uncomfortable. A rounded neck trimmed with ribbon or lace is much more typical.
While long sleeves are the truest to the period, they are obviously not practical for all seasons. These days, when shopping for Victorian nightgowns, it's understood that buyers are looking for long gowns with beautiful designs and embellishments. And exquisite fabric is a must!
Shopping for Nightgowns
Because most nightgowns fit so loosely, you can shop for them online with impunity, as they don't need to be tried on. One good source for Victorian-style nightgowns is Victorian Nightgowns, which makes a wide range of sleepwear for both men and women, including gowns, robes, nightshirts and pajamas. All the sleepwear is made from 100 percent cotton in India and features lace and embroidery detailing. It is pre-shrunk and can be washed in the machine, although for maximum preservation, you should hang your nightgown out to dry. You can choose from sleeveless, short-sleeved or long-sleeved nightgowns as well as robe and gown sets perfect for a honeymoon or just lounging about the house on a summer morning.
If you really want to channel the Victorian era, go to Thistledown Nightgowns, which makes sleepwear that goes beyond simply being inspired and is more like an exact replica of what was worn at the time. The nightgowns are hand-sewn and made from 100 percent cotton lawn made in America and trimmed with lace from England and France. The prices are very reasonable considering the design quality. If you have something slightly different in mind, they can do custom alterations. It is recommended that the gowns be hand-washed and air dried, but as this was what was done in Victorian times, it just enhances the old-fashioned feel.
The Victorian Trading Co. also has a reproduction nightgown made of pima cotton and trimmed in ruffles. This is especially good for a costume, as well as sleepwear.
If you're looking for something that could be a mother-and-daughter matching item, Wings and Roses has printed and solid nightgowns in adult and child's sizes – perfect for reading Victorian stories together!
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This page has been accessed 1,393 times. This page was last modified 02:51, 31 May 2009.
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