Women's Gothic Chemise

Women's Gothic Chemise with Flared Sleeves and Front Lacing

Historical Context and Usage

The underdress (often called a chemise, smock, or camicia) was the absolute foundation of women's clothing from the early Middle Ages deep into the Renaissance. This specific cut, with its slightly bell-shaped flared sleeves and practical front lacing, corresponds to the fashion and needs of women in the 14th and 15th centuries (High and Late Gothic). The chemise served as an essential first layer that protected expensive outer garments from body sweat and skin oils. At the same time, it protected the wearer's sensitive skin from the scratchy and coarse wool of the outer garments. Women of all social classes wore it practically non-stop – during the day under dresses (such as the cotte or surcote) and at night as sleepwear. Today, this piece is an absolute must-have for every female re-enactor and history enthusiast.

Materials and Benefits of Natural Fabrics

This garment is made from high-quality natural fibres. You can choose from 100% cotton or a sturdier, more breathable blend containing 70% linen and 30% cotton. The linen blend excels in excellent absorbency, mechanical durability, and a natural cooling effect, which you will immensely appreciate during sweltering summer festivals. The chemise is decorated around the deeper neckline and at the ends of the sleeves with a subtle woven trim in a natural colour, which prevents the fabric from fraying and reinforces the stressed edges.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure your chemise serves you as long as possible and retains its strength, we recommend washing it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). Never wring the garment by twisting it roughly; simply press the water out gently and let it dry flat in the shade. It is best to avoid the tumble dryer, as natural fibres could shrink. Iron the garment while it is slightly damp, or use steam on a medium setting.

Cleaning and care of costumes

Important Note and Recommended Accessories

Please be aware that any small pieces of jewellery shown in the photographs are not included in the delivery. You will receive only the laced chemise itself.

For a perfect and historically accurate appearance, we recommend complementing the chemise with a colourful outer Gothic dress (cotte), a narrow leather belt, and period-appropriate headwear – for example, a linen coif or a wimple, which should correspond to 14th-century European fashion.

Technical Parameters

Custom Modifications and Tailoring

Upon request, we will gladly tailor this Gothic Chemise for you in other colour combinations according to our fabric swatches. Please note the desired colour(s) in the comment field of your order in the following format: (1) swatch number, (2) colour letter, and (3) colour name (e.g., 03-A-Yellow). Selecting a fabric with a different composition may result in a price adjustment, which we will consult with you before processing the order.

The garment is available in standard sizes (measured in both centimetres and inches) according to our size chart. We will also make it exactly to your custom measurements at no extra charge – simply complete our custom measurement form after placing your order.