Southern Summers: Dogday Delicates

Ladies would often lunch at mid-day then retire to the sanctuary of their chamber to rest. Dresses and corsets were removed and light cotton gowns and undergarments became the preferred “afternoon uniform” during the dogdays of summer. Rest and relaxation in the solitude of cool white linen later gave way to an evening filled with entertainment…and more layers of clothing!



Our lady is wearing a dressing gown in the most sheer cotton with empire waste tied with silk ribbon. The bodice of the gown is pieced together in ribbon lace panels and detailed with modest ¾ sleeves trimmed with cotton lace. A more youthful camisole and bloomers fit the young lady. The camisole is loose fitting cotton for cool comfort and is detailed with cutwork flowers and a silk drawstring neckline. Her bloomers are a delicate match to the camisole with the same cutwork detail at the knee.