Drawers

By the 1860s, the use of cage crinolines meant that most ladies also wore drawers for modesty. Drawers of the 1860s were split crotch seam, full in the body and reached to about mid-calf (ankle length is too long). Drawers were made on a fitted waistband that often buttoned. The fullness of the drawers was gathered into the waistband with stroked gathers. They were almost universally made of white cotton, as it was easily washable.

White china buttons, followed by white shell buttons, are the most common found on original petticoats and drawers.

Drawers could be fairly simple, but many were also decorated with tucks, ruffles and other washable white trim. Wool flannel drawers could be used for cold weather.

For the modern reenacting lady (as well as her historical counterpart), a split crotch makes using the facilities far easier as the drawers are not required to be pulled down.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Peterson's Magazine 1863

FABRIC SUGGESTIONS

Pimatex Broadcloth PFD - Dharma Trading

Sew Essential (Joann brand) Premium Muslin - Joann Fabrics

PATTERN SUGGESTIONS

• Past Patterns #706 is a useful pattern if you need pattern pieces and instructions.
• The Sewing Academy's free pattern is useful if you are comfortable following directions to draft your own pattern.

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